Herb · Asia
Sacred fig
Ficus religiosa
Traditionally attributed effects: bark cooling, astringent, lowers blood sugar; for gonorrhoea, ulcers, skin diseases, scabies, hiccups, nausea; milky sap with milk aphrodisiac; oil for eczema, leprosy, rheumatism; fruit laxative.
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
Tea 12–20 ml; decoction 56–112 ml; powder 4–8 g; medicinal oil of root bark externally.
Use in traditions
Described in the Ayurvedic materia medica. Sanskrit name: Aswatha. Under a sacred fig, the bodhi tree at Bodh Gaya, the Buddha attained enlightenment; cuttings of it grow throughout Asia. Hindus also revere the tree. In Ayurveda (ashvattha) bark and fruits are used for skin diseases, mouth ulcers and bleeding.
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 cooling, astringent, lowers blood sugar; for gonorrhoea, ulcers, skin diseases, scabies, hiccups, nausea; milky sap with milk aphrodisiac; oil for eczema, leprosy, rheumatism; fruit laxative.
Preparation and amount
Tea 12–20 ml; decoction 56–112 ml; powder 4–8 g; medicinal oil of root bark externally.
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
- Tea (infusion)DecoctionPowder and kitchen