Sapotaceae

Sapotaceae

Distribution of Sapotaceae:

Sapotaceae includes 40 genera and 60 species of primarily tropical trees common in old world.

Economic Importance of Sapotaceae:

1. Food: Several species of Achras sapota (H. Chiku), Manilkara kauki (H. Khirini), Manilkara hexandra, Mimusops elengi (V. Maulsari), Bassia longifolia yield juicy edible fruits.
2. Oil: The seeds of Madhuca butyracca produce the vegetable butter called “phulwa” used as cold cream, lip salve leminant and as substitute for ghee and for soap-making. The latex of Manilkara, Achras yeilds ‘chickle’ used for making chewing gum. Aromatic oil is obtained from the flowers of Mimusops elengi and is used in manufacture of perfumes.
3. Gutta percha: It is obtained from latex of Mimusops, Palaquium gutta and Payena species.
4. Medicinal: The bark of Bassia longifolia and Mimusops elengi is used in decoction as astringent and emollient and also as a cure for itches.
5. Timber: The wood of Sideroxylon, Chrysophyllum and Bassia afford hard and useful timber.