How Do You Spell VATERIA INDICA?

1. Vateria indica, commonly known as White Dammar or Indian Copal, is a species of flowering tree belonging to the family Dipterocarpaceae. It is native to the Indian subcontinent and is found predominantly in the Western Ghats, a mountain range located along the western coast of India.

   White Dammar is a large deciduous tree that can reach heights of 50-80 feet. It has an upright, spreading crown and a straight trunk with smooth, grayish bark. The leaves are elliptical or oblong in shape, glossy green in color, and arranged in an alternate manner along the branches. The tree bears small, fragrant flowers that are greenish-white or pale yellow in color and are individually attached to long stalks.

   The most notable feature of Vateria indica is its resinous secretion, which is highly prized for its religious, medicinal, and commercial purposes. The resin, known as Dammar, is obtained by tapping the tree trunk or collecting it from incisions made in the bark. Dammar is used in the manufacture of varnishes, lacquers, and paints, as well as in traditional Indian medicine for its expectorant, antiseptic, and diuretic properties.

   Vateria indica is an important component of the tropical evergreen and semi-evergreen forests, providing habitat and food for various species of birds, insects, and mammals. It is also valued for its timber, which is used in construction and furniture-making due to its durability and resistance to decay.

   In conclusion, Vateria indica is a majestic tree native to the Indian subcontinent, known for its resinous secretion called Dammar. With its economic, ecological, and cultural significance, this species holds an important place in the natural heritage of the region.

2. Elaeocarpus copalliferus, a species furnishing a copal varnish; the seeds are used as a gastric sedative in nausea and vomiting.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

Common Misspellings for VATERIA INDICA

The word "Vateria indica" has a botanical origin, specifically considering the Latinized scientific name for a species of tree. The etymology of the term can be broken down as follows:

1. Vateria: The genus name, "Vateria", is derived from the Latin word "vater", which means resin. This is likely due to the fact that various species within the Vateria genus produce a resinous substance.

2. Indica: The species name, "indica", originates from the Latin word "indicus", meaning Indian. It is used to signify that the tree is native to or found in the Indian subcontinent, which includes modern-day India, Pakistan, and surrounding regions.

So, the etymology of "Vateria indica" suggests a resinous tree species that is native to the Indian subcontinent.