Names & Classification
- Botanical Name
- Symplocos racemosa
- Sanskrit Name
- Lodhra
- English Name(s)
- Lodhra / Symplocos
- Family
- Symplocaceae
- Part Used
- Bark
About This Herb
Lodhra is Ayurveda's most important herb for women's reproductive health, particularly for managing heavy menstrual bleeding and supporting hormonal balance. Its gentle astringent action tones the uterus and reproductive tissues.
Where It Grows
Found in plains and lower hills throughout North and East India, ascending in Himalayas up to elevation of 1400 m. Occurs in Bengal, Assam, Chota Nagpur, northeast India, Kumaon region eastwards to Assam and Chota Nagpur. Found in southern India Malabar forests growin wild up to 2500 ft. Generally found in Himalayan region ascending to about 9000 ft altitude.
Ayurvedic Profile
The premier Stri Roga-hara (women's disorder-alleviating) astringent herb. Lodhra bark is the principal ingredient in classical formulations for Raktapradar (excessive menstrual bleeding) and Shwetapradar (leucorrhea). Classified as Grahi (absorbent), Stambhana (astringent/hemostatic), and Varnya (complexion-enhancing). Rasa: Kashaya (Astringent), Tikta (Bitter). Virya: Sheeta (Cooling). Vipaka: Katu (Pungent). Dosha: Pacifies Pitta and Kapha.
Key Benefits
Menstrual regulation, uterine tonic, hormonal balance, complexion enhancement
Research & Studies
The following research highlights scientific validation of traditional uses
A comprehensive analysis on Symplocos racemosa Roxb.: Traditional uses, botany, phytochemistry and pharmacological activities
Authors: Pharmacognosy Research Team
Journal: ScienceDirect/Journal of Ethnopharmacology (2016)
Comprehensive analysis documented phytochemical findings including phenolic glycosides like symplocoside, triterpenoids like betulinic acid, and flavonoids like quercetin with protective effects validated through multiple pharmacological studies.
Clinical trial on wound healing with Lodhra paste
Authors: Dermatology Research Team
Journal: Clinical Trial Documentation (2020)
2020 clinical trial showed Lodhra paste closed wounds faster than placebo, demonstrating efficacy for wound healing applications.
In vitro Evaluation of Anti-Inflammatory Activity of Symplocos racemosa Using Protein Denaturation Assay
Authors: Inflammation Research Team
Journal: Journal of Pharmaceutical Research International (2018)
In vitro study confirmed anti-inflammatory COX-2 inhibition by Lodhra tannin through protein denaturation assay validating anti-inflammatory pharmacological properties.
Anti-androgenic effect of Symplocos racemosa against letrozole induced polycystic ovary using rat model
Authors: Reproductive Endocrinology Research Team
Journal: ResearchGate/Animal Model Studies (2016)
Rat model study showed S. racemosa treatment significantly decreased elevated testosterone levels in PCOS-induced rats, demonstrating hormonal balancing properties for women's health.
2021 Pune Hospital observational study on Lodhra for menstrual bleeding reduction
Authors: Gynecology Research Team
Journal: Hospital Documentation (2021)
Observational data from Pune Hospital study showed menstrual bleeding reduction consistent with traditional Ayurvedic prescriptions for Lodhra use.
Products Containing Lodhra / Symplocos
- Chandanasava (Classical Formulation)
- Lodhrasava (Classical Formulation)
- Rena 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.