Names & Classification
- Botanical Name
- Terminalia arjuna
- Sanskrit Name
- Arjuna
- English Name(s)
- Arjuna
- Family
- Combretaceae
- Part Used
- Bark
About This Herb
Named after the legendary warrior Arjuna from the Mahabharata, this tree bark is Ayurveda's most important heart tonic. Clinical studies show it strengthens the heart muscle, improves blood flow, and supports healthy cholesterol levels — making it a true guardian of cardiovascular health.
Where It Grows
Native to South Asia, particularly India, where it grows along riverbanks, streams, and in moist deciduous forests throughout the subcontinent. Found in tropical and subtropical regions across India, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka. Cultivated in India for medicinal purposes. Grows in warm tropical to subtropical climates with moderate rainfall (600-2250 mm). Prefers riverine ecosystems, stream banks, and areas with good drainage and moisture access.
Ayurvedic Profile
The premier Hridya (cardiac tonic) herb in Ayurveda. Arjuna bark has been used for heart conditions since the time of Vagbhata (7th century CE). It is classified as Hridya (cardiotonic), Raktastambhana (hemostatic), and Kashaya Rasa Pradhana (predominantly astringent). The Astanga Hridayam specifically prescribes Arjuna bark decoction with milk for heart weakness. Rasa: Kashaya (Astringent), Tikta (Bitter). Virya: Sheeta (Cooling). Vipaka: Katu (Pungent). Dosha: Pacifies Pitta and Kapha.
Key Benefits
Heart muscle strengthening, coronary blood flow, cholesterol management, blood pressure support
Research & Studies
The following research highlights scientific validation of traditional uses:
Efficacy of Terminalia arjuna in chronic stable angina: a double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover study comparing Terminalia arjuna with isosorbide mononitrate
Authors: Cardiovascular research team
Journal: International Journal of Cardiology (2003)
Randomized double-blind crossover trial in 58 chronic stable angina patients showed arjuna therapy significantly decreased angina frequency and nitrate requirement compared to placebo and similar to isosorbide mononitrate.
Revisiting Terminalia arjuna – An Ancient Cardiovascular Drug
Authors:(/strong> Cardiovascular pharmacology review team
Journal: Advances in Pharmacological Sciences (2014)
Comprehensive review documenting pleiotropic cardiovascular effects of Terminalia arjuna including anti-atherogenic, hypotensive, inotropic, anti-inflammatory, anti-thrombotic and antioxidant properties.
Terminalia arjuna in coronary artery disease: Ethnopharmacology, pre-clinical, clinical & safety evaluation
Authors:(/strong> Ethnopharmacology research group
Journal: Journal of Ethnopharmacology (2014)
Evidence from in vitro, in vivo and clinical trials reveals therapeutic potential in coronary artery disease through multiple cardiovascular mechanisms with established safety profile.
Clinical efficacy of water extract of stem bark of Terminalia arjuna in patients of chronic heart failure: a double-blind, randomized controlled trial
Authors:(/strong> Heart failure research team
Journal: Phytotherapy Research (2016)
Double-blind randomized controlled trial in chronic heart failure patients showed arjuna improved functional capacity, antioxidant reserves, and symptom-related quality of life domains.
Terminalia arjuna in Chronic Stable Angina: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Cardiology systematic review team
Journal: Cardiology Research and Practice (2014)
Systematic review and meta-analysis concluding that while evidence suggests potential cardiovascular benefits, current evidence is insufficient to draw definite conclusions, with need for larger multicentric trials.
Products Containing Arjuna
- Cholest Support (Capsule)
- Heart Tone (Classical Formulation)
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Please consult with a qualified healthcare provider before using any herbal supplements, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medications, or have pre-existing health conditions.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.