Rohitaka Tree

(Desert Teak)
Sanskrit: रोहीतक • Botanical: Tecomella undulata Seem.

Rohitaka is a medium-sized tree found in dry and arid regions of Rajasthan and Gujarat. The bark is the main medicinal part, particularly valued for its action on the liver and spleen. It is the drug of choice in Pleehodara (splenic enlargement) and Yakrit roga (liver diseases). The bark is given with buttermilk or in decoction form. It is one of the most important hepatoprotective drugs in Ayurveda. The tree also yields good quality timber used in furniture. Dose: Bark decoction 1-2 tola; Churna 1-2 masha. Verse: 18.

Ayurvedic Properties

Taste (Rasa)
Bitter (Tikta), Astringent (Kashaya)
Quality (Guna)
Light (Laghu), Dry (Ruksha)
Potency (Virya)
Hot (Ushna)
Post-digestive (Vipaka)
Pungent (Katu)
Key Constituents
Lapachol, Sterols, Flavonoids
Also Known As
English: Desert Teak, Roheda
Sanskrit: रोहीतक, प्लीहारि, दाडिमच्छद
Hindi: रोहेड़ा

What is Rohitaka Tree (Roheda / रोहीतक)?

Rohitaka is a medium-sized tree found in dry and arid regions of Rajasthan and Gujarat. The bark is the main medicinal part, particularly valued for its action on the liver and spleen. It is the drug of choice in Pleehodara (splenic enlargement) and Yakrit roga (liver diseases). The bark is given with buttermilk or in decoction form. It is one of the most important hepatoprotective drugs in Ayurveda. The tree also yields good quality timber used in furniture. Dose: Bark decoction 1-2 tola; Churna 1-2 masha. Verse: 18.

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 5

Therapeutic Actions (Karma)

  • Pleehaghna (anti-splenic/cures spleen enlargement)
  • Yakritghna (cures liver diseases)
  • Krimighna (anthelmintic)

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 5

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.