← Back to herbs

Peepal (Ashvattha)

Ashvattha

Ficus religiosa

The sacred peepal whose bark and fruit are cooling and astringent, pacifying pitta and kapha. Used for skin diseases, wounds, diabetes and respiratory and reproductive complaints.

neutral for Vatareduces Pittareduces Kapha

Ayurvedic properties

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

Traditionally used for

  • skin diseases
  • wounds and ulcers
  • diabetes
  • respiratory disorders

Contraindications & cautions

  • dry constipation
  • high vata

Possible interactions

  • antidiabetic drugs (additive)

Evidence notes

Traditional astringent bark; preliminary antidiabetic and wound-healing reports.

Regulatory notes

Bark used in classical formulations.

Classical sources

Source: Bhavaprakasha Nighantu; API. pending provider validation

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