Names & Classification
- Botanical Name
- Saraca asoca
- Sanskrit Name
- Ashoka
- English Name(s)
- Ashoka
- Family
- Fabaceae
- Part Used
- Bark
About This Herb
The Ashoka tree ('remover of sorrow') is one of India's most sacred trees and Ayurveda's most important herb for women's reproductive health. Its bark has been used for thousands of years to manage heavy menstrual bleeding, support uterine health, and promote hormonal balance.
Where It Grows
Native to the Indian subcontinent, with original distribution in central Deccan Plateau and Western Ghats. Native range extends from Pakistan west through India and Bangladesh to Myanmar east, and from Bhutan and Nepal north to Sri Lanka south. Widely cultivated in tropical and subtropical climates throughout South and Southeast Asia. Grows readily in tropical gardens, parks, and temple courtyards. Begins flowering 3-4 years after planting with substantial fruit setting after 6-7 years.
Ayurvedic Profile
The foremost Stri Rasayana (women's rejuvenative) tree. The name 'Ashoka' means 'without sorrow,' reflecting its ability to relieve suffering. Queen Sita was held in an Ashoka grove in the Ramayana. Classified as Raktastambhana (hemostatic), Garbhashaya Balya (uterine tonic), and Vedanasthapana (pain-relieving). Rasa: Tikta (Bitter), Kashaya (Astringent). Virya: Sheeta (Cooling). Vipaka: Katu (Pungent). Dosha: Pacifies Pitta and Kapha.
Key Benefits
Uterine tonic, menstrual regulation, endometrial health, hormonal support
Research & Studies
The following research highlights scientific validation of traditional uses:
Phytochemical-Based Study of Ethanolic Extract of Saraca asoca in Letrozole-Induced Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome in Female Adult Rats
Authors: Multiple authors
Journal: ACS Omega (2023)
Experimental study of S. asoca extract on PCOS management with HPLC analysis revealing phytoconstituents: kaempferol, rutin, epicatechin, salicylic acid, and gallic acid with anti-estrogenic properties.
Effect of Saraca asoca (Asoka) on estradiol-induced keratinizing metaplasia in rat uterus
Authors: Multiple authors
Journal: PubMed/NIH (2015)
Research revealing antiproliferative and antikeratinizing effects of S. asoca in uterine endometrium through anti-estrogenic and anti-inflammatory mechanisms.
THE USE OF SARACA ASOCA (ASHOKA) BARK AS A RELIEF AGENT FOR MENSTRUAL PAIN: A PHYTOCHEMICAL AND PHARMACOLOGICAL REVIEW
Authors:0 Multiple authors
Journal: International Educational Applied Scientific Research Journal (2023)
Comprehensive review documenting S. asoca's antimenorrhagic, uterotonic, and analgesic properties for managing dysmenorrhea and dysfunctional uterine bleeding through flavonoid and tannin constituents.
Reproductive biology and breeding system of Saraca asoca (Roxb.) De Wilde: a vulnerable medicinal plant
Authors:0 Multiple authors
Journal: PMC/NIH (2015)
Study of Saraca asoca reproductive biology establishing its botanical identity and ecological status as a vulnerable medicinal plant with traditional gynecologic significance.
Products Containing Ashoka
- Lodhrasava (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.