Banyan tree is considered sacred in India and has various health benefits in Ayurveda. The leaves of banyan tree yield bergaptene and ficusin organic compounds. The latex of the tree is a highly beneficial compound. The tree has various medicinal properties, which are discussed in the article here.
The botanical name of the Banyan is Ficus benghalensis. Since ancient times, the tree has been used for treatment of various diseases such as dysentery and chronic diarrhea. Various plant parts are used for treatment of diseases. The leaf buds and bark of the tree are useful in stopping bleeding. The fruit of Banyan tree has a soothing effect on the mucous membrane and skin. It also relieves pain and swelling. The fruit is also nutritious.
Medicinal Benefits of Banyan tree in Ayurveda
Following are some of the medicinal benefits of Banyan tree:
- Piles — Latex of Banyan tree is mixed in milk and taken everyday as a cure for bleeding piles. Along with this treatment, a patient should also take good quantity of green vegetables.
- Diarrhea and Dysentery — Leaf buds of Banyan tree help benefit dysentery and chronic diarrhea. The latex is also an effective cure for dysentery.
- Female sterility — For cure of female sterility, roots of Banyan tree are highly beneficial. Roots’ powder should be mixed with milk and taken at bedtime for three consecutive nights after the periods till conception occurs.
- Teeth disorders — If teeth are cleaned with aerial roots of Banyan tree, it helps in prevention of various teeth and gum disorders.
- Leucorrhoea — Decoction prepared from bark should be used for douching the genital tract, which helps in treatment of leucorrhea. It also helps in keeping the vaginal tract healthy.
- Rheumatism — Banyan latex is used for cure of rheumatism, lumbago and pains.
- Skin disorders — A hot poultice of leaves should be prepared and applied to abscesses.
These are some of the health benefits of Banyan tree in Ayurveda.
