Pronunciation: [kalˈantəz] (IPA) 
Kalantas is spelled as /kɑːlɑːntas/. The word is derived from a Philippine tree of the same name. The spelling of kalantas can be tricky for non-native English speakers because of the presence of double a and t. It is pronounced with stress on the second syllable and has a long ‘a’ sound. The word is not commonly used in English, but it is significant in the Philippines due to its cultural and medicinal values.
Kalantas is a noun referring to a type of hardwood tree native to certain parts of Southeast Asia, particularly the Philippines. Scientifically known as Toona calantas, it belongs to the Meliaceae family and is commonly found in various forests across the region. The kalantas tree grows to approximately 25 meters tall and possesses a straight, slender trunk with a thick, dark brown bark. It features vibrant green pinnate leaves that consist of numerous leaflets arranged in a fern-like manner.
The timber derived from the kalantas tree possesses remarkable durability and strength, rendering it highly valuable in the construction industry. It is often utilized in the production of furniture, flooring, and structural components due to its ability to withstand decay, pests, and rot. In addition, kalantas wood showcases an attractive reddish-brown hue, making it visually appealing for decorative purposes.
Furthermore, kalantas tree extracts are known to possess certain medicinal properties, with traditional healers utilizing them for various therapeutic purposes. The bark, leaves, and roots are believed to possess antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic properties, making them useful in treating ailments such as skin infections, wounds, and rheumatism.
Despite its beneficial qualities, the kalantas tree's population has faced a decline due to deforestation and unsustainable practices. As a result, there have been conservation efforts to protect and preserve this valuable species.
The word "kalantas" is derived from the Tagalog language, which is predominantly spoken in the Philippines. However, there is limited information available regarding the specific etymology or origins of the term. It is likely that "kalantas" is native to the Philippines and does not have a foreign or borrowed origin.
