Herb · Asia
Banyan
Ficus benghalensis
Traditionally attributed effects: antiseptic, aphrodisiac, astringent, cooling, stops bleeding, lowers blood sugar; leaves for diarrhoea and dysentery; milky sap externally for pain, bruises, ulcers, rheumatism, lumbago; bark for diabetes, gonorrhoea.
Safety notes
Serious illnesses such as infections, cancer or hepatitis need a doctor: there is no evidence that this remedy cures them. Traditional use is no proof of effectiveness; if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medication or have a medical condition, consult a doctor or pharmacist.
Cautions by tradition (1)
- Ayurvedic materia medica: Serious illnesses such as infections, cancer or hepatitis need a doctor: there is no evidence that this remedy cures them.
Preparation
Decoction 56–112 ml; powder 1–2 g; milky sap 0.5–1 ml; warmed leaves as a compress.
Use in traditions
Described in the Ayurvedic materia medica. Sanskrit name: Vata. The banyan is the national tree of India; its aerial roots form entire forests from a single tree. People met and traded beneath banyans. In Ayurveda the milky sap is dabbed on wounds and toothache, and the aerial roots are used for the gums.
Applications
Use by tradition
How different herbal traditions describe this herb. Amounts are traditional guidelines checked for obvious errors; they are not medical advice. For poisonous plants no dosage is given on purpose.
Ayurvedic materia medica
Attributed effects
Antiseptic, aphrodisiac, astringent, cooling, stops bleeding, lowers blood sugar; leaves for diarrhoea and dysentery; milky sap externally for pain, bruises, ulcers, rheumatism, lumbago; bark for diabetes, gonorrhoea; for coughing up blood.
Preparation and amount
Decoction 56–112 ml; powder 1–2 g; milky sap 0.5–1 ml; warmed leaves as a compress.
Caution: Serious illnesses such as infections, cancer or hepatitis need a doctor: there is no evidence that this remedy cures them.
- Ways to prepare herbs
- DecoctionCompress, poultice and pastePowder and kitchen