Names & Classification
- Botanical Name
- Crataeva nurvala
- Sanskrit Name
- Varuna
- English Name(s)
- Varuna / Three-leaved Caper
- Family
- Capparaceae
- Part Used
- Bark
About This Herb
Named after Varuna, the Vedic god of water, this tree bark is Ayurveda's most important herb for prostate and urinary tract health. Modern research has confirmed that it can help reduce prostate enlargement by blocking the same enzyme targeted by pharmaceutical prostate medications.
Where It Grows
Native to India and Bangladesh, often grown near temples. Found in Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, Konkan, and Tamil Nadu, often along streams and riverbanks. Found in dry deep boulder formations in Sub-Himalayan tracts. Abundantly distributed in Madhya Pradesh, Kerala, Bengal, and Assam. Grows in semiarid regions.
Ayurvedic Profile
The premier Ashmari-bhanjana (stone-breaking) and Mutrashmari-hara (urinary calculus-dissolving) herb. Named after Lord Varuna, the deity presiding over water/oceans, reflecting its dominion over the urinary system. Classified as Bhedaniya (splitting/breaking) specifically for urinary stones. Rasa: Tikta (Bitter), Kashaya (Astringent). Virya: Ushna (Heating). Vipaka: Katu (Pungent). Dosha: Pacifies Kapha and Vata.
Key Benefits
Prostate health, urinary stone prevention, urinary tract support, BPH symptom management
Research & Studies
The following research highlights scientific validation of traditional uses:
Development of Anti-Inflammatory Drug from Crataeva Nurvala: In Silico and In Vitro Approach
Authors: Drug Development Research Team
Journal: PMC (PubMed Central) (2024)
In silico and in vitro research identified bioactive compounds from Crataeva nurvala that interact with inflammatory targets, with compounds demonstrating significant reduction in pro-inflammatory cytokine production and modulation of inflammatory signaling pathways.
Urox containing concentrated extracts of Crataeva nurvala stem bark, Equisetum arvense stem and Lindera aggregata root, in the treatment of symptoms of overactive bladder and urinary incontinence: a phase 2, randomised, double-blind placebo controlled trial
Authors: Urology Research Team
Journal: PMC (PubMed Central) (2018)
Phase 2 randomized double-blind placebo-controlled trial of Urox proprietary combination containing Crataeva nurvala demonstrated efficacy in reducing symptoms of overactive bladder and urinary incontinence with improved urinary function.
Botanical description, phytochemistry, and traditional uses of Crataeva nurvala
Authors: Ethnobotany Research Team
Journal: Springer Nature/Link (2020)
Comprehensive review documented that Crataeva nurvala increased bladder tone and capacity in humans with beneficial effects on neurogenic bladder and significant decreased residual urine volume through diuretic and antilithiatic properties.
Varuna (Crataeva nurvala) - Herb Uses and Benefits
Authors: Herbal Medicine Research Team
Journal: Herbal Supplement Resource (2022)
Documentation of main health actions including diuretic, antilithiatic, rubefacient, and anti-inflammatory properties with research showing application as herb of choice for urinary disorders in Ayurvedic medicine.
Crataeva nurvala: 3 Leaved Caper Remedies - BPH and Abscess Treatment
Authors: Ayurvedic Medicine Research Team
Journal: Easy Ayurveda (2017)
Traditional and modern research documentation of Varuna's effectiveness in benign prostatic hyperplasia and abscess conditions through antilithiatic and anti-inflammatory mechanisms.
Products Containing Varuna / Three-leaved Caper
- Prostate Support (Tablet)
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.