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
- Dalbergenone, Flavonoids, Tannins
- Also Known As
- English: Tinsa Tree, Sandan
Sanskrit: शिंशपा, शिरीष, नीलसार
Hindi: शीशम, सानन
What is Shimshapa (Indian Rosewood / शिंशपा)?
Shimshapa is a moderate-sized tree found in the sub-Himalayan forests and Central India. The bark and heartwood are used medicinally. The bark is astringent and used in skin diseases and worm infestations. The wood is used for making agricultural implements. It is a notable timber tree. Note: This is sometimes confused with Dalbergia sissoo (true Shisham) but the text refers to Ougeinia. The bark decoction is used in skin diseases. Dose: Bark decoction 1-2 tola. Verse: 41.
Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 5
Therapeutic Actions (Karma)
- Kusthaghna (anti-dermatosis)
- Krimighna (anthelmintic)
Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 5
How to Use Shimshapa by Condition
Explore how Shimshapa is used for specific health concerns — with dosage, preparation methods, and classical references for each.
▶ Classical Text References (1 sources)
References in Sushruta Samhita
The Salasaradi Gana consists of: sala, sara, raja (teak), karna, khadira (catechu), kadara, kalaskandha, kramuka (areca), bhurja (birch), mesha-shringi, tinisha, chandana (sandalwood), kuchandan, shimshapa, shirisha, asana, dhava, arjuna, tala (palm), shakanaktamala, putika, ashvakarna, aguru (aloewood), shiya, and kaliyaka (verse 8).
— Sushruta Samhita, Sutra Sthana, Chapter 38: Dravyasangrahaniya Adhyaya - On the Collection of Drugs
The Mushkakadi Gana consists of: mushkaka, palasha, dhava, chitraka, madana, vriksha (trees), shimshapa, vajravriksha, and triphala (verse 20).
— Sushruta Samhita, Sutra Sthana, Chapter 38: Dravyasangrahaniya Adhyaya - On the Collection of Drugs
The Salasaradi Gana consists of: sala, sara, raja (teak), karna, khadira (catechu), kadara, kalaskandha, kramuka (areca), bhurja (birch), mesha-shringi, tinisha, chandana (sandalwood), kuchandan, shimshapa, shirisha, asana, dhava, arjuna, tala (palm), shakanaktamala, putika, ashvakarna, aguru (aloewood), shiya, and kaliyaka (verse 8).
— Sushruta Samhita, Dravyasangrahaniya Adhyaya - On the Collection of Drugs
The Mushkakadi Gana consists of: mushkaka, palasha, dhava, chitraka, madana, vriksha (trees), shimshapa, vajravriksha, and triphala (verse 20).
— Sushruta Samhita, Dravyasangrahaniya Adhyaya - On the Collection of Drugs
Source: Sushruta Samhita, Sutra Sthana, Chapter 38: Dravyasangrahaniya Adhyaya - On the Collection of Drugs; Dravyasangrahaniya Adhyaya - On the Collection of Drugs
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.