Axle-wood Tree

(Axle-wood)
Sanskrit: धव • Botanical: Anogeissus latifolia Wall.

Dhava (Axle-wood) is a large deciduous tree found throughout India in dry deciduous forests. The bark and gum are the main medicinal parts. The bark is highly astringent and used in diarrhea and dysentery. The gum (Ghatti gum or Indian gum) is used as a substitute for Gum Arabic. The bark decoction is used for wound washing. The timber is very hard and used for making axles. The bark yields about 10-12% tannin on analysis. Dose: Bark decoction 1-2 tola. Verse: 31.

Ayurvedic Properties

Taste (Rasa)
Astringent (Kashaya)
Quality (Guna)
Light (Laghu), Dry (Ruksha)
Potency (Virya)
Cold (Sheeta)
Post-digestive (Vipaka)
Pungent (Katu)
Key Constituents
Ghatti gum (Tannins, Gum)
Also Known As
English: Axle-wood, Button Tree
Sanskrit: धव, नन्दीवृक्ष, धावडा
Hindi: धौरा, धावड़ा

What is Axle-wood Tree (Dhowa / धौरा)?

Dhava (Axle-wood) is a large deciduous tree found throughout India in dry deciduous forests. The bark and gum are the main medicinal parts. The bark is highly astringent and used in diarrhea and dysentery. The gum (Ghatti gum or Indian gum) is used as a substitute for Gum Arabic. The bark decoction is used for wound washing. The timber is very hard and used for making axles. The bark yields about 10-12% tannin on analysis. Dose: Bark decoction 1-2 tola. Verse: 31.

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 5

Therapeutic Actions (Karma)

  • Grahi (absorbent)
  • Stambhana (binding)
  • Vranashodhana (wound healing)

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 5

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.