Comprehensive Ayurvedic Analysis of Palaash (Butea monosperma)

1. Most Accountable Disease: Intestinal Worm Infestation (Krimi Roga)

In Ayurvedic science, Palaash (Butea monosperma), particularly its seeds and flowers, are profoundly effective in treating Krimi Roga (intestinal worm infestations). This condition arises due to the vitiation of Kapha and Pitta doshas, which create an environment conducive to parasitic growth in the gastrointestinal tract. According to Ayurvedic pathology, improper digestion and accumulation of Ama (toxins) in the body serve as a breeding ground for Krimi (worms).

Pathology (Samprapti) of Krimi Roga:

• Nidana (Causes): Intake of stale food, incompatible combinations (Viruddha Ahara), improper eating habits, poor hygiene.

• Dosha Involvement: Predominantly Kapha and Pitta doshas become vitiated, impairing Agni (digestive fire).

• Srotas Affected: Annavaha Srotas (digestive channel) and Purishavaha Srotas (excretory channel).

• Dhatu Impact: Rasadhatu and Raktadhatu get contaminated.

Medicinal Actions of Palaash in Krimi Roga:

• Krimighna (Anthelmintic): Seeds possess strong vermicidal properties.

• Deepana and Pachana: Enhances digestive fire and removes Ama.

• Shodhana: Removes toxins and worms through its purgative action.

• Stambhana: Controls diarrhea due to worm infestation.

Pharmacognosy of Palaash:

• Botanical Name: Butea monosperma

• Family: Fabaceae

• Part Used: Flowers, seeds, bark, and gum

• Habitat: Commonly found throughout India, especially in dry deciduous forests.

• Morphology:

  • Flowers: Bright orange, shaped like parrot’s beak

  • Seeds: Flat, kidney-shaped, pale brown

  • Bark: Gray and rough

Mode of Action in Ayurveda:

• Dosha Action: Balances Kapha and Pitta doshas

• Dhatu Effect: Purifies Rasa, Rakta, and Mamsa dhatus

• Agni Deepana: Stimulates digestive fire to destroy the root of worm formation

• Shodhana: Detoxifies intestinal lining and clears parasites

2. Different Names in Various Languages:

• Sanskrit: Palaasha, Kinshuka

• Hindi: Dhak, Tesu

• Tamil: Parasa

• Telugu: Moduga

• Bengali: Palash

• Kannada: Muttuga

• Marathi: Palas

• English: Flame of the Forest

3. Chemical Constituents:

• Butrin

• Isobutrin

• Butein

• Coreopsin

• Palasonin

• Tannins

• Gallic acid

• Mucilage

4. Diseases and Conditions Where Palaash is Used:

1. Krimi Roga (Worm Infestation): Kills and expels intestinal parasites.

2. Raktapitta (Bleeding Disorders): Stops bleeding due to its hemostatic properties.

3. Prameha (Diabetes): Controls blood sugar levels.

4. Shvayathu (Inflammation): Reduces swelling and edema.

5. Arsha (Piles): Reduces inflammation and relieves pain.

6. Vrana (Wounds): Accelerates wound healing.

7. Shotha (Swelling): Acts as an anti-inflammatory.

8. Kustha (Skin Diseases): Effective in treating leprosy and eczema.

9. Atisara (Diarrhea): Has stambhana property to control loose motions.

10. Rajodosha (Menstrual Disorders): Flower decoction normalizes menstrual flow.

5. Ayurvedic Medications Containing Palaash:

1. Krimimudgar Rasa – Anti-parasitic formula

2. Palasha Kshara – Used in piles and worm infestations

3. Palash Pushpa Churna – Flower powder for blood purification

4. Palash Beej Churna – Seed powder for anthelmintic action

5. Palasha Kshaya – Decoction for urinary disorders

6. Palasha Taila – Medicinal oil for skin and wound healing

7. Palasha Swarasa – Juice extract for internal inflammation

8. Krimighna Vati – Anthelmintic tablets

9. Pushyanuga Churna – Used in gynecological disorders

10. Palashadi Yoga – Compound formulation for ulcers

6. Home Remedies Using Palaash:

• Seed Powder for Worms: 1-2 gm of roasted Palaash seed powder with honey, empty stomach.

• Flower Tea for Skin Diseases: Dried flowers boiled and consumed daily.

• Palaash Bark Paste: Applied on wounds for faster healing.

• Leaf Decoction: Used as mouthwash for ulcers.

• Gum with Ghee: For relieving inflammation in hemorrhoids.

7. Harmful Effects and Contraindications:

• Pregnancy: Contraindicated due to uterine stimulant action

• Overdose: May lead to severe purgation, dehydration

• Children: Should be used under strict supervision

• Ulcerative Colitis: Purgative action may worsen symptoms

8. Relevance as Krimighna Dravya: Palaash is one of the most potent herbs classified under Krimighna Dravya (anti-parasitic group). It not only destroys internal worms but also ensures their complete evacuation and prevents recurrence by strengthening Agni and cleansing the intestines. This makes it foundational in pediatric deworming, chronic gastrointestinal infections, and in purificatory protocols (Shodhana Karma) in Panchakarma.

Conclusion: Palaash holds a sacred place in Ayurveda not only for its symbolism but for its powerful medicinal profile. As a Krimighna, Shothahara, and Rakta-Pitta balancing herb, it plays a multi-dimensional role in Ayurvedic therapeutics. Its wide pharmacological effects—from digestion to dermatology—make it indispensable. With correct application and adherence to dosage, Palaash continues to serve as a beacon of natural healing in the science of Ayurveda.