Large Bakula

(Bakul)
Sanskrit: बकुल Botanical: Mimusops elengi Linn.

Bakula/Maulshiri (Mimusops elengi) is a large evergreen tree with glossy dark green leaves. The small star-shaped flowers are extremely fragrant and bloom at night. Even dried flowers retain their fragrance. The bark is astringent and used for dental health - the bark decoction is used as a gargle for bleeding gums and loose teeth. The flower essence is used in heart disease and headache. The tree produces small edible fruits. The timber is very hard. It is a popular avenue tree. The bark contains saponins and tannins. Verse: 24-25.

Ayurvedic Properties

Taste (Rasa)
Astringent (Kashaya), Sweet (Madhura)
Quality (Guna)
Heavy (Guru), Unctuous (Snigdha)
Potency (Virya)
Cold (Sheeta)
Post-digestive (Vipaka)
Pungent (Katu)
Key Constituents
Mimusopsin, Quercetin, Ursolic acid, Betulinic acid, Saponins
Also Known As
English: Bakul, Indian Medlar, Bullet Wood
Sanskrit: बकुल, केसर, मधुगन्ध, चिरपुष्प
Hindi: मौलसिरी, मौलश्री

What is Large Bakula (Maulshiri / मौलश्री)?

Bakula/Maulshiri (Mimusops elengi) is a large evergreen tree with glossy dark green leaves. The small star-shaped flowers are extremely fragrant and bloom at night. Even dried flowers retain their fragrance. The bark is astringent and used for dental health - the bark decoction is used as a gargle for bleeding gums and loose teeth. The flower essence is used in heart disease and headache. The tree produces small edible fruits. The timber is very hard. It is a popular avenue tree. The bark contains saponins and tannins. Verse: 24-25.

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 4

Therapeutic Actions (Karma)

  • Dantya (dental health)
  • Grahi (absorbent)
  • Varnya (complexion enhancer)
  • Krimighna (anthelmintic)

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 4

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.