Padmaka

(Wild Himalayan Cherry)
Sanskrit: पद्मक Botanical: Prunus cerasoides D. Don (Prunus puddum Roxb.)

Padmaka (Prunus cerasoides/P. puddum, Fam. Rosaceae) is Wild Himalayan Cherry found in the Himalayas at 3000-6000 feet. The heartwood is reddish and fragrant. It is cooling, astringent-bitter, and primarily used in bleeding disorders, burning sensations, and skin diseases. An important ingredient in many Ayurvedic formulations for Raktapitta (bleeding disorders). The bark is used in Ayurvedic practice. Book reference: Karpuradi Varga, shloka 18.

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 Padmaka (Padmakh / पद्मक)?

Padmaka (Prunus cerasoides/P. puddum, Fam. Rosaceae) is Wild Himalayan Cherry found in the Himalayas at 3000-6000 feet. The heartwood is reddish and fragrant. It is cooling, astringent-bitter, and primarily used in bleeding disorders, burning sensations, and skin diseases. An important ingredient in many Ayurvedic formulations for Raktapitta (bleeding disorders). The bark is used in Ayurvedic practice. Book reference: Karpuradi Varga, shloka 18.

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 1

Therapeutic Actions (Karma)

  • Varnya (complexion enhancing)
  • Daha Prashamana (relieves burning)
  • Raktapitta hara (controls bleeding disorders)
  • Vishahara (anti-toxic)
  • Garbhashaya Uttejaka (uterine stimulant)

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 1

Classical Therapeutic Uses

  • Raktapitta (bleeding disorders)
  • Daha (burning sensation)
  • Kushtha (skin diseases)
  • Visha (poisoning)

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 1

Padmaka by Condition

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

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.