Ayurvedic Properties
- Taste (Rasa)
- Bitter (Tikta), Astringent (Kashaya), Pungent (Katu)
- Quality (Guna)
- Light (Laghu), Dry (Ruksha)
- Potency (Virya)
- Hot (Ushna)
- Post-digestive (Vipaka)
- Pungent (Katu)
- Key Constituents
- Kino tannic acid (18%), Butein, Butin, Palasonin
- Also Known As
- English: Forest Flame, Flame of the Forest, Bastard Teak
Sanskrit: पलाश, किंशुक, पर्ण, ब्रह्मवृक्ष, रक्तपुष्प
Hindi: पलास, ढाक, टेसू
What is Butea (Palasha / पलाश)?
Palasha (Butea) is one of the most striking trees in India, known for its brilliant flame-colored flowers that appear in spring when the tree is leafless. It is a moderate-sized deciduous tree found throughout India up to 3000 feet elevation. The tree yields a gum known as 'Bengal Kino' which is astringent and used medicinally. The seeds are one of the most important anthelmintic drugs in Ayurveda - particularly effective against roundworms. The flowers yield an orange-red dye used in Holi festival. The bark decoction is used in piles and fistula. The leaves are traditionally used as plates (Pattal). The gum is used in diarrhea. The seed paste is applied externally in skin diseases. Chemical analysis shows the bark contains about 18% tannin. Dose: Seeds 3-6 masha; bark decoction 1-2 tola. Verses: 27.
Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 5
Therapeutic Actions (Karma)
- Krimighna (anthelmintic)
- Gulma nashaka (cures abdominal tumors)
- Arshoghna (anti-hemorrhoidal)
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.