DIPTERYX ODORATA - TONKA BEAN. Synonym Coumarouna odorata. Common name Tonka bean, cumaru, tonguin bean, rumara, fèves de tonka, Tonkabohne, líng líng xiãng dòu. Family Fabaceae (Bean family). Overview The Tonka bean tree is big and grows up to more than 120 feet high. The wrinkled beans (inside de actual seeds) about 2½ " long, are black and have a very sweet and aromatic fragrance; they are used in perfumery. The fruits contain one single seed. The Tonka bean contains coumarin which is used as an anti-coagulant. It is used to flavor castor oil, for scenting tobacco and to disguise the odor of iodoform and as an imitation for vanilla products, but this is potential harmful due to the coumarin in the beans. The Tonka bean is also called Cumaru by the Amerindians in Suriname. The wood is used for heavy, durable construction such as shipbuilding and timber activities. Suriname's Traditional Medicine A decoction of the seeds with some sugar is used against the common cold. Also used in hair preparations and shampoos. Visit also our CHOLESTEROL -, DIABETES - , HYPERTENSION - and TINCTURE pages. Hardiness USDA zone 10 - 11. Propagation Seeds. Culture Full sun; moist, well drained soil. Protect from frost or plant in frost free location. |
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