Ashvattha (Sacred Fig)
Peepal (Sacred Fig)
Ficus religiosa
Sacred fig tree, also called pipal or bodhi: bark and leaf used for skin and breathing.
Peepal tree · Tree · Parts: Bark, Tender leaf, Root bark, Fruit
- Taste (rasa)
- Astringent, sweet, bitter
- Energy (virya)
- Cooling
- Balances
- Pitta, Kapha
What it is used for
Benefits
- Bark decoction traditionally used for skin eruptions and itching
- Leaf and bark used in classical practice for cough and asthma-like breathlessness
- Astringent bark used as a mouth rinse for gum complaints
- Studied for antioxidant and blood-sugar effects in early research
How it has been used
Traditional uses & benefits
Ashvattha is treated as a sacred tree with medicinal bark and leaves — cooling, astringent and used for skin and breath.
Traditional uses
- Bark decoction for skin eruptions and wounds
- Leaf preparations for breathlessness and cough
- Traditional gargles from bark water
Practical guidance
- 1Bark is decocted (simmered), never simply steeped — the actives are hard-extracted.
- 2Collect from mature, unsprayed trees away from roadsides.
- 3Use externally first; internal use is best under guidance.
How much
Dosage
Bark decoction (kwatha) 20-40 ml once or twice daily, or 1-3 g of dried bark powder. Use in short courses.
How to take it
Preparation & usage
Bark decoction
Simmer 1 tbsp coarse dried bark in 2 cups water until reduced by half; strain and cool.
Once daily, or as a skin wash and gargle
Tender leaf infusion
Steep 2-3 washed tender leaves in a cup of hot water for 10 minutes.
Morning during damp, congested weather
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Precautions
- Do not harvest bark from roadside or sprayed trees
- Avoid internal use in pregnancy without supervision
- Latex from cut leaves can irritate sensitive skin
Where this comes from
Sources
Common questions
What is Peepal used for?
Sacred fig tree, also called pipal or bodhi: bark and leaf used for skin and breathing. In traditional use the main applications are: Bark decoction traditionally used for skin eruptions and itching; Leaf and bark used in classical practice for cough and asthma-like breathlessness; Astringent bark used as a mouth rinse for gum complaints.
What is the typical dosage of Peepal?
Bark decoction (kwatha) 20-40 ml once or twice daily, or 1-3 g of dried bark powder. Use in short courses. Amounts vary with age, constitution and health status, so confirm your own dose with a qualified practitioner.
How and when should Peepal be taken?
Bark decoction: Simmer 1 tbsp coarse dried bark in 2 cups water until reduced by half; strain and cool. Timing — Once daily, or as a skin wash and gargle
Are there any precautions with Peepal?
Do not harvest bark from roadside or sprayed trees Avoid internal use in pregnancy without supervision Latex from cut leaves can irritate sensitive skin Speak to a doctor before use during pregnancy or breastfeeding, or if you take prescription medication.
Does Peepal 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.
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