EUCALYPTUS - ENVIRONMENT
News: The controversy over
eucalyptus planting in Kerala | Explained
What's in the news?
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The Kerala government recently issued an order
allowing the Kerala Forest Development Corporation (KFDC) to plant eucalyptus
trees for its financial sustenance in 2024-2025.
Eucalyptus:
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It is a large genus of more than 660 species of
shrubs and tall trees of the myrtle family (Myrtaceae).
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Some of the tallest trees in the world are
eucalypti.
Habitat:
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It is native to Australia, Tasmania, and nearby islands.
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In Australia, the eucalypti are commonly known as
gum trees or stringybark trees.
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Many species are cultivated widely in many areas of the world as shade trees
or in forestry plantations.
Features:
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It has a gum-infused
bark, long stems, and circular leaves that are hard to digest if eaten
whole.
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Small flowers grow on eucalyptus trees. They come in many
colors, including white, yellow, and shades of red.
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Eucalypti also have small woody capsules. Inside
the capsules are seeds.
Uses:
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It is widely used for its medicinal properties.
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Some eucalyptus leaves contain an oil that has a strong smell.
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It is useful to treat a variety of common diseases
and also works amazingly when applied topically in diluted form.
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The main compound of eucalyptus oil is cineole, also known as eucalyptol. The oil also contains flavonoids and tannins, which acts as anti-inflammatory and antioxidants.
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It is known for its ability to relieve congestion and ease breathing in colds.
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It is also used as a pain reliever for sore and overextended muscles.
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It is an excellent topical remedy for aching joints and rheumatism. It helps improve blood circulation.
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Eucalyptus wood is tough and durable. It is used to build
things such as furniture and fences.
Go back to basics:
Eucalyptus Plantations
in India:
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Eucalyptus tereticornis and
Eucalyptus hybrid are the two most widely
planted eucalypts in India.
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It is widely grown in Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh,
Gujrat, Haryana, Mysore, Kerala, and in the Nilgiri Hill.
● It grows well in deep, fertile, well-drained loamy soil with adequate moisture.