Marking Nut

Sanskrit: भल्लातक • Botanical: Semecarpus anacardium Linn.

Bhallataka (Marking Nut) is described as both a poison and a medicine. The fruit/nut of Semecarpus anacardium contains a highly caustic black oil (Bhilawa oil) that causes severe blistering. After proper Shodhana (purification through brick powder rubbing and processing with lime water), it becomes a powerful Rasayana. Purified Bhallataka is used in piles, skin diseases (especially leprosy), digestive disorders, and as a rejuvenative. The oil causes severe contact dermatitis in unpurified form. It is contraindicated in Pitta constitution and summer season. Verses: 171-178.

Ayurvedic Properties

Taste (Rasa)
Sweet (Madhura), Astringent (Kashaya), Bitter (Tikta)
Quality (Guna)
Laghu, Snigdha, Tikshna
Potency (Virya)
Very hot (Ushna)
Post-digestive (Vipaka)
Sweet (Madhura)
Key Constituents
Bhilawanol (a phenolic compound — vesicant/caustic), Semecarpol, Anacardic acid. The black tarry juice between shell layers is the caustic agent.
Also Known As
Sanskrit: भल्लातक, अग्निमुख, वीरवृक्ष, अरुष्कर
Hindi: भिलावा, भेला, भिलावां

What is Marking Nut (Bhallataka / भल्लातक)?

Bhallataka (Marking Nut) is described as both a poison and a medicine. The fruit/nut of Semecarpus anacardium contains a highly caustic black oil (Bhilawa oil) that causes severe blistering. After proper Shodhana (purification through brick powder rubbing and processing with lime water), it becomes a powerful Rasayana. Purified Bhallataka is used in piles, skin diseases (especially leprosy), digestive disorders, and as a rejuvenative. The oil causes severe contact dermatitis in unpurified form. It is contraindicated in Pitta constitution and summer season. Verses: 171-178.

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 7

Therapeutic Actions (Karma)

  • Rasayana (rejuvenative — powerful)
  • Medhya (improves intellect)
  • Deepana (digestive stimulant)
  • Krimighna (anthelmintic)
  • Vata-Kapha Shamaka
  • Kushtha hara (skin diseases)
  • Arsha hara (hemorrhoids)

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 1

Marking Nut by Condition

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

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Marking Nut for Brain Fog & Memory

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.