Aśoka

Description

Ashoka is an evergreen, small to medium-sized, ornamental tree with spreading branches and fragrant, bright orange-red to yellow flowers arranged in clusters. It is revered in Indian culture, often planted in temples and sacred groves. The tree is especially valued in Ayurveda for its bark, which is a classical uterine tonic and useful in gynecological disorders.

Useful Parts

Bark (most important), leaves, flowers, seeds

Benefits

1. Menstrual Health: Saraca asoca is a primary treatment for menstrual irregularities, heavy flow (menorrhagia), and menstrual cramps. It acts as a uterine tonic, helping to regulate periods and balance hormones. 2. Uterine Health: It is used to strengthen the uterus and is thought to support women with conditions like uterine fibroids, endometriosis, and issues during postpartum recovery. 3. Menopause: Due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, it may help alleviate menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes, mood swings, and vaginal dryness and contribute to bone density. 4. Leucorrhea: The astringent properties of Saraca asoca help control excessive whitish discharge from the female genitals.

Pharmacological Action

Uterine tonic, hemostatic, anti-inflammatory analgesic, antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-ulcer, anticancer, anti-estrogenic, wound healing, adaptogenic.

Rasapancakam

Rasa: Kashaya, Tikta

Guna: Laghu, Ruksha

Virya: Sita

Vipaka: Katu

Dosha Karma: Balances pitta and kapha