Terminalia arjuna (Roxb. ex DC.) Wight & Arn.
Vernacular name: Arjuna, Arjun
Species Name: Terminalia arjuna (Roxb. ex DC.) Wight & Arn.
Family: Combretaceae
Habit: Deciduous to semi-evergreen tree (15-25 m)
Stem: Buttressed bole; smooth grey bark flakes in squares
Leaf: Subopposite; oblong-lanceolate, leathery; apex acuminate
Flowering: March-June (pre-monsoon)
Flowers: Terminal panicles; creamy-white bisexual; 10 stamens; inferior ovary; 5 sepals
Fruit: Fibrous-winged drupe (2.5-5 cm); 5 green wings; matures September-November
Uses:
- Every part of the tree has useful medicinal properties. Arjun holds a reputed position in both Ayurvedic and Yunani Systems of medicine.
- Bark contains triterpenoids such as arjunic acid, arjungenin and arjunolic acid; flavonoids, tannins and glycosides, these chemicals helps managing heart functions and attributes to antioxidant, antimicrobial and anti-inflammation properties.
- According to Ayurveda it is alexiteric, styptic, tonic, anthelmintic, and useful in fractures, ulcers, heart diseases, diarrhea, biliousness, urinary discharges, asthma, cough, tumours, leucoderma, anaemia, excessive prespiration etc.
- In traditional medicines, it is used to manage angina, strengthen cardiac muscles and helps with recovery after heart failure, regulate blood pressure and reduce high blood cholesterol.
- According to Yunani system of medicine, it is used both externally and internally in gleet and urinary discharges.
- Alexiteric property of bark paste or powder helps in treatment of skin ulcers, itching, eczema, psoriasis and sores on tropical applications.
- Plant also helps to maintain blood sugar level and support liver function in folk remedies.
- Contrary to styptic property, Arjuna (anticoagulant) also slow downs the blood clotting that can be harmful in case of wound, injuries or if mixed with blood thinning medications during surgery.
- Arjuna can cause mild nausea, constipation or headaches.
- Timber is very useful for agricultural implements and boat-building.
- In Indian mythology, Arjuna is supposed to be Sita’s favourite tree.
