Palash (Butea monosperma): Palash Flower Benefits
Palash, scientifically known as Butea monosperma, is a sacred and medicinal tree deeply embedded in the roots of Ayurvedic medicine. Also known as Flame of the Forest due to its striking orange-red flowers, this versatile plant offers a multitude of therapeutic benefits that have been revered for centuries. In this article, we dive deep into the marvels of Palash, covering its botanical identity, Ayurvedic properties, medicinal uses, formulations, and modern research supporting its efficacy.
Botanical Description and Habitat of Palash
Palash belongs to the Fabaceae family and is native to the Indian subcontinent. It is a medium-sized deciduous tree found abundantly in tropical and subtropical regions of India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and parts of Southeast Asia. Recognizable by its trifoliate leaves and bright scarlet-orange blossoms, every part of the tree—leaves, flowers, seeds, bark, and gum—is of immense medicinal value.
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Botanical Name: Butea monosperma
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Common Names: Palash, Dhak, Tesu, Flame of the Forest
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Sanskrit Names: Kinshuka, Palasha, Brahmavriksha
Vernacular Names of Palash
The widespread use of Palash across the Indian subcontinent has led to a rich diversity in its local nomenclature. Here are the most recognized names in various regional languages:
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English: Flame of the Forest
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Hindi: Dhaka
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Kannada: Muttuga
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Malayalam: Palasin Samat
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Gujarati: Khakhare
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Telugu: Modugu
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Tamil: Purasam
Each name often reflects either the tree’s appearance, local uses, or cultural associations, offering insight into the regional respect and utility of the plant.
Sanskrit Synonyms of Palash
Ancient Ayurvedic scholars assigned several Sanskrit names to Palash, each highlighting a unique botanical, spiritual, or medicinal attribute:
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Kimshuka – The flower resembles a bird’s beak, often compared to the beak of a parrot.
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Vanaprastha – Refers to its natural habitat in forest regions, symbolizing wild purity.
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Tripatra – Denotes the tree’s trifoliate leaves, a classic identification marker.
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Kharaparna – Signifies rough-textured leaves, relevant for botanical descriptions.
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Vakrapushpaka – Describes the curved nature of its petals.
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Bijasneha – Seeds are oil-rich, used in traditional remedies and therapies.
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Raktapushpaka – Literally means “one with red flowers,” referencing its striking floral hue.
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Krimighna – Highlights the anthelmintic (anti-parasitic) properties of its seeds.
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Yajnika – A tree frequently used in yajnas and sacred rituals.
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Samidvara – Signifies Palash as the ideal Samidha (ritual firewood) for Vedic rituals.
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Ksharashreshta – Acknowledges Palash as a source of Kshara (alkaline extract), used in medicinal formulations.
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Brahmavrukhsa / Brahmopanetra / Samitvara – Denotes auspiciousness and divine connection, especially in spiritual education and rituals.
These names not only signify physical properties but also affirm the deep spiritual essence rooted in the Ayurvedic philosophy of “Dravya Guna Shastra”—the study of medicinal substances and their energies.
Varieties of Palash as per Raj Nighantu
Classical Ayurvedic literature like Raj Nighantu describes four distinct varieties of Palash, differentiated primarily by the color of the flowers and slight variations in medicinal potency:
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Rakta Palasa – Red-flowered variety
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The most commonly used and highly revered in medicine and rituals.
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Pita Palasa – Yellow-flowered variety
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Rare and sometimes considered less potent than the red variant.
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Sweta Palasa – White-flowered variety
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Very rare; occasionally found in deep forests; used symbolically in ritual purity.
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Nila Palasa – Blue-flowered variety
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Extremely rare and largely mythical in traditional records.
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Each of these variants carries subtle differences in pharmacological potency, ritual suitability, and ecological presence, with Rakta Palasa being the most celebrated.
Spiritual Significance of Palash in Ancient India
In Vedic culture, the Palash tree was considered sacred and integral to spiritual rituals, particularly those connected with learning, yajnas (sacrificial rituals), and purification.
Palash in Student Initiation (Upanayana Samskara)
As mentioned in Charaka Samhita – Vimana Sthana (Chapter 8), when a student approached a Guru to begin his journey of learning Ayurveda or Vedic knowledge, he was required to bring a collection of sacred and symbolic items, which included:
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Fire
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Ghee
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Sandalwood paste
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An earthen pot filled with water
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A twig of Palash
The presence of Palash twig in this set indicates the auspicious, purifying, and supportive nature of the tree, aligning it with Brahma Shakti (creative spiritual energy). It symbolized the burning away of ignorance and readiness to receive sacred wisdom.
Use in Yajnas and Vedic Rituals
Palash wood is traditionally chosen as Samidha (firewood offerings) in Vedic yajnas, due to its property of emitting pure smoke, believed to cleanse the environment and energize the atmosphere. It is also used in Agnihotra rituals, homams, and Ayurvedic sacrificial therapies like Gomedha.
Symbol of Purity and Transformation
The bright red blossoms of Palash are often seen as a symbol of energy, purity, and sacrifice. In Indian folk traditions, the blooming of Palash marks the arrival of spring and renewal of life, and it is closely associated with Holi—the festival of colors. In some regions, natural colors for Holi are made using Palash petals, promoting skin health while celebrating.
The Palash tree is not merely a botanical specimen but a cultural, medicinal, and spiritual icon of India. Its extensive list of vernacular names reflects its presence across diverse geographies, while its Sanskrit synonyms reveal its multifaceted role in medicine and rituals. With its documented varieties and revered spiritual symbolism, Palash continues to bridge the physical and metaphysical worlds, standing tall as a flame of healing, wisdom, and sacred fire.
Classical Categorization of Palash in Ayurvedic Texts
The importance of Palash is emphasized through its inclusion in several Ayurvedic herb groups across classical texts:
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Sushruta Samhita and Ashtanga Hridaya list Palash under:
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Rodhradi Gana
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Mushkakadi Gana
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Ambashtadi Gana
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Nyagrodhadi Gana
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Bhavaprakasha Nighantu (Bh. Pr. Ni) classifies it under the:
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Vatadi Varga, a group of herbs useful in balancing Vata dosha and treating various systemic ailments.
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These groupings reflect the herb’s diverse actions on doshas, tissues, and body systems, making it a cornerstone in multi-drug formulations.
Detailed Morphological Description of Palash
Understanding the morphology of Palash is crucial for authentic identification and therapeutic usage. It is a distinctive and easily recognizable tree, particularly during its flowering season.
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Habit: An erect, deciduous tree that can grow up to 50 feet in height. The trunk is crooked, giving it a wild yet dignified appearance.
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Branches: Irregular in shape, covered with a rough, ash-colored bark. The young parts are tomentose (hairy and woolly).
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Leaves: Compound and trifoliate (in groups of three leaflets), with petioles 10–15 cm long. Stipules are linear-lanceolate. Leaflets are coriaceous (leathery), the lateral ones smaller, obliquely rounded at the base, and glabrous (smooth) on the upper side. Leaves are deciduous.
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Inflorescence: A raceme about 15 cm long, bearing the tree’s iconic blossoms.
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Flowers: Long-pedicelled with a calyx that is densely velvety and dark olive green. The orange to salmon-colored petals are about 4–5 cm long, with a broad standard petal, and a semi-circular, veined keel.
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Fruit: Stalked pods, 12–20 cm long, and 2–4 cm wide, noticeably thickened at the sutures.
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Seeds: The useful part of the plant. Seeds are flat, kidney-shaped, reddish-brown, glossy, leathery, and deeply veined. A conspicuous hilum is present near the center of the concave edge. They are odorless.
Parts Used and Dosage in Ayurveda
All parts of Palash offer medicinal properties, but the seeds (Bija) are especially valuable.
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Seed Powder: 1–8 g
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Decoction (Kashayam): 50–100 ml
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Leaf Juice (Swarasa): 10–20 ml
Proper dosage must be monitored under medical guidance, especially when using the seeds due to their potent actions.
Chemical Composition of Palash
Plant Part | Constituents |
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Bark & Stem | Kino, Tannic acid, Gallic acid |
Seeds | Kino oil – a potent wormicide |
Medicinal Qualities and Dosha Effects of Palash
Ayurvedic Pharmacodynamics:
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Rasa (Taste):
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Katu (Pungent)
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Tikta (Bitter)
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Kashaya (Astringent)
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Guna (Qualities):
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Laghu (Light to digest)
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Ruksha (Dry)
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Vipaka (Post-digestive Effect):
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Katu (Pungent)
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Veerya (Potency):
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Ushna (Hot) for bark and roots
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Sheeta (Cold) for flowers and leaves
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This dual nature makes Palash a balanced herb—while its roots and bark are warming and cleansing, its flowers and leaves offer soothing and cooling actions, especially for Pitta and Kapha disorders.
Effect on Tridosha
Palash exhibits a profound action on the Tridosha, with particular efficacy in:
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Balancing Kapha Dosha – By drying excess mucus, clearing channels, and promoting digestion.
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Balancing Pitta Dosha – Especially through the cool potency of flowers, helpful in reducing inflammation and heat-related conditions.
Due to its Ushna veerya, it may slightly aggravate Vata if not used with appropriate adjuvants.
Palasha Pushpa (Palash Flowers)
The vibrant flowers of the Palash tree are not merely ornamental—they serve as cooling, detoxifying, and anti-inflammatory agents in Ayurvedic medicine. Their qualities are precisely defined in the ancient texts:
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Rasa (Taste):
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Katu (Pungent)
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Tikta (Bitter)
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Kashaya (Astringent)
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Vipaka (Post-Digestive Taste):
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Svadu (Sweet) – despite their initial pungency and bitterness, the flowers undergo sweet taste conversion post digestion, making them nourishing and supportive in convalescence.
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Guna (Qualities):
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Vatala – increases Vata Dosha if used excessively.
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Grahi – exhibits absorbent properties, useful in treating loose stools and diarrhea.
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Sheetala (Coolant) – helpful in pacifying heat-related conditions.
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Therapeutic Actions:
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Kaphapittasrajit – balances excessive Kapha and Pitta, as well as Rakta (blood toxins).
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Mutrakrichrajit – relieves urinary retention, supports kidney function.
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Trut, Daha Shamaka – alleviates excessive thirst and burning sensations, particularly in Pitta disorders.
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Vataraktahara – effective in managing gout and inflammatory joint conditions.
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Kushtahara – beneficial in various skin disorders, such as eczema and dermatitis.
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These properties make Palash flowers a valuable dravya in managing febrile conditions, inflammatory skin disorders, urinary ailments, and metabolic imbalance.
Palash Phala (Fruits)
The fruits of Palash are equally potent, particularly in managing digestive and metabolic issues. They are used in both internal medicine and detoxifying protocols in Panchakarma.
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Guna (Qualities):
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Laghu (Light to digest)
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Rooksha (Dry)
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Veerya (Potency):
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Ushna (Hot) – enhances Agni (digestive fire) and improves metabolic function.
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Vipaka (Post-Digestive Taste):
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Katu Vipaka (Pungent) – supports detoxification and reduces Kapha buildup.
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Dosha Impact:
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Vatakaphahara – balances Vata and Kapha Doshas, helpful in treating sluggish digestion and bloating.
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Therapeutic Indications:
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Mehahara – beneficial in diabetes mellitus, especially when used with other hypoglycemic herbs.
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Arshoghna – relieves piles and hemorrhoids, due to its scraping and anti-inflammatory effect.
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Krumihara – destroys intestinal parasites and worms.
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Kushtahara – used in chronic skin diseases, such as psoriasis and leprosy.
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Gulmahara – helpful in abdominal lumps and gaseous distention.
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Udarahara – effective in managing ascites (fluid accumulation in the abdomen).
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These properties make Palash fruit an important adjuvant in gastrointestinal and metabolic therapies, especially in detoxification-based treatments.
Palash Beeja (Seeds)
The seeds of Butea monosperma possess strong dermatological and antimicrobial activity. They are often used in the external management of skin diseases and in deworming protocols.
Key Therapeutic Applications:
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Pama – Scabies
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Kandu – Pruritus (itching)
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Dadru – Ringworm and fungal infections
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Tvak Dosha Nashaka – Purifies skin and balances skin-related Doshas
The oil content in the seeds offers detoxifying and healing effects on the skin. When processed properly, the seed paste is applied externally for treating eczema, allergic dermatitis, and chronic skin eruptions. Seeds are also known to possess vermifuge (anti-parasitic) properties when administered internally under guidance.
Palasha Moola (Roots): Detoxifying and Ophthalmic Uses
The roots of the Palash tree are especially known for their antidotal, anti-inflammatory, and ophthalmic applications. Classical texts such as Vaidya Sara Sangraha highlight the following uses:
1. Antidote for Bhallataka poisoning (Semecarpus anacardium)
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Palashamool Kashaya (Root decoction) is traditionally administered to neutralize the toxic effects caused by Bhallataka seeds or oil exposure.
2. Treatment of Cataracts
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Palash root water distillate (Arka) is used as an eye drop or wash in the early stages of cataracts.
This makes the root a powerful agent in Ayurvedic Shalakya Tantra (ENT and Ophthalmology branch) as well as in toxicology and Rasayana therapy.
Medicinal Properties of Palash (Butea monosperma)
Part Used | Rasa (Taste) | Guna (Qualities) | Veerya (Potency) | Vipaka (Post-digestive effect) | Dosha Effect | Key Therapeutic Uses |
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Palash Flowers | Katu (Pungent), Tikta (Bitter), Kashaya (Astringent) | Laghu (Light), Sheetala (Coolant), Grahi (Absorbent) | Sheeta (Cold) | Madhura (Sweet) | Increases Vata, Pacifies Pitta & Kapha | Relieves burning, thirst, urinary retention, gout (Vatarakta), skin diseases (Kushta) |
Palash Fruits | Not directly mentioned (implied pungent and astringent) | Laghu (Light), Rooksha (Dry) | Ushna (Hot) | Katu (Pungent) | Balances Vata & Kapha | Useful in diabetes (Meha), piles (Arsha), worms (Krimi), skin diseases, bloating (Gulma), ascites (Udara) |
Palash Seeds | Not directly mentioned | Snigdha (Oily), Tikshna (Sharp) | Ushna (Hot) | Katu (Pungent) (implied) | Balances Kapha | Effective in skin disorders (eczema, dermatitis), anti-parasitic, detoxifies skin |
Palash Roots | Not directly mentioned | Light, Penetrating | Ushna (Hot) | Not specifically stated | Balances Kapha | Antidote for Bhallataka poisoning, useful in early-stage cataract (Palash Arka for eyes) |
The Palash tree (Butea monosperma) is not just a symbol of natural beauty but a complete Ayurvedic pharmacy in itself. Each part of this divine tree—flowers, fruits, seeds, and roots—contributes to holistic healing, detoxification, and disease prevention. Its unique pharmacological properties have been validated through centuries of traditional practice, making it an indispensable herb in Ayurvedic therapeutics.
Medicinal Uses of Palash in Ayurveda
1. Deworming and Antiparasitic Action
Palash seeds and flowers are highly effective as krimighna dravya (anthelmintic agents). The powder or decoction of Palash seeds is traditionally used to expel intestinal worms, particularly in children.
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Form: Seed powder with honey or warm water
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Indication: Worm infestation (Krimi Roga)
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Adjuncts: Haritaki for purgation
2. Skin Disorders and Wound Healing
Palash exhibits potent antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. The application of Palash bark paste or decoction helps in the treatment of eczema, wounds, ulcers, and fungal infections.
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Form: Bark decoction or paste
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Indication: Itching, dermatitis, chronic wounds
3. Urinary Disorders
Palash flower infusion acts as a mild diuretic and is prescribed for managing urinary tract infections and renal inflammation.
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Form: Flower tea or decoction
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Indication: Burning micturition, urinary tract irritation
4. Diarrhea and Dysentery
The astringent nature of Palash bark and flowers helps control excessive bowel movements and reduces intestinal inflammation.
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Form: Bark powder with rice water
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Indication: Diarrhea, dysentery, ulcerative colitis
5. Reproductive Health
Palash plays a vital role in enhancing male fertility and improving reproductive strength. It is used in vajikarana therapy to enhance vigor and vitality.
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Form: Seed powder in milk
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Indication: Low libido, infertility, spermatorrhea
Palash in Classical Ayurvedic Formulations
In classical Ayurvedic medicine, Palash (Butea monosperma), widely known as the “Flame of the Forest,” holds a significant place due to its multifaceted medicinal uses. It is incorporated into numerous formulations for internal and external therapeutic applications. Below are some prominent classical formulations involving Palash:
1. Palash Kshar
This is an alkaline preparation obtained from the ash of Palash plant parts. It is used in the treatment of:
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Arsha (Hemorrhoids)
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Bhagandara (Fistula-in-ano)
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Nadi Vrana (Sinus wounds)
It acts as a local cauterizing agent and is useful for its cleansing, wound-healing, and anti-inflammatory properties.
2. Krimikuthar Ras
A classical herbo-mineral formulation in which Palash seeds are used. It is mainly prescribed for:
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Krimi Roga (Parasitic infections)
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Ajeerna (Indigestion caused by worms) This formulation is effective in deworming and strengthening digestive function.
3. Kumkumadi Tailam
Although known for its skin-enhancing effects, in some traditional preparations, Palash flowers are used as a supplementary ingredient. It helps in:
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Improving skin tone and complexion
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Reducing pigmentation and blemishes
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Promoting skin rejuvenation
4. Palashabeejadi Churna
This is a powder made from dried and pulverized seeds of Palash. It is commonly used for:
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Vrana (Wounds)
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Krimi (Intestinal worms)
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Tvak Vikara (Skin diseases) It can be applied externally for skin issues or taken internally for deworming under expert supervision.
5. Kshargutika
A tablet or pill form that includes Palash Kshar along with other herbs. It is administered in:
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Kasa (Cough)
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Swarabheda (Hoarseness of voice)
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Kantharoga (Throat diseases)
Its alkaline and antimicrobial properties help in soothing and cleansing the throat.
6. Palash Mooladi Kashayam
A decoction prepared using Palash roots, used in:
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Visha (Toxicity)
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Jwara (Fever)
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Shotha (Inflammation)
It has detoxifying and anti-inflammatory action.
7. Palashpatra Lepa
A topical formulation made from the fresh paste of Palash leaves, traditionally used in:
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Vrana (Wounds)
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Kushta (Skin disorders)
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Vrushchika Damsha (Scorpion bites)
Its cooling and healing properties make it ideal for external application.
These formulations represent the deep integration of Palash in Ayurvedic pharmacology. Its various plant parts — flowers, seeds, bark, leaves, and roots — are utilized based on their unique qualities and therapeutic actions. Palash continues to be valued in both classical and contemporary Ayurvedic practices for its wide spectrum of benefits.
Home Remedies Using Palash
1. Palash Bark Decoction for Menstrual Irregularities
Indication: Delayed or irregular menstruation.
How it works: The astringent and stimulating properties of Palash bark help to regulate the menstrual cycle by improving uterine health and stimulating timely menstrual flow.
How to prepare and use:
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Take 10–15 grams of Palash bark.
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Prepare a decoction: Boil with 2 cups of water until it reduces to 1 cup.
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Filter and consume the decoction twice daily.
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Begin 12–14 days before the expected date of menstruation and continue until menstruation starts.
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Repeat the remedy for three consecutive cycles to help normalize the menstrual rhythm.
2. Palasha Seed Powder for Intestinal Worms
Indication: Repeated episodes of intestinal worm infestation, especially in children.
How it works: Palash seeds contain kino oil, which has anthelmintic (worm-killing) properties. It helps in eliminating intestinal parasites naturally.
How to prepare and use:
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Collect mature seeds and dry them in shade.
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Grind to make a fine powder.
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Dosage:
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Children: 1–2 grams
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Adults: 4–5 grams
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Take the powder with warm water once daily to eliminate worms and prevent reinfection.
3. Palash Stem Resin for Hemorrhoids
Indication: Piles (hemorrhoids), especially in children.
How it works: The resin from the stem has soothing and astringent properties, which help reduce inflammation and pain associated with hemorrhoids.
How to prepare and use:
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Collect the resin oozing from the Palash stem.
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Mix 2–3 grams of resin with warm water.
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Administer this mixture, especially helpful for children experiencing bleeding or painful piles.
4. Palash Flower Paste for Skin Discoloration
Indication: Hyperpigmentation, dark patches, and uneven skin tone.
How it works: The cooling and blood-purifying nature of Palash flowers helps soothe irritated skin and improve complexion.
How to prepare and use:
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Take fresh flowers and grind them into a fine paste.
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Apply the paste directly on the discolored area of the skin.
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Use twice or thrice daily until the skin tone improves.
5. Palash Bark Decoction with Rock Salt for Breathlessness
Indication: Nasal congestion, breathlessness, or upper respiratory blockage.
How it works: The hot potency (Ushna Veerya) of Palash bark helps to dissolve phlegm and relieve respiratory tract congestion, while rock salt enhances this decongestant effect.
How to prepare and use:
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Prepare Palash bark decoction (as mentioned above).
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Add a pinch of rock salt before drinking.
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Take the warm decoction as needed to ease breathing difficulty.
6. Traditional Cognitive Use of White Palash Flowers
Indication: Low memory, lack of concentration, and to enhance brain functions.
Traditional Belief: In folk practices of Karnataka regions like Shimoga, Sirsi, Sagar, and Bhadravati, white variety of Palash flowers is believed to boost memory and intelligence.
How it’s used:
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Fresh juice, flower paste, or flower-based dishes (curries) are consumed.
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This is usually practiced regularly, often during childhood or student years.
Significance: Though not widely documented in classical texts, these traditional uses open up new avenues for research and scientific validation.
Palash is a treasure trove of healing, known not only in classical Ayurvedic scriptures but also deeply rooted in folk and tribal practices. From menstrual regulation and digestive health to skin care and cognitive enhancement, this sacred tree continues to serve as a versatile natural healer. The wide range of home remedies derived from its various parts signifies its multifaceted therapeutic potential and highlights the scope for further pharmacological research and clinical trials.
Scientific Research on Palash (Butea monosperma)
1. Antidiabetic Properties
Study Findings:
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Ethanolic Leaf Extract: In type 2 diabetic rats, the ethanolic extract of Butea monosperma leaves significantly reduced fasting blood glucose levels and improved glucose tolerance. The extract also elevated plasma insulin levels and enhanced hepatic glycogen formation, suggesting its role in stimulating insulin secretion and improving glucose metabolism.
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Leaf and Bark Extracts: In vitro studies demonstrated that both leaf and bark extracts inhibited carbohydrate-digesting enzymes (α-amylase and α-glucosidase) and promoted glucose uptake in yeast cells, indicating potential mechanisms for their hypoglycemic effects.
2. Anticancer Potential
Study Findings:
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Aqueous Flower Extract: Research indicated that the aqueous extract of Butea monosperma flowers exhibited anti-proliferative and pro-apoptotic effects in hepatoma cell lines. Oral administration in transgenic mice conferred hepatoprotection and showed chemopreventive effects against hepatocellular carcinoma, possibly through antioxidative and anti-inflammatory mechanisms.
3. Anti-inflammatory Activity
Study Findings:
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Methanolic Flower Extract: The methanolic extract of Butea monosperma flowers demonstrated significant anti-inflammatory activity in animal models. It inhibited paw edema and reduced granuloma tissue formation, along with lowering serum lysosomal enzymes and lipid peroxides, indicating its potential in managing inflammatory conditions.
4. Anticonvulsant Effects
Study Findings:
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Triterpene Component: A triterpene isolated from the flowers exhibited anticonvulsant activity in various seizure models in laboratory animals. It was effective against seizures induced by maximal electroshock, pentylenetetrazol, and other convulsants, suggesting its potential utility in epilepsy treatment.
5. Nephroprotective Activity
Study Findings:
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Ethanolic Leaf Extract: In studies involving gentamicin-induced nephrotoxicity in rats, the ethanolic extract of Butea monosperma leaves demonstrated nephroprotective effects. Treatment with the extract resulted in significant reductions in serum urea, creatinine, and blood urea nitrogen levels, indicating its potential in protecting kidney function.
6. Antioxidant Properties
Study Findings:
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Flavonoid Content: The flavonoidal content of Butea monosperma exhibited significant antioxidant activity in vitro. The extract demonstrated free radical scavenging abilities, which may contribute to its therapeutic effects in various oxidative stress-related conditions.
7. Immunomodulatory Effects
Study Findings:
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Ethanolic Leaf Extract: The ethanolic extract of Butea monosperma leaves was found to enhance immune responses in mice. It increased phagocytic index, neutrophil adhesion, and survival rates in models of induced abdominal sepsis, indicating its potential as an immunomodulatory agent.
These studies collectively highlight the diverse pharmacological potential of Butea monosperma, supporting its traditional uses and suggesting avenues for further research and therapeutic applications.
Precautions and Contraindications
While Palash offers numerous health benefits, it should be used with caution:
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Pregnancy: Avoid in pregnancy due to its strong uterine stimulating effect.
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Overdose: Excessive intake of seed powder may cause nausea or gastric irritation.
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Allergy: Some individuals may develop allergic reactions; always conduct a patch test when using topically.
Always consult an Ayurvedic physician before starting any herbal regimen.
Conclusion
Palash (Butea monosperma) is not just a tree of beauty but a powerhouse of Ayurvedic healing. Its diverse applications in treating gastrointestinal disorders, skin ailments, urinary infections, and reproductive issues mark it as one of Ayurveda’s finest botanical treasures. As modern science continues to validate ancient wisdom, Palash emerges as a symbol of holistic health and wellness, bridging tradition with contemporary research.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Palash (Butea monosperma)
1. What is Palash?
Palash, also known as Butea monosperma or Flame of the Forest, is a deciduous tree famous for its vibrant red-orange flowers. It grows widely across India and Southeast Asia and holds significant medicinal and spiritual value in Ayurveda.
2. How does Ayurveda use Palash?
Ayurveda uses all parts of the Palash tree for various health benefits:
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Flowers support liver health and skin care.
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Seeds help eliminate intestinal worms.
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Bark regulates delayed menstruation.
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Leaves aid in wound healing and treat skin infections.
3. Does Palash have side effects?
While Palash offers numerous health benefits, it may cause mild side effects such as digestive discomfort or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Always consult an Ayurvedic practitioner before use, especially during pregnancy or if you take medications.
4. How does Palash help improve skin health?
Palash flowers and leaves improve skin tone and reduce pigmentation. Applying fresh flower paste regularly helps restore natural skin color and soothe skin infections due to their cooling and antiseptic properties.
5. Can Palash help manage diabetes?
Palash leaves may help regulate blood sugar levels and support diabetes management. However, consult a healthcare provider before using Palash for diabetes, especially if you’re on insulin or other medications.
6. Is Palash good for hair health?
Yes, Palash promotes hair strength and reduces hair fall. You can apply a paste made from Palash flower powder to the scalp to nourish hair roots and enhance overall scalp health.
7. How do I use Palash for intestinal worms?
Use mature Palash seed powder in doses of 1–2 grams for children and 4–5 grams for adults with warm water. This traditional remedy helps eliminate intestinal worms and prevent recurrence.
8. What precautions should I take when using Palash?
Follow these precautions:
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Avoid Palash if you have plant allergies.
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Do not use during pregnancy or breastfeeding without medical advice.
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Seek guidance if you have any chronic illness or are taking regular medication.
9. How is Palash useful in Ayurvedic treatment?
Ayurvedic practitioners prescribe Palash in various forms:
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Decoction (Kashayam) for internal cleansing
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Powder (Churna) for oral use
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Paste (Lepa) for skin application
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Oil (Taila) for external massage
10. Where can I buy Palash products?
You can find Palash in the form of herbal powders, capsules, oils, and decoctions at Ayurvedic stores and online wellness platforms. Choose trusted sources that offer authentic, high-quality herbal products.
You can also read about Sarpagandha (Rauvolfia serpentina): Is It Good for Hypertension?