Botanical Overview
Ficus religiosa, known commonly as Peepal, Bo tree, Sacred fig, or Pipal, belongs to the Moraceae family. Indigenous to the Indian Subcontinent and Southeast Asia, this species is revered both botanically and culturally. The parts used medicinally include leaves, bark, root, fruit, and stem.
Energetics
The plant exhibits a cooling temperature and drying moisture quality, with tastes characterized as bitter, astringent, and sweet. Its directionality is descending and centered, with a relaxing tonicity affecting primarily qi and blood.
Primary Actions
- Anti-inflammatory
- Antioxidant
- Astringent
- Diuretic
- Sedative
- Wound healing
Indications
Western
- Cough
- Diarrhea
- Wounds
- Bronchitis
- Asthma
- Fever
- Headache
- Inflammation
Syndromes
- Respiratory inflammation
- Gastrointestinal disturbances
- Skin infections
TCM
Not established in Traditional Chinese Medicine traditions.
Ayurveda
- Diarrhea
- Asthma
- Cough
- Headache
- Fever
- Skin diseases
- Hemorrhoids
Syndromes
- Pitta disorders
- Kapha disorders
- Vata disorders
- Prameha (urinary disorders)
Unani
- Asthma
- Diarrhea
- Skin diseases
- Fever
- Wounds
Syndromes
- Sola’ (flu-like conditions)
- Riyah wa Nafas (respiratory conditions)
Constituents & Mechanisms
The plant contains flavonoids, alkaloids, tannins, saponins, steroids, triterpenoids, phenols, and glycosides, contributing to its pharmacological effects including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and astringent activity.
Dosage & Preparations
- Decoction of bark 5-10 g taken 1-2 times daily
- Fresh leaf juice applied topically for wounds
- Powdered leaf 1-3 g taken 1-2 times daily
- Infusion of leaves 2-4 g taken 1-3 times daily
Safety & Contraindications
Ficus religiosa is generally safe in traditional use; however, caution is advised during pregnancy due to limited safety data and in lactation. Allergic reactions are possible. Use cautiously with anticoagulants and antihypertensive medications.
Astrological Correspondences
No reputable sources currently establish planetary or elemental rulers for Ficus religiosa.
Selected References
- Pharmacological and phytochemical overview of Ficus religiosa – Sharma, P. et al., 2013
- Ethnomedicinal and pharmacological properties of Ficus religiosa: A review – Kumar, S. et al., 2012
- Ficus religiosa Monograph – The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India, 2008
- Ethnopharmacological uses of Ficus religiosa in India and Nepal – Sulaiman, M.R. et al., 2006