Ayurvedic Properties
- Taste (Rasa)
- Bitter (Tikta)
- Quality (Guna)
- Light (Laghu), Dry (Ruksha)
- Potency (Virya)
- Cold (Sheeta)
- Post-digestive (Vipaka)
- Pungent (Katu)
- Key Constituents
- Ailantic acid, Ailanthone, Tannins
- Also Known As
- English: Tree of Heaven
Sanskrit: महारुख, महानिम्ब
Hindi: मोटी बजुली, अरडू
What is Ailanthus / Maharuksha (महारुख / ऐलैन्थस)?
Maharuksha (Ailanthus excelsa) is described as a large tree reaching 60 feet in height with compound leaves of 8-12 paired leaflets. It is found throughout India in hilly regions and plains. The bark is the primary medicinal part. The text describes it as a variety often confused with Mahaneem due to similar appearance. It has cooling and antipyretic properties and is used in fevers and parasitic conditions.
Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 3
Therapeutic Actions (Karma)
- Jvarghna (antipyretic)
- Krimighna (anthelmintic)
- Sheetala (coolant)
Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 3
How to Use Ailanthus by Condition
Explore how Ailanthus is used for specific health concerns — with dosage, preparation methods, and classical references for each.
▶ Classical Text References (1 sources)
References in Sharangadhara Samhita
The Putapaka of Aralu (Ailanthus excelsa) is a digestive stimulant.
— Sharangadhara Samhita, Madhyama Khanda, Chapter 1: Svarasadikalpana (Svarasa, Kalka, Kvatha, etc.)
The ingredients are: Patala (Stereospermum suaveolens), Aranikas (Premna mucronata and Clerodendrum phlomidis), Kashmarya (Gmelina arborea), Bilva (Aegle marmelos), Araluka (Ailanthus excelsa), Gambhari (Gmelina arborea), the two Brihatis — Brihati (Solanum indicum) and Kantakari (Solanum surattense), Pippali (Piper longum), Shringi (Pistacia integerrima), Draksha (Vitis vinifera), Amrita/Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia), and Abhaya/Haritaki (Terminalia chebula).
— Sharangadhara Samhita, Madhyama Khanda, Chapter 8: Avalehakalpana (Confection/Electuary Preparations)
Source: Sharangadhara Samhita, Madhyama Khanda, Chapter 1: Svarasadikalpana (Svarasa, Kalka, Kvatha, etc.); Madhyama Khanda, Chapter 8: Avalehakalpana (Confection/Electuary Preparations)
Medical Disclaimer: The information on this page is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Ayurvedic treatments should be pursued under the guidance of a qualified practitioner (BAMS/MD Ayurveda). Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new treatment. Content is sourced from classical Ayurvedic texts and may not reflect the latest medical research.