Mother nature is no less than any god in India. We hold trees, plants, animals and any living organism close to our heart and on many occasions a lot of spiritual and religious importance is attributed to these natural wonders.
When it comes to trees with medicinal and therapeutic values, there is no dearth of such species, Amla, Tulsi, Mango, Neem – the list goes on. And, in this article, we will introduce you to another widely popular tree which is equally known for its religious importance and therapeutic properties.
Peepal tree or Bodhi Sattva tree, the tree under which Lord Buddha attained enlightenment and which led many ascetics of Hinduism, Jainism, Buddhism on the path of spirituality. Botanically known as Ficus religiosa, the peepal tree grows to about 98 feet, with a trunk diameter of about 3 meters, with cordate-shaped leaves and small fig-like fruits, which are green. turn purple in color as they ripen.
Peepal tree also known as Bodhi Satva Vruksha is a sacred tree that holds a major religious, spiritual significance. Known for its therapeutic properties the bark, roots, leaves, fruits of this wonder tree are used extensively in Ayurveda for treating lung disorders, skin conditions and various digestive issues.
In India, this tall tree with broad canopy known by various names such as Ashwatha tree, Pippala tree, Ravi chettu in Telugu, Bodhi tree in Malayalam, Arasamaram in Tamil, Aladamara in Kannada, also known as sacred fig And in fact it is the state tree of Haryana and Odisha in our country.
The tree that can withstand a variety of altitudes, tolerates extreme weather temperatures and grows deeply in all types of soil, including the spaces between rocks in the mountains. The Peepal tree, whose age ranges between 900 and 1500 years, is widely found in India, Nepal and Sri Lanka.
Sri Lanka’s Anuradhapura, a peepal tree that is more than 2250 years old, is worshiped to this day and is considered “the world’s oldest historical tree with religious significance”. The Peepal tree has a major religious significance in Hinduism.
According to ancient scriptures, it is believed that this tree has Lord Brahma in the roots, Lord Maha Vishnu in the trunk and Lord Maha Shiva in the leaves. In the Bhagavad Gita, Lord Krishna said that he would appear in the peepal tree when he was seen as a tree, encouraging spiritual seekers to go for parikrama or chant the tree rajaya namah, which means ‘ Salutations to the king of trees’.
Apart from strong religious and spiritual significance, the peepal tree offers a wide range of medicinal and therapeutic properties.
Why is the Peepal tree worshiped early in the morning?
Although this abode of the gods has a great religious significance, botanists also encourage spending time around the peepal tree, especially in the morning to fight various allergies, infections and diseases.
Peepal tree emits 2400 kg of oxygen in a day for every 1800 kg of carbon dioxide consumed, while other trees release more oxygen than the carbon dioxide they consume.
Peepal tree actually releases more oxygen in the morning and protects us from UV rays. Traditional medicine recommends circumambulating this tree for women suffering from fertility problems, as it is believed that breathing in the fresh air in the morning strengthens the uterus, stimulates the peristalsis of the fallopian tubes for better chances of conception. does.
Why is the Peepal tree always seen near the Banyan tree?
If you have ever wondered why these two huge trees are always seen and worshiped together in temples, there is a reason. Botanists and spiritual leaders unanimously agree that banyan and peepal are male and female equivalents, respectively. Scientifically known as Ficus benghalensis, the banyan tree also has similar therapeutic properties such as treating digestive problems, dermatological conditions, etc.
Peepal tree in Ayurveda:
Ayurvedic texts and scriptures hail the immense medicinal and therapeutic benefits of the Peepal tree and all parts of this miraculous tree are useful in treating various health conditions caused by Kapha, Pitta and Vata doshas.
Peepal Leaf:
Peepal leaves work as expectorant, diuretic, ointment. The juice of these leaves reduces nausea, cleanses the digestive system and maintains skin health. Being highly astringent in properties, peepal leaves have laxative properties when heated and are recommended for people with severe digestive problems.
Peepal bark:
Brown in colour, rough and rough to the touch, the bark of the peepal tree is a powerhouse of vitamin K and its extracts perform a variety of functions related to skin health.
Bark extract heals wounds, pigmentation, acne and scars when applied to dull skin tones to balance complexion.
How to take Peepal bark powder?
Peepal bark powder cures various digestive problems including diarrhea and is usually aggravated due to vata dosha. The consumption of powder of peepal bark helps in clearing the impurities of the stomach and also controls dehydration due to diarrhea. The same powder is also recommended for women with heavy menstrual bleeding or severe episodes of menorrhagia.
For diarrhea:
Take 2 grams powder of peepal bark and put it in 250 ml drinking water and let it boil.
Allow the amount of water to be reduced to 1/10 of the volume.
Wait until the kashyam reaches normal temperature, store it in a glass container. Drinking this thrice a day cures diarrhea.
For menorrhagia:
Take 1 gram powder of peepal bark 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 problems that arise due to vata and pitta doshas. This juice made by heating the leaves has laxative properties and cleanses the intestines.
Mixing one spoon juice of peepal leaves in lukewarm water and taking it before sleeping at night ends constipation.
Therapeutic Benefits of Peepal Tree:
Peepal leaf powder
Improves lung power:
Peepal tree emits 2400 kg of oxygen in a day and spending time under this tree in the morning can miraculously cure various lung related ailments including asthma. The fruit and bark also aid in the treatment of various breathing disorders such as asthma, pneumonia by clearing the airways. Grind the fruit and bark of Peepal tree separately and mix it in equal quantity and take it with warm water at least twice a day, it improves lung function.
Cures Bad Appetite:
Loss of appetite occurs due to various reasons, be it stomach problem, emotional problem or even anxiety. Poor nutrition by eating small amounts of food can lead to many health problems. The fruit of Peepal tree which is also known as holy fig works wonders in treating loss of appetite. Eat purple colored ripe peepal fruits to intensify the digestive juices and increase appetite.
Arrested nose bleeding:
If you notice that there is some amount of bleeding from the nose, do not panic. Known as epistaxis, nose bleeds are a sign of inflammation in the nose due to pitta dosha and cold weather. Put 1-2 drops of peepal leaf juice in both the nostrils and close it immediately. However, if the problem persists, see a doctor immediately, as it could be a sign of bleeding.
Diarrhea with blood:
If you suffer from diarrhea and you see blood, it is often a sign of poor dietary habits or food poisoning. Diarrhea can also cause severe dehydration and fatigue. Break the soft stalk from the branch of peepal, wash and grind it to make a paste. Mixing equal quantity of coriander seeds, granulated sugar and taking it thrice a day in small quantities cures the disease. If it doesn’t stop, see a doctor immediately.
Peepal leaf
Cures Toothache:
Poor dental practices can lead to toothache, bleeding gums and it is a painful condition. Boil the bark of the peepal tree and the bark of the banyan tree in a bowl of water and make it a habit to rinse the mouth every morning before brushing the teeth.
Purifies Blood:
Our healthy blood work often defines health. Getting rid of toxins and flushing out impurities is important for maintaining good physical health and glowing from within. Taking a tonic made from peepal seeds mixed with honey in equal quantity purifies the blood and ends anemia.
Soothes earache:
Earache can be excruciating and if not treated in time, it can lead to a variety of problems. Take peepal leaves, wash and dry them. Heat it on a tawa, taking care that it does not burn. After taking out the juice of these leaves, putting 2 to 3 drops in the ear provides instant relief from pain.
Boosts Cardiac Health:
Heart is a vital organ. and it beats at least 1,00,000 times in a day. A healthy heart is crucial for keeping other organs up and running. Palpitations are a common problem complained by the elderly often caused due to slow functioning of the heart muscle. To boost heart health, boil Peepal leaves in the water and let it stay for overnight. Strain the decoction and sip in the morning. If you have severe cardiac issues, check with your doctor if it is safe for you.
Peepal Tree For Skin Conditions:
The goodness of Peepal tree – its bark, seeds, leaves, roots and fruits are not only confined to inner wellbeing of the body but also aid in treating various skin conditions.
Soothes Eczema And Itching:
The bark of Peepal tree is an amazing remedy for those suffering from eczema and itching, especially in the winter. Ayurvedic practitioners recommend drinking a spoon concoction made out of Peepal tree bark at least twice a day to deal with this skin condition from within. Boil Peepal tree bark in hot water and let it cool down. Consume it till you find relief. Another alternative method would be burning Peepal tree bark into ash and applying it on affected area. Mix Peepal tree ash with fresh lemon juice, ghee, make it into a paste and apply it on the affected area for instant relief from itching.
Brightens Complexion:
The bark of Peepal tree is vouched by its skin lightening benefits. Mix the bark powder along with gram flour and water and apply it as a face pack. Do it at least twice a week to fight wrinkles and for a brighter complexion.
Softens Cracked Heels:
Cracked heels are not only painful but are also embarrassing if you are looking to strut down in low length gowns. Apply the juice of Peepal leaf juice and massage it gently for softening the affected area and to cure the cracked heels.
Contraindications:
Peepal tree serves as a natural remedy for many but if you are allergic to certain Ayurvedic concoctions, it is always advisable to talk to the doctor before consuming it. Though external application of bark, leaf powder may not cause any issues, intake of Peepal bark, leaf juice or consumption of fruits should be done based on the advice of your doctor. If you are pregnant or a lactating mother, consult the doctor first.
Conclusion:
Peepal tree also known as Bodhi Satva Vruksha is a sacred tree that holds a major religious, spiritual significance. Known for its therapeutic properties the bark, roots, leaves, fruits of this wonder tree are used extensively in Ayurveda for treating lung disorders, skin conditions and various digestive issues.