Overview
Parijata is one of the herbs traditionally used in Ayurveda for inflammation. Parijata/Pharahad (Erythrina indica), the Coral Tree, is a deciduous tree with thorny bark and brilliant red flowers. The bark has a bitter taste and is used in fever, rheumatic conditions, and parasitic infections. The text describes its leaves as trifoliate, with thorny branches. Bark decoction is used for fevers and joint pain. The alkaloid Erythrine gives it anti-inflammatory properties. It is particularly noted for Vata-dominant conditions. The seeds are used as beads and the wood is light. The bark and leaves have been found to contain alkaloids with both analgesic and anti-inflammatory activities.
How Parijata Helps with Inflammation
According to Ayurvedic pharmacology, Parijata has specific properties that make it valuable for addressing inflammation:
- Potency (Virya): Ushna (hot)
- Post-digestive (Vipaka): Katu (pungent)
- Taste (Rasa): Tikta (bitter), Katu (pungent)
- Qualities (Guna): Laghu (light), Tikshna (sharp)
Other Herbs for Inflammation
See all herbs for inflammation on the Inflammation page.
▶ Classical Text References (1 sources)
Condition Treatment Udaka-meha Decoction of Parijata Ikshu-meha Decoction of Nimba Sura-meha Decoction of Chitraka Sikata-meha Decoction of Khadira Sanair-meha Decoction of Patha and Aguru Lavana-meha Decoction of Haridra Kaphaja Prameha (general) All ten decoctions to be employed sweetened with honey Pittaja Prameha (general) Decoctions of S'dla-saradi group drugs;
— Sushruta Samhita, Chikitsa Sthana, Chapter 11: Prameha Chikitsa
Udaka-meha: Decoction of Parijata Ikshu-meha: Decoction of Nimba Sura-meha: Decoction of Chitraka Sikata-meha: Decoction of Khadira Sanair-meha: Decoction of Patha and Aguru Lavana-meha: Decoction of Haridra Kaphaja Prameha (general): All ten decoctions to be employed sweetened with honey Pittaja Prameha (general): Decoctions of S'dla-saradi group drugs;
— Sushruta Samhita, Prameha Chikitsa
Source: Sushruta Samhita, Chikitsa Sthana, Chapter 11: Prameha Chikitsa; Prameha Chikitsa
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.