Pharmacological and Clinical Uses of Saraca Indica

Saraca indica, often known as Ashoka, has several therapeutic properties. The fresh leaflets emerge pale purple-pink and hang limply, similar to those of Pride of Burma (Amherstia Nobilis), in contrast to the rigid and dark green older leaflets.

Flowers bloom from late winter to spring, thickly packed in huge, spherical clusters on the trunk and main branches. They emerge yellow and mature to a dark orange-red colour but are somewhat covered and shadowed by the thick foliage. They have a delicious aroma, especially at night, and are followed by big, flat, wine-colored seedpods up to 25 cm (10 in) long in fall.

Saraca indica

Saraca indica is an evergreen little tree. Flowers are orange or orange-yellow, becoming vermillion as they age, and are highly fragrant in thick axillary combs. The fruit is a flat, leathery pod containing 4 to 8 ellipsoid-oblong, compressed seeds.

The bark of the Ashoka tree is utilised for therapeutic purposes, and it is said to stimulate the endometrial and ovarian tissue. The bark is beneficial in all cases of uterine haemorrhage in which ergot is prescribed. It can also help with menorrhagia caused by uterine fibroids, leucorrhea, and internal bleeding. Because of their shapely structure, colourful blooms, seedpods, and appealing foliage, Asoka trees are widely planted in the wet tropics.

Use for Health

According to reports, the bark stimulates ovarian and uterine tissue. Boil the bark of the Ashoka tree to make a thick decoction, then add mustard oil once it cools. When applied to boils and pimples, this remedy has a very favourable impact. Consuming Ashoka tree products regularly will help you boost your intelligence. Mix equal parts Ashoka’s bark and brahmi powder and take 1 teaspoon of this combination twice a day with a cup of milk. Consumption of Ashoka tree herbs aids in the removal of toxins from our blood, providing good skin benefits. Ashoka tree herbs aid in blood purification and the prevention of allergies and other skin diseases. Ashoka tree extracts can also be used to treat burns and skin irritations. The Ashoka tree may provide a variety of critical nutrients. It also has carbonic compounds of carbon and iron, and the tree’s bark includes ketosterol. It is used to treat menstruation discomfort, menorrhea caused by haemorrhoids, uterine fibroids, leucorrhoea, and internal bleeding in traditional Indian medicine. Tannins, glycosides, essential oils, and calcium are all present.

Characteristics of the problem

Despite its widespread cultivation outside of its original habitat, there appear to be no reports of escape or naturalisation.

The stem bark of the Asoka tree is intensely astringent and acts as a uterine sedative, tonic, and styptic, stimulating endometrial and ovarian tissue.

The bark can also be used to treat dyspepsia, fever, and a burning feeling.

Menorrhagia, leucorrhoea, internal bleeding, haemorrhoids, and hemorrhagic dysentery are also treated with it.

Characteristics of Morphology

The Sita Asoka tree is a medium-sized evergreen tree with fragrant blossoms.

Leaves are 30–60 cm long, alternating, paripinnate, copper-red when young, and green when old.

The bark on ancient stems is dark green, with blue and ash white lichen spots.

Characteristics of flowers

• The colour of fragrant blossoms is orange or orange-yellow

• The fruit is a four to eight-seeded, flat, black, leathery pod

• Dehiscent, woody, and tapering at both ends, the pod

• The seeds are compressed and ellipsoid–oblong. From July through October, the plant blooms and bears fruit

Distribution

• Asoka is found across India but is most common in South India, Sri Lanka, Orissa, and Assam

• The species is also found in the central and eastern Himalayas at elevations of up to 750 metres

• It is cultivated as an avenue tree because of its attractive leaves and fragrant blossoms

Soil and climate

• Asoka thrives in damp tropical climates with evenly distributed rainfall

• It also grows nicely in slightly shaded areas

Material for propagation

• Seeds are the best propagation material

• In December–January, mature seeds are gathered from plants that are five to six years old

When to Avoid Saraca Indica

Although the Ashoka tree has various health advantages, pregnant women should avoid ingesting its products since they may cause difficulties. People who are allergic to particular foods should see a doctor before eating items from this tree.

Conclusion

Saraca Indica also known as Ashoka has a lot of medicinal benefits. The Ashoka tree is one of India’s revered and legendary trees. The name Ashoka means “reliever of suffering.” Ashoka’s Latin name is Saracaasoca, and it is a member of the Leguminosae family. It is popularly known as a tree, and it is essential for reducing your suffering. This tree holds immense religious importance and is worshipped by some people in India.

It is known as “women’s buddy” since it is especially used to treat rakta pradara (menorrhagia) and other female reproductive issues.