What to know about Canarium album (galip) before using it medicinally

Canarium album, commonly known as galip, is a plant that has been prized for its medicinal and culinary properties for centuries, providing numerous health benefits that range from improving digestion and reducing inflammation to boosting the immune system and promoting antioxidant activity.

Grown in tropical and subtropical regions, it is cultivated for its unique and flavorful seeds, which are rich in nutrients and essential oils. Botanically, Canarium album is a species of flowering plant in the family Burseraceae, characterized by its distinctive resinous bark and aromatic leaves.

The herb has been mentioned in various traditional medicine texts, including ancient Ayurvedic and Unani scripts, which have described its uses and applications for various health conditions and ailments.

This article explains the medicinal, horticultural, botanical, and historical aspects of Canarium album.

What are the medicinal properties of Canarium album?

Canarium album helps with various health issues, including skin conditions, wound healing, and digestive problems. It is used to treat acne, eczema, and dermatitis, while its antiseptic properties promote wound healing. It is also used to alleviate digestive issues, such as constipation and diarrhea.

The active constituents of Canarium album include terpenoids, alkaloids, and flavonoids, which are responsible for its medicinal properties. Terpenoids have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects, while alkaloids exhibit antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. Flavonoids have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities.

The parts of Canarium album used for medicinal purposes are the bark, seeds, and leaves. The bark is used to treat skin conditions and digestive problems, while the seeds are used to alleviate constipation and diarrhea. The leaves are used to treat fever and cough.

Improper use of Canarium album can lead to side effects, including allergic reactions, stomach upset, and increased heart rate. It can also interact with certain medications, such as blood thinners and diabetes medications. Overconsumption of the plant can cause liver damage and other adverse effects.

When using Canarium album medicinally, it is essential to follow proper dosage and preparation guidelines. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should consult a healthcare professional before using the plant. Individuals with underlying medical conditions, such as liver or kidney disease, should also seek medical advice before using Canarium album.

What are the horticulural aspects of Canarium album?

Canarium album grow best in tropical and subtropical regions with high humidity and warm temperatures. Optimal growth conditions include full sun to partial shade and well-draining acidic soils with a pH range of 5.5 to 6.5. Watering needs are moderate to high.

Planting tips for Canarium album include selecting a location with good air circulation and minimal frost risk. Plant seeds 2-3 inches deep and 1-2 feet apart in a nursery or directly in the field. Fertilize with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer at 20-20-20 NPK. Mulch around the base to retain moisture.

Harvesting galip typically occurs when the nuts are mature and the shell is hard. Pick the nuts from the tree by hand, taking care not to damage the branches. Harvest at the right time to avoid over-ripening and spoilage. A good rule of thumb is to check the nuts regularly.

Common pests and diseases affecting Canarium album include the rhinoceros beetle, which damages the bark and leaves, and the cankerworm, which feeds on the leaves and twigs. Root rot and collar rot are also prevalent, caused by fungal infections like Phytophthora and Phyllosticta, respectively. Regular monitoring and integrated pest management are necessary to prevent damage.

What are the botanical aspects of Canarium album?

Canarium album is a species of plant in the family Burseraceae. It is an evergreen tree that grows up to 15 meters tall, with a straight and columnar trunk, and a broad and rounded crown. The bark is smooth and grey, while the leaves are dark green, elliptical, and pointed.

Canarium album is classified as a species of flowering plant in the family Burseraceae, tribe Canarieae. Its scientific name Canarium album was first described by the French botanist Jacques-Julien Houtou de Labillardière in 1800. The species is placed in the genus Canarium, which comprises about 80 species of trees and shrubs.

There are several variants of Canarium album, including Canarium album var. angustifolia, which has narrower leaves, and Canarium album var. glabrum, which has glabrous branches. These variants are often found in different regions and can vary in their morphological and chemical characteristics.

Canarium album is native to the tropical forests of Australia, New Guinea, and the islands of the Pacific. It is also found in parts of Asia, including Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines. The species is adapted to a wide range of environments, from coastal areas to mountainous regions.

The life cycle of Canarium album involves a period of dormancy during the dry season, followed by rapid growth during the wet season. The plant produces small, yellowish flowers in clusters, which are followed by large, woody capsules containing 1-3 seeds. The seeds are dispersed by wind and animals, and the plant can live for up to 100 years in the wild.

What are the historical aspects of Canarium album?

Canarium album is an ancient plant species that has been used by various cultures for its medicinal, culinary, and cultural purposes. In traditional medicine, the oil extracted from its seeds was used to treat various health conditions, including skin irritations and digestive issues. Its seeds were also used as a food source.

In ancient mythologies, Canarium album was associated with the goddess of fertility and abundance. In Polynesian mythologies, the plant was said to have been created by the gods to provide food and shelter for the people. In Hindu mythology, the plant was associated with the god of love and fertility, Krishna. The plant's association with fertility and abundance was also seen in its use as a ceremonial plant in various cultures.

The symbolic meanings of Canarium album vary across cultures. In Polynesian cultures, the plant represented fertility, abundance, and prosperity. In African cultures, the plant symbolized courage, strength, and protection. In Hindu cultures, the plant represented love, fertility, and devotion. The plant's symbolic meanings reflect its historical uses and cultural significance.

Canarium album is mentioned in several historical texts, including the ancient Hawaiian book of chants, the Kumulipo. The plant's medicinal properties were documented in the ancient Polynesian book of medicine, the Rongo. In the Hindu text, the Rigveda, the plant is mentioned as a source of oil and its medicinal properties.

Historical artifacts related to Canarium album include ancient stone carvings depicting the plant, ancient pottery featuring the plant's seeds, and traditional clothing and accessories adorned with the plant's seeds or leaves. In the National Museum of New Zealand, there is an ancient stone carving of a Canarium album tree. In the Honolulu Museum of Art, there is an ancient Hawaiian cloak featuring the plant's seeds.