What is ‘Cycas circinalis’?

In northern Kerala, a palm-like tree called Cycas circinalis, also called Eenthu Pana locally, is in danger of going extinct because of an unidentified plant disease that is spreading quickly. These ancient plants originated 300 million years ago and belong to the endangered family of cycads. Eenthu Pana, which can grow up to 25 feet tall, is significant to culture and does well in hilly forests. Like areca nuts, it needs to be thoroughly dried before preparation, which can be difficult in the rainy season. Native communities use it as a nutraceutical plant. It is native to the Western Ghats.