A large tree of the genus
Melia (
Melia Azadirachta) found in India. Its bark is bitter, and used as a tonic. A valuable oil is expressed from its seeds, and a tenacious gum exudes from its trunk. The
Melia Azedarach is a much more showy tree, and is cultivated in the Southern United States, where it is known as
Pride of India,
Pride of China, or
bead tree. Various parts of the tree are considered anthelmintic. [
1913 Webster]
"The margosa oil . . . is a most valuable balsam for wounds, having a peculiar smell which prevents the attacks of flies."
[1913 Webster]