Bijasar (Pterocarpus marsupium) is an esteemed medicinal tree in Ayurveda because of its healing properties. The following is some information on Bijasar according to Ayurveda:
Botanical Description and Habitat: Bijasar is a deciduous tree that is indigenous to the Indian subcontinent, particularly found in dry deciduous forests. It belongs to the Fabaceae family and has reddish-brown bark; compound leaves are its prime distinguishing characteristic.
Taste and Energetics: According to Ayurveda, Bijasar tastes bitter and has a cooling energy. It has a pungent taste after digestion.
Medicinal Properties and Uses:
Blood Sugar Regulation: Bijasar is primarily known for its hypoglycemic properties. Traditionally, it is used in Ayurveda to manage blood sugar levels and support pancreatic function. This herb helps increase insulin sensitivity and improves glucose uptake by the cells.
Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory: It comprises antioxidant compounds that neutralize free radicals and act to protect cells from oxidative damage. Bijasar also has anti-inflammatory effects, helpful in treating inflammatory states.
Digestive Aiding Effect: The bitter taste of Bijasar stimulates digestion and increases appetite. It aids the metabolism of carbohydrates and fats and thereby partakes in maintaining the overall health of digestion.
Diuretic: Bijasar is an excellent diuretic, encouraging the osmotic flow of urine, thereby cleansing the body of impurities.
Wound Healing: The paste or powder of Bijasar is applied externally to aid the healing process of wounds, diseases related to the integumentary system in indigenous Ayurvedic practice.
Ayurvedic Formulations: Bijasar finds its place in several Ayurvedic formulations that are prescribed for the management of diabetes and support general health. The efficacy is often enhanced by other herbs and individualized according to individual health needs.
Traditional Uses: Besides the management of diabetes, Bijasar has been traditionally used in conditions due to urinary disorders, skin diseases, and as a general tonic for vitality in Ayurveda.
Safety Considerations: Bijasar is generally safe when administered by a well-qualified Ayurvedic doctor, but it should be administered cautiously in an appropriate dosage, more so in patients having a preexisting disease or during ongoing medications.
Basically, Bijasar heralds the typical approach of Ayurveda: natural herbal support for good health in cases of diabetes and in enhancing general vitality. That is why, with its bitter taste, cooling nature, and healing properties, Bijasar truly occupies an important place in Ayurvedic pharmacopeia, offering holistic benefits in many parameters against various health concerns.
