Keywords
Millingtonia Hortensis, Brittle wood, Pleasant smell, Foliage, Capsule like fruits, Hepatoprotective effects.
Abstract
India is renowned for its rich biodiversity and is often described as a global hub of medicinal plants and traditional healing systems. The country harbors an extensive variety of botanicals such as neem, amla, ashwagandha, turmeric, bael, and Indian cork tree (Millingtonia hortensis), which have long been used for their therapeutic properties [1]. Among these, Millingtonia hortensis stands out as a widely cultivated and highly valued medicinal plant.Millingtonia hortensis Linn., commonly known as the Indian cork tree or jasmine tree, is admired both for its ornamental appeal and medicinal efficacy. Native to Southeast Asia and extensively cultivated in India, this species is typically grown along roadsides, in gardens, and on avenues for its aesthetic and aromatic value [2].Millingtonia hortensis is a tall, fast-growing, evergreen tree that can reach a height of 18 to 25 meters and spreads up to 7 to 11 meters [3]. It is characterized by a straight trunk with few branches and corky bark, which contributes to its common name. The leaves are opposite, imparipinnately bipinnate, with ovate-lanceolate leaflets that are serrate and acute in shape [4]. The white, tubular flowers bloom during the night and fall by morning, releasing a sweet and pleasant fragrance. These flowers appear in large panicles and contribute significantly to the plant's ornamental value.The tree produces flat, two-part capsules containing numerous winged seeds. The wood of Millingtonia hortensis is used locally as timber, while the bark serves as a low-grade substitute for true cork [5]. The plant demonstrates high adaptability to different soil types and climatic conditions, making it a robust species suitable for varied landscapes.Millingtonia hortensis is cultivated extensively in both tropical and subtropical regions. It flowers mainly from April until the onset of the monsoon and again during November and December [6]. The tree thrives in well-drained soils and prefers full sunlight, although it is also tolerant of partial shade. Its resilience and ease of propagation contribute to its popularity as a roadside and garden plant.Various parts of the tree--leaves, flowers, bark, seeds, and roots are traditionally used in Indian systems of medicine. These parts are known for the following therapeutic effects:Anti-asthmatic: The leaves and flowers are used in the treatment of asthma, bronchitis, and other respiratory ailments. The bronchodilatory properties have been validated in pharmacological studies [7].Antimicrobial: Extracts from the bark and flowers have demonstrated antibacterial and antifungal properties against various microbial strains [8].Anti-inflammatory: The plant contains flavonoids and phenolic compounds that inhibit inflammation and provide analgesic relief [9].Hepatoprotective: Preliminary studies suggest that ethanol extracts of Millingtonia hortensis may offer protection against liver damage caused by toxins [10]. Beyond its medicinal applications, Millingtonia hortensis has multiple practical uses:Its bark, although inferior to true cork, is used in corkboard and insulation material [5].The timber, though soft, is suitable for making light furniture and matchsticks.Leaves are occasionally used in smoking mixtures and local tobacco products [11].The tree also plays an ecological role, providing habitat for pollinators and enhancing urban green spaces.
IJCRT's Publication Details
Unique Identification Number - IJCRT25A6094
Paper ID - 290105
Page Number(s) - j388-j398
Pubished in - Volume 13 | Issue 6 | June 2025
DOI (Digital Object Identifier) -   
Publisher Name - IJCRT | www.ijcrt.org | ISSN : 2320-2882
E-ISSN Number - 2320-2882
Cite this article
  Perminder Kaur,  Manisha Chandel,  Dr. Naresh Singh Gill,   
"MILLINGTONIA HORTENSIS (A CORK TREE): A SCIENTIFIC REVIEW", International Journal of Creative Research Thoughts (IJCRT), ISSN:2320-2882, Volume.13, Issue 6, pp.j388-j398, June 2025, Available at :
http://www.ijcrt.org/papers/IJCRT25A6094.pdf