Ayurvedic Properties
- Taste (Rasa)
- Astringent (Kashaya), Sweet (Madhura)
- Quality (Guna)
- Light (Laghu), Dry (Ruksha)
- Potency (Virya)
- Cold (Sheeta)
- Post-digestive (Vipaka)
- Pungent (Katu)
- Key Constituents
- Tannins, Flavonoids, Alkaloids
- Also Known As
- English: Prosopis, Khejri
Sanskrit: शमी, सुमरी, शम्बर, दृढ़ा
Hindi: खेजड़ा, शमी, जण्ड
What is Shami (Khejri / खेजड़ी)?
Shami is a thorny evergreen tree found in the arid regions of Rajasthan and Western India. It is the state tree of Rajasthan. The tree is extremely drought-resistant. The bark, leaves and pods (Sangri) are used medicinally and as food. The pods are a traditional food item in Rajasthan. The bark is astringent and used in skin diseases, piles and hair problems. The leaves are used in eye diseases. The tree is worshipped during Dussehra festival. It fixes nitrogen in the soil and is ecologically important in desert regions. Dose: Bark decoction 1-2 tola. Verse mentioned.
Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 5
Therapeutic Actions (Karma)
- Keshya (promotes hair growth)
- Shothahara (anti-inflammatory)
- Raktapittahara (alleviates bleeding)
Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 3
How to Use Shami by Condition
Explore how Shami is used for specific health concerns — with dosage, preparation methods, and classical references for each.
▶ Classical Text References (2 sources)
References in Sushruta Samhita
Soma-valli, Indra-valli, shami (Prosopis), thorns of bilva, and roots of mrigadani and others — these should be strung together and worn (as protective amulets).
— Sushruta Samhita, Uttara Tantra, Chapter 28: Chapter 28
Source: Sushruta Samhita, Uttara Tantra, Chapter 28: Chapter 28
References in Sushruta Samhita
Soma-valli, Indra-valli, shami (Prosopis), thorns of bilva, and roots of mrigadani and others — these should be strung together and worn (as protective amulets).
— Sushruta Samhita, Uttara Tantra, Chapter 28: Chapter 28
Source: Sushruta Samhita, Uttara Tantra, Chapter 28: Chapter 28
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.