Overview
Teak is one of the herbs traditionally used in Ayurveda for parasites and worms. Sagona (Indian Teak) is one of the most valuable timber trees in the world. It grows extensively in Central and Western India. The heartwood is extremely durable and resistant to termites. Medicinally, the wood and bark are used. The bark is astringent, used in headache, stomach problems and bilious fevers. The flowers are diuretic. The wood shavings decoction is used in worm infestations. The heartwood oil is used in skin diseases. The bark contains Tectoquinone. Chemical analysis shows the bark contains about 10-12% tannins. The sawdust is used as an antidote for poisoning. Dose: Bark decoction 1-2 tola. Verse: 42.
How Teak Helps with Parasites and Worms
According to Ayurvedic pharmacology, Teak has specific properties that make it valuable for addressing parasites and worms:
- Potency (Virya): Sheeta (cold)
- Post-digestive (Vipaka): Katu (pungent)
- Taste (Rasa): Tikta (bitter), Kashaya (astringent)
- Qualities (Guna): Laghu (light), Ruksha (dry)
Safety & Precautions
Our sources record no specific contraindications, drug interactions or overdose signs for Teak. That is an absence of data, not proof of safety, so treat it as a practitioner-guided herb rather than something to experiment with.
A few points follow from what is known:
- Drying nature. Teak is light, dry, bitter and astringent. In Ayurvedic terms these qualities tend to aggravate Vata, the dosha of dryness and movement, so people with dry skin, constipation or a strong Vata constitution may find it too drying.
- Tannins. The bark holds about 10 to 12 percent tannins, which explains its strongly astringent action.
- Poisoning is an emergency. The traditional use of teak sawdust as an antidote is historical. Anyone who may have been poisoned needs emergency medical care, not a home remedy.
- Timber is not medicine. Sawdust and wood from treated or finished timber can carry varnish, preservatives or other chemicals. Never use workshop material medicinally.
If you are pregnant, nursing, giving it to a child, or taking prescription medication, talk to your doctor and a qualified practitioner first.
Other Herbs for Parasites and Worms
See all herbs for parasites and worms on the Parasites and Worms 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.