Overview
Shirisha is one of the herbs traditionally used in Ayurveda for inflammation. Shirisha (Siris) is a large deciduous tree found throughout India. It is considered the best Vishaghna (anti-toxic) drug in Ayurveda. The bark, seeds, leaves and flowers are used medicinally. The bark is used in poisoning, allergic conditions, snakebite and insect stings. It is a potent anti-allergic drug, used in bronchial asthma, urticaria and other allergic conditions. The flowers are fragrant and used in nasal polyps. The seeds are used in eye diseases. Modern research has confirmed its anti-allergic, anti-histaminic and mast cell stabilizing properties. The bark contains saponins and tannins. Dose: Bark decoction 1-2 tola; seed powder 1-2 masha. Verses mentioned.
How Shirisha Helps with Inflammation
According to Ayurvedic pharmacology, Shirisha has specific properties that make it valuable for addressing inflammation:
- Potency (Virya): Sheeta (cold)
- Post-digestive (Vipaka): Katu (pungent)
- Taste (Rasa): Tikta (bitter), Kashaya (astringent)
- Qualities (Guna): Laghu (light), Ruksha (dry)
Ayurvedic Properties
- Taste (Rasa)
- Bitter (Tikta), Astringent (Kashaya)
- Quality (Guna)
- Light (Laghu), Dry (Ruksha)
- Potency (Virya)
- Cold (Sheeta)
- Post-digestive (Vipaka)
- Pungent (Katu)
- Key Constituents
- Saponins, Tannins, Flavonoids, D-catechin
- Also Known As
- English: Siris Tree, Lebbek
Sanskrit: शिरीष, भण्डिल, मृदुपुष्प, कपीतन
Hindi: सिरस
Other Herbs for Inflammation
See all herbs for inflammation on the Inflammation page.
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.