Alstonia Scholaris: The Enigmatic ‘Devil Tree’ Weaving Nature, Medicine, and Myth

Ms. Priya Paul
Teaching Assistant
Department of Biotechnology
Kalinga University Raipur

The tall evergreen tree Alstonia scholaris, sometimes referred to as the “Indian Devil Tree” or “saptaparni,” is indigenous to tropical areas of Southeast Asia, India, and portions of Australia. It is both useful and magical, and it is highly valued in traditional medicine. The Apocynaceae family, which also includes the Madagascar periwinkle, oleander, and periwinkle, includes Alstonia scholaris. This huge tree, which can be either deciduous or semi-deciduous, can grow up to 40 meters in the wild. Its leaves are dark green and glossy, and its bark is smooth and light grey. During the monsoon season, the tree’s magnificent clusters of fragrant white or cream-colored blooms are its most striking characteristic. Eventually, these blossoms give place to long, narrow, cylindrical fruits that draw butterflies and bees. It is native to tropical Asia and thrives in tropical rainforests, moist, well-drained soils, and arid areas.
In its natural habitats, this quickly growing tree offers wildlife support, shade, and cover. It helps stabilize the soil, retain water, and lessen soil erosion. Pollinators in the area feed on its blossoms, and the wind spreads its seeds. Because it restores ecological equilibrium, Alstonia scholaris is crucial for reforestation initiatives in tropical and subtropical areas. In other places, like Australia, it has turned into an invasive species that can displace native plants and disturb the biodiversity of the area.
This tree, which is also called “Saptaparni” in Sanskrit, has been utilized for millennia in traditional medicine, especially in South and Southeast Asia, for its therapeutic qualities. Malaria, digestive health, fever reduction, anti-inflammatory and pain relief, antioxidant qualities, and antibacterial and antifungal activity are just a few of the conditions that have been treated with its bark, leaves, and latex. Alkaloids with antiplasmodial properties against the Plasmodium parasite, such as echitamine, are found in the bark. Diarrhea, dysentery, and other stomach problems have been treated with the bark of the plant. Antioxidant chemicals found in its leaves and bark help scavenge dangerous free radicals, lowering oxidative stress and bolstering the immune system. Some local practices use the tree’s latex to treat wounds and skin ailments. Nonetheless, current science is continuously validating the traditional use of Alstonia scholaris, which is primarily founded on traditional knowledge. It is recommended to seek proper medical advice before using the tree for therapeutic purposes.
In the Indian subcontinent, this tree, also referred to as the “Devil’s Tree,” has great cultural and spiritual significance. It is frequently linked to myths and superstitions, especially in rural places where it is thought to draw ghosts or evil spirits. However, because it is frequently associated with several Hindu deities, the word “Saptaparni” also denotes a positive and spiritual meaning. Alstonia scholaris is revered and planted close to temples or residences for spiritual protection in several parts of India, especially in the northeastern and Western Ghats. The tree is revered because of its height, straight trunk, and lovely blossoms. Alstonia scholaris is a popular ornamental tree in tropical gardens and parks because of its tall, graceful form and fragrant blossoms, which add to its aesthetic value.
The Alstonia scholaris tree, known for its medicinal properties and ecological importance, is a fascinating blend of nature, traditional medicine, and folklore. Revered for its role in biodiversity, this tree, often called the Indian Devil Tree, is also surrounded by superstitions and cultural stories, embodying the meeting point of science, culture, and nature.