In Ayurveda, the traditional Indian medical system, Peepal, scientifically named Ficus religiosa, is highly esteemed. (1) Peepal is a sign of health and longevity and is admired for its therapeutic qualities. Many Ayurvedic formulas are made from leaves, bark, and roots to treat conditions like diabetes, asthma, and skin diseases. (2) The tree’s importance in conventional medical practices stems from the belief that it has strong healing properties. Peepal continues to be essential to Ayurvedic treatment and overall well-being because of its long history and medicinal advantages.
Nutritional Value of Peepal
| Nutrient | Fresh Fruits | Dried Fruits | Leaves | Bark |
| Carbohydrates | (21.2 g/100 g) | 68.33 g | 19.20 g | 15.4 g |
| Proteins | 2.5 g | 8.48 g | 13.55 g | 2.5 g |
| Fats | 1.7 g | 0.143 g | 2.5 g | 1.7 g |
| Crude fibre | 9.9 g | – | 26.1 g | 9.9 g |
| Dietary fibre | – | 69.43 g | – | – |
| Calcium | 289 mg | 848 mg | 1.67 mg | 16.1 mg |
| Iron | – | 6 mg | 0.18 mg | 623 mg |
| Copper | – | – | 0.105 mg | – |
| Manganese | – | – | 0.355 mg | – |
| Zinc | – | – | – | 0.09 mg |
Benefits of Peepal Tree for Health
Here are some of the well-known benefits of peepal tree: –
Strengthens Digestive System
Tannins and flavonoids found in its leaves and stem help with digestion, relieve stomach problems and promote better bowel motions. (3) Powders or decoctions from peepal treat constipation, indigestion, and other digestive issues.
Peepal Tree for the Heart
Compounds found in its leaves may help control heart problems such as high blood pressure and cholesterol. (4) Nevertheless, there isn’t much scientific data, so it’s best to speak with a doctor before using peepal for heart health.
Relieves Joint Pain and Fever
Traditional medicine has used peepal, or the sacred fig tree, to treat fever and relieve joint discomfort. (5) Anti-inflammatory qualities in its leaves may help reduce arthritis-related pain and other joint disorders. It may also have antipyretic properties, which help to reduce body temperature during fevers.
Peepal for Respiratory system
Asthma sufferers may benefit from the powdered form of the dried fruit mixed with water. (6) When used with honey, it might also help with cough relief. It’s also said to give the voice a lovely, melodic quality. Its powder may help treat children’s whooping cough when combined with butter. However, additional research is needed to support these assertions. Please ensure you speak with a physician, who is the best person to diagnose and treat such diseases.
Peepal for the Skin
People leaves are an excellent natural remedy for skin infections and irritations. Ghee, lemon juice, and peepal tree bark should be combined to form a paste. This paste can be used to treat infections in affected regions and to treat cracked heels.
Treat Conditions of the Mouth
A decoction or cold bark infusion may help build gum tissue and alleviate toothaches. Children’s oral ulcers may benefit from using a paste from tender leaves and powdered bark mixed with honey. However, further investigation is needed to support such assertions. As a result, you ought to see a physician.
Treats Ear Pain
Ear discomfort can be unbearable, and if it is not addressed promptly, it can cause several problems. Wash and pat dry the leaves of the peepal tree. Take care not to burn it when heating it on the tawa. These leaves release juice when heated; apply two to three drops to the ear to relieve pain immediately.
Relieve Symptoms of Diarrhoea
One helpful herb for managing diarrhoea is peepal. (7) In Ayurveda, diarrhoea is referred to as Atisar and is brought on by eating the wrong meal, drinking dirty water, stress, and Agnimandya (weak digestive fire). These are all the things that aggravate Vata. Severe Vata causes fluid to enter the gut from different bodily tissues and mix with the faeces, resulting in loose, watery stools or diarrhoea. The astringent and absorbent qualities of peepal bark powder aid in regulating the body’s water loss while also increasing stool thickness.
Precautions to Take with Peepal
Before removing any portions of the peepal tree, people of all ages, including children, pregnant women, nursing mothers, and the elderly, should exercise general caution. Therefore, speaking with your doctor before consuming any tree parts, including powdered bark, is best. Please refrain from self-medicating, changing, substituting, or stopping any current medical therapy on your own.
Recommended Dosage
Depending on the method of ingestion and the health of the individual, different dosages of peepal, or Ficus religiosa, are advised. Taking 1-2 grams of powdered bark or leaves is typical twice daily. For advice on extracts or supplements, refer to the product’s instructions or speak with a healthcare provider.
Side Effects of Peepal
More research is required to determine peepal trees’ possible benefits and drawbacks. It may cause unidentified adverse effects. Therefore, before consuming any parts of peepal tree, it is recommended that you speak with your doctor.
Conclusion
The peepal tree, often called the Bodhi Satva Vruksha, is a sacred tree with great spiritual and religious significance. The wonder tree’s bark, roots, leaves, and fruits are well-known for their medicinal qualities. Ayurveda uses them extensively to treat digestive problems, skin diseases, and lung difficulties. But before consuming the juice from the bark or leaves of the Peepal tree, speak with your physician.
Disclaimer: The information presented here is solely for educational purposes. The purpose of this blog is not to replace medical guidance, diagnosis, or treatment. You should always consult a licensed healthcare professional for any queries or worries about a medical condition.
FAQs
What are the benefits of Peepal?
The sacred fig, peepal, has both therapeutic and cultural value. Many illnesses, including diabetes and asthma, can be treated using its leaves. It also provides shade and encourages biodiversity.
How to consume Peepal?
Asthma, inflammation, and improved digestion are just a few health advantages of chewing or brewing tea using peepal leaves. See a medical expert to ensure appropriate use.
What is the significance of the peepal tree?
In many cultures and religions, the peepal tree is considered sacred and a symbol of longevity, knowledge, and spirituality. It is also frequently connected to enlightenment.
Does Peepal show the anti-fertility property?
Yes, because peepal fruits contain certain elements (including flavonoids, glycosides, and terpenoids), they may have anti-fertility effects on females.
What is the scientific name of the Peepal tree?
Ficus religiosa is the scientific name for the peepal tree. Relished for its long life and symbolic value, it has religious and cultural significance in many traditions.
References
- In Ayurveda, the traditional Indian medical system, peepal, scientifically named Ficus religiosa, is highly esteemed. (researchgate.net)
- Many Ayurvedic formulas are made from leaves, bark, and roots to treat conditions like diabetes, asthma, and skin diseases. (researchgate.net)
- Tannins and flavonoids found in its leaves and stem help with digestion, relieve stomach problems and promote better bowel motions. (researchgate.net)
- Compounds found in its leaves may help control heart problems such as high blood pressure and cholesterol. (researchgate.net)
- Traditional medicine has used peepal, or the sacred fig tree, to treat fever and relieve joint discomfort. (5)
- Asthma sufferers may benefit from the powdered form of the dried fruit mixed with water. (researchgate.net)
- One helpful herb for managing diarrhoea is peepal. (ijpcsonline.com)
