Arjuna Extract

Arjuna Extract

Scientific name: Terminalia Arjuna; Ayurveda name: Arjuna 

Arjuna is an herb that is of prime importance in Ayurveda. Known to protect and strengthen the heart, the name Arjuna translates to ‘bright’ or ‘shine’ and this describes the appearance of the bark of the tree which reflects the light that falls on it. Found in the Himalayas in India and Sri Lanka, this tree grows best in wet marshlands, especially on riverbanks. The bark of the tree is primarily used in Ayurveda medicines for the heart and has antioxidant properties. Apart from that, this bark also aids in the reduction of unhealthy cholesterol and blood pressure. 

There are two varieties of this herb:

• Arjuna – a white variety 
• Kakubha – a black variety

Arjuna is often used as a blanket term to refer to both these varieties and there is not much difference between them.

Benefits of Arjuna extract:

• One of the primary benefits of this bark is strengthening the heart. Hrudroga is the quality that is attributed to this herb and helps in preventing heart-related problems.
• If a person tires easily and finds themselves fatigued frequently, consuming this herb can energise them. Ayurveda defines this quality as shramahara. 
• Consuming this herb helps balance vata and pitta dosha and helps to prevent diseases caused by the imbalance of them, especially ulcers. 
• The herb strengthens and heals fractured bones when consumed regularly. 
• Problems related to urination and bowel movement can be cured and prevented by consuming this herb. 
• Medohara refers to the ability to reduce harmful cholesterol and diabetes one’s body and this quality is attributed to Arjuna.

How can Arjuna be used?

Arjuna is available in the form of powders, extracts, and capsules. 

The powder can be made into a kashaya (decoction) and drunk before a meal. This can be consumed once or twice a day. To make this kashaya, two tablespoons of the powder should be added to two cups of water and boiled until it is reduced to half a cup. The decoction can be filtered and consumed. Milk can be used instead of water while preparing this kashaya and the same procedure can be followed while using extracts. 

Consuming capsules must be done under the guidance of a physician and a maximum of two can be taken in a day. 

Side effects:

If one is not allergic to Arjuna, this herb can be consumed without the fear of drastic side effects. However, there might be certain repercussions when they interact with western medicines, therefore it is always advisable to consult one’s physician before taking this herb. Since this medicine aids in lowering blood pressure and diabetes, one must be cautious while consuming it and take measures to adhere to the recommended dosage. Pregnant and lactating mothers must also consult their doctors before consuming arjuna.