Amar Timul is a medicinal tree which is mainly found in hilly areas and forests. According to local expert Kishan Malda, the white or light yellow sticky juice coming out of its wood and stem is full of medicinal properties, which is called ‘Chop’ in the Pahari language. It has been used in traditional folk medicine to heal wounds, reduce pain and reduce swelling. Although modern scientific research is limited, based on local experiences it is used as a natural medicine.

To identify Amar Timul, it is important to first pay attention to its stem and leaves. It is a medium sized tree, whose bark is slightly rough and brown in colour. Its leaves are wide and dark green in color. When a light cut is made on the bark of the tree, sticky milky juice comes out, which is its special identity. This juice later dries and becomes thick. To identify this tree in the forest, it is necessary to take the help of experienced people, because many trees may be similar in appearance.

Amar Timul is mainly found in the hilly areas of Uttarakhand, especially in the forests of Kumaon and Garhwal. Local people point out its presence in many forests of Bageshwar, Pithoragarh, Champawat, Almora and Chamoli. This tree grows well in medium altitude forests and areas with moist soil. Its numbers are seen in large numbers in hill slopes and mixed forest areas. Since it is a wild tree, it is rarely cultivated and most people recognize it from the forests and use it.

There is a traditional method of extracting medicinal juice from Amar Timul. Villagers make light cuts on the bark of trees with sharp tools. Shortly after the cut is made, sticky milky juice starts coming out from there. This juice is carefully collected or applied directly on the affected area. In the mountains this is called ‘chop removal’. The cut is not made too deep so that the tree is not damaged. This process is usually done only by experienced people, because cutting the bark in the wrong way can cause damage to the tree.

Chop of Amar Timul is considered very helpful in reducing pain. In case of injury, sprain or swelling in any part of the body, this juice is applied lightly on that area. This provides relief from pain and the swelling gradually starts reducing. Many people also apply it on muscle pain and old wounds. The tradition of natural remedies has been going on in the mountains for a long time, hence people have been using such trees and plants as home remedies.

Chop of Amar Timul is also considered helpful in healing wounds. When there is a cut or injury on the skin, applying this juice helps the wound dry up quickly. It has properties that are helpful in protecting the wound from infection. This is the reason why it has been used in the hilly areas since ancient times in the treatment of minor wounds. In case of serious injury or infection, it is necessary to seek treatment from a doctor.

Amar Timul has a special place in the folk medicine of the mountains. Earlier, when hospitals or medicines were not easily available in remote villages, people used to depend on the herbs found in the forest. Amar Timul has also been involved in the same tradition. Many elders tell that in earlier times, if shepherds or villagers got injured in the forest, they would immediately apply the juice of this tree and provide first aid. Even today this tradition is seen in some villages, although now people know traditional remedies along with modern medicine.

Although Amar Timul is considered medicinal by the local people, it is important to use it with caution. Any wild tree or herb should not be used without proper identification, because the juice extracted from the wrong tree can also cause harm. If a person has skin allergies or sensitivity, it is better to test a small amount first. In case of severe pain, infection or major injury, doctor’s advice must be taken. Traditional knowledge is useful, but it must be used safely and correctly.