One of the traditional herbs used in Ayurveda, lodhra (Symplocos racemosa) is a vital member of the Symplocaceae family. According to Ayurveda, the roots, leaves, stem bark, and flowers of the lodhra plant are all useful. It is also known by the Sanskrit term “DivyaAushadi,” which means “divine herb.”
The dried stem bark of Symplocos racemosa Roxb. (Fam. Symplocaceae) forms the basis of the evergreen tree known as Lodhra. 6 to 8.5 m tall, widely distributed over India’s plains and lower hills. The rough markings on the stem range from pale yellowish to grayish-brown. The plants have simple leaves with a narrow tip, an attenuate base, and a marginal curvature.
Discription
lodhra is utilized in Ayurvedic medicine; it is mentioned in ancient literature such as Sushruta Samhita and Charaka Samhita. The Sanskrit term for the herb refers to an application that strengthens and tones the body, reflecting the benefits it has on skin health.
Botanical name:
Symplocos Racemosa
Leaves:
Typically, leaves have a narrow tip, an attenuate base, a slightly curved edge, and they are simple, elliptic-oblong or elliptic-lanceolate shapes.
Flower:
Cream-colored, tiny flowers are typically found in bunches.
Fruit:
They have a purple-blackish tinge, are leathery, and are around 1.5 inches in length.
Seed:
Its fruits have one to three seeds in them.
Bark:
To make Ayurvedic preparations for treating a range of conditions, including skin diseases, gastrointestinal issues, gynecological issues such female infertility, and mouth diseases, the Bark is pulverized into a powder after being dried.
Parts Used:
Roots, bark as well as leaves
Chemical constituents
Loturine, loturidine, colloturine, tannins, flavonoids, salireposide, symplocoside, betasito-glycoside, symploveroside, and benzoylsalireposide are the components of lodhra.
Dosage:
Adults: 10–30 ml twice daily, preferably after meals, accompanied by water, or as directed by a healthcare professional.
Botanical Description
The Lodhra tree is a tropical evergreen. It has a rough, irregular stem that ranges in color from grayish-brown to pale-whitish brown, with white patches and fractures. Simple, elliptic-oblong or elliptic-lanceolate leaves often have a narrow tip, an attenuate base, and a marginal curvature.
Other Language Names of Lodhra (Symplocos racemosa)
English name – Symplocos tree ,Symplocos bark
Hindi name – Lodhra,Lodh
Telugu name – Lodhuga
Tamil name – Belli lotai,Vellilathi
Guajarati name – Lodhara
Malayam name – Pachotti
Assamese name – Mugam
Bengali name – Lodhra,Lodha
Punjabi name – Loddhar
Kannada name – Pachettu
Oriya name – Lodho
Urdu name -Lodh , Lodhpattani
Marathi name -Lodha
Scientific Classification
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Spermatophyta |
| Sub-division | Angiospermae |
| Class | Dicotyledonae |
| Sub-class | Metachlamydae |
| Order | Ebenales |
| Family | Symplocaceae |
| Genus | Symplocos |
| Spices | Racemose Roxb |
Ayurvedic Properties
Hindi/Sanskrit
- Rasa-Kashaya,Tikta
- Guna-Laghu,Ruksha
- Virya-Sheeta
- Vipaka-Katu
English
- Taste-Astringent,Bitter
- Physical Property-Light,Dry
- Potency-Cold
- Metabolic Property (After Digestion)-Pungent
Lodhra (Symplocos Racemosa) Uses
- It comes in capsule, liquid extract, or powder form, which can be applied topically or ingested when combined with ghee or water.
- Powdered Lodhra root combined with water is formed into a paste.
- Lodhra powder is used to make a compress. Lodhra powder and hot water are combined to make an eye wash.
Lodhra (Symplocos Racemosa) Benefits
Combats Respiratory Problems
Possessing potent anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and anti-asthmatic qualities, lodhra is a widely recognized traditional treatment for a variety of respiratory conditions. It is essential for treating symptoms of the common cold, flu, sore throat, and cough. As a pacifier for the Kapha energy type, it actively thins and loosens catarrh particles in the nasal and chest cavities, which facilitates breathing and aids in the body’s mucus removal. Additionally, it helps in the treatment of bronchial disorders like asthma.
Wound Healing
According to legend, lodhra possesses astringent and antibacterial qualities that are crucial for the rapid healing of skin wounds. Lodhra promotes cell regeneration and inhibits infection to expedite the healing process for wounds, ulcers, and other types of skin damage.
Skin Lightening
The bark extract from lothra trees is well known for its ability to brighten skin, particularly in cases of hyper pigmentation and acne. It functions by lowering the skin’s production of melanin, which lessens pigmentation and dark patches. Lodhra(Symplocos Racemosa) powder can progressively lighten the skin with regular usage, resulting in more uniform skin tone and better texture. The skin appears brighter and more even-toned, improving the complexion as a whole in addition to becoming lighter.
Helps women’s fertility
Beneficial for feminine diseases The reproductive processes are regulated by Lodhra, which normalizes the levels of FSH and LH. Reducing extra bleeding during the menstrual cycle helps on unpleasant days.
Enhances Skin Health
Because of its blood-purifying qualities, which aid in eliminating toxins from the blood, it also aids in the treatment of numerous skin ailments. Additionally, it helps with a variety of allergic disorders, including eczema, psoriasis, scabies, acne, and zits.It lowers the danger of oxidative radical damage to the skin caused by harmful UVA and UVB radiation in addition to protecting it against such damage.
Potential Uses of Lodhra for Cancer
Studies have shown that the bark extract of Lodhra significantly inhibits the growth of cancer cell types.
Promotes Digestion
Lodhra can even aid in the treatment of many digestive issues. The anti-flatulent characteristic lessens gas production in the digestive tract, which lessens bloating, constipation, abdominal distension, and flatulence.
Controls Acne
Lodhra helps with wound healing in addition to its benefits for the skin on the face. The skin will return to its natural texture because of its Ropan feature, which aids in the elimination of inflammation.Lodhra’s antibacterial properties combat acne-causing microorganisms, resulting in clear skin.
Also Read: Karpura, Camphor (Cinnamomum Camphora): Benefits, Dosage and Side Effects
Lodhra (Symplocos Racemosa) Side Effects
Ayurvedic herb lodhra (Symplocos Racemosa) has been used to cure a wide range of illnesses. It may, however, also have some adverse effects,
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding:
Before using Lodhra, it is advised that women who are pregnant or nursing use caution and speak with a healthcare provider.
Interaction with Medications:
Certain drugs may interact with Lodhra. Before using Lodhra, speak with your doctor if you are currently on medicine.
Allergies and the Impact of Hormones:
Female hormones may be directly impacted by lothra. It raises estrogen and progesterone levels while lowering cholesterol and testosterone levels.
Gastrointestinal Issues:
It is not advised to take lodhra on an empty stomach because it can make those who are sensitive to gastrointestinal disturbances feel bloated in the abdomen, queasy, and constipated.
Conclusion
Although Lodhra has been used traditionally in medicine for a number of health benefits, it is important to practice caution when using it. It’s important to speak with a licensed healthcare provider, particularly before introducing it into your daily routine. Herbal treatments can have different effects on different people, and safe and efficient use is ensured by professional assistance.
FAQS
How is Lodhra Symplocos Racemosa used?
Symplocos racemose, often known as the Lodhra tree, has multiple therapeutic properties. To make Ayurvedic preparations for treating a range of conditions, including skin diseases, gastrointestinal issues, gynecological issues such female infertility, and mouth diseases, the bark is dried and ground into a powder.
Is It Safe to Use Lodhra While Breastfeeding or Pregnant?
Pregnant women shouldn’t take it for extended periods of time, even though it is thought to be safe for use by them and their unborn child because it doesn’t have any negative effects on the unborn child. Prior to beginning any herbal or Ayurvedic formulation during pregnancy or lactation, speak with an ayurvedic doctor or physician.
What Uses Is There For The Lodhra Tree Bark?
Extract from the Lodhra tree is widely accessible in a variety of ways. To make Ayurvedic medicines for treating a range of health abnormalities, such as gynecological issues like female infertility, PCOS, menorrhagia, gastrointestinal disorders, dental ailments, and skin infections, the tree’s bark is dried and ground into a powder.
Does Lodhra aid in the healing of wounds?
Yes, lodhra helps with both wound cleaning and wound healing. Its antibacterial properties keep the wound from becoming infected. Lodhra is cooling, astringent, and anti-inflammatory. It has a calming effect and stops bleeding.