Chakri
Tabernaemontana divaricate, commonly called pinwheel flower, crape jasmine, East India rosebay, and Nero's crown is an evergreen shrub or small tree native to South Asia, Southeast Asia, and China. In zones where it is not hardy, it is grown as a house/glasshouse plant for its attractive flowers and foliage. The stem exudes a milky latex when broken, whence the name milk flower.
"Tabernaemontana divaricata" is planted in gardens as an ornamental where it typically grows to 4–6 m (13-20 ft) tall and 3 m (10 ft) wide. The leaves are 7 to 35 cm (3-14 in) long and 3 to 25 cm (1-10 in) broad, alternate, simple ovate-acuminate with a petiole 1–2 cm long. The flowers are orange, red, or yellowish, produced on panicles 10–30 cm (4–12 in) long, blooming for most of the year.
The fruit is a yellow to orange ovoid drupe 1 cm long containing one seed. When ripe, the fruit is juicy and edible with a pleasant resinous flavor somewhat reminiscent of almond and coconut. Despite its vernacular name East Indian rosebay, resembling the flowers of true roses (roses), this is not particularly closely related to either the rose family or any other plant family. The seed contains an alkaloid called tabernanthine.
In traditional medicine, it has been used for insomnia and anxiety relief in parts of India. Studies on mice have shown that it blocks symptoms involved in anxiety and depression by binding to serotonin receptors, norepinephrine receptors, and dopamine receptors. The bark of the root is used in traditional Chinese medicine for its anti-inflammatory properties. The latex contains an alkaloid that has been studied for use in erectile dysfunction.
In Japan, the bark is used as a diuretic. The plant is considered to be toxic, containing indole alkaloids related to ibogaine. Other compounds within the plant show cytotoxicity against tumor cell lines.
Global chakri production
Chakri fruit is native to the tropical regions of Asia and Africa. It is a small, round or oblong-shaped fruit with thin skin. The flesh of the chakri fruit is white or pinkish in color and contains numerous seeds. The chakri fruit has a sweet taste and is often used in desserts or snacks. It is also a popular ingredient in juices and smoothies.
The global production of chakri fruit is estimated to be around 10,000 metric tons per year. The majority of this production comes from India, followed by Bangladesh and Pakistan.
The chakri fruit is a good source of vitamins and minerals, and it also contains a high amount of dietary fiber. It is low in calories and fat, making it a healthy choice for those who are looking to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight.