Peepal / Ashwattha or Bodhi, a deciduous tree is a symbol of the Universe’s never-ending expanse – indeed revered across the Indian subcontinent, particularly amongst the Hindus, Jains, and Buddhists, as the Tree of Life and has been revered since the beginning of civilization and has a wide range of medicinal properties in addition to its religious significance.
An excerpt from Hindu scripture Bhagavad Gita when Lord Krishna also cited its significance
“Vrukshaanaam ashwatthoham, Ashwattah pujitoyatra pujita sarva devta; Ashwattah pujitoyatra pujita sarva devta”
Translation: “Among trees, I am the Ashwatha (the peepal tree); If one worships the Ashwatha, he gains the benefit of worshipping all gods at once”
Significance: This verse explains the spiritual significance of the peepal tree (Ficus religiosa). Lord Krishna is believed to have died under this tree, after which the present Kaliyug is said to have begun. And, it is believed he will reside in a peepal leaf after the destruction of this world and until the next world is created.
Its Scientific Significance
Pipal tree releases oxygen 24 hours and does nocturnal fixation of atmospheric CO2. The 24 hour release of O2 is possible in Peepal as it has the ability to perform Crassulacean Acid Metabolism (CAM). CAM is an ecological adaptation of photosynthesis done in some plants growing in limited availability of water or CO2 (such as arid conditions, as epiphyte) and involves nocturnal CO2 fixation done to maximise CO2 uptake.
Peepal Tree and Ayurveda
Ayurveda details it as a storehouse of medicinal values that works powerfully on Kapha and Pitta doshas imbalances and hence can be used for holistic wellbeing. The manner in which various parts of the peepal eliminate water and phlegm (sweating, therapeutic vomiting, diuretic action, and expectorant effects); as well as heat (skin surface and internal purgation, antipyretic/temperature reduction) has a beneficial and balancing impact on digestive and skin health.
The tree carried some significant medicinal properties and formed the core of ancient Indian medicine. The leaves of the Peepal tree when heated can be used to heal wounds while the bark of the tree can be used to yield tannin. Fruits are used as laxatives, latex is used as a tonic, and fruit powder is used to treat asthma. According to the Ayurveda, the tree can cure over fifty health issues including diarrhoea and gastric disorders. It is also used traditionally as antiulcer, antibacterial, antidiabetic, in the treatment of gonorrhoea and skin diseases.
Some researches have also shown that the flow of the wind along with the sound of the leaves could kill the infectious bacteria living in the surrounding area. Therapeutic properties of this tree in curing a wide range of diseases can be attributed to its richness in bioactive compounds namely flavonoids, alkaloids, tannins, saponins, phenols etc. Its antimicrobial, anti-diabetic, anticonvulsant, wound healing, anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties have made it a popular herbal tree and its parts are placed as important ingredients in modern pharmacological industry. On the closing note, peepal tree is not simply a part of India’s heritage but its several medicinal benefits has made it an exceptional medicinal tree, holding true to the saying that 'Peepal, tree of life '.
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