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Pongamia pinnata (L.) Merr., (=Pongamia glabra Vent.), Fabaceae (Papilionaceae), occurs all over India, on the banks of rivers and streams and is planted as an avenue tree and in gardens. Some taxonomists treat this species in the genus Derris. The leaves, young flowers, an inflorescence and young fruits are illustrated.
The juice of the roots is used to close fistulous sores and for cleaning foul ulcers. It is given internally with coconut water and lime water for gonorrohea.
The twigs are used to clean teeth, and to strengthen the gums.
The leaves are applied as poultice to ulcers infested with worms. Leaf juice is used in flatulence, dyspepsia, diarrhoea and cough. Also used in leprosy and gonorrhoea.
The seeds are externally applied in skin diseases. The seed oil is effective in cutaneous affections such as leucoderma, herpes and scabies, as well as in rheumatism. Internally the oil is used against dyspepsia and sluggish liver.
Both the roots and the seeds are used as fish poison.
The seed oil is widely used in industry and is now projected as a substitute for diesel. The seed cake is used as manure.
Keranjin, pongapin, pinnatin and gamtin are the furoflavonols from the roots. The bark contains waxes. The flowers contain kaempferol and waxes. The seeds contain about 35 per cent of a bitter fatty oil. Karanjin, pongamol and glabrin are the crystalline substances in the seeds. Karanjin is responsible for the curative purposes of the oil. Pngapin is also found in the fruits. The bitter principle from the seeds is effective against many skin ailments.