Banyan Tree

(Banyan Tree)
Sanskrit: वट • Botanical: Ficus benghalensis Linn.

The Banyan tree (Vata/Nyagrodha) is one of the most important trees in Indian culture and medicine. It is a massive tree with aerial prop roots that grow downward from branches to form secondary trunks. The tree can spread over a very large area. The milky latex, bark, leaves, tender buds and aerial roots are all used medicinally. The bark and latex are astringent and are used in Raktapitta (bleeding disorders), Yoniroga (uterine disorders), Prameha (diabetes), and Vrana (wounds). The latex is applied externally on cracked heels and joints. The tender leaf buds are used in diarrhea and dysentery. The aerial root is useful in dental problems. The bark contains Kino tannic acid. The chemical composition of the latex includes tannins, wax, and resin. The tree is considered sacred and is associated with longevity. Dose: Bark decoction 1-2 tola; latex externally. Verses: 1-4.

Ayurvedic Properties

Taste (Rasa)
Astringent (Kashaya), Sweet (Madhura)
Quality (Guna)
Heavy (Guru), Dry (Ruksha)
Potency (Virya)
Cold (Sheeta)
Post-digestive (Vipaka)
Pungent (Katu)
Key Constituents
Kino tannic acid, Tannins, Wax
Also Known As
English: Banyan Tree, Indian Fig
Sanskrit: वट, न्यग्रोध, क्षीरी, बहुपाद, रक्तफल, ध्रुव
Hindi: बड़, बरगद

What is Banyan Tree (Vata / वट)?

The Banyan tree (Vata/Nyagrodha) is one of the most important trees in Indian culture and medicine. It is a massive tree with aerial prop roots that grow downward from branches to form secondary trunks. The tree can spread over a very large area. The milky latex, bark, leaves, tender buds and aerial roots are all used medicinally. The bark and latex are astringent and are used in Raktapitta (bleeding disorders), Yoniroga (uterine disorders), Prameha (diabetes), and Vrana (wounds). The latex is applied externally on cracked heels and joints. The tender leaf buds are used in diarrhea and dysentery. The aerial root is useful in dental problems. The bark contains Kino tannic acid. The chemical composition of the latex includes tannins, wax, and resin. The tree is considered sacred and is associated with longevity. Dose: Bark decoction 1-2 tola; latex externally. Verses: 1-4.

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 5

Therapeutic Actions (Karma)

  • Varnya (complexion enhancer)
  • Yonidoshahara (corrects uterine disorders)
  • Vranashodhana (wound cleansing)
  • Chhardinigraha (anti-emetic)
  • Visarpahara (anti-erysipelas)

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 5

Banyan Tree by Condition

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

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Banyan Tree for Menstrual Health

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.