For many of us, the name Arjuna is mostly related to the warrior prince in Mahabharata but for those familiar with Ayurvedic medicine, it is also an effective herbal medicine. 

Belonging to the Combretaceae family, with the Latin name is Terminalia Arjuna, this reddish bark of the plant is highly valued for its medicinal properties. In India, Arjuna is one of the most sacred trees, where the leaves and flowers are offered to Lord Vishnu and Lord Ganesha.

Arjuna contains a host of bioactive compounds like cardenolide, tannins, flavonoids, triterpenoid saponins, ellagic acid, and gallic acid which provides amazing healing properties.

In Ayurvedic medicine, Arjuna has been recommended for treating disorders caused due to the deficiency of kapha, pitta, and vitta. Arjuna is a powerful cardiac tonic, improves insulin sensitivity, promotes digestion and slows down the process of ageing.

Dosage

The recommended dosage of Arjuna bark powder is 1-3 gm with boiled milk or water 2 to 3 times in a day.

The Healing Benefits

Heart Healthy

Arjuna is an amazing heart tonic and cardioprotective herb. It is potent in strengthening the cardiac muscles, improving the circulation of coronary artery blood flow and prevents the heart muscle from ischemic damage. A decoction of Arjuna with milk is a best-known cardiac tonic.

Controls Blood Pressure

Arjuna bark is potential in lowering the blood pressure. It helps to dilate and relax the blood vessels thereby helping it to maintain blood pressure at normal range.

Fights Inflammation

The strong anti-inflammatory properties and antioxidants present in Arjuna shield the body against the harmful effects of toxins. Arjuna is an effective herb that is beneficial in slowing down the ageing. Furthermore, it can fight chronic inflammation and boost overall health and well-being.

Regulates Blood Sugar

The host of plant compounds tannins, saponins and flavonoids present in Arjuna tree helps in glucose metabolism and controls the sudden spike in the levels of blood glucose.

Heals Wounds

Arjuna is a wonderful wound healing compound, the presence of tannins helps in reducing the size of the wounds. It repairs the wounds at a faster rate by speeding the turnover of collagen production. Traditionally the bark is ground into a paste and applied over the wound to speed up the healing.

Manages Cholesterol Levels

Arjuna is known for its ability to regulate cholesterol levels. The compounds present in Arjuna bark have been reported to help lower LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol, commonly known as bad cholesterol, while promoting the increase of HDL (high-density lipoprotein) cholesterol, often referred to as good cholesterol. These actions contribute to overall heart health.

Reduces Stress

Adaptogenic properties in Arjuna help the body adapt to and cope with stress. Its calming effect on the nervous system aids in managing stress and anxiety. By promoting a sense of relaxation, Arjuna indirectly supports cardiovascular health, as chronic stress can contribute to heart-related issues.

Prevents Chronic Diseases

Owing to its anti-inflammatory properties, Arjuna acts as a powerful antioxidant. Antioxidants can neutralize free-roaming radicals in the body that further reduce the oxidative stress. Hunting these free radicals, it supports cellular health and may play a role in preventing various mild to chronic diseases.

Arjuna Effect On Doshas:

Arjuna is a valuable natural remedy for a host of cardiac ailments, aiding in enhancing heart health and possesses an intrinsically Kashaya Rasa i.e. astringent taste. Showcasing a Katu Vipaka, which implies a strong acerbic flavour upon being digested in the system, Arjuna extracts hold a beneficial Rooksha Guna, meaning dry quality, besides being Laghu/light in texture and easily metabolized by the body. With a Sheeta Veerya i.e. cold potency, Arjuna is touted for its Hridaya Prabhava – astounding merits in enriching heart wellness and ably balances the Kapha and Pitta doshas, thereby maintaining tridoshic harmony.

Side Effects Of Arjuna:

When taken in measured doses, arjuna bark powders and infused formulations are very safe for internal consumption and do not pose any health hazards. However, ingesting too much of this herbal powder, paste or distilled concoctions can lead to health issues in the stomach, liver and kidneys.

Furthermore, since the effects of arjuna bark residues and its herbal mixtures are not clearly understood in expecting and lactating females, internal consumption of the herb must be avoided by pregnant and breastfeeding women. Arjuna must always be taken only in moderate proportions or as per the dosage recommended by a certified Ayurvedic practitioner.

Disclaimer:

The content provided here is for informational purposes only. This blog is not intended to substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider for any questions or concerns you may have regarding a medical condition. Reliance does not endorse or recommend any specific tests, physicians, procedures, opinions, or other information mentioned on the blog

Hop on to www.netmeds.com for all your Ayurvedic essentials, a big save for your money.