Ayurvedic Properties
- Taste (Rasa)
- Bitter (Tikta), Astringent (Kashaya)
- Quality (Guna)
- Light (Laghu), Unctuous (Snigdha)
- Potency (Virya)
- Cold (Sheeta)
- Post-digestive (Vipaka)
- Pungent (Katu)
- Also Known As
- English: Wild Himalayan Cherry
Sanskrit: पद्मक, पद्मकाष्ठ
Hindi: पद्मख
What is Wild Himalayan Cherry?
If you have ever wondered how Ayurveda cools heat that shows up as bleeding, burning or angry skin, Wild Himalayan Cherry is one of the quieter answers. Known in Sanskrit as (Padmaka), it rarely stars on its own. Instead it turns up again and again in classical pastes, oils, baths and decoctions alongside sandalwood and vetiver.
Botanically it is Prunus cerasoides D. Don (also listed as Prunus puddum Roxb.), a member of the rose family (Rosaceae). It grows in the Himalayas at roughly 3000 to 6000 feet. The heartwood is reddish and fragrant, and the bark is also used in Ayurvedic practice.
Ayurveda describes it as cooling, bitter and astringent. Its main traditional uses are bleeding disorders (Raktapitta, the Ayurvedic term for bleeding disorders), burning sensations and skin diseases. The Bhavaprakasha discusses it in its chapter on aromatic substances (Karpuradi Varga, shloka 18).
Benefits of Wild Himalayan Cherry
Wild Himalayan Cherry tastes bitter (Tikta) and astringent (Kashaya), is light (Laghu) and slightly unctuous (Snigdha), and has a cold potency (Sheeta Virya, the warming or cooling effect a substance has in the body). That combination is why it is used to calm Pitta, the dosha of heat and metabolism.
Bleeding Disorders
The Bhavaprakasha lists it as controlling bleeding disorders (Raktapitta hara), and it is an ingredient in many formulations for this condition.
The Sharangadhara Samhita gives a topical paste for bleeding disorders combining Amla, lotus, sandalwood, vetiver, Durva grass and Wild Himalayan Cherry.
Burning Sensations
Relieving burning (Daha Prashamana) is one of its listed actions. The Sushruta Samhita describes a ghee cooked with Shatavari, Amla, Sariva, Wild Himalayan Cherry and others that "destroys burning sensation and pain."
For hemorrhoids with bleeding, burning and stickiness, the Charaka Samhita recommends a warm sitz bath with a decoction that includes it alongside sandalwood and kusha grass.
Skin and Complexion
It is classed as complexion enhancing (Varnya) and used for skin diseases (Kushtha). The Sharangadhara Samhita includes it in a paste with Triphala, vetiver and Manjishtha for the Kapha type of spreading skin inflammation (Visarpa), noting that it is "cooling yet drying."
Eyes
The Sushruta Samhita names it among ingredients used for the Pitta type of conjunctivitis and in preparations for diseases of vision.
Poisoning
Classical texts also describe it as anti-toxic (Vishahara). The Ashtanga Hridaya lists a paste of vetiver, sandalwood and Wild Himalayan Cherry heartwood in its chapter on protecting food from poison.
Digestive Formulas
It appears in a large decoction in the Charaka Samhita chapter on digestive disorders (Grahani), which is why it is connected with irritable bowel syndrome in our knowledge base. Here it is one ingredient among many, not a stand-alone remedy.
How to Use Wild Himalayan Cherry
In the classical texts, Wild Himalayan Cherry is almost always used as part of a formula rather than alone. The heartwood and bark are the parts used. Our sources do not give a standard stand-alone dose, so please work with a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner for amounts.
| Form | Dose | Best For | When to Take |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paste (Lepa), applied to the skin | No standard dose in our sources | Bleeding disorders, spreading skin inflammation, burning | As directed by a practitioner |
| Decoction (Kvatha), e.g. Amritottara Kvatha with Guduchi, Neem, Bilva and red sandalwood | No standard dose in our sources | Formulas described in the Sharangadhara Samhita | As directed by a practitioner |
| Medicated ghee or oil | No standard dose in our sources | Burning and pain, eye conditions, massage oils | As directed by a practitioner |
| Bath or sitz bath water | No standard dose in our sources | Swelling, bleeding hemorrhoids with burning | As directed by a practitioner |
The Ashtanga Hridaya also lists it among herbs for medicated gargles in the rainy season, and among the aromatic ingredients of medicated smoking blends.
For a newcomer, the most practical route is a ready-made formula or an external paste chosen with professional guidance.
Safety & Side Effects
Our sources do not list specific contraindications or drug interactions for Wild Himalayan Cherry. That is not the same as saying it is risk free, so the honest answer is that safety data here is thin.
Pregnancy
The Bhavaprakasha lists one of its actions as a uterine stimulant (Garbhashaya Uttejaka). For that reason it should not be taken during pregnancy unless a qualified practitioner specifically advises it.
Cold and Drying Nature
It has a cold potency and is described as "cooling yet drying" in the Sharangadhara Samhita. In Ayurvedic logic, strongly cooling, astringent herbs are chosen for heat conditions, so it may not suit someone who already runs cold or dry. Ask a practitioner before using it if that describes you.
General Advice
Because it is traditionally used inside multi-herb formulas, follow the dose on a formulated product or your practitioner's guidance. If you have a bleeding disorder, see a doctor first: bleeding needs a proper diagnosis before any herbal support.
Recommended: Start Here
The simplest way to start with Wild Himalayan Cherry is not to hunt for it alone. Classical texts almost always use it alongside other cooling herbs such as sandalwood and vetiver, so a traditional formula or a powder of the heartwood used under guidance is the sensible first step.
If your interest is skin or burning sensations, an external paste is the gentlest way in, since many of the classical uses are topical. Check the label for Padmaka or Padmakh, the names it is usually sold under.
Find Padmaka Powder on Amazon ↗ Padmakh Heartwood ↗
Safety note: avoid it in pregnancy because classical texts describe it as a uterine stimulant, and see a doctor for any unexplained bleeding.
Wild Himalayan Cherry vs Other Herbs & Supplements
Wild Himalayan Cherry is usually paired with other cooling herbs rather than chosen over them. Here is how it sits next to the companions it appears with most often in the classical texts.
| Comparison | Wild Himalayan Cherry | Alternative | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| vs Sandalwood (Chandana) | Fragrant reddish heartwood, cooling, bitter and astringent | Appears beside it in cooling pastes, baths and sitz baths in the Charaka Samhita and Ashtanga Hridaya | Not rivals: the classical texts combine the two for heat, burning and bleeding |
| vs Vetiver (Ushira) | Described with vetiver as "cooling yet drying" | Shares the same cooling and drying role in the Sharangadhara Samhita skin paste | Used together; neither is presented as a substitute for the other |
| vs Manjishtha | Cools and holds, used for bleeding and burning | Described as drying oozing skin in the same paste | Paired in skin formulas: Manjishtha for oozing, Wild Himalayan Cherry for heat |
| vs Amla | One of several ingredients in the classical bleeding disorder paste | Also in that same paste and in an eye ghee from the Sushruta Samhita | Amla is the far more familiar everyday herb; Wild Himalayan Cherry is a specialist formula ingredient |
The takeaway: if you see Wild Himalayan Cherry on a label, it is usually there to add cooling support for Pitta conditions within a blend.
Wild Himalayan Cherry for Specific Populations
Our sources say little about specific groups, so this guidance stays cautious and short.
Pregnancy & Nursing
Avoid it during pregnancy. The Bhavaprakasha lists it as a uterine stimulant (Garbhashaya Uttejaka). Our sources say nothing about nursing, so ask a practitioner before using it while breastfeeding.
Children
The Sushruta Samhita describes an oil made with licorice, vetiver, Sariva, blue lotus and Wild Himalayan Cherry for massaging a child. That is an external, formula use. Internal use in children should only happen under a practitioner's care.
Elderly
No specific guidance appears in our sources. Because the herb is cold and drying, older adults who tend to feel cold or dry should check with a practitioner first.
Athletes
Our sources do not describe any athletic use. It has no traditional role as a performance or recovery herb.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Padmaka the same as cherry fruit?
No. Padmaka is the Wild Himalayan Cherry tree, Prunus cerasoides, and Ayurveda uses its reddish, fragrant heartwood and its bark rather than the fruit.
What is Padmaka called in Hindi?
It is known as Padmakh in Hindi. Another Sanskrit name is Padmakashtha, which simply means "Padmaka wood."
Which dosha does Wild Himalayan Cherry balance?
It balances Pitta. Its bitter and astringent taste and cold potency make it suited to heat related problems such as burning, bleeding and inflamed skin.
Can I take Wild Himalayan Cherry on its own?
The classical texts nearly always use it within formulas, and our sources give no stand-alone dose. Work with a practitioner, or use a traditional formula that already contains it.
Is it used for the eyes?
Yes, traditionally. The Sushruta Samhita includes it in remedies for the Pitta type of conjunctivitis and in a ghee for diseases of vision. These are practitioner prepared remedies, not something to put in your eyes at home.
How to Use Padmaka by Condition
Explore how Padmaka is used for specific health concerns — with dosage, preparation methods, and classical references for each.
▶ Classical Text References (5 sources)
Classical Therapeutic Uses
- Raktapitta (bleeding disorders)
- Daha (burning sensation)
- Kushtha (skin diseases)
- Visha (poisoning)
Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 1
References in Astanga Hridaya Sutrasthan
The treatment shall be bathing (washing), pouring with water processed with anti-poisonous drugs, application of paste of Sevya (Ushira), Candana (sandalwood), Padmaka – Wild Himalayan Cherry (heart wood) – Prunus puddum / cerasoides;
— Astanga Hridaya Sutrasthan, Anna Raksha Vidhi
Sita, Yasthimadhu (licorice), Suvarnatwak, Padmaka, Raktayastika Kustha, tagara and other scents – perfumeries.
— Astanga Hridaya Sutrasthan, Dhumpana Medicated Smoking
Varsha (Rainy season) – काल यक तलोशीरमांसीतगरप कम ् Kaliyaka, Tila, Usira, Mamsi, Tagara and Padmaka.
— Astanga Hridaya Sutrasthan, Gandushadi Vidhi Gargles
Source: Astanga Hridaya Sutrasthan, Anna Raksha Vidhi; Dhumpana Medicated Smoking; Gandushadi Vidhi Gargles
References in Charaka Samhita
Take kuṣṭha, aguru, devadāru, kaunti, cinnamon, padmaka, cardamom, sugandhabālā, palāśa, mustaka, priyangu, thauneyaka, nāgakeśara, jatāmāmsi, tālisapatra, plava, tejapatra, coriander, sriveshtaka, dhyāmaka, piper longum, sprikkā and nakha.
— Charaka Samhita, Chikitsa Sthana — Therapeutic Principles, Chapter 12: Edema Treatment (Shvayathu Chikitsa / श्वयथुचिकित्सा)
Prepare medicated oil from vetasa, manjiṣhthā, mrināla, sandal, padmaka and khasha and bark of latex-exuding plants.
— Charaka Samhita, Chikitsa Sthana — Therapeutic Principles, Chapter 12: Edema Treatment (Shvayathu Chikitsa / श्वयथुचिकित्सा)
Thereafter, bathing with medicated water prepared with sandal, khaśa and padmaka and heated by sun rays or with water prepared with latex-exuding plants or water mixed with milk is beneficial.
— Charaka Samhita, Chikitsa Sthana — Therapeutic Principles, Chapter 12: Edema Treatment (Shvayathu Chikitsa / श्वयथुचिकित्सा)
The patient should be given warm water sitz bath with the decoction of madhuka, nifnala, padmaka, chandana (Santalum album), kusha (Desmospachya bipinnata) and kasha (Saccharum spontaneum) in cases suffering from bleeding, burning sensation and stickiness.
— Charaka Samhita, Chikitsa Sthana — Therapeutic Principles, Chapter 14: Hemorrhoids Treatment (Arsha Chikitsa / अर्शचिकित्सा)
Take two pala (96 gm) each of chandana, padmaka, usheera, patha, murva, kuthannatha (kaivarta musta), shadhgrantha (vacha), sariva, asphota (aspurmallika), saptaparna, aṭarushakana (vasa), patola, udumbara, ashvattha, vata, plaksa, kapeetana (gandha musta), kathuki, musta and nimba and prepare decoction by adding one drona (12.
— Charaka Samhita, Chikitsa Sthana — Therapeutic Principles, Chapter 15: Digestive Disorders Treatment (Grahani Chikitsa / ग्रहणीचिकित्सा)
Source: Charaka Samhita, Chikitsa Sthana — Therapeutic Principles, Chapter 12: Edema Treatment (Shvayathu Chikitsa / श्वयथुचिकित्सा); Chikitsa Sthana — Therapeutic Principles, Chapter 14: Hemorrhoids Treatment (Arsha Chikitsa / अर्शचिकित्सा); Chikitsa Sthana — Therapeutic Principles, Chapter 15: Digestive Disorders Treatment (Grahani Chikitsa / ग्रहणीचिकित्सा)
References in Sharangadhara Samhita
Amritottara Kvatha: Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia), Nimba bark (Azadirachta indica), Bilva bark (Aegle marmelos), Padmaka (Prunus cerasoides), and Raktachandana (red sandalwood — Pterocarpus santalinus) — this decoction should be consumed.
— Sharangadhara Samhita, Madhyama Khanda, Chapter 1: Svarasadikalpana (Svarasa, Kalka, Kvatha, etc.)
The Kalka (paste) ingredients are: Mridvika/Draksha (Vitis vinifera — raisins), Padmaka (Prunus cerasoides), Kushtha (Saussurea lappa), Pippali (Piper longum), Raktachandana (Pterocarpus santalinus — red sandalwood), Patraka (Cinnamomum tamala), Nagapushpa (Mesua ferrea), and Atmagupta/Kapikacchu fruits (Mucuna pruriens).
— Sharangadhara Samhita, Madhyama Khanda, Chapter 9: Snehakalpana (Oleaginous Preparations - Ghrita and Taila)
A paste of Triphala, Padmaka (Prunus cerasoides, wild Himalayan cherry), Ushira (vetiver), Samanga (Manjishtha, Rubia cordifolia), Karavira (Nerium oleander), Nala Mula (root of Arundo donax/giant reed), and Ananta (Sariva/Hemidesmus indicus) -- this paste destroys Kapha-type Visarpa.
— Sharangadhara Samhita, Uttara Khanda, Chapter 11: Lepa Vidhi (Topical Paste Application)
The astringent Triphala and Manjishtha dry the oozing, Padmaka and vetiver are cooling yet drying, and Karavira (oleander) is a potent anti-inflammatory applied externally.
— Sharangadhara Samhita, Uttara Khanda, Chapter 11: Lepa Vidhi (Topical Paste Application)
For Rakta Pitta (bleeding disorders): a paste made from Dhatri (Amalaki/Emblica officinalis), Kaseru (Scirpus kysoor), Hrivera (Pavonia odorata), Padma (lotus, Nelumbo nucifera), Padmaka (Prunus cerasoides), Chandana (sandalwood, Santalum album), Durva (Cynodon dactylon), Ushira (vetiver), and the roots of Nala (Arundo donax) should be applied.
— Sharangadhara Samhita, Uttara Khanda, Chapter 11: Lepa Vidhi (Topical Paste Application)
Source: Sharangadhara Samhita, Madhyama Khanda, Chapter 1: Svarasadikalpana (Svarasa, Kalka, Kvatha, etc.); Madhyama Khanda, Chapter 9: Snehakalpana (Oleaginous Preparations - Ghrita and Taila); Uttara Khanda, Chapter 11: Lepa Vidhi (Topical Paste Application)
References in Sushruta Samhita
Gundra, rice, shaivala (aquatic moss), shailabheda, daruharidra (tree turmeric), ela (cardamom), utpala (blue lotus), rodhra, abhra (mica), lotus petal, sugar, darbha (sacred grass), tala (palmyra), rodhra, vetasa (cane), and padmaka.
— Sushruta Samhita, Uttara Tantra, Chapter 10: Pittabhishyanda Pratishedha Adhyaya (Chapter on Treatment of Pitta-type Conjunctivitis)
or one prepared similarly with daru (devadaru), padmaka, and shunthi (dry ginger).
— Sushruta Samhita, Uttara Tantra, Chapter 17: Drishtigata Roga Pratishedha Adhyaya (Chapter on Treatment of Diseases of Vision / Drishti Roga)
Ghee cooked with shatavari, prithakparni, musta, amalaka, padmaka, and sariva — this destroys burning sensation and pain.
— Sushruta Samhita, Uttara Tantra, Chapter 17: Drishtigata Roga Pratishedha Adhyaya (Chapter on Treatment of Diseases of Vision / Drishti Roga)
Oil prepared with astringent and sweet herbs -- Madhuka (licorice), Ushira (vetiver), Hribera, Sariva (Indian sarsaparilla), Utpala (blue lotus), and Padmaka -- should be used for massaging the child.
— Sushruta Samhita, Uttara Tantra, Chapter 30: Shakunipratishedha
PARISARPA-JVARA GHRITA: Prepared with Triphala, Ushira, Shampaka, Katuka, Ativisha, Ghana, Shatavari, Saptaparni, Guduchi, Neem, Chitraka, Trivrit, Murva, Patola, Arishta, Balaka, Kirata-tikta, Vacha, Vishala, Padmaka, Utpala, Sariva, Yashtya-hvva, Vikara, Raktachandana, Duralabha, Parpataka, Trayamana, Aturushaka, Rasna, Kudu, Kumanjishtha, Pippali, Nagara, and Dhatri-phala juice -- this ghee eliminates spreading fever, dyspnea, tumors, and skin diseases.
— Sushruta Samhita, Uttara Tantra, Chapter 39: Jvarapratishedha
Source: Sushruta Samhita, Uttara Tantra, Chapter 10: Pittabhishyanda Pratishedha Adhyaya (Chapter on Treatment of Pitta-type Conjunctivitis); Uttara Tantra, Chapter 17: Drishtigata Roga Pratishedha Adhyaya (Chapter on Treatment of Diseases of Vision / Drishti Roga); Uttara Tantra, Chapter 30: Shakunipratishedha; Uttara Tantra, Chapter 39: Jvarapratishedha
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.