Mahua Flower

(Mahua)
Sanskrit: मधूक • Botanical: Madhuca indica J.F. Gmel.

Madhuka/Mahua (Madhuca indica) is a large deciduous tree highly valued in tribal India. The fleshy sweet flowers are collected and eaten fresh, dried, or fermented into local liquor (Mahua). The flowers contain 45-50% sugar and are highly nutritious. They fall naturally and are collected from the ground. The tree yields an important oil (Mahua oil/Mahua butter) from its seeds. The flowers are used as a tonic and aphrodisiac. The tree grows to considerable height with spreading crown. The bark is also astringent and used medicinally. It is an important source of livelihood for many tribal communities. Verse: mentioned in Pushpa Varga.

Ayurvedic Properties

Taste (Rasa)
Sweet (Madhura), Astringent (Kashaya)
Quality (Guna)
Heavy (Guru), Unctuous (Snigdha)
Potency (Virya)
Cold (Sheeta)
Post-digestive (Vipaka)
Sweet (Madhura)
Key Constituents
Mowrin, Saponins, Sugars (45-50%), Fat (1.5%), Protein, Carotene
Also Known As
English: Mahua, Butter Tree
Sanskrit: मधूक, मधुपुष्प, गुडपुष्प
Hindi: महुआ, मौआ

What is Mahua Flower (Madhuka / मधूक)?

Madhuka/Mahua (Madhuca indica) is a large deciduous tree highly valued in tribal India. The fleshy sweet flowers are collected and eaten fresh, dried, or fermented into local liquor (Mahua). The flowers contain 45-50% sugar and are highly nutritious. They fall naturally and are collected from the ground. The tree yields an important oil (Mahua oil/Mahua butter) from its seeds. The flowers are used as a tonic and aphrodisiac. The tree grows to considerable height with spreading crown. The bark is also astringent and used medicinally. It is an important source of livelihood for many tribal communities. Verse: mentioned in Pushpa Varga.

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 4

Therapeutic Actions (Karma)

  • Vrishya (aphrodisiac)
  • Balya (strength-giving)
  • Stanyajanana (galactagogue)

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 4

Mahua Flower by Condition

Explore how Mahua Flower is used for specific health concerns — with dosage, preparation methods, and classical references for each.

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Mahua Flower for Male Sexual Health

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.