Mandar

(Giant Milkweed)
Sanskrit: रक्तार्क • Botanical: Calotropis gigantea (Linn.) R.Br. ex Ait.

Alarka (Calotropis gigantea) is the purple/red-flowered variety of Madar. It grows up to 4-10 feet height with thick fleshy leaves. This species is considered equivalent in properties to Calotropis procera but is more commonly found in the Himalayan foothills and southern India. It is distinguished by its purple-red flowers compared to the white flowers of C. procera.

Ayurvedic Properties

Taste (Rasa)
Pungent (Katu), Bitter (Tikta)
Quality (Guna)
Light (Laghu), Dry (Ruksha)
Potency (Virya)
Hot (Ushna)
Post-digestive (Vipaka)
Pungent (Katu)
Also Known As
English: Giant Milkweed, Gigantic Swallow-wort
Sanskrit: रक्तार्क, अलर्क, राजार्क
Hindi: लाल मदार, अकौआ

What is Alarka / Mandar (अलर्क / मन्दार)?

Alarka (Calotropis gigantea) is the purple/red-flowered variety of Madar. It grows up to 4-10 feet height with thick fleshy leaves. This species is considered equivalent in properties to Calotropis procera but is more commonly found in the Himalayan foothills and southern India. It is distinguished by its purple-red flowers compared to the white flowers of C. procera.

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 3

Therapeutic Actions (Karma)

  • Vishaghna (anti-toxic)
  • Kushtaghna (anti-dermatosis)
  • Krimighna (anthelmintic)

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 3

Classical Therapeutic Uses

  • Kushtha (skin diseases)
  • Visha (poisoning)
  • Krimi (worms)

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 3

Mandar by Condition

Explore how Mandar is used for specific health concerns — with dosage, preparation methods, and classical references for each.

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Mandar for Immunity & Disease Prevention
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Mandar for Parasites & Worms
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Mandar for Skin Disorders

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.