and phytosterols. Due to this chemical richness, the leaves (and the bark) are used in different herbal medicines for various purposes. For instance in Taiwan, fallen leaves are used as an herb to treat liver diseases. In Suriname, an herbal tea made from the leaves has been prescribed against dysentery and diarrhea. The leaves may contain agents for prevention of cancers (although they have no demonstrated anticarcinogenic properties) and antioxidants, as well as anticlastogenic characteristics. Extracts of have shown activity against Plasmodium falciparum chloroquine (CQ)-resistant (FcB1) and CQ-sensitive (HB3) strains. Keeping the leaves in an aquarium may lower the pH and heavy-metal content of the water. It has been used in this way by fish breeders for many years, and is active against some parasites and bacterial pathogens. It is also believed to help prevent fungus forming on the eggs of the fish. Gallery References External links Indian almond leaves- Website devoted to Indian almond leaves in folk medicine, modern medicine and aquariums More Ketapang Info- Blog on ketapang leaves catappa Flora of Madagascar Flora of Seychelles Flora of tropical Asia Flora of China Flora of Taiwan Flora of the Southwestern Pacific Flora of Queensland Flora of the Northern Territory Taxa named by Carl Linnaeus