Taraktogenos kurzii is a plant species that belongs to the family Meliaceae, primarily found in Southeast Asia. Commonly known as Thai neem or Thai chinaberry, it is a deciduous tree that can grow up to 20 meters in height. The scientific name "Taraktogenos kurzii" is derived from the Greek words "taraktos," meaning hanging, "genos," meaning descent, and "kurzii," in honor of the botanist William Sulpice Kurz who first described the species.
The tree has a straight trunk, pale gray bark, and pinnate leaves with alternate leaflets that have toothed margins. It produces small, yellowish-white flowers arranged in panicles, which are followed by spherical fruits that contain small oval-shaped seeds. The seeds, also known as neem nuts, are the most valued part of the tree due to their therapeutic properties.
Taraktogenos kurzii has been traditionally used in herbal medicine for its various medicinal properties. The seeds and seed oil of Thai neem are rich in bioactive compounds, including triterpenoids, flavonoids, and naphthoquinones, which possess anti-inflammatory, antifungal, and insecticidal properties. The oil extracted from the seeds is considered a valuable resource in the cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries.
In addition to its medicinal uses, Taraktogenos kurzii is also valued for its durable wood, which is used in furniture making and construction. The tree is cultivated in some parts of Southeast Asia for sustainable timber production.
Overall, Taraktogenos kurzii is an important plant species with significant medicinal and economic value, contributing to traditional medicine practices and various industries.
