COMMON NAME: Standardized: arjuna

BOTANICAL NAME: Terminalia arjuna (Roxb. ex DC.) Wight & Arn.
Plant Family: Combretaceae

OVERVIEW: The arjuna is usually found growing on river banks or near dry river beds in West Bengal and south and central India. The tree is about 20-25 meters tall, and usually has a buttressed trunk that forms a wide canopy at the crown, from which branches drop downward. It has oblong, conical leaves which are green on top and brown below, smooth grey bark, and pale yellow flowers which appear between March and June.

PARTS USED: Dried bark.

TYPICAL PREPARATIONS: Traditionally prepared as a milk decocotion, though a water decoction would also work.

SUMMARY: This herb has a long history of use in the Ayurvedic tradition; it is said to be excellent medicine for the heart chakra. In Theravada Buddhism, arjuna is said to have been used as the tree for achieved enlightenment, or Bodhi, by the tenth Lord Buddha called Anomadassi.

PRECAUTIONS: Not for use in pregnancy except under the supervision of a qualified healthcare practitioner.
We recommend that you consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before using herbal products, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, or on any medications.

Arjuna bark