Ayurvedic Properties
- Taste (Rasa)
- Bitter (Tikta), Astringent (Kashaya)
- Quality (Guna)
- Light (Laghu), Dry (Ruksha)
- Potency (Virya)
- Hot (Ushna)
- Post-digestive (Vipaka)
- Pungent (Katu)
- Key Constituents
- Echitamine C22H28O4N2H2O, Echitamidine C20H26O3N2, Ditamine alkaloids
- Also Known As
- English: Devil's Tree, Scholar's Tree, Blackboard Tree
Sanskrit: सप्तपर्ण, शारद, विषमच्छद, सप्तच्छद
Hindi: सप्तपर्णी, छतिवन
What is Saptaparna (Shaitan's Tree / सप्तपर्ण)?
Saptaparna (Devil's Tree) is a large evergreen tree growing up to 40-60 feet tall, found throughout India up to 3000 feet. The bark is the main medicinal part. The bark is extremely bitter and is one of the best febrifuge drugs. It is used in chronic and malarial fevers. The milky latex is used in ulcers and skin diseases. The bark contains alkaloids including Echitamine and Ditamine. It is a component of the famous Ayushmanabhairava Rasa. The bark decoction is used in alternating fevers, skin diseases and worm infestations. The bark also contains a glycoside and is used as a substitute for quinine in malarial fever. Dose: Bark powder 1 to 3 masha; decoction 1-2 tola. Verses: 40.
Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 5
Therapeutic Actions (Karma)
- Jvaraghna (antipyretic)
- Krimighna (anthelmintic)
- Kusthaghna (anti-dermatosis)
- Raktashodhaka (blood purifier)
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.