Arjuna Tree

(Arjuna Tree)
Sanskrit: अर्जुन • Botanical: Terminalia arjuna (Roxb.) W. & A.

Arjuna is one of the most important cardiac drugs in Ayurveda. It is a large evergreen tree found along river banks throughout India. The bark is thick, smooth, white-grey and peels off in flat pieces. The bark is the principal medicinal part. It is the drug of choice in Hridroga (heart diseases) and is used extensively in cardiac debility, heart failure, and angina. The bark is given with milk or as decoction with honey. Arjuna bark strengthens the heart muscle and improves cardiac output. It is also useful in fractures - the bark decoction promotes bone healing. The bark ash is applied to wounds. The chemical composition includes Arjunin (a glycoside), Arjunic acid, about 16% tannin, and significant quantities of Calcium. Vagbhata recommends it specifically for heart conditions. Dose: Bark powder 3-6 masha; decoction 1-2 tola. Verses: Described under Vatadi Varga.

Ayurvedic Properties

Taste (Rasa)
Astringent (Kashaya)
Quality (Guna)
Light (Laghu), Dry (Ruksha)
Potency (Virya)
Cold (Sheeta)
Post-digestive (Vipaka)
Pungent (Katu)
Key Constituents
Arjunin, Arjunic acid, Tannins (16%), Calcium salts
Also Known As
English: Arjuna Tree, Arjun
Sanskrit: अर्जुन, ककुभ, नदीसर्ज, वीरवृक्ष, इन्द्रद्रुम, धनञ्जय, पार्थ
Hindi: अर्जुन, कोह

What is Arjuna Tree (Arjuna / अर्जुन)?

Arjuna is one of the most important cardiac drugs in Ayurveda. It is a large evergreen tree found along river banks throughout India. The bark is thick, smooth, white-grey and peels off in flat pieces. The bark is the principal medicinal part. It is the drug of choice in Hridroga (heart diseases) and is used extensively in cardiac debility, heart failure, and angina. The bark is given with milk or as decoction with honey. Arjuna bark strengthens the heart muscle and improves cardiac output. It is also useful in fractures - the bark decoction promotes bone healing. The bark ash is applied to wounds. The chemical composition includes Arjunin (a glycoside), Arjunic acid, about 16% tannin, and significant quantities of Calcium. Vagbhata recommends it specifically for heart conditions. Dose: Bark powder 3-6 masha; decoction 1-2 tola. Verses: Described under Vatadi Varga.

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 5

Therapeutic Actions (Karma)

  • Hridya (cardiotonic)
  • Raktapittahara (alleviates bleeding)
  • Vranashodhana (wound healing)
  • Medohara (reduces fat)
  • Pramehahara (anti-diabetic)

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 5

Arjuna Tree by Condition

Explore how Arjuna Tree is used for specific health concerns — with dosage, preparation methods, and classical references for each.

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Arjuna Tree for High Cholesterol

Medical Disclaimer: The information on this page is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Ayurvedic treatments should be pursued under the guidance of a qualified practitioner (BAMS/MD Ayurveda). Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new treatment. Content is sourced from classical Ayurvedic texts and may not reflect the latest medical research.