Medhshingi or Medsing (Dolichandrone Falcata/मेढशिंगी, मेढशिंग) is a small to medium sized deciduous tree with pretty flowers attractively
dense and dark foliage.
The flowers are white in colour, and just like the Coral Jasmine / Parijataka tree, bloom in the evening & fall down in the morning spreading the highly
scented wave of freshness in summer months of March to May. Even without
flowers, the tree shows off its glossy green leaves. It grows at moderate speed. This tree strongly needs
to be introduced in city gardens.
The flowering of this tree is very profuse and fragrant. Its flower’s capsule appears nearly quadrangular, curved like a sickle, giving it an appearance of curved sheep horns, hence the name Medhsing or Bhershing. When in bloom, it attracts variety of birds and bees. It is easily propagated by its papery seeds.
The tree is also known to have medicinal properties. It is
used to treat diabetes. The Father of
Surgery, Sushruta, had placed the Medhshingi tree in Shaalasaaraadi & Varunaadi Gana,
Shiro-virechana & Vaata Samshamana Varga; and describes its use particularly
in cataract, vision disorders, head diseases, wound healing and as an
anxiolytic.
Medhshingi gives useful green manure and young leaves, an
excellent fodder, are eaten by cattle. It can coppice well, forming a compact
crown. Sometimes, it can be used as windbreak in farms. It is very hardy & drought resistant species. It can also grow in
poor quality soils. It is fit for propagating in the driest localities and rocky terrain. It makes an ideal ornamental candidate for plantation in
urban areas.