Peelu

(Toothbrush Tree)
Sanskrit: पीलू • Botanical: Salvadora persica Linn.

Peelu (Salvadora) is a thorny shrub or small tree found in arid regions of Rajasthan and Gujarat. The root and stem twigs are widely used as natural toothbrushes (Miswak) across the Middle East and parts of India. The twigs contain natural fluorides and antibacterial compounds. The fruit is small, sweet when ripe and pungent. The leaves and bark have purgative properties. The oil from seeds (Peelu oil) is used externally. The tree is important in desert ecology. Chemical analysis shows the twigs contain Trimethylamine, Chlorides and Fluorides which contribute to dental health. Dose: Twig for tooth cleaning; fruit as food. Verse: 79.

Ayurvedic Properties

Taste (Rasa)
Pungent (Katu), Bitter (Tikta)
Quality (Guna)
Light (Laghu), Sharp (Tikshna)
Potency (Virya)
Hot (Ushna)
Post-digestive (Vipaka)
Pungent (Katu)
Key Constituents
Salvadorine, Trimethylamine, Chlorides, Fluorides
Also Known As
English: Toothbrush Tree, Mustard Tree
Sanskrit: पीलू, गुंजन, शीतशिव
Hindi: पीलू, जाल

What is Peelu (Salvadora / पीलू)?

Peelu (Salvadora) is a thorny shrub or small tree found in arid regions of Rajasthan and Gujarat. The root and stem twigs are widely used as natural toothbrushes (Miswak) across the Middle East and parts of India. The twigs contain natural fluorides and antibacterial compounds. The fruit is small, sweet when ripe and pungent. The leaves and bark have purgative properties. The oil from seeds (Peelu oil) is used externally. The tree is important in desert ecology. Chemical analysis shows the twigs contain Trimethylamine, Chlorides and Fluorides which contribute to dental health. Dose: Twig for tooth cleaning; fruit as food. Verse: 79.

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 6

Therapeutic Actions (Karma)

  • Krimighna (anthelmintic)
  • Deepana (appetizer)
  • Dantaroga hara (cures dental diseases)

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 6

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.