BANGKOK — As Thailand moves into the cooler season, the strong scent of devil trees, known locally as ton teen ped or phaya sattaban, is once again dividing opinion. While some people find their flowers fragrant and refreshing, others say the smell can trigger headaches, dizziness and nausea.
The devil tree (Alstonia scholaris) is a tall evergreen native to Southeast Asia that can grow 12–20 metres high. Commonly planted along roads and in open spaces across Thailand, it has a distinctive tiered canopy and clusters of small white or greenish-white flowers.
The trees typically bloom around the transition from the rainy season to the cool season. Their powerful fragrance has earned them the nickname “devil trees” and made their flowers a familiar seasonal talking point.
Why do people react differently to the smell?
The flowers release a complex mixture of volatile aromatic compounds, producing a strong scent that can become particularly noticeable in the evening. People differ in how they perceive and tolerate odours, depending on factors such as individual sensitivity, previous experiences and exposure levels.
For some, the fragrance may seem pleasant, fresh or reminiscent of a forest. Others may find it overpowering. Prolonged or intense exposure to strong odours can trigger symptoms such as headaches, dizziness or nausea in susceptible people.
The scent is associated with a mixture of aromatic compounds, including linalool. However, the specific reason one person enjoys the smell while another finds it unpleasant cannot be attributed to a single compound alone.
What are the tree’s traditional uses?
Despite the controversy surrounding its flowers, the devil tree has a history of traditional medicinal use. Its bark, latex and leaves have been used in various remedies.
Traditional practices have included using the bark for digestive complaints, coughs and fever; applying latex to toothaches or earaches; and using young leaves in remedies for scurvy. In India, the latex has also been used traditionally for skin conditions and joint pain.
These are traditional uses, however, and should not be taken as proof of safety or effectiveness. Some plant parts may be harmful if used incorrectly, and people should consult qualified medical professionals rather than self-medicate with them.
The tree also provides shade, grows well in a range of conditions and absorbs carbon dioxide as it grows, making it a common choice for planting in public spaces.
Although its flowers remain a seasonal source of debate, the devil tree offers benefits beyond its distinctive scent. For people who are sensitive to the fragrance, avoiding areas where the flowers are blooming heavily may help reduce discomfort.
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