Ayurvedic Properties
- Taste (Rasa)
- Bitter (Tikta), Astringent (Kashaya)
- Quality (Guna)
- Light (Laghu), Dry (Ruksha)
- Potency (Virya)
- Cold (Sheeta)
- Post-digestive (Vipaka)
- Pungent (Katu)
- Key Constituents
- Saponins, Tannins, Flavonoids, D-catechin
- Also Known As
- English: Siris Tree, Lebbek
Sanskrit: शिरीष, भण्डिल, मृदुपुष्प, कपीतन
Hindi: सिरस
What is Shirisha?
If you live with seasonal sneezing, itchy hives or skin that flares at the slightest trigger, Shirisha is a tree worth knowing. Classical Ayurveda ranks it as the best anti-toxic remedy (Vishaghna), a word that covers poisons, bites and stings, and the allergic reactions that follow them.
In English it is called the Siris Tree or Lebbek, and its botanical name is Albizia lebbeck (Linn.) Benth. In Hindi it is Siris. The Bhavaprakash Nighantu describes it as a large deciduous tree found throughout India.
Almost every part of the tree has a use. The bark is the main medicine, the fragrant flowers appear in classical formulas for the nose and eyes, and the seeds are used in eye remedies. Charaka Samhita names its flowers and fruits in the chapter on poison treatment (Visha Chikitsa).
Benefits of Shirisha
Allergies and Breathing
The Bhavaprakash Nighantu calls Shirisha a potent anti-allergic remedy used in bronchial asthma, urticaria (hives) and other allergic conditions. Sahasra Yoga describes it as the classical anti-poison tree (Visha-hara) for respiratory allergy.
That makes it a traditional choice for allergic rhinitis. The Bhavaprakash Nighantu also notes that modern research has confirmed anti-allergic, anti-histaminic and mast cell stabilizing properties.
Skin Health
Shirisha is listed as anti-dermatosis (Kusthaghna), meaning it works against skin disease (Kushtha). Sahasra Yoga names skin disease as one of its main uses, so it is relevant to skin disorders.
Its bitter (Tikta) and astringent (Kashaya) tastes, along with its cold potency (Sheeta Virya), are the classical properties behind this cleansing, cooling action.
Inflammation and Swelling
The Bhavaprakash Nighantu lists Shirisha as anti-inflammatory (Shothahara), linking it to inflammation. Sharangadhara Samhita includes it in the famous ten-ingredient paste (Dashanga Lepa) and calls it a classical anti-allergic and anti-inflammatory.
Charaka Samhita describes a fumigation using Shirisha flowers with ghee that is said to cure all types of poison and edema (swelling).
Eyes
The Bhavaprakash Nighantu says the seeds are used in eye diseases. Sushruta Samhita uses the flower juice in a collyrium (Anjana), a medicated eye preparation, for blood-type conjunctivitis (Raktabhishyanda), which ties it to conjunctivitis.
Sushruta also uses the seeds in a collyrium for corneal opacity and the flowers in preparations for restoring clarity of vision.
Poisons, Bites and Stings
The bark is used in poisoning, snakebite and insect stings. Charaka Samhita, Chikitsa Sthana chapter 23, uses the flower juice to prepare an anti-poison pill and applies the fruits in a paste in emergency poison cases.
Fumigation with nata (Valeriana wallichii), kushta (Saussurea lappa), head of bhujagapati and flower of shirisha (Albizzia labbec) by adding ghee is called dhumagada, and it cures all types of poison and edema.
Charaka Samhita, Chikitsa Sthana, Chapter 23
How to Use Shirisha
The bark is the part most often used, usually as a decoction (Kashaya), a tea made by simmering the bark in water. The doses below come from the Bhavaprakash Nighantu and our herb record.
| Form | Dose | Best For | When to Take |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bark decoction (Kashaya) | 10 to 20 g of bark (classically 1 to 2 tola) | Asthma, urticaria, allergic reactions, bites and stings | Classical sources do not specify; follow a practitioner's advice |
| Seed powder (Churna) | 1 to 2 masha (a small classical unit of weight) | Eye diseases | Classical sources do not specify; follow a practitioner's advice |
| Topical paste (Lepa) | As part of formulas such as the ten-ingredient paste (Dashanga Lepa) | Skin and inflammatory conditions | Applied externally |
Sharangadhara Samhita mixes Shirisha with honey in one paste and with ghee washed one hundred times (Shata Dhauta Ghrita) in another, showing honey and ghee as classical vehicles for external use. The eye preparations in Sushruta Samhita are made with other mineral ingredients and are not home remedies.
Our sources give no seasonal guidance for Shirisha.
Safety & Side Effects
Our classical sources list no specific contraindications for Shirisha, and they do not flag the tree as toxic. That is an absence of data, not a guarantee of safety.
What we do know
- Shirisha is light (Laghu), dry (Ruksha) and cold in potency. If you already run cold or dry, ask a practitioner whether it suits you.
- Do not attempt the classical eye preparations (Anjana) at home. Some Sushruta Samhita recipes contain realgar, an arsenic compound, and anything placed in the eye needs professional preparation.
- Snakebite and poisoning are emergencies. Classical anti-poison use is no substitute for emergency medical care.
What classical sources do not address
Drug interactions, pregnancy and nursing, and signs of overdose are not covered in our sources. If you take prescription medicines, especially for asthma or allergies, or if you are pregnant or nursing, consult a qualified practitioner before using Shirisha.
Recommended: Start Here
The simplest way to start is the way the classical texts use it most: Shirisha bark. The Bhavaprakash Nighantu gives a bark decoction dose of 1 to 2 tola, about 10 to 20 g, for allergic conditions such as asthma and hives.
Look for bark powder or bark pieces labeled Albizia lebbeck, so you know you have the right species. Simmer the measured bark in water to make a decoction, and have a qualified practitioner confirm the dose for you before you begin.
Find Shirisha Bark Powder on Amazon ↗ Shirisha Capsules ↗
Safety note: Our sources do not cover drug interactions, pregnancy or children. Check with a practitioner first, never use Shirisha in or around the eyes yourself, and treat any bite or poisoning as a medical emergency.
Shirisha vs Other Herbs & Supplements
Our sources pair Shirisha with several herbs in classical formulas. Here is how it compares with the ones that appear alongside it most often.
| Comparison | Shirisha | Alternative | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shirisha vs Haritaki | Anti-allergic and anti-inflammatory | Haritaki promotes wound healing (Sharangadhara Samhita) | Classically combined in one paste with honey rather than chosen between; each covers a different job. |
| Shirisha vs Licorice (Madhuyashti) | Bark is the core anti-allergic, anti-toxic ingredient | A partner ingredient in the ten-ingredient paste (Dashanga Lepa) | Our sources describe them only as partners in formulas, not as substitutes. |
| Shirisha vs Turmeric (Haridra) | Named the best anti-toxic remedy (Vishaghna) | Appears with Shirisha in Charaka's anti-poison formulas | For classical allergy and poison use, Shirisha is the lead herb; our sources do not rank the two head to head. |
Our sources do not compare Shirisha with modern supplements, so talk to a practitioner before swapping it for anything you already take.
Shirisha for Specific Populations
Classical sources give one general dose for Shirisha and do not adjust it for different groups. Please read the notes below with that in mind.
Pregnancy & Nursing
Classical sources do not address Shirisha in pregnancy or while nursing. Avoid it unless a qualified practitioner who knows your situation advises it.
Children
Our sources give no child dose. Do not give Shirisha to children without guidance from a qualified practitioner.
Elderly
Classical sources do not discuss older adults specifically. Because Shirisha is light, dry and cold in nature, older people who tend toward dryness should ask a practitioner first, especially if they take regular medication.
Athletes
Classical sources do not address use by athletes. Consult a qualified practitioner before adding it to a training routine.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Shirisha called in English?
Shirisha is the Siris Tree, also called Lebbek, botanical name Albizia lebbeck. In Hindi it is Siris. Sanskrit synonyms include Bhandila, Mridupushpa and Kapitana.
Is Shirisha an antihistamine?
Ayurveda treats it as a leading anti-allergic herb for asthma, hives and other allergic conditions. The Bhavaprakash Nighantu notes that modern research has confirmed anti-histaminic and mast cell stabilizing properties. It is not a replacement for prescribed allergy medicine, so do not stop any medication without medical advice.
Which part of the Shirisha tree is used?
The bark is the main medicine, used for poisoning, allergies, snakebite and insect stings. The fragrant flowers are used for nasal polyps and in eye preparations, and the seeds are used in eye diseases. Leaves are also listed as medicinal.
What does Shirisha taste like?
It is bitter (Tikta) and astringent (Kashaya). Its post-digestive effect (Vipaka), the taste it leaves after digestion, is pungent (Katu).
What compounds does Shirisha contain?
Our sources list saponins, tannins, flavonoids and D-catechin. The Bhavaprakash Nighantu specifically notes saponins and tannins in the bark.
How to Use Shirisha by Condition
Explore how Shirisha is used for specific health concerns — with dosage, preparation methods, and classical references for each.
▶ Classical Text References (4 sources)
References in Astanga Hridaya Sutrasthan
Usheera, Shirisha, Mishi and Tandula (rice grains) 4.
— Astanga Hridaya Sutrasthan, Gandushadi Vidhi Gargles
Source: Astanga Hridaya Sutrasthan, Gandushadi Vidhi Gargles
References in Charaka Samhita
Alternatively, this pill should be prepared of surasa (Ocimum sanctum), granthi (pippalimula), haridra (Curcuma longa), daruharidra (Berberis aristata), madhuka (Glycerrhiza glabra) and kushta (Saussurea lappa) by triturating with the juice of the flower of shirisha (Albizzia lebbeck) and the juice of kakandaka (Canavalia ensiformis).
— Charaka Samhita, Chikitsa Sthana — Therapeutic Principles, Chapter 23: Poison Treatment (Visha Chikitsa / विषचिकित्सा)
If the patient appears to be dead because of udbandhana (hanging), poisoning or drowning in water (jalamrita), then the potion comprising kakanda (Canavalia ensiformis), surasa (Ocimum sanctum), gavakshi (Citrullus colocynthis), punarnava (Boerhavia diffusa), vayasi (Solanum nigrum) and fruits of shirisha (Albizzia lebbeck) should be administered in the form of lepa (ointment) along with aupadhi (application of the paste over the head after making incisions in the form of kaakapaada or the paw o
— Charaka Samhita, Chikitsa Sthana — Therapeutic Principles, Chapter 23: Poison Treatment (Visha Chikitsa / विषचिकित्सा)
Shveta (Katabhi -Albizzia procera), vacha (Acorus calamus), ashvagandha (Withania somnifera), hingu (Ferula foetida), amrita (Tinospora cordifolia), kushtha (Saussurea lappa), saindhava (rock salt), lashuna (Allium sativum), sarshapa (Brassica campestris), pulp of kapittha (Feronia limonia), tuntuka (Oroxylum indicum), seeds of karanja (Pongamia pinnata), shunti (Zingiber officinale), pippali (Piper longum), maricha (Piper nigrum), flower of shirisha (Albizzia labbec), haridra (Curcuma longa), d
— Charaka Samhita, Chikitsa Sthana — Therapeutic Principles, Chapter 23: Poison Treatment (Visha Chikitsa / विषचिकित्सा)
, patra (Cinnamomum tamala) aguru (Aquilaria agallocha), musta (Cyperus rotundus) ela (Elettaria cardamomum) Five types of exudates chandana (Santalam album), sprikka (Delphinium zalil) tvak (Cinnamomum zeylanicum) nalada (Vetiveria zinzanioides) utpala (Nymphaea stellata) balaka (Valeriana wallichii ) harenuka (Vitex negundo), usheera (Vetiveria zizanoides) vanya (Cyperus rotundus) nakha (Nails of tiger) devadaru (Cedrus deodara) kanaka (Mesua ferrea) kunkuma (Crocus sativus) dhyamaka (Cymbopog
— Charaka Samhita, Chikitsa Sthana — Therapeutic Principles, Chapter 23: Poison Treatment (Visha Chikitsa / विषचिकित्सा)
Fumigation with nata (Valeriana wallichii), kushta (Saussurea lappa), head of bhujagapati (snake having two heads or fangs) and flower of shirisha (Albizzia labbec) by adding ghee is called dhumagada, and it cures all types of poison and edema.
— Charaka Samhita, Chikitsa Sthana — Therapeutic Principles, Chapter 23: Poison Treatment (Visha Chikitsa / विषचिकित्सा)
Source: Charaka Samhita, Chikitsa Sthana — Therapeutic Principles, Chapter 23: Poison Treatment (Visha Chikitsa / विषचिकित्सा)
References in Sharangadhara Samhita
The famous Dashanga Lepa (ten-ingredient paste) is made from: Shirisha (Albizia lebbeck), Madhuyashti (Glycyrrhiza glabra, licorice), Tagara (Valeriana wallichii), Rakta Chandana (red sandalwood, Pterocarpus santalinus), Ela (Elettaria cardamomum, cardamom), Mansi (Nardostachys jatamansi, spikenard), Nisha Yugma (Curcuma longa and Berberis aristata), Kushtha (Saussurea lappa), and Balaka (Pavonia odorata).
— Sharangadhara Samhita, Uttara Khanda, Chapter 11: Lepa Vidhi (Topical Paste Application)
A paste of Mansi (Nardostachys jatamansi, spikenard), Sarja Rasa (Vateria indica resin), Lodhra (Symplocos racemosa), Madhuka (licorice), Renuka (Vitex agnus-castus), Murva (Marsdenia tenacissima), Nilotpala (blue lotus), Padma (lotus), and Shirisha flowers (Albizia lebbeck), mixed with Shata Dhauta Ghrita (ghee washed one hundred times) -- this paste is for Pitta-Vata-Rakta (gouty/inflammatory conditions with blood vitiation).
— Sharangadhara Samhita, Uttara Khanda, Chapter 11: Lepa Vidhi (Topical Paste Application)
Another paste: Rasanjana (Berberis extract) with Shirisha (Albizia lebbeck) and Pathya (Haritaki, Terminalia chebula), mixed with honey -- this paste is used for destroying Upadamsha (venereal diseases).
— Sharangadhara Samhita, Uttara Khanda, Chapter 11: Lepa Vidhi (Topical Paste Application)
Shirisha is a classical anti-allergic and anti-inflammatory, while Haritaki promotes wound healing.
— Sharangadhara Samhita, Uttara Khanda, Chapter 11: Lepa Vidhi (Topical Paste Application)
Source: Sharangadhara Samhita, Uttara Khanda, Chapter 11: Lepa Vidhi (Topical Paste Application)
References in Sushruta Samhita
Juice of shirisha (Albizia) flowers with sura (fermented liquor), maricha (pepper), and earths — combined with honey, gairika (red ochre) is beneficial as collyrium.
— Sushruta Samhita, Uttara Tantra, Chapter 12: Raktabhishyanda Pratishedha Adhyaya (Chapter on Treatment of Blood-type Conjunctivitis)
With shirisha (Albizia) seeds, maricha (pepper), pippali (long pepper), and saindhava (rock salt), anjana should be prepared for shukra (corneal opacity).
— Sushruta Samhita, Uttara Tantra, Chapter 12: Raktabhishyanda Pratishedha Adhyaya (Chapter on Treatment of Blood-type Conjunctivitis)
Gairika (red ochre), saindhava (rock salt), black pepper, godanta (an animal tooth) ink, beef, pepper seeds, shirisha (Albizia) seeds, and manashila (realgar/arsenic disulfide).
— Sushruta Samhita, Uttara Tantra, Chapter 17: Drishtigata Roga Pratishedha Adhyaya (Chapter on Treatment of Diseases of Vision / Drishti Roga)
With honey, elephant tusk ash, sea-sediment, and shirisha flowers as well — this anjana with ghee and honey is the medicine for sirotpata (vascular rupture of the eye).
— Sushruta Samhita, Uttara Tantra, Chapter 17: Drishtigata Roga Pratishedha Adhyaya (Chapter on Treatment of Diseases of Vision / Drishti Roga)
For restoring clarity of vision, hear from me the ingredients for anjana (collyrium): flowers of meshashringya, shirisha, and dhava.
— Sushruta Samhita, Uttara Tantra, Chapter 17: Drishtigata Roga Pratishedha Adhyaya (Chapter on Treatment of Diseases of Vision / Drishti Roga)
Source: Sushruta Samhita, Uttara Tantra, Chapter 12: Raktabhishyanda Pratishedha Adhyaya (Chapter on Treatment of Blood-type Conjunctivitis); Uttara Tantra, Chapter 17: Drishtigata Roga Pratishedha Adhyaya (Chapter on Treatment of Diseases of Vision / Drishti Roga)
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.