Botanical Overview
Tamarindus indica, commonly known as Tamarind or Indian date, belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is native to Tropical Africa but widely cultivated across South and Southeast Asia. Traditional medicinal use utilizes various plant parts including the fruit pulp, leaves, seeds, and bark.
Energetics
Tamarind is considered cooling in temperature with moistening qualities. Its taste profile is predominantly sour and sweet. It acts as a relaxing tonic affecting the flow of qi within the body.
Primary Actions
- Antioxidant
- Anti-inflammatory
- Laxative
- Digestive tonic
- Antimicrobial
- Antipyretic
Indications
Western
- Constipation
- Fever
- Cough
- Diarrhea
- Inflammation
- Joint pain
Syndromes
- Digestive sluggishness
- Febrile conditions
- Respiratory tract infections
- Arthritis
TCM
- Heat conditions
- Dryness
- Constipation
Syndromes
- Stagnant Liver qi
- Lung heat
- Dryness in intestines
Ayurveda
- Constipation
- Fever
- Digestive disorders
- Cough
Syndromes
- Pitta imbalance
- Kaphaja disorders
- Vata disorders related to digestion
Unani
- Constipation
- Fever
- Respiratory complaints
Syndromes
- Heat and inflammation related disorders
- Digestive weakness
Constituents & Mechanisms
Tamarind contains tannins, flavonoids, organic acids (notably tartaric acid), polysaccharides, and phenolic compounds contributing to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and digestive effects.
Dosage & Preparations
- Fruit pulp decoction: 5-20 g per day
- Leaf infusion: 10-15 g per day
- Seed powder: 1-3 g per day
Safety & Contraindications
Generally considered safe in culinary and medicinal amounts. Excess use may cause gastrointestinal discomfort or laxative effects. Caution is advised during pregnancy and lactation due to limited safety data. Avoid use in cases of diarrhea.
Astrological Correspondences
No well-documented planetary or elemental rulers are established for Tamarindus indica in classical or modern authoritative herbal/esoteric literature.
Selected References
- Plants for a Future: Tamarindus indica – Tamarind
- WHO Monographs on Selected Medicinal Plants: Volume 3, 2007
- Pharmacognosy Review, “Tamarindus indica: Extending its Health Benefits beyond Nutrition”, 2013
- Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India, 2001