Coming to science, plants largely take up CO2 and give 02 during the day, the process we all know as photosynthesis. They further take O2 and release CO2 during the night. However, Peepal tree can take CO2 during the night as well because they perform a special type of Photosynthesis called CAM (Crassulacean Acid Metabolism). Along with CAM, there are two more photosynthetic pathway- C3 and C4. Amongst land plants, C3 is most common. CAM pathway mainly occurs in desert plants and epiphytic plants. (Epiphytic plants are those that live on other plants, mainly large trees)

To prevent the loss of water, CAM plants do not open their stomata during the day, however they open their stomata at night to fix CO2. There is a common myth about Peepal tree that it always releases oxygen, be it day or night. Here is a fact, Peepal tree is hemi-epiphyte i.e. in native habitat, its seed will grow as an epiphyte on other trees. As an epiphyte it uses CAM to produce carbohydrates. When the host tree dies, it establishes itself on the soil and switches to C3 photosynthetic pathway. Therefore, Peepal tree will release oxygen during the night depending on whether it is an epiphyte or not.

Despite holding a religious value, Peepal tree is also worshipped since the dawn of civilization because of its many health benefits. The tree has been used to cure diseases since ancient times. According to Ayurveda, every part of Peepal tree- barks, leaves, fruits, seeds, holds medicinal benefits. Its leaves contain glucose, and bark is rich in vitamin K. Peepal fruits are used to cure poor appetite, cough, blood related problems, vomiting. They can also cure the problem of constipation permanently. Soft leaves of Peepal tree helps curing itching and other skin diseases. Peepal seed powder can be used for curing blood related problems. Bark of Peepal tree is also used for curing tooth related problems. It is beneficial for eye pain, asthma, diabetes. It treats heart diseases, dysentery and can also treat Jaundice. Peepal tree has always been a part of traditional medicine in India, no doubt that it holds a very significant value in our lives.

We at RAKSHA understand the importance and the value a Peepal tree holds in our lives. We have planted 12 Peepal trees in Jaipur till now. We have always encouraged and promoted the spirit of forestation. We even hold plantation drives across the city of Jaipur during the onset of monsoon. Trees our lungs of our planet and its imperative that people understand this. As our plantation week comes to an end, we begin another week of Environment campaign with more amazing facts about our Environment. So, stay tuned to find out.