Peepal Tree
In India, Mother Nature is nothing less than a God. We hold trees, plants, animals, and any living organism close to our hearts and on many occasions, a lot of spiritual and religious significance is attributed to these natural wonders.
When it comes to trees with medicinal and therapeutic values, there is no dearth of such species, Amla, Tulasi, Mango, Neem – the list goes on. And, in this article, we will introduce you to one another widely popular tree known for its religious significance and therapeutic properties in equal measure.
Also Read: Little Known Benefits of Tulasi for Health & Beauty
Welcome to the world of Peepal tree or Bodhi Satva Vruksha
The tree under which Lord Buddha attained enlightenment and that also led many ascetics from Hinduism, Jainism, Buddhism to the path of spirituality. Known as Ficus religiosa in botanical language, Peepal tree grows around 98 feet with its trunk diameter spreading out for around 3 metres, with cordate shaped leaves and bears small fig-like fruits, that turn from green to purple in colour, as they ripen.
In India, this tall tree with a wide canopy that goes by various names like Ashwatha Vruksha, Pippala Vruksha, Raavi Chettu in Telugu, Bodhi Vruksha in Malayalam, Arasamaram in Tamil, Alaadamara in Kannada, is also known as the sacred fig and is in fact the state tree of Haryana and Odisha in our country.
The tree that can withstand various altitudes, tolerates extreme weather temperatures and grows deep-rooted in all kinds of soils including the spaces between rocks in the mountains. Peepal tree, with a lifespan ranging anywhere between 900 to 1500 years, is widely found in India, Nepal, and Sri Lanka.
The Anuradhapura of Sri Lanka, a Peepal tree which is more than 2250 years old, is worshipped till date and is revered as “the oldest historical tree in the world with religious significance.” In Hinduism, Peepal tree holds major religious significance. According to the ancient scriptures, it is believed that this tree houses Lord Brahma in the roots, Lord Maha Vishnu in the trunk, and Lord Maha Shiva in the leaves. In Bhagavad Gita, Lord Krishna said that He will manifest into Peepal tree when he has to be seen as a tree, encouraging spiritual seekers to go for circumambulation or pradikshana chanting Vriksha Rajaya Namah meaning ‘salutations to the king of trees.’
Why Is Peepal Tree Worshipped Very Early In The Mornings?
Though this abode of Gods holds a great religious significance, botanical scientists too encourage spending time around Peepal tree, especially in the mornings to fight back various allergies, infections, and diseases.
For every 1800 kgs intake of carbon dioxide, Peepal tree emits 2400 kgs of oxygen in a day, while other trees release more oxygen than the carbon dioxide they intake.
Peepal tree, in fact, releases more oxygen during early hours in the morning and protects us from UV rays. Traditional medicine recommends circumambulation of this tree for women suffering from reproductive issues, as it is believed that the inhalation of fresh air in the morning strengthens the uterus and stimulates the peristaltic movement of the fallopian tubes for better chances of conception.
Why Is Peepal Tree Always Seen In Close Proximity To Banyan Tree?
If you ever wondered why these both huge trees are always seen and worshipped together in temples, there is a reason. Botanists and spiritual gurus agree in unison that Banyan and Peepal are like male and female counterparts, respectively. Known as Ficus benghalensis scientifically, Banyan tree too has similar therapeutic properties like treating digestive issues, skin-related conditions, etc.
Peepal Tree In Ayurveda
Ayurvedic texts and scriptures hail Peepal tree for its immense medicinal and therapeutic benefits, and all parts of this miracle tree are useful in treating various health conditions caused due to Kapha, Pitta, and Vata doshas.
Peepal Leaf
The leaves of Peepal serve as an expectorant, diuretic, and ointment. The juice of these leaves brings down nausea, cleanses the digestive system, and maintains skin health. Being strongly astringent in properties, Peepal leaf, when heated, exudes purgative properties and is recommended for those with severe digestive issues.
Peepal Bark
Brown in color, thick, and rough to touch, Peepal tree bark is a powerhouse of vitamin K, and the extracts perform a wide range of functions related to skin health.
The bark extract, when applied on dull skin tone, balances the complexion, heals bruises, pigmentation, acne, and scars.
How To Consume Peepal Bark Powder?
Peepal bark powder cures various digestive issues including diarrhea and is generally aggravated due to Vata dosha. Intake of Peepal bark powder controls dehydration caused due to diarrhea besides cleansing the stomach of impurities. The same powder is also recommended for women with severe episodes of heavy menstrual bleeding or Menorrhagia.
For Diarrhea:
Take 2 grams of Peepal bark powder, add it to 250 ml drinking water, and let it boil.
Let the water content reduce to 1/10th of the quantity.
Wait till Kashayam reaches normal temperature, store it in a glass container. Sip on it thrice a day to cure diarrhea.
For Menorrhagia:
Swallow 1 gram of Peepal bark powder along with drinking water twice a day or as directed by the physician.
How To Consume Peepal Leaf Powder?
Peepal leaf juice works best in treating constipation, acidity, and other digestive-related issues triggered due to Vata and Pitta doshas. This juice, made by heating leaves, possesses laxative properties and cleanses the intestines.
Drink 1 tsp of Peepal leaf juice mixed with lukewarm water and consume it before going to bed for curing constipation.
Improves Lung Power
Peepal tree emits 2400 kgs of oxygen in a day, and spending time under this tree at the crack of dawn can miraculously treat various lung-related ailments including asthma. The fruits and bark too aid in treating various breathing disorders like asthma and pneumonia by clearing the airways. Pound Peepal tree fruit and bark separately, mix them in equal proportions, and consume it with warm water at least twice a day to improve pulmonary functions.
Cures Poor Appetite
A decrease in hunger is caused due to various reasons such as stomach problems, emotional issues, or even anxiety. Eating less food can lead to various health problems due to poor nutritional intake. Peepal tree fruit, also known as sacred fig, works wonders in treating loss of appetite. Eat ripe Peepal fruits that are purple in color to trigger digestive juices and improve appetite.
Arrests Nasal Bleeding
If you notice some amount of blood oozing out of your nostrils, do not panic. Known as epistaxis, nasal bleeding is an indication of Pitta dosha and inflammation in the nostrils due to cold weather. Put 1 to 2 drops of Peepal leaf juice in both nostrils to stop it immediately. However, if the problem persists, see a doctor immediately, as it could be a sign of hemorrhage.
Diarrhea With Blood
If you are suffering from diarrhea and notice blood, it is often an indication of poor dietary habits or food poisoning. Diarrhea can also cause severe dehydration and fatigue. Pick softer stems from a Peepal branch, wash them clean, and grind them into a paste. Mix it with coriander seeds and granulated sugar in equal measurements, and consume it in small quantities three times a day to cure the condition. If it doesn’t stop, see the doctor immediately.
Heals Toothache
Poor dental practices can lead to bad toothache, bleeding gums, and painful conditions. In a bowl of water, boil the barks of Peepal tree and Banyan tree. Make it a habit to rinse your mouth daily in the morning before brushing your teeth for instant relief.
Purifies Blood
Healthy blood work defines overall health. It is important to flush out toxins to maintain physical well-being and glow from within. Consume a tonic made from Peepal tree seeds mixed with equal amounts of honey to purify blood and combat anemia.
Pacifies Ear Pain
Ear pain can be excruciating, and if not treated on time, it can lead to various issues. Take Peepal leaves, wash them, and pat dry. Heat them on a tawa, but be careful not to burn them. When warm, the leaves ooze juice. Put 2 to 3 drops of this juice into the ear for instant relief from pain.
Boosts Cardiac Health
The heart is a vital organ, beating at least 100,000 times a day. A healthy heart is crucial for the proper functioning of other organs. Palpitations, often caused by slow heart function, are common among the elderly. To boost heart health, boil Peepal leaves in water and let it stay overnight. Strain the decoction and sip it in the morning. Consult a doctor if you have severe cardiac issues to ensure it’s safe for you.
Peepal Tree for Skin Conditions
The goodness of the Peepal tree – its bark, seeds, leaves, roots, and fruits – extends beyond inner well-being to also aid in treating various skin conditions.
Soothes Eczema and Itching
Peepal tree bark is an amazing remedy for eczema and itching, especially in the winter. Ayurvedic practitioners recommend drinking a spoonful of concoction made from Peepal tree bark twice a day to deal with this skin condition. Boil the bark in hot water, let it cool down, and consume it. Alternatively, burn Peepal tree bark into ash, mix with fresh lemon juice and ghee, and apply it as a paste on the affected area for relief.
Brightens Complexion
Peepal tree bark is renowned for its skin lightening benefits. Mix bark powder with gram flour and water to create a face pack. Apply this pack at least twice a week to reduce wrinkles and brighten the complexion.
Softens Cracked Heels
Cracked heels are painful and embarrassing, especially when wearing low-length gowns. Apply Peepal leaf juice to the affected area and massage gently to soften and heal cracked heels.
Treats Snake Bite
The extract of Peepal leaves has strong blood-purifying properties, which are beneficial for flushing out venom after a snake bite. Consume a few spoons of Peepal leaf juice three to four times a day to reduce the effects of poison.
Aphrodisiac
Peepal fruit extracts are considered to be highly aphrodisiac. Consuming half a spoon of Peepal fruit powder thrice a day with milk is an excellent remedy for improving sexual performance and addressing erectile dysfunction.
Helps Curing Jaundice
Jaundice recovery is a long process requiring strict diet protocols. The concoction of Peepal leaves mixed with sugar helps cure jaundice faster, reducing the healing time.
Remedy for Hiccups
Hiccups are caused by diaphragm muscle contractions and can be uncomfortable. Peepal bark can be a useful remedy to stop persistent hiccups. Prepare charcoal from Peepal bark and extinguish it in water to get instant relief from continuous hiccups.
Contraindications
Although Peepal tree serves as a natural remedy for many conditions, if you are allergic to certain Ayurvedic concoctions, consult your doctor before using them. External application of bark, leaf powder, or fruits may not cause issues, but the intake of Peepal bark or leaf juice should be done only with medical advice, especially if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Conclusion
Peepal tree, also known as Bodhi Satva Vruksha, holds major religious and spiritual significance. It is widely known for its therapeutic properties. The bark, roots, leaves, and fruits of this wonder tree are used in Ayurveda to treat lung disorders, skin conditions, and various digestive issues. However, if you plan to consume Peepal tree bark or leaves, consult your doctor first.
Disclaimer
The content provided here is for informational purposes only. This blog is not intended to substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider for any questions or concerns regarding your medical condition. Reliance does not endorse or recommend any specific tests, physicians, procedures, opinions, or other information mentioned in the blog.
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