Herb · Asia
Orchid tree
Bauhinia variegata
Traditionally attributed effects: bark cleansing, tonic, astringent; root carminative; flowers laxative; for sore throat, cough, bleeding haemorrhoids, heavy menstruation, swollen neck glands, ulcers, diarrhoea, worms, overweight.
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 4–8 g; decoction 56–112 ml; tea of flowers 12–20 ml; bark decoction as a wash.
Use in traditions
Described in the Ayurvedic materia medica. Sanskrit name: Kanchanara. The tree blooms with large, orchid-like pink flowers; the buds are eaten as a vegetable in northern India. In Ayurveda the bark (kanchanara) is the classic remedy for swollen glands, in Kanchanar guggulu.
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
Bark cleansing, tonic, astringent; root carminative; flowers laxative; for sore throat, cough, bleeding haemorrhoids, heavy menstruation, swollen neck glands, ulcers, diarrhoea, worms, overweight.
Preparation and amount
Powder 4–8 g; decoction 56–112 ml; tea of flowers 12–20 ml; bark decoction as a wash.
- Ways to prepare herbs
- Tea (infusion)DecoctionPowder and kitchen