Ashoka

Botanical name: Saraca asoca

Family: Fabaceae

The Ashoka tree, also known as Ashoka Briksh, is one of India's most ancient and sacred trees. It is renowned for its medicinal properties, particularly its bark and leaves.

Ashoka is beneficial in managing various gynecological and menstrual issues in women, such as heavy, irregular, and painful periods. It can be consumed as a churna (powder) or in capsule form twice daily after meals to help relieve abdominal pain and spasms. Additionally, drinking Ashoka bark juice or kwath supports healthy skin due to its blood-purifying properties.

In Ayurveda, Ashoka is known to help control internal bleeding, particularly in cases of piles, due to its astringent (Kasaya) properties. It also aids in pain relief and accelerates wound healing because of its healing (Ropan) properties. Applying Ashoka bark juice or kwath to the skin can help reduce oiliness and improve dull skin.

Synonyms of Ashoka

Saraca asoca, Asok Tree, Ashokadamara, Ashokamara, Kankalimara, Asokam, Asok, Asogam, Asogu, Ashokam, Ashokapatta, Anganpriya, Oshok, Asupala, Ashopalav, and Kankelimaram.

Benefits of Ashoka 

1. Painful Periods (Dysmenorrhea)

Dysmenorrhea refers to pain or cramps occurring during or before menstruation. In Ayurveda, this condition is known as Kasht-aartava. Menstruation (Aartava) is regulated by Vata dosha, making it essential to keep Vata balanced for managing dysmenorrhea. Ashoka possesses Vata-balancing properties, helping alleviate menstrual cramps and abdominal pain.

How to Use:

• Boil Ashoka tree bark in water until the volume reduces to one-fourth.

• Strain the liquid and store it in a bottle.

• Consume 8-10 teaspoons of this Ashoka kwath.

• Mix with an equal amount of water and drink, preferably after lunch and dinner, to relieve menstrual pain.

2. Heavy Menstrual Bleeding (Menorrhagia)

Menorrhagia, or excessive menstrual bleeding, is referred to as Raktapradar in Ayurveda and is caused by an aggravated Pitta dosha. Ashoka helps balance Pitta and reduces heavy bleeding due to its cooling (Sita) properties.

How to Use:

• Boil Ashoka bark in water until only one-fourth of the liquid remains.

• Strain and store the Ashoka kwath.

• Consume 8-10 teaspoons of this kwath.

• Mix with an equal amount of water and drink after lunch and dinner to control heavy menstrual bleeding.

3. Piles

In Ayurveda, piles (Arsh) occur due to an improper diet and sedentary lifestyle, leading to an imbalance in all three doshas, mainly Vata. Aggravated Vata weakens digestion, causing constipation and swelling in rectal veins, leading to piles. Ashoka helps reduce swelling, discomfort, and burning sensations in piles due to its cooling (Sita) nature.

How to Use:

• Take 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of Ashoka powder.

• Mix with honey or water.

• Consume after meals for better results.

4. Leucorrhea

Leucorrhea is a thick, whitish vaginal discharge, often caused by an imbalance in Kapha dosha. Ashoka is beneficial for managing leucorrhea due to its astringent (Kashaya) properties, which help control aggravated Kapha and reduce symptoms.

How to Use:

• Boil Ashoka bark in water until only one-fourth of the liquid remains.

• Strain and store the Ashoka kwath.

• Consume 8-10 teaspoons of this kwath.

• Mix with an equal amount of water and drink after lunch and dinner to manage leucorrhea.

5. Wound Healing

Ashoka aids in the rapid healing of wounds while reducing pain and swelling in the affected area. Additionally, it helps restore the skin’s natural texture due to its Ropan (healing) properties.

How to Use:

• Soak Ashoka tree bark in water overnight.

• The next day, mix it with honey to form a paste.

• Apply this paste to the affected area for faster healing.

6. Joint Pain

According to Ayurveda, bones and joints are associated with Vata dosha, and any imbalance in Vata can result in joint pain. Ashoka’s Vata-balancing properties help alleviate discomfort when applied externally.

How to Use:

• Crush Ashoka bark with water to create a paste.

• Apply this paste to the affected areas for relief from joint pain.

How to Use Ashoka in Daily Routine

1. Ashoka Powder

• Take ¼ - ½ teaspoon of Ashoka bark powder.

• Mix with honey or water.

• Consume preferably after meals for better results.

2. Ashoka Capsules

• Take 1-2 capsules of Ashoka extract.

• Swallow with water, preferably after meals.

3. Ashoka Tablets

• Take 1-2 tablets of Ashoka extract.

• Swallow with water, preferably after meals.

4. Ashoka Kwatha

• Take 8-10 teaspoons of Ashoka kwatha.

• Mix with an equal amount of water and drink, preferably after meals.

5. Ashoka Bark Juice (For Oily and Dull Skin)

• Take 1-2 teaspoons of Ashoka bark juice or paste.

• Mix with honey.

• Apply evenly to the skin.

• Leave it on for 5-7 minutes.

• Rinse thoroughly with tap water.

• Use this remedy 1-3 times a week to reduce oiliness and improve skin texture.

6. Ashoka Leaves or Flower Paste (For Hair Fall and Dandruff)

• Take ½ - 1 teaspoon of Ashoka leaves or flower paste.

• Mix with coconut oil.

• Apply to the hair and scalp.

• Leave it on for 5-7 hours.

• Wash with shampoo and water.

• Use this remedy 1-3 times a week to help control hair fall and dandruff.

7. Ashoka Bark Paste (For Wound Healing)

• Take ½ - 1 teaspoon of Ashoka bark paste.

• Mix with honey.

• Apply to the affected area once daily for faster wound healing.

Recommended Dosage of Ashoka

• Ashoka Powder – ¼ to ½ teaspoon, twice daily.

• Ashoka Capsules – 1-2 capsules, twice daily.

• Ashoka Tablets – 1-2 tablets, twice daily.

Precautions

1. Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Avoid using Ashoka during pregnancy and lactation unless prescribed by a qualified healthcare professional.

2. Medical Conditions: Individuals with chronic health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, or liver disorders should consult a doctor before consuming Ashoka.

3. Allergic Reactions: Some people may experience mild allergic reactions, such as skin irritation or digestive discomfort. Discontinue use if adverse reactions occur.

4. Dosage Adherence: Always follow the recommended dosage, as excessive consumption may lead to gastrointestinal issues.

5. Children and Elderly: Ashoka should be used cautiously in children and the elderly, with proper medical guidance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can Ashoka be taken daily? Yes, Ashoka can be consumed daily within the recommended dosage. However, prolonged use should be under medical supervision.

2. Is Ashoka safe for menstruation-related problems? Yes, Ashoka is known to help with dysmenorrhea, menorrhagia, and leucorrhea due to its balancing effect on Vata and Pitta doshas.

3. Can Ashoka be used for skin problems? Yes, applying Ashoka bark juice or paste can help reduce oiliness, improve dull skin, and promote wound healing.

4. How long does it take for Ashoka to show results? The effectiveness of Ashoka depends on the individual's body type and health condition. Visible results may take a few weeks to months.

5. Can Ashoka be used by men? While Ashoka is widely known for its benefits for women’s health, men can also use it for wound healing, joint pain, and digestive issues.

6. Does Ashoka have any side effects? When consumed in the recommended dosage, Ashoka is generally safe. Overconsumption may lead to digestive disturbances.

Conclusion

Ashoka (Saraca asoca) is a highly valued Ayurvedic herb known for its effectiveness in managing gynecological issues, wound healing, joint pain, and skin problems. With its Vata and Pitta-balancing properties, Ashoka provides significant health benefits when used appropriately. However, it is essential to follow proper dosage guidelines and seek medical advice before long-term use, especially for individuals with pre-existing health conditions. By integrating Ashoka into a balanced lifestyle, one can harness its therapeutic potential for overall well-being.

Related Articles: Explore more Ayurvedic herbs and their benefits:

• Rohitaka – Supports liver health and digestion.

• Vacha – Enhances memory and cognitive function.

• Shatavari – Beneficial for women’s reproductive health.

• Arjuna – Promotes heart health and circulation.

• Manjistha – A natural blood purifier and skin enhancer.

References

1. Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India, Ministry of AYUSH.

2. Sharma, P. V. (2014). Dravyaguna Vijnana – Indian Medicinal Plants.

3. Bhattacharya, N. (2001). Traditional Use of Medicinal Plants in Ayurveda.

4. Research studies on Ashoka’s medicinal properties published in the International Journal of Ayurveda and Pharma Research.

5. Various classical Ayurvedic texts such as Charaka Samhita and Sushruta Samhita.