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Semecarpus anacardium L. is one of the best, versatile and most commonly used underutilised fruit crops cum herbs as a household remedy, distributed in sub-Himalayan region. The fruits are traditionally used for astringent, rubifacient, counter irritant and aphrodisiac properties. Ripe fruits are aphrodisiac, digestive and stimulant. A black dye is obtained from the pericarp. The seeds are a source of tannins. Oil obtained from the seeds is used for various industrial purposes such as a floor dressing; as addictive substances to lacquers, dyes and insulating material; in the plastics industry; for regenerating rubber materials; and to protect wood from white ants. However, attention is much needed by the researchers and academicians to expand the area under marking nut and exploit the medicinal important of the crop. In this article a brief description about the plant and its different properties are discussed.

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Semecarpus anacardium L. a fruit.pdf