Ficus elastica – The Indian rubber tree – An underutilized promising multi-use species

Ficus elastica known as the Indian rubber tree has a white, milky latex that is a source of natural rubber was analyzed for its phytochemicals as an intermediate energy source. The tree produces a high quantity of protein and oil (24.5 and 6.1% respectively). The polyphenol content was 4.2%, and hydrocarbon content was 2%. The gross calorific value of the plant sample was 28.7 MJ kg−1, much higher than that of methanol (22.4 MJ kg−1), but comparable to anthracite coal (29.7 MJ kg−1). The gross calorific value of the oil fraction was 32.8 MJ kg−1. This species also contains high levels of ortho-dihydroxy phenols which may be related to disease resistance to some pathogens. It also possesses compounds with antimicrobial activity and a range of pharmacological activities. F. elastica has several chemical constituents, other than rubber, which have potential uses and warrant further study.

► Ficus elastica known as the Indian rubber tree has a potential as an intermediate energy source.
► Gross calorific value of the oil fraction compares to some of the currently used fossil fuels.
► Potential multi-use species because of its hydrocarbon production and high calorific value.
► Ficus elastica has several potential chemical constituents which warrant further study.