Health Dictionary
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Acacia catechu
Introduction
Acacia catechu is a deciduous, thorny tree which grows up to 15m in height.[2] Common names for it include Catechu, Cachou and Black Cutch. It is found in Asia, China, India and the Indian Ocean area.[1]
Uses
Uses
Food
The tree’s seeds are a good source of protein.[3]
Fodder
Branches of the tree are quite often cut for goat fodder and are sometimes fed to cattle.Closing </ref> missing for <ref> tag
Wood
The tree is often planted for use as firewood and its wood is highly valued for furniture and tools.[2] The wood has a density of about 0.88 g/cm³.[4]
Other uses
Its heartwood extract is used in dyeing, leather tanning, as a preservative for fishing nets, for medicine and as a viscosity regulator for oil drilling.[2]
Cultivation
Cultivation
The tree can be propagated by planting its seeds, which are soaked in hot water first. After about six months in a nursery, the seedlings can be planted in the field. [2]