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Lodhra

Lodhra · Symplocos racemosa

Rasa (Taste) Kashaya (astringent)
Virya (Energy) Sheeta (cooling)
Vipaka Katu (pungent)
Part Used Stem bark
Dosha Effect Balances Pitta and Kapha. Its cooling and astringent qualities strongly pacify Pitta, while its drying action reduces Kapha. May slightly increase Vata in excess due to its dryness.
Family Symplocaceae

Traditional Uses

The Charaka Samhita classifies Lodhra in the Lohitasthapana gana (blood-stopping group) and the Sandhaniya gana (union-promoting/healing group), reflecting its dual action of arresting bleeding and promoting tissue repair. Charaka specifically prescribes Lodhra for raktapradar (excessive menstrual bleeding), shvetapradar (leucorrhea/white discharge), and atisara (diarrhea). The text describes Lodhra's grahi (absorbent) quality, which enables it to dry excess moisture and secretions while maintaining the underlying tissue strength.

Preparations

Lodhra churna (bark powder) taken with rice water, honey, or warm water. Lodhrasava (fermented preparation) for prolonged internal use. As a key ingredient in Pushyanuga Churna.

Dosage

Churna (powder): 3-6 grams per day in divided doses, typically taken with rice water or honey. Kwatha (decoction): 30-50 ml twice daily.

Dosha Guidance

Lodhra is ideal for Pitta-type menstrual disorders characterized by heavy bleeding, bright red or dark red flow, and associated heat, burning, or inflammation. Its cooling virya directly addresses Pitta's heat, while its astringent quality checks excessive flow. Pitta types with raktapradar, inflammatory skin conditions, or heat-related discharge will find Lodhra particularly effective.

Synergistic Combinations

Primary ingredient in Pushyanuga Churna alongside Patha, Musta, and other gynecological herbs. Combined with Ashoka for comprehensive menstrual support.

Contraindications

Avoid during pregnancy as it may have uterine-stimulating effects. Not recommended during breastfeeding without practitioner guidance. Use with caution in Vata-dominant conditions, particularly Vata-type constipation.

Tissues & Channels

Dhatus: Rasa (plasma), Rakta (blood), Mamsa (muscle), Meda (fat), Shukra (reproductive tissue)

Srotas: Artavavaha srotas (menstrual/reproductive channels), Raktavaha srotas (blood channels), Medovaha srotas (fat metabolism channels)

Where to Buy

Authentic Lodhra bark should be sourced from Symplocos racemosa specifically — the related species Symplocos cochinchinensis (Patti Lodhra) has different properties. Quality bark pieces are brownish-gray on the outside with a reddish-brown inner surface and a strongly astringent taste.

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