Arjuna
Arjuna
Arjuna also known as the “Arjun tree” is a widely grown tree in India. It has various medicinal properties like antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial.
Arjuna helps reduce the risk of heart diseases. It strengthens and tones the heart muscles and helps in proper functioning of the heart. Arjuna tree also has strong anti-hypertensive property and helps reduce high blood pressure. For maximum benefits in case of heart problems, Arjuna chaal boiled in milk should be taken 1-2 times a day.
Arjuna also helps control diarrhea, asthma and cough.
External application of Arjuna bark (Arjuna chaal) helps manage various skin disorders like eczema, psoriasis, itching and rashes[2-5].
One note of caution is to avoid Arjuna with anticoagulant drugs as it has blood thinning property[6].
Arjuna helps reduce the risk of heart diseases. It strengthens and tones the heart muscles and helps in proper functioning of the heart. Arjuna tree also has strong anti-hypertensive property and helps reduce high blood pressure. For maximum benefits in case of heart problems, Arjuna chaal boiled in milk should be taken 1-2 times a day.
Arjuna also helps control diarrhea, asthma and cough.
External application of Arjuna bark (Arjuna chaal) helps manage various skin disorders like eczema, psoriasis, itching and rashes[2-5].
One note of caution is to avoid Arjuna with anticoagulant drugs as it has blood thinning property[6].
What are the synonyms of Arjuna?
Terminalia arjuna, Partha, Svetavaha, Sadad, Sajada, Matti, Bilimatti, Neermatti, Mathichakke, Kudare Kivimase, Nirmasuthu, Vellamaruthi, Kellemasuthu, Mattimora, Torematti, Arjon, Marudam, Maddi[1]
What is the source of Arjuna?
Plant Based
Benefits of Arjuna
Modern Science View
Arjuna is beneficial in the management of chest pain (angina). Studies suggest that the bark of Arjuna shows a significant reduction in chest pain by lowering the level of cortisol i.e., the stress hormone. Arjuna also increases exercise tolerance, improves HDL levels and reduces blood pressure in people with stable angina[3][6].
Ayurvedic View
Arjuna is useful to reduce the risk of heart problems like angina. Angina is due to an aggravated Kapha but the pain associated with it is a symptom of aggravated Vata. An aggravated Kapha leads to the production of Ama (toxic remains in the body due to improper digestion) in the body. This Ama accumulates in the heart channels and causes a blockage leading to an aggravated Vata. This causes pain in the chest area. Arjuna has Kapha balancing property. It helps to reduce Ama, removes the blockage of heart channels and calms the aggravated Vata. This helps reduce chest pain.
Tips for taking Arjuna Kwath
1. Take10- 20- ml of Arjuna kwath or as directed by the Physician.
2. Add the same quantity of milk or water to it.
3. Drink once or twice a day after food to reduce the risk of chest pain.
Tips for taking Arjuna Kwath
1. Take10- 20- ml of Arjuna kwath or as directed by the Physician.
2. Add the same quantity of milk or water to it.
3. Drink once or twice a day after food to reduce the risk of chest pain.
Modern Science View
Arjuna might be beneficial in managing heart diseases as it acts as a cardiotonic and strengthens the heart muscles. Certain constituents such as Tannins and glycosides present in Arjuna bark have an antioxidant property that protects the heart muscles and blood vessels against damage caused by free radicals. Arjuna also helps in the dilation of the blood vessels and dissolves the plaque to improve blood flow. Thus it is effective in managing cardiac problems such as high blood pressure, palpitations and rapid heartbeat[3][6][13].
Ayurvedic View
Arjuna helps to control heart disease and improve heart function properly. It also helps maintain normal blood pressure and heart rate. This is due to its Hrdya (cardiac tonic) property.
Tips:
1. Take 4-8 teaspoons of Arjuna kwath.
2. Add same quantity of milk or water to it.
3. Drink once or twice a day after food to reduce the risk of heart disease.
Tips:
1. Take 4-8 teaspoons of Arjuna kwath.
2. Add same quantity of milk or water to it.
3. Drink once or twice a day after food to reduce the risk of heart disease.
Modern Science View
Arjuna might be beneficial in managing diarrhea. Certain constituents present in Arjuna has antimicrobial and astringent properties. It also has an antibacterial property that controls the intestinal infection caused by microorganisms. It regulates the gut motility and prevents excessive loss of water and electrolytes from the body[6][9][14].
Ayurvedic View
Diarrhea is known as Atisar in Ayurveda. It is due to improper food, impure water, toxins, mental stress and Agnimandya (weak digestive fire). All these factors are responsible for aggravating Vata. This aggravated Vata brings fluid in the intestine from various tissues from the body and mixes with the stool. This leads to loose, watery motions or diarrhea. Taking Arjuna chaal (bark) helps to control the frequency of motion and helps to retain fluid in the body. This is because of its Kashaya (astringent) and Sita (cold) property.
Tips for taking Arjuna Kwath
1. Take10- 20- ml of Arjuna kwath or as directed by the Physician.
2. Add honey or water and take after taking light food to control diarrhea.
Tips for taking Arjuna Kwath
1. Take10- 20- ml of Arjuna kwath or as directed by the Physician.
2. Add honey or water and take after taking light food to control diarrhea.
Ayurvedic View
Arjuna is useful to manage lung problems like infection, cough, asthma and bronchitis According to Ayurveda lung problems like bronchitis is known as Kasroga and is caused by poor digestion. Poor diet and incomplete elimination of wastes leads to the formation of Ama (toxic remains in the body due to improper digestion). This Ama accumulates in the form of mucous in the lungs and leads to bronchitis. Taking Arjuna helps to reduce Ama and remove mucous due to its Kapha balancing property.
Tips:
1. Take 4-8 teaspoons of Arjuna kwath.
2. Add same quantity of milk or water to it.
3. Drink once or twice a day after food to manage lung problems.
Tips:
1. Take 4-8 teaspoons of Arjuna kwath.
2. Add same quantity of milk or water to it.
3. Drink once or twice a day after food to manage lung problems.
Modern Science View
Arjuna has antibacterial property and helps in the management of urinary tract infection. Arjuna also manages symptoms like increased urine frequency[6][9].
Ayurvedic View
Urinary tract infection is described under the broad term of Mutrakcchra in Ayurveda. Mutra means ooze, krichra means painful. Thus, dysuria and painful urination is called as Mutrakcchra. Taking Arjuna in case of urinary tract infection helps to reduce pain during urination and increase the urine flow. This is due to its Mutral (diuretic) property. It also reduces burning sensation and gives a cooling effect while urination because of its Sita (cold) nature.
Tips:
1. Take 4-8 teaspoons of Arjuna kwath.
2. Add same quantity of milk or water to it.
3. Drink once or twice a day after taking food to reduce the symptoms of UTI.
Tips:
1. Take 4-8 teaspoons of Arjuna kwath.
2. Add same quantity of milk or water to it.
3. Drink once or twice a day after taking food to reduce the symptoms of UTI.
How effective is Arjuna?
Likely effective
Angina (heart-related chest pain)
Insufficient evidence
Diarrhea, Heart disease, Inflammation of the airways (bronchitis), Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
Precautions when using Arjuna
Advice from Experts
Important
Modern Science View
Arjuna may interact with blood thinners. So it is generally advisable to consult your physician if you are taking Arjuna with anticoagulant drugs[6].
Breastfeeding
Modern Science View
It is generally advisable to avoid taking Arjuna, if you are breastfeeding[6].
Patients with diabetes
Modern Science View
Arjuna may decrease the blood sugar level. So it is generally advisable to monitor your blood sugar regularly if you are taking Arjuna with anti-diabetic drugs[6].
Pregnancy
Modern Science View
It is generally advisable to avoid the use of Arjuna during pregnancy[6].
Recommended Dosage of Arjuna
- Arjuna Powder - 2-3 g twice a day or as directed by the Physician.
- Arjuna Capsule - 1 capsule twice a day or as directed by the Physician.
- Arjuna Tablet - 1 tablet twice a day or as directed by the Physician.
How to use Arjuna
1. Arjuna Chaal Churna
a. Take 2-3 gm of Arjuna Chaal (bark) churna or as directed by the Physician
b. Add honey or water and take after lunch and dinner.
2. Arjuna Capsule
a. Take 1-2 Arjuna capsules or as directed by the Physician
b. Swallow it with water or milk after lunch and dinner.
3. Arjuna Tablet
a. Take 1 Arjuna tablet or as directed by the Physician
b. Swallow it with water or milk after lunch and dinner.
4. Arjuna Tea
a. Take 1-3 gm of Arjuna tea or as directed by the Physician
b. Boil in 1 cup water and 1 cup milk till the volume is reduced to 1/2 cup.
c. Drink once or twice a day in the morning and evening.
a. Take 2-3 gm of Arjuna Chaal (bark) churna or as directed by the Physician
b. Add honey or water and take after lunch and dinner.
2. Arjuna Capsule
a. Take 1-2 Arjuna capsules or as directed by the Physician
b. Swallow it with water or milk after lunch and dinner.
3. Arjuna Tablet
a. Take 1 Arjuna tablet or as directed by the Physician
b. Swallow it with water or milk after lunch and dinner.
4. Arjuna Tea
a. Take 1-3 gm of Arjuna tea or as directed by the Physician
b. Boil in 1 cup water and 1 cup milk till the volume is reduced to 1/2 cup.
c. Drink once or twice a day in the morning and evening.
Benefits of Arjuna
Modern Science View
Arjuna bark might be beneficial in the management of earache that occurs due to ear infection. It has an antimicrobial activity that inhibits the growth of microorganisms causing an ear infection. It also has anti-inflammatory activity that reduces pain associated with it[6][16].
How effective is Arjuna?
Insufficient evidence
Ear pain
Precautions when using Arjuna
Allergy
Ayurvedic View
Use Arjuna leaves or the paste/powder of Arjuna chaal (bark) with honey or milk if your skin is hypersensitive.
Recommended Dosage of Arjuna
- Arjuna Powder - 3-6 g or as per your requirement.
How to use Arjuna
1. Arjuna Leaves or Bark Fresh Paste
a. Take ½ - 1 teaspoon of Arjuna leaves or fresh paste of Arjuna bark (Arjuna chaal).
b. Add honey to it and mix well.
c. Apply evenly on the face and neck.
d. Let it sit for 4-5 minutes.
e. Wash thoroughly with tap water.
f. Use this remedy 1-3 times a week to get rid of acne and pimples.
2. Arjuna Bark (Arjuna chaal) or Leaves Powder
a. Take ½ - 1 teaspoon of Arjuna leaves or fresh powder of Arjuna bark bark.
b. Add milk to it and mix well.
c. Apply evenly on the face and neck.
d. Let it sit for 4-5 minutes.
e. Wash thoroughly with tap water.
f. Use this remedy 1-3 times a week to get rid of hyperpigmentation.
a. Take ½ - 1 teaspoon of Arjuna leaves or fresh paste of Arjuna bark (Arjuna chaal).
b. Add honey to it and mix well.
c. Apply evenly on the face and neck.
d. Let it sit for 4-5 minutes.
e. Wash thoroughly with tap water.
f. Use this remedy 1-3 times a week to get rid of acne and pimples.
2. Arjuna Bark (Arjuna chaal) or Leaves Powder
a. Take ½ - 1 teaspoon of Arjuna leaves or fresh powder of Arjuna bark bark.
b. Add milk to it and mix well.
c. Apply evenly on the face and neck.
d. Let it sit for 4-5 minutes.
e. Wash thoroughly with tap water.
f. Use this remedy 1-3 times a week to get rid of hyperpigmentation.
Frequently asked questions
Modern Science View
Studies suggest that the extract of Arjuna bark might cause a significant decrease in heart rate i.e., Bradycardia. Thus it is advised to consult your physician before taking Arjuna if you have low blood pressure or heart rate[2][13].
Ayurvedic View
Yes, Arjuna helps to maintain normal heart rate when it is taken as decoction because as per Ayurveda it has Hrdya (cardiac tonic) property which helps to give strength to heart muscles and regulate heart rate[12].
Modern Science View
Yes, Arjuna helps to improve fertility. Arjuna bark extract is a rich source of antioxidants and metals such as zinc. It helps promote the formation of new sperm cells and increases the sperm count. It also helps to increase the overall stamina of the body[9][18].
Ayurvedic View
Arjuna tree helps to reduce the risk of bleeding disorders like menorrhagia. According to Ayurveda heavy menstrual bleeding is known as Raktapradar (excessive secretion of menstrual blood). This is due to an aggravated Pitta dosha in the body. Arjuna chaal (bark) helps control heavy menstrual bleeding by balancing Pitta dosha. This is due to its Sita (cold) and Kashaya (astringent) properties[12].
Ayurvedic View
Yes, Arjuna helps to correct indigestion. According to Ayurveda indigestion means the state of incomplete process of digestion. The main reason for indigestion is aggravated Kapha that causes Agnimandya (weak digestive fire) and leads to indigestion. Taking Arjuna chaal (bark) helps to improve Agni (digestive) because of its Kapha balancing property.
Modern Science View
Arjuna powder might help improve the immune system due to its immunomodulatory activity. It changes the response of the immune system by increasing or decreasing the antibodies production. Thus, it improves the immune system[7].
Modern Science View
Studies state that Arjuna bark (Arjuna chaal) might help reduce high blood pressure level. This is due to its high content of coenzyme Q10. Coenzyme Q10 is a catalyst that helps lower high blood pressure and improves heart functions. It also has a vasodilation activity that helps in the dilation of blood vessels [3][8].
Ayurvedic View
Tips for taking Arjuna Chaal Powder
1. Take 2-3 g Arjuna chaal powder or as directed by the Physician
2. Boil it in 1 cup milk.
3. Take it 1-2 times a day to reduce high blood pressure and risk of heart diseases.
1. Take 2-3 g Arjuna chaal powder or as directed by the Physician
2. Boil it in 1 cup milk.
3. Take it 1-2 times a day to reduce high blood pressure and risk of heart diseases.
Modern Science View
Although not enough scientific information is available to support the role of Arjuna in reducing the risk of STDs. However, it might prevent sexually transmitted disease due to its anti-HIV activity[9].
Modern Science View
Studies suggest that Arjuna bark helps protect the liver and improve its functioning due to its hepatoprotective activity. This is due to the presence of various bioactive components such as phenolics, flavonoids, tannins in the bark of Arjuna[10].
Modern Science View
Arjuna helps manage Kidney diseases such as Uremia by applying the aqueous bark extract of Arjuna. This protects the kidney from oxidative stress due to its strong antioxidant activity. It scavenges free radicals and reduces the risk of kidney cell damage[11].
Modern Science View
Arjuna bark might be used to manage fever by lowering the body temperature due to its antipyretic property. It also has analgesic properties that help reduces pain associated with fever[19].
Modern Science View
Arjuna bark powder protects the heart due to its cardioprotective property. It helps in the proper functioning of the heart by strengthening the heart muscles. It also has anti-hypertensive property that helps reduce the levels of high blood pressure[22].
Ayurvedic View
Arjuna is a well-known herb that helps manage heart functions. Arjuna powder strengthens the cardiac muscles due to its Hrdya (cardiac tonic) property and thus maintains proper functioning of heart.
Modern Science View
Arjuna bark (chaal) is found to be useful in managing high cholesterol level. Due to its strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It lowers the level of total blood cholesterol, bad cholesterol (LDL) and triglycerides. Thus it helps improve the level of good cholesterol[17].
Ayurvedic View
Yes , Arjuna is useful to maintain normal cholesterol level (LDL) due to its Kashaya (astringent )and Kapha pacifying properties which prevent to accumulate excessive cholesterol in the body[12].
Modern Science View
Arjuna is considered to be good for cough due to its expectorant activity. It promotes the secretion of sputum by the air passages of the lungs and thus provides relief from cough[14].
Ayurvedic View
Arjuna is an effective herb in managing the cough. Arjuna controls cough, releases mucus, clears air passages, thus allowing the patient to breathe freely. This is because Arjuna has Kapha balancing properties which helps to remove excessive cough and gives relief to the symptoms of cough.
Modern Science View
Yes, Arjuna bark extract is good for dry skin. Dry skin lacks moisture content and loses elasticity. The skin might become scaly. Arjuna prevents the loss of water from the skin and improves the moisture content. This helps to restore the skin elasticity. Arjuna also improves the blood supply and sebum content in the skin[15].
Modern Science View
Yes, Arjuna bark extract (Arjuna chaal) prevents skin aging. Aging is associated with an increase in the number of free radicals. Arjuna has good antioxidant property that prevents skin damage caused by these free radicals. It helps in the formation of new skin cells, hydrates the skin and improves skin elasticity. It also prevents thinning and sagging of the skin[15].
Ayurvedic View
Yes, Arjuna chaal (bark) is good to heal mouth ulcers. This is because applying a paste of Arjuna chaal gives a cooling effect due to its Sita (cold) property. It also helps in quick healing due to its Ropan (healing) nature[12].
Ayurvedic View
Yes, Arjuna is helpful in the treatment of bleeding piles because of its Kashaya (astringent) property. Arjuna is also useful to get relief from pain while passing stools. This is because of its Sita (cold) nature. However, it is advisable to use Arjuna under medical supervision as a high dose can cause constipation.
Ayurvedic View
Yes, Arjuna is good to manage bruises when applied externally. According to Ayurveda, a bruise is a sign of aggravated Pitta. Arjuna balances an aggravated Pitta due to its Sita (cold) property. Arjuna also accelerates the healing process because of its Ropan (healing) property[12].
Ayurvedic View
Yes, Arjuna is good for skin disorders because it helps to control the symptoms of skin disease like eczema when applied on the affected area. Some of the symptoms of eczema are rough skin, blisters, inflammation, itchiness, and bleeding. These symptoms are mainly due to aggravated Pitta. Applying Arjuna powder reduces inflammation and reduces bleeding. This is because of its Sita (cold) and Kashaya (astringent) properties[12].
Ayurvedic View
Hyperpigmentation is caused by an aggravated Pitta in the body and when the skin is exposed to heat or the sun. Arjuna chaal helps in reducing tanning and pigmentation due to its Kashaya(astringent) and Sita (cold) nature.
Tips for applying Arjuna Bark (Arjuna chaal) or Leaves Powder
a. Take 3-6 g of fresh powder of Arjuna bark
b. Add milk to it and mix well.
c. Apply evenly on the face and neck.
d. Let it sit for 4-5 minutes.
e. Wash thoroughly with tap water.
f. Use this remedy 1-3 times a week to get rid of hyperpigmentation.
Tips for applying Arjuna Bark (Arjuna chaal) or Leaves Powder
a. Take 3-6 g of fresh powder of Arjuna bark
b. Add milk to it and mix well.
c. Apply evenly on the face and neck.
d. Let it sit for 4-5 minutes.
e. Wash thoroughly with tap water.
f. Use this remedy 1-3 times a week to get rid of hyperpigmentation.
Modern Science View
Yes, Arjuna paste might be used to manage acne and pimples by reducing pain and inflammation due to its anti-inflammatory property. It also has an astringent property that causes the contraction of skin cells and other body tissues[21].
Ayurvedic View
Tips for applying Arjuna Leaves or Bark Fresh Paste
a. Take 3-6 g of a fresh paste of Arjuna bark (Arjuna chaal).
b. Add honey to it and mix well.
c. Apply evenly on the face and neck.
d. Let it sit for 4-5 minutes.
e. Wash thoroughly with tap water.
f. Use this remedy 1-3 times a week to get rid of acne and pimples.
a. Take 3-6 g of a fresh paste of Arjuna bark (Arjuna chaal).
b. Add honey to it and mix well.
c. Apply evenly on the face and neck.
d. Let it sit for 4-5 minutes.
e. Wash thoroughly with tap water.
f. Use this remedy 1-3 times a week to get rid of acne and pimples.
References
- The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia Of India.Part 1 Volume 1.
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- Dwivedi S, Chopra D.Revisiting Terminalia arjuna – An ancient cardiovascular drug.J Tradit Complement Med.2014;4(4):224–231.
- Augustine A, Sreeraj G.Medicinal properties of Terminalia arjuna (Roxb.) Wight & Arn.: A review.J Tradit Complement Med. 2017;7(1):65–78.
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- WebMD.Terminalia: Uses, Side effects, Doses, Interactions [Internet].Atlanta [last updated in 2016].
- Gaherwal S, Anare R, Wast N and Prakash MM.Immunomodulatory efficacy of Terminalia arjuna against Aspicularis tetraptera in mice.IJMR.2014; 5 (1): 23-29.
- Ho MJ, Li EC, Wright JM.Blood pressure lowering efficacy of coenzyme Q10 for primary hypertension.Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2016
- Amalraj A, Gopi S.Medicinal properties of Terminalia arjuna (Roxb.) Wight & Arn.: A review.J Tradit Complement Med. 2017; 7(1): 65–78.
- Desai SD, Patil BS, Kanthe PS, et al. Effect of ethanolic extract of terminalia arjuna on liver functions and histopathology of liver in albino rats fed with hyperlipidemic diet.IJPPS.2015;7(10).
- Das K, Chakraborty PP, Ghosh D, et al. Protective Effect of Aqueous Extract of Terminalia arjuna against Dehydrating Induced Oxidative Stress and Uremia in Male Rat.Iran J Pharm Res. 2010 Spring; 9(2): 153–161.
- Prof. Sharma P.V., Dravyaguna Vijnana vol.2, Chaukhambha Bharati Academy- Varanasi , page. no.- 195, 2006.
- Haq M, Huque M, Chaudhury AR, et al. Cardiotonic effects of Terminalia arjuna extracts on guinea pig heart in vitro.Bangladesh J Pharmacol. 2012;7:164-168.
- Gupta S, Bishnoi JP, Kumar N, et al. Terminalia arjuna (Roxb.) Wight &Arn.: Competent source of bioactive components in functional food and drugs. The Pharma innovation journal. 2018;7(3):223-231.
- Farwick M, Kohler T, Schild J, et al. Pentacyclic Triterpenes from Terminalia arjuna show multiple benefits on dry and aged skin. Skin pharmacol physiol. 2014;27:71-81.
- Aneja KR, Sharma C, Joshi R. Antimicrobial activity of Terminalia arjuna wight and Arn.: An ethnomedicinal plant against pathogens causing ear infection.Brazilian Journal of Otorhinolaryngology. 2012;78(1):68-74.
- Gupta R, Singhal S, Goyle A, et al. Antioxidant and hypocholesterolemic effects of Terminalia arjuna tree-bark powder: A randomised placebo-controlled trial.J Assoc Physicians India.2001;49:231-235.
- Parameswari R, Rao KA, Mano K, et al. Human sperm DNA damage inhibition and antioxidant activity of T. Arjuna bark: an in vitro study. Springer. 2017;7(3):188.
- Chularojanamontri L, Chiruntanat N, Jaijoy K, et al. Anti-inflammatory, analgesic and antipyretic activity of Terminalia arjuna Roxb. Extract in animal models. J Med Assoc Thai. 2007;100(6):91.
- Dudhamal TS. Wound healing activity of Arjuna bark powder in Dushta Vrana (non healing venous ulcers) - A case report. J. Ayu. Herb. Med. 2016;2(4):102-103.
- Vijayalakshmi A, Tripura A, Ravichandiran V. Development and evaluation of Anti-acne products from Terminalia Arjuna bark. IJCRGG. 3(1):320-327.
- Priya N, Mathur KC, Sharma A, et al. Effect of Terminalia Arjuna on total platelet count and lipid profile in patients of coronary artery disease. Advances in human biology.2019;9(1):98-101.
Disclaimer
The content is purely informative and educational in nature and should not be construed as medical advice. Please use the content only in consultation with an appropriate certified medical or healthcare professional.