Herb × Condition

Alexandrian Laurel for Inflammation

Sanskrit: खाल नागकेसर | Ochrocarpus longifolius Benth. & Hook. f.; Calophyllum inophyllum Linn.

How Alexandrian Laurel helps with Inflammation according to Ayurveda. Classical references, dosage, preparation methods, and what modern research says.

Overview

Alexandrian Laurel is one of the herbs traditionally used in Ayurveda for inflammation. Khala Nagakesara is described as a variety of Nagakesara obtained from Ochrocarpus longifolius or Calophyllum inophyllum. It is used as a substitute for true Nagakesara (Mesua ferrea). The flowers and oil are used for wound healing and skin diseases. The oil (Calophyllum oil) has significant wound-healing and anti-inflammatory properties.

How Alexandrian Laurel Helps with Inflammation

According to Ayurvedic pharmacology, Alexandrian Laurel has specific properties that make it valuable for addressing inflammation:

  • Potency (Virya): Ushna (hot)
  • Post-digestive (Vipaka): Katu (pungent)
  • Taste (Rasa): Tikta (bitter), Kashaya (astringent)
  • Qualities (Guna): Laghu (light), Ruksha (dry)

Ayurvedic Properties

Taste (Rasa)
Bitter (Tikta), Astringent (Kashaya)
Quality (Guna)
Light (Laghu), Dry (Ruksha)
Potency (Virya)
Hot (Ushna)
Post-digestive (Vipaka)
Pungent (Katu)
Also Known As
English: Alexandrian Laurel
Sanskrit: खाल नागकेसर
Hindi: खाल नागकेसर, काला नागकेसर

Other Herbs for Inflammation

See all herbs for inflammation on the Inflammation page.

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.