Botanical Overview
Pterocarpus marsupium, belonging to the Fabaceae family, is commonly known as Indian Kino Tree, Bijasal, Malabar Kino, and Vijaysar. It is native to the Indian Subcontinent, Sri Lanka, and Nepal. The heartwood and bark are the parts traditionally used for medicinal purposes.
Energetics
This plant is considered to have a cooling temperature and drying moisture quality. Its taste profile includes bitter and astringent flavors. It is tonifying in nature, primarily affecting the qi and blood.
Primary Actions
- Anti-diabetic
- Astringent
- Anti-inflammatory
- Cardiotonic
Indications
Western
- Hyperglycemia
- Inflammation
- Diarrhea
- Ulcers
- Obesity
Syndromes
- Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
- Metabolic syndrome
- Cardiovascular health support
Ayurveda
- Excess thirst
- Frequent urination
- Wounds
- Weak heart
Syndromes
- Madhumeha (Diabetes)
- Raktapitta (Bleeding disorders)
- Hridroga (Heart disorders)
TCM
No traditional Chinese medicine indications established.
Unani
No specific Unani indications documented.
Constituents & Mechanisms
This species contains important phytochemicals such as pterostilbene, flavonoids, tannins, phenols, and marsupin, which contribute to its anti-diabetic, anti-inflammatory, and cardiotonic activities.
Dosage & Preparations
- Decoction of heartwood powder: 5-10 g daily
- Powder: 1-3 g, 1-2 times daily
- Standardized extract containing pterostilbene: 50-150 mg daily
Safety & Contraindications
The herb is generally well tolerated but should be used cautiously during pregnancy and lactation due to lack of safety data. It may potentiate hypoglycemic agents, requiring monitoring in diabetic patients. Not recommended for individuals with hypoglycemia or bleeding disorders without medical supervision.
Astrological Correspondences
No reliably sourced planetary or elemental rulers identified.
Selected References
- Antidiabetic and antioxidant potential of Pterocarpus marsupium Roxb., Sharma N, et al., Phytotherapy Research, 2004
- Pterocarpus marsupium Roxb. Monograph, Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India, 2001
- Herbs for Diabetes Mellitus, Bergman M, et al., Herbal Medicine: Biomolecular and Clinical Aspects, 2011
- Pharmacological study of Pterocarpus marsupium, Gupta A, et al., Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 2016