Vata / Nyagrodha (Banyan Tree)
Banyan (Banyan Tree)
Ficus benghalensis
Banyan tree bark and aerial roots: cooling astringent for skin, gums and hair.
Banyan tree · Tree · Parts: Bark, Aerial root, Leaf, Latex
- Taste (rasa)
- Astringent, bitter
- Energy (virya)
- Cooling
- Balances
- Pitta, Kapha
What it is used for
Benefits
- Bark decoction used classically for skin disorders and excessive discharge
- Aerial root twigs used as a tooth cleaner for firm gums
- Infused in oil for hair strength and scalp health
How it has been used
Traditional uses & benefits
Vata-vriksha bark and aerial roots are cooling and astringent — used for skin, gums and tissue tone.
Traditional uses
- Bark decoction rinses for gums and mouth
- External washes for skin eruptions
- Traditional support for tissue tone and discharge
Practical guidance
- 1Use as a decoction or wash rather than a raw powder.
- 2Harvest only fallen or pruned material from clean, mature trees.
- 3Internal use belongs with a practitioner; external use is the household norm.
How much
Dosage
Bark decoction 20-40 ml daily, or 1-3 g bark powder, in short courses.
How to take it
Preparation & usage
Bark decoction
Simmer 1 tbsp dried bark in 2 cups water until halved; strain.
Once daily, or as a wash for irritated skin
Hair oil infusion
Warm bark powder and aerial root pieces in coconut oil, cool and strain.
Weekly scalp massage before washing
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Precautions
- Strongly astringent; can dry the gut with prolonged use
- Avoid internal use in pregnancy
- Not for people with constipation-prone digestion
Where this comes from
Sources
Common questions
What is Banyan used for?
Banyan tree bark and aerial roots: cooling astringent for skin, gums and hair. In traditional use the main applications are: Bark decoction used classically for skin disorders and excessive discharge; Aerial root twigs used as a tooth cleaner for firm gums; Infused in oil for hair strength and scalp health.
What is the typical dosage of Banyan?
Bark decoction 20-40 ml daily, or 1-3 g bark powder, in short courses. Amounts vary with age, constitution and health status, so confirm your own dose with a qualified practitioner.
How and when should Banyan be taken?
Bark decoction: Simmer 1 tbsp dried bark in 2 cups water until halved; strain. Timing — Once daily, or as a wash for irritated skin
Are there any precautions with Banyan?
Strongly astringent; can dry the gut with prolonged use Avoid internal use in pregnancy Not for people with constipation-prone digestion Speak to a doctor before use during pregnancy or breastfeeding, or if you take prescription medication.
Does Banyan replace medical treatment?
No. This page documents traditional Ayurvedic use for education; it is not a diagnosis or treatment and does not replace prescribed medication or professional advice.
Where to buy
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- iHerbShips to US, UK and EU; third-party tested brands
- Banyan BotanicalsUS organic Ayurvedic specialist
If you buy, look for a batch-tested product that states the botanical name and tests for heavy metals. Check with your doctor first if you take medication, are pregnant or breastfeeding.