Tree no. 2
Tree / Plant Name: Rosary Pea / Gunja / Ratti
Botanical Name: Abrus precatorius
Family: Fabaceae
Origin / Distribution:
Native to tropical regions of India, Southeast Asia, and Africa. It grows commonly in forests,
hedges, and open fields in warm climates.
Role of Plant in Society:
 Known for its bright red and black seeds, traditionally used as beads in jewelry and
rosaries.
 The seeds were historically used as a standard unit of weight (Ratti) in India for measuring
gold and precious stones.
 Sometimes grown as an ornamental climber in gardens.
Ethical / Cultural Value:
 Seeds are used in traditional ornaments and prayer beads (rosaries).
 Associated with traditional Indian practices of measurement and ornamentation.
Medicinal Value:
 Used in Ayurvedic medicine after proper purification.
 Roots and leaves are used in some traditional treatments for cough, fever, and skin
diseases.
 Paste of leaves sometimes used for anti-inflammatory purposes.