Bijaka

(Indian Kino Tree)
Sanskrit: विजयसार • Botanical: Pterocarpus marsupium Roxb.

Vijayasara (Bijaka) is a large deciduous tree found in the forests of Western and Southern India. The heartwood is used extensively in Prameha (diabetes). Water kept overnight in a vessel made of this wood (Vijayasara tumbler) is used to drink in the morning for diabetes management. The heartwood yields a red gum known as 'Kino' which is highly astringent and used in diarrhea, dysentery, and leucorrhoea. The bark is used as a gargle for oral diseases. The tree also yields a resinous exudate. The chemical composition includes Pterocarpin, Pterostilbene, and Kino-tannic acid. It is one of the most commonly prescribed drugs in Prameha chikitsa (diabetes treatment). Dose: Kwatha 1-2 tola; Kino 5-10 ratti. Verses: 14.

Ayurvedic Properties

Taste (Rasa)
Bitter (Tikta), Astringent (Kashaya)
Quality (Guna)
Light (Laghu), Dry (Ruksha)
Potency (Virya)
Cold (Sheeta)
Post-digestive (Vipaka)
Pungent (Katu)
Key Constituents
Pterocarpin, Marsupol, Kino-tannic acid
Also Known As
English: Indian Kino Tree, Malabar Kino
Sanskrit: बीजक, महासार, पीतसार, आसन, प्रियक
Hindi: बीजासार

What is Bijaka (Vijayasara / विजयसार)?

Vijayasara (Bijaka) is a large deciduous tree found in the forests of Western and Southern India. The heartwood is used extensively in Prameha (diabetes). Water kept overnight in a vessel made of this wood (Vijayasara tumbler) is used to drink in the morning for diabetes management. The heartwood yields a red gum known as 'Kino' which is highly astringent and used in diarrhea, dysentery, and leucorrhoea. The bark is used as a gargle for oral diseases. The tree also yields a resinous exudate. The chemical composition includes Pterocarpin, Pterostilbene, and Kino-tannic acid. It is one of the most commonly prescribed drugs in Prameha chikitsa (diabetes treatment). Dose: Kwatha 1-2 tola; Kino 5-10 ratti. Verses: 14.

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 5

Therapeutic Actions (Karma)

  • Pramehaghna (anti-diabetic)
  • Kusthaghna (anti-dermatosis)
  • Raktashodhaka (blood purifier)
  • Krimighna (anthelmintic)

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 5

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.