Herb × Condition

Alexandrian Laurel for Skin Disorders

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

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

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Overview

Alexandrian Laurel is one of the herbs traditionally used in Ayurveda for skin disorders. 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 Skin Disorders

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

  • 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 Skin Disorders

See all herbs for skin disorders on the Skin Disorders 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.