Magnolia champaca, commonly known as Chafa, is a flowering tree belonging to the Magnoliaceae family. Native to Southeast Asia, including India, Chafa holds cultural significance in religious and ceremonial practices. Its fragrant flowers are revered for their aromatic essence and are often used in perfumery and traditional medicine.
| Botanical Name | Magnolia champaca |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Synonyms | Son Champa, Golden Champa |
| Order | Magnoliales |
| Family | Magnoliaceae (Magnoli family) |
| Species | Magnolia champaca |
| Habit | Tree |
| Class | Magnoliopsida (dicotyledons) |
| Genus | Magnolia |
| Range | Southeast Asia |
Chafa is primarily valued for its aromatic flowers, which contain essential oils used in perfumery. While not traditionally consumed for its nutritional value, various parts of the plant have been utilized in traditional medicine for their potential health benefits.
Chafa is a tall evergreen tree with glossy, leathery leaves and large, fragrant flowers. The flowers are typically yellow-orange in color and emit a sweet, exotic fragrance, making them highly sought after for their ornamental and aromatic qualities.
Limited information is available regarding the safety of Chafa for medicinal use. While the flowers are generally considered safe when used in moderation, individuals with allergies or sensitivities to fragrances should exercise caution.
In traditional medicine, Chafa has been used to treat various ailments, including skin disorders, inflammation, and digestive issues. The flowers are also used in aromatherapy for their calming and uplifting properties.
Pregnant and breastfeeding individuals should consult healthcare professionals before using Chafa for medicinal purposes. Individuals with allergies or sensitivities to fragrances should perform a patch test before using Chafa products topically. Additionally, individuals with underlying medical conditions should seek guidance from healthcare providers before using Chafa for therapeutic purposes.
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