Prinsepia utilis

Other names: dhatelo, Cherry prinsepia

Prinsepia utilis, also known as dhatelo or Cherry prinsepia, is a deciduous shrub belonging to the Rosaceae family. It is native to the mountains of China and Nepal and grows up to 6 metres tall. It is characterised by small, yellowish flowers that appear in spring. The fruits are small, red or purple drupes that resemble cherries and are rich in oil. This plant is considered very hardy, as it can withstand extreme climatic conditions such as heavy rain, drought or frost.

In terms of uses, the dhatelo is used industrially mainly for its oily oil extracted from the fruit. This oil is used in many industries. In the cosmetic industry, it is added to hair and skin products for its strong moisturizing and regenerative properties. In medicine, it is used for its anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties. In the food industry, it is used as an edible oil that is rich in unsaturated fatty acids. Finally, in industry this oil is used as a biofuel. Apart from the oil, the wood from these shrubs is also used, as it is hard and durable. It is used to make furniture and various tools. In traditional medicine of Nepal, it is also used to cure various skin diseases and to remove parasites.