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Arjuna

Terminalia arjuna

The premier Ayurvedic cardiac tonic — a cooling, astringent bark used to strengthen and support the heart and healthy circulation.

neutral for Vatareduces Pittareduces Kapha

Media

Terminalia arjuna tree
Terminalia arjuna tree · Wikimedia Commons

Ayurvedic properties

  • Rasa (taste): astringent
  • Virya (energy): cooling
  • Vipaka (post-digestive): pungent
  • Guna (qualities): light, dry

Traditionally used for

  • heart support
  • circulation
  • healthy blood pressure

Contraindications & cautions

  • do not self-treat cardiac disease — practitioner supervision advised

Possible interactions

  • antihypertensives
  • cardiac medication
  • anticoagulants

Evidence notes

Some trials suggest cardioprotective effects; anyone with heart disease should be under medical care (spec §3.1).

Regulatory notes

Supplement; heart conditions warrant professional oversight.

Classical sources

  • BhavaprakashaNighantu — Vatadi varga
  • Ashtanga Hridayamhrdya usage in later traditionCardiotonic use prominent from medieval compendia onward.

Source: Kottakkal AVS. ✓ validated by rao@vamaraju.net

Educational information about Ayurveda — not a medical diagnosis or treatment. Consult a qualified professional before starting any herb, supplement, or therapy.