Herb · Asia
Cluster fig
Ficus racemosa
Traditionally attributed effects: astringent, carminative, stomachic, kills worms, lowers blood sugar; wound rinse, for dysentery, bile complaints, haemorrhoids, diarrhoea, mouth ulcers, heavy menstruation, coughing up blood, sore throat, diabetes.
Safety notes
Traditional use is no proof of effectiveness; if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medication or have a medical condition, consult a doctor or pharmacist.
Preparation
Powder 2–4 g; decoction 56–112 ml; leaf tea 6–15 ml; milky sap 1–1.5 ml; boiled figs as a gargle.
Use in traditions
Described in the Ayurvedic materia medica. Sanskrit name: Udumbara. The figs grow in clusters directly on the trunk. The tree (udumbara) is sacred in Hinduism and Buddhism; according to tradition it blooms only once every three thousand years. In Ayurveda the bark is used for diarrhoea and diabetes.
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
Astringent, carminative, stomachic, kills worms, lowers blood sugar; wound rinse, for dysentery, bile complaints, haemorrhoids, diarrhoea, mouth ulcers, heavy menstruation, coughing up blood, sore throat, diabetes.
Preparation and amount
Powder 2–4 g; decoction 56–112 ml; leaf tea 6–15 ml; milky sap 1–1.5 ml; boiled figs as a gargle.
- Ways to prepare herbs
- Tea (infusion)DecoctionPowder and kitchen