Banyan Tree [National Tree of India] {Ficus bengalensis} fruit like inflorescence called as hypanthodium

This tree is Ficus bengalensis. The fruit like structures seen in the axil of the leaf is not a true fruit but it is an inflorescence called as hypanthodium. This is a complex closed cup like structure where you will find male flowers inside the cup near the mouth of the cup and female flowers at the base of the cup deep inside. This inflorescence is insect pollinated so you may find the insects, eggs and the caterpillers of insects inside this so-called fruit. The birds feed these fruits and the seeds are dispersed through the faecal matter of the birds. So we can see the plants growing on the top of the buildings, in the furrows of the buildings - Mrudul S

Significance of the Banyan

The Vat, Bargad or Banyan tree is one of the most venerated trees in India. It has the ability to survive and grow for centuries and is often compared to the shelter given by God to his devotees In Hindu mythology, the tree is called Kalpavriksha, the tree that provides fulfilment of wishes and other material gains. It symbolizes Trimurti - Lord Vishnu is believed to be the bark, Lord Brahma the roots, and Lord Shiva the branches
The Banyan tree is mentioned in many scriptures as a tree of immortality. Its aerial roots grow down into the soil forming additional trunks and is therefore called Bahupada, the one with several feet. It symbolizes longevity and represents the divine creator, Brahma.

The Banyan is associated with Yama the god of death and the tree is often planted near crematoria
Indians knew the Banyan tree as the vat-vriksha. When the British came to India, they noticed that members of the trading or Bania community used to gather under a large shady fig tree, which they named the Banyan, from Bania
The Banyan does not let a blade of grass grow under it. Thus it does not allow for rebirth and renewal. That is why it is not part of fertility ceremonies like marriage and childbirth
In iconography, Shiva is visualized as Dakshinamurti, he who faces the south, that being the direction of death and change. He sits under the Banyan, the botanical embodiment of the universal soul, facing the terror of death and change stoically, unafraid because of his profound understanding of the world
This tree is also sacred to the Buddhists. After attaining enlightenment, Lord Buddha is believed to have sat under a Banyan tree for seven days, absorbed in his new-found realization
Medicinal value of Banyan tree
* The bark and leaf buds of the tree are useful in arresting secretion or bleeding.
* The fruit exercises a soothing effect on the skin and mucous membranes, alleviates swelling and pain, and serves as a mild purgative. It is also nutritious.
* The leaf buds of Banyan are beneficial in the treatment of chronic diarrhoea and dysentery. The buds should be soaked in water' overnight and taken as infusion in the treatment of these diseases. The latex is also useful in the treatment of diarrhoea and dysentery
* A few drops of the latex of the banyan tree mixed in milk and taken daily helps cure bleeding piles. With this treatment, the diet of the patient should contain liberal quantities of green vegetables especially fenugreek and manattakkali or black nightshade leaves.
* Tender roots of Banyan are considered beneficial in the treatment of female sterility. These roots should be dried in the shade and finely powdered. This powder should be mixed 5 times its weight with milk and taken at night for three consecutive nights after menstruation cycle every month till the conception takes place. No other food should be taken with this
* A regular douching of the genital tract with a decoction of the bark of the Banyan tree and the fig tree is helpful in leucorrhoea. A tablespoon each of the powders of the bark of the two trees should be boiled in a litre of water till it is reduced to about half. Douching with the lukewarm decoction will keep the tissues of vaginal tract healthy

* Cleaning the teeth with the aerial roots of the Banyan is beneficial in preventing teeth and gum disorders. As one chews the stick and brushes, the astringent secretion from the root-stick cleanses and strengthens the teeth and gums

* The latex is commonly used locally for rheumatism, pain and lumbago
* A hot poultice of the leaves can be applied with beneficial results to abscesses to promote suppuration and to hasten their breaking. The milky juice from the fresh green leaves is useful in destroying warts. The latex is commonly used locally for sores, ulcers and bruises
* An infusion of the bark is a specific medicine for diabetes. The tender ends of the aerial roots can be taken to stop vomiting.

From Times of India.