Ceylon Oak

(Ceylon Oak)
Sanskrit: कोशल • Botanical: Schleichera trijuga Willd.

Koshala (Ceylon Oak) is a large deciduous tree found in the forests of Central and Southern India. The tree is important as it is the host tree for lac insects. The seed oil (Kusum oil) is used in skin diseases and as hair oil. The bark is astringent and used in skin diseases. The tree grows to 4-12 feet in diameter and can reach significant height. The leaves are used as fodder. The oil from seeds is edible and used medicinally. The bark decoction is used in itching, eczema and skin diseases. Dose: Oil externally; bark decoction 1-2 tola. Verses mentioned.

Ayurvedic Properties

Taste (Rasa)
Astringent (Kashaya), Bitter (Tikta)
Quality (Guna)
Light (Laghu), Dry (Ruksha)
Potency (Virya)
Cold (Sheeta)
Post-digestive (Vipaka)
Pungent (Katu)
Key Constituents
Tannins, Fixed oil from seeds, Lac
Also Known As
English: Ceylon Oak, Lac Tree
Sanskrit: कोशाम्र, द्रावक, क्षुद्राम्र
Hindi: कोसम

What is Ceylon Oak (Koshala / कोशल)?

Koshala (Ceylon Oak) is a large deciduous tree found in the forests of Central and Southern India. The tree is important as it is the host tree for lac insects. The seed oil (Kusum oil) is used in skin diseases and as hair oil. The bark is astringent and used in skin diseases. The tree grows to 4-12 feet in diameter and can reach significant height. The leaves are used as fodder. The oil from seeds is edible and used medicinally. The bark decoction is used in itching, eczema and skin diseases. Dose: Oil externally; bark decoction 1-2 tola. Verses mentioned.

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 5

Therapeutic Actions (Karma)

  • Kusthaghna (anti-dermatosis)
  • 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.