Arlu (Ailanthus excelsa) in Ayurvedic Medical Science: A Detailed Exploration

Introduction

Arlu, known botanically as Ailanthus excelsa, is a fast-growing deciduous tree that holds significant value in Ayurvedic medicine. Recognized for its cooling, anti-inflammatory, and detoxifying properties, Arlu is employed across various Ayurvedic formulations, especially in the treatment of respiratory and digestive disorders. It is most notably used in the management of Shwasa Roga (respiratory disorders like asthma) due to its ability to pacify vitiated Kapha and Pitta doshas.

Most Accountable Disease: Shwasa Roga (Bronchial Asthma)

Pathology of Shwasa in Ayurveda

In Ayurvedic understanding, Shwasa Roga is a group of respiratory conditions involving difficult or obstructed breathing. The five types include Mahashwasa, Urdhwashwasa, Chinna Shwasa, Tamaka Shwasa, and Kshudra Shwasa. Among these, Tamaka Shwasa closely correlates with bronchial asthma.

Nidana (Causative factors):

• Excessive exposure to cold, dust, and allergens

• Suppression of natural urges

• Overconsumption of Kapha-aggravating foods (heavy, cold, sweet)

Samprapti (Pathogenesis):

• Aggravated Kapha blocks the respiratory passages (pranavaha srotas)

• Vata gets obstructed and deranged, leading to breathlessness

• Pitta involvement adds inflammation and burning sensation

Medicinal Actions of Arlu in Shwasa

1. Shwasahara (Anti-asthmatic): Opens bronchial passages and eases breathing.

2. Kaphahara (Expectorant): Reduces phlegm accumulation in lungs.

3. Jwaraghna (Antipyretic): Manages fever accompanying respiratory infection.

4. Krimighna (Antimicrobial): Fights respiratory tract infections.

5. Shothahara (Anti-inflammatory): Reduces bronchial inflammation.

6. Rasayana (Rejuvenator): Improves respiratory endurance.

Dosha and Dhatu Impact

• Dosha: Pacifies Kapha and Pitta, balances deranged Vata indirectly.

• Dhatu: Works on Rasa (plasma), Rakta (blood), and Prana Vaha Srotas (respiratory system).

Mode of Action

Arlu acts through its Tikta (bitter), Kashaya (astringent), and Katu (pungent) rasa, which help in reducing excess Kapha and calming inflammation (Pitta). Its cooling Virya (potency) and Laghu (light) and Ruksha (dry) qualities support the drying and clearing of mucus. It strengthens Agni, thus preventing Ama accumulation that worsens respiratory problems.

Pharmacognosy of Arlu (Ailanthus excelsa)

• Family: Simaroubaceae

• Common Name: Tree of Heaven, Maharukh

• Ayurvedic Name: Arlu, Mahanimba, Ayata

• Parts Used: Bark, leaves, seeds

Microscopic Characteristics:

• Bark: Shows cork, cortex with tannin cells, and phloem with bast fibers.

• Leaves: Pinnately compound with numerous glandular trichomes.

Vernacular Names

• Sanskrit: Arlu, Mahanimba

• Hindi: Maharukh

• Marathi: Maharukh

• Tamil: Perumaruthu

• Telugu: Pedda Neem

• Kannada: Dodda Bevu

• Bengali: Mahaneem

• Malayalam: Perumaram

Chemical Constituents

• Quassinoids (ailanthone, excelsin)

• Alkaloids

• Tannins

• Flavonoids

• Saponins

• Steroids

• Essential oils

Ten Diseases/Conditions Where Arlu Is Useful

1. Shwasa (Asthma): Clears respiratory tract, reduces phlegm.

2. Kasa (Cough): Especially useful in productive cough with Kapha dominance.

3. Jwara (Fever): Reduces febrile symptoms and controls infection.

4. Krimi Roga (Parasitic infestations): Helps destroy intestinal worms.

5. Arsha (Piles): Reduces inflammation and promotes healthy digestion.

6. Vrana (Wounds): Promotes healing when applied externally.

7. Kustha (Skin disorders): Treats eczema, scabies, and ringworm.

8. Agnimandya (Loss of appetite): Improves digestive fire.

9. Yakrit Vikara (Liver disorders): Protects liver from inflammation.

10. Aamatisara (Diarrhea with mucus and toxins): Removes Ama and tones the gut.

Ayurvedic Medications Containing Arlu

1. Arlu Patra Swarasa

2. Arlu Churna

3. Mahanimba Kashaya

4. Arlu Ghana Vati

5. Trikatu Arlu Yoga

6. Jwarahara Kashaya

7. Arlu Taila (external)

8. Krimighna Vati

9. Asthiposhaka Rasayana (used for bone health)

10. Arlu Haritaki Avaleha

Home Remedies

1. Arlu Bark Decoction: 10g bark boiled in 200 ml water, taken for asthma and fever.

2. Arlu Leaf Juice: 10 ml mixed with honey to relieve productive cough.

3. Arlu Bark Paste: Applied to chronic skin eruptions.

4. Arlu Seed Powder: 1g powder in lukewarm water for intestinal worms.

5. Arlu Infused Oil: External massage for arthritic pain.

6. Arlu Bark with Turmeric: Used for healing infected wounds.

Harmful Effects and Contraindications

• Pregnancy and Lactation: Avoid due to bitter alkaloid content.

• Children: Should be administered only under supervision.

• Excess Dosage: Can lead to nausea, vomiting, and abdominal discomfort.

• Skin Sensitivity: Topical use may cause irritation in sensitive individuals.

Arlu as Aamhar Dravya

Arlu is a potent Aamhar dravya, meaning it is capable of digesting and eliminating Ama (toxins from undigested food). Its Tikta and Katu rasa enhance the digestive fire (Agni), its Ruksha guna dries up mucus, and its Deepana and Pachana actions restore balance. This makes it extremely useful in conditions involving Ama such as fever, asthma, skin disease, and diarrhea.

Conclusion

Arlu (Ailanthus excelsa) is a powerful Ayurvedic herb with versatile therapeutic applications, especially in respiratory disorders like Shwasa Roga. Its capacity to balance Kapha and Pitta doshas, along with its role in eliminating Ama and boosting immunity, makes it a valuable addition to many classical and modern formulations. Continued study and integration into holistic treatment plans highlight its significance in both preventive and curative healthcare in Ayurveda.