Kokoona zeylanica

Kokoona zeylanica, also known as Kokun, belongs to the family Celastraceae and is one of about 60 species of plants in the genus Kokoona. This species grows mainly in tropical and subtropical areas of South and Southeast Asia, such as India, Sri Lanka and Thailand. It is an evergreen tree or shrub that can grow up to 7 metres tall. Its leaves are dark green, glossy and oval in shape. The flowers are small and inconspicuous, pinkish with a faint fragrance.

The wood of Kokoona zeylanica has a specific texture and durability, which is why it is used to make various products such as furniture, tiles, partitions and various artistic and decorative objects. It is also often used as fuel. In addition, its wood is also used to make musical instruments. Kokoona zeylanica is also used in traditional medicine, using most parts of the plant - leaves, trunk, bark, roots and fruit. Its medicinal effects include pain relief, treatment of wounds or infections, or as an antidote for snake bites. Extracts from the plant are proven to have antibacterial effects and are able to inhibit the growth of certain types of bacteria and yeasts.