Botanical Overview

Saraca asoca (family Fabaceae), commonly known as Ashoka or the sorrowless tree, is a sacred medicinal plant native to the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia. The bark, flowers, leaves, and seeds are traditionally used parts.

Energetics

The plant is considered energetically neutral in temperature, drying in moisture influence, with predominantly astringent and bitter tastes. It is tonifying in effect, especially supporting blood health.

Primary Actions

• Astringent
• Anti-inflammatory
• Uterotonic
• Haemostatic
• Antimicrobial

Indications

Western

• Menstrual disorders
• Excessive menstrual bleeding
• Uterine fibroids
• Uterine infections
• Skin conditions
• Diarrhea

Syndromes

• Menorrhagia
• Leucorrhea
• Dysmenorrhea
• Menstrual irregularities
• Vaginal infections

TCM

No substantial data available.

Ayurveda

• Menstrual dysfunction
• Excessive uterine bleeding
• Uterine pain
• Vaginal discharge
• Eczema

Syndromes

• Rakta Dusti (blood disorders)
• Sthaulya (obesity)
• Vranashotha (wound inflammation)
• Kushta (skin disorders)

Unani

• Uterine hemorrhage
• Leucorrhea
• Dysmenorrhea
• Menstrual irregularities

Syndromes

• Istisqa (menorrhagia)
• Ihtibas al-Raihan (vaginal diseases)

Constituents & Mechanisms

Contains flavonoids, tannins, glycosides, saponins, catechins, and anthraquinones contributing to its astringent, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial effects.

Dosage & Preparations

• Decoction of bark: 3-6 g daily
• Powdered bark: 1-3 g twice daily
• Infusion of flowers: 2-4 g daily
• Extracts standardized to flavonoids

Safety & Contraindications

Generally considered safe when used appropriately. Contraindicated in pregnancy due to uterotonic properties and in bleeding disorders. Use with caution alongside anticoagulant medications.

Astrological Correspondences

No well-supported planetary or elemental rulerships identified.

Selected References

• Pharmacological Review on Saraca asoca: A Sacred Medicinal Plant
• WHO Monographs on Selected Medicinal Plants: Saraca asoca Roxb. exDC.
• Traditional Uses and Pharmacological Properties of Saraca asoca
• Plant Resources of South East Asia (PROSEA): Saraca asoca Roxb. ex DC.