This is an attempt to unreel the scientific facts about the
Peepal Tree. The information in this post is just to the best of my gathered
knowledge.
Peepal Tree is considered to be a sacred tree. Few temples have them and often people with health issues are asked to go around the tree n times a day or so and it works to the faith of people. Is it just the faith or something more to it?
Peepal Tree has nothing much edible; the wood of this tree
is also not very strong or usable. A layman sees no direct use of this tree. They
may axe it and make it extinct. But it is scientifically proven that the tree
is capable of releasing more oxygen even during nights. It generates so much
oxygen in one minute which is enough for approx 1000 living creatures. Peepal
is the only tree that produces oxygen in abundant quantity day and night, which
is so essential for life. Peepal tree would either release or not
release carbon dioxide in the night depending on if they are epiphytic or not
but mostly it does.
http://jaagruti.wordpress.com/2010/04/12/science-behind-religious-practices_3/
Peepal Tree is considered to be a sacred tree. Few temples have them and often people with health issues are asked to go around the tree n times a day or so and it works to the faith of people. Is it just the faith or something more to it?
Peepal Tree has nothing much edible; the wood of this tree
is also not very strong or usable. A layman sees no direct use of this tree. They
may axe it and make it extinct. But it is scientifically proven that the tree
is capable of releasing more oxygen even during nights. It generates so much
oxygen in one minute which is enough for approx 1000 living creatures. Peepal
is the only tree that produces oxygen in abundant quantity day and night, which
is so essential for life. Peepal tree would either release or not
release carbon dioxide in the night depending on if they are epiphytic or not
but mostly it does. 
Facts that are dictated and followed without much
understanding:
1)
Go around the Peepal tree in the temple n
number of times to improve your health.
Reason: True breath in healthier air.
It definitely helps. Spend more time under this tree and take deep breaths for
a better impact.
2)
Peepal tree should not be removed.
Reason: The health equation of the
atmosphere there would change. And if you uproot the tree!! OMG! You are the
reason why people around there are taking longer to heal. Kids there were more
active before you did that. It is a curse from the heavens!!
Open Question:
Why do they tie thread around Peepal tree in temples?
Is there any reason for this or is it a silly sneak?
References:
http://shitanshu-srivastava.blogspot.in/2011/03/why-do-we-worship-peepal-tree.html
http://jaagruti.wordpress.com/2010/04/12/science-behind-religious-practices_3/
