Arjuna (Terminalia arjuna)
Family: Combretaceae
English Name: Arjun Myrobalan
Synonyms: Arjuna (white-colored bark), Kakubha (spreads all over), Veerataru (strong stem), Nadeesarja (grows near rivers)
Ganas (Charaka): Udarda Prashamana
Plant Description
- Large tree, grows up to 25 meters tall
- Stem bark: white, glossy, thick; reddish and tender inside
Composition
- Triterpenoids, flavonoids, polyphenols
Ayurvedic Properties
- Rasa (Taste): Kashaya (astringent)
- Guna (Qualities): Laghu (light), Ruksha (dry)
- Veerya (Potency): Sheeta (cool)
- Vipaka (Post-Digestive Effect): Katu (pungent)
Dosha Effects:
- Pacifies Kapha and Pitta
- Prabhava (Special Action): Hridya (cardiotonic)
Parts Used
- Bark and fruit
Dosage:
- Powder: 1–3 g
- Juice: 10–20 ml
- Decoction: 60–120 ml
Therapeutic Benefits
Cardiovascular Health:
- Cardiotonic, supports hypertension, angina, myocardial infarction, congestive heart failure, coronary artery disease
Metabolic and Lipid Management:
- Hypolipidemic, supports healthy cholesterol levels (hypercholesterolemia)
Hepatic and Urogenital Support:
- Hepatic disorders, urogenital and venereal diseases
Digestive Health:
- Dyspepsia, diarrhea, dysentery, colic, piles
Musculoskeletal and Skin Health:
- Fractured bones, topical use for ulcers, sores, wounds
- Bark powder with honey is used in pitta disorders, hemorrhage, diarrhea, and dysentery
Other:
- Supports overall immunity and systemic health
Scientific Studies
- Cardiovascular activity: Bharani A. et al., 1995; Dwivedi S., 1994
- Hypolipidemic effects: Tiwari AK et al., 1990; Gupta R. et al., 2001
- Hepatoprotective activity: Goto W. et al., 1996
- Antineoplastic activity: Pettit GR. et al., 1996
- Antimutagenic activity: Kaur S. et al., 1997
- Antibacterial activity: Perumal SR et al., 1998
- Antiviral activity: Ines KT et al., 1995
Safety Information
- Well tolerated when used within recommended doses
- No significant adverse effects reported
Reference Sloka (Bhava Prakash)
“Kakubhaha Sheetalo Hrudyaha Kshata Kshaya Vishasrajith / Medho Meha Vranahanti tu varaha Kapha Pitta Hruth”
Translation: Arjuna bark is cooling and cardiotonic; it supports heart health, aids in wound healing, improves intellect, metabolism, and urinary function, and pacifies Kapha and Pitta doshas.
