Arayal

  • English Name : Peepal Tree
  • Botanical Name : Ficus religiosa
  • Family Name :
  • Sanskrit Name : Ashvattha
  • Malayalam Name : Arayal (അരയാൽ)
  • Planet : Brihaspati (Jupiter)
  • Part Used : Bark, Leaf, Latex, Root, Fruit
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Overview

  • Ficus religiosa, commonly known as the Peepal Tree, belongs to the Moraceae family.
  • It is a significant component of the Ayurvedic formulation Nalpamaram, used for skin care.
  • The tree, also known as the Bodhi tree, is revered in Buddhism and Hinduism.
  • The name “Ficus” refers to “fig,” and “religiosa” highlights its religious significance.
  • Meditating under the Peepal tree is believed to promote mental clarity and spiritual growth.

Habitat

  • Ficus religiosa, the Peepal tree, is a large deciduous tree that can grow up to 30 meters tall.
  • It features distinctive leaves with extended drip tips and fruits that are initially green, turning purple when ripe.
  • The tree is native to Southeast Asia, southwest China, India, and the Himalayan foothills.
  • In its native habitat, Ficus religiosa is semi-deciduous to deciduous and develops aerial roots.
  • The bark is pale gray, and the ovate-rounded, glossy dark green leaves are cordate-shaped with elongated tips.
  • The small globular figs appear either solitary or in pairs.

Nutritional Prowess

  • Ficus religiosa is valued in Ayurveda for its various medicinal properties.
  • The wood is used to treat liver problems.
  • Seeds and young branches are used for managing skin diseases, wounds, asthma, diabetes, epilepsy, infections, diarrhea, gastric issues, inflammatory disorders, and sexual disorders.
  • The leaves are believed to have digestive properties and are used to alleviate indigestion and constipation.
  • Leaves are also included in remedies for respiratory issues such as coughs and asthma.
  • A paste made from the leaves is applied externally to aid wound healing.
  • The tree is believed to help manage joint pain and arthritis.
  • Its extracts may be used to manage blood sugar levels and oral health issues like gingivitis and bad breath.
  • Beyond physical health, the Peepal tree is associated with spiritual and mental well-being, believed to have a calming effect on the mind.
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Dermatological Perks

  • Ficus religiosa is traditionally used in the treatment of various skin conditions, including itching, rashes, and other dermatological issues due to its anti-inflammatory properties.
  • It helps lighten pigmentation, dark spots, blemishes, and stretch marks.
  • The leaves have antiseptic and healing properties, useful in treating cracked heels and soothing itchiness caused by bacterial skin infections.
  • The bark can be brewed into tea, helpful for treating eczema and itching.
  • Powdered bark is used in face packs, often combined with gram flour, to brighten the complexion.
  • The bark is rich in vitamin K, known for minimizing skin inflammation, treating hyperpigmentation, and reducing wrinkles.
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