Food: The most important product from C. luzonicum is the kernel. When raw, its flavour resembles roasted pumpkinseed, and when roasted, its mild, nutty flavour and tender, crispy texture are superior the almond. It has been recorded that the testa should be removed before the kernel is eaten, because it causes diarrhoea. Pili kernel is also used in chocolate, ice cream and baked goods. Nutritionally, the kernel contains 71.1% fat, 11.4% protein and 8.4% carbohydrates; it is high in calcium, phosphorus and potassium. The kernel is a major ingredient in a famous Chinese festive dessert known as the ‘moon cake’. However, kernels from some trees may be bitter, fibrous or have a turpentine odour.
Young shoots are used in salads, and the fruit pulp is eaten after it is boiled and seasoned. Boiled pili pulp resembles the sweet potato in texture, it is oily (about 12%) and is considered to have food value similar to the avocado. Pulp oil can be used for cooking.
Fuel: The hard and thick shell that encloses the kernel makes an excellent fuel for cooking. The resin-rich wood makes good firewood.
Gum or resin: A valuable resin, called Manila elemi or ‘breabianca’, is used as an ingredient in the manufacture of plastics, printing inks and perfumes. It is also is used by the Spaniards for ship repairs.
Lipids: An edible light-yellow oil expressed from the kernel is comparable in quality to that of olive oil, containing up to 59% oleic glycerides and 32-59% of palmitic glycerides. Pulp oil can be extracted and used as a substitute for cottonseed oil in the manufacture of soap and edible products.
Medicine: Resin is soft, odorous and has the texture of honey. It was formerly exported for the European pharmaceutical trade as Manila or Philippine gum elemi for use as an ointment for healing wounds and as a plaster. Raw nuts are a purgative.
Other products: Polished and varnished, the stony thick shell becomes an attractive ornament.
SERVICES
Shade or shelter: The evergreen C. luzonicum tree makes an excellent windbreak as it resists strong winds and even typhoons.
Soil improver: Stony shells are excellent as a porous, inert growth medium for orchids and anthuriums. Ornamental: With its symmetrical branches, C. luzonicum is an attractive avenue tree.