Indian Elm

(Indian Elm)
Sanskrit: चिरबिल्व • Botanical: Holoptelea integrifolia Planch.

Chirbilva (Holoptelea integrifolia) is a large deciduous tree found in tropical and subtropical forests. Its bark, leaves, and seeds are used medicinally. The bark paste is applied externally on skin diseases and inflammatory swellings. Internally the bark decoction is used as an anthelmintic. The leaves are used in ringworm and other skin parasitic conditions. It has properties similar to Karanj and is often used as a substitute. The tree bark contains bitter principles that make it useful in skin ailments and digestive disorders.

Ayurvedic Properties

Taste (Rasa)
Bitter (Tikta), Astringent (Kashaya)
Quality (Guna)
Light (Laghu), Dry (Ruksha)
Potency (Virya)
Hot (Ushna)
Post-digestive (Vipaka)
Pungent (Katu)
Also Known As
English: Indian Elm
Sanskrit: चिरबिल्व, पूतिकरंज
Hindi: चिलबिल, कंजा

What is Indian Elm (Chiribel / चिरबिल्व)?

Chirbilva (Holoptelea integrifolia) is a large deciduous tree found in tropical and subtropical forests. Its bark, leaves, and seeds are used medicinally. The bark paste is applied externally on skin diseases and inflammatory swellings. Internally the bark decoction is used as an anthelmintic. The leaves are used in ringworm and other skin parasitic conditions. It has properties similar to Karanj and is often used as a substitute. The tree bark contains bitter principles that make it useful in skin ailments and digestive disorders.

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 3

Therapeutic Actions (Karma)

  • Krimighna (anthelmintic)
  • Kushthaghna (alleviates skin diseases)
  • Kaphahara (alleviates Kapha)
  • Vatahara (alleviates Vata)
  • Shothahara (anti-inflammatory)

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 3

Indian Elm by Condition

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

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Indian Elm for Inflammation

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.