Arka

(Madar)
Sanskrit: अर्क • Botanical: Calotropis procera (Ait.) R.Br.

Arka (Calotropis procera), known as Madar or Aak, is a common wasteland shrub found abundantly across India. It grows up to 2000 feet altitude. The plant exudes a thick white milky latex when any part is broken. It has sharp, pungent, and bitter properties. Despite being considered somewhat toxic, it is a highly valued medicinal plant when used properly in processed form. The root bark is the most used part, especially in Arsha (hemorrhoids), skin diseases, and abdominal conditions. The latex (Arka Kshira) is used externally for skin conditions and joint pain. The dried latex is used as a substitute for Dover's powder. The flowers are used in cough and asthma. Two species are described: Calotropis procera (Shveta Arka -- white flowered) and Calotropis gigantea (Rakta Arka -- purple flowered), with the latter also known as 'Alarka'. Arka leaves are used in Swedana (sudation/fomentation therapy).

Ayurvedic Properties

Taste (Rasa)
Pungent (Katu), Bitter (Tikta)
Quality (Guna)
Light (Laghu), Dry (Ruksha), Sharp (Tikshna)
Potency (Virya)
Hot (Ushna)
Post-digestive (Vipaka)
Pungent (Katu)
Key Constituents
Calotropin, Mudarin (Madaralban). Root bark contains cardiac glycosides -- Giganteol (alpha-Amyrin), Iso-Giganteol. Latex contains isomeric crystalline alcohols.
Also Known As
English: Madar, Swallow-wort, Crown Flower, Giant Milkweed
Sanskrit: अर्क, मन्दार, विकीरण, प्रभाकर, भानु, तपन
Hindi: मदार, आक, अकौआ

What is Madar / Arka (मदार / अर्क)?

Arka (Calotropis procera), known as Madar or Aak, is a common wasteland shrub found abundantly across India. It grows up to 2000 feet altitude. The plant exudes a thick white milky latex when any part is broken. It has sharp, pungent, and bitter properties. Despite being considered somewhat toxic, it is a highly valued medicinal plant when used properly in processed form. The root bark is the most used part, especially in Arsha (hemorrhoids), skin diseases, and abdominal conditions. The latex (Arka Kshira) is used externally for skin conditions and joint pain. The dried latex is used as a substitute for Dover's powder. The flowers are used in cough and asthma. Two species are described: Calotropis procera (Shveta Arka -- white flowered) and Calotropis gigantea (Rakta Arka -- purple flowered), with the latter also known as 'Alarka'. Arka leaves are used in Swedana (sudation/fomentation therapy).

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 3

Therapeutic Actions (Karma)

  • Deepani (kindles digestive fire)
  • Virechana (purgative)
  • Krimighna (anthelmintic)
  • Kushtaghna (anti-dermatosis)
  • Shothahara (anti-inflammatory)
  • Vamana (emetic)
  • Vishaghna (anti-toxic)

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 3

Classical Therapeutic Uses

  • Kushtha (skin diseases)
  • Arsha (hemorrhoids)
  • Gulma (abdominal tumors)
  • Pleeha (splenic enlargement)
  • Krimi (worms/parasites)
  • Shotha (swelling/edema)
  • Kasa (cough)
  • Shwasa (asthma)

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 3

Arka by Condition

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

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Arka for Digestive Health
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Arka for Edema & Swelling
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Arka for Hemorrhoids & Piles
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Arka for Inflammation
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Arka for Liver Disorders & Jaundice
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Arka for Parasites & Worms
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Arka for Respiratory Health
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Arka for Skin Disorders

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.