Horitoki, Chebulic myrobalan, Terminalia chebula

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Horitoki or Chebulic myrobalan (Terminalia chebula, family: Combretaceae) is a medium to large-sized slow growing deciduous tree with branches. The species is native to South and Southeast Asia. In Bangladesh, it is found in Chittangong, Chittagong hill tracts, Sylhet and Mymensingh area. 


Common names: Horitoki, Chebulic myrobalan, Black chebulic myrobalan.




Leaves are sub-opposite or alternate, 7-18 cm long and 5-10 cm wide, elliptic, green, leathery, glabrous.


Flowers are small in spikes. Spikes 5-15 cm long, terminal. Sepals 5, petals 5.


Flower blooms in April-May.

Fruit a drupe, ellipsoid, smooth, 2.5-5 cm long.


It has been planted as avenue tree in Bangladesh. Propagation of the plant is caused by seeds.


It is used as stomach, liver and intestinal medicine. It is also used in piles, menstruation disorder, rheumatism, constipation and diabetes. Powder of dry fruits is useful for teeth. Its ash mixed with butter is effective in wound.

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