What is Bibhitaki?
Bibhitaki, also known as Terminalia belerica, is a large deciduous tree known for its remarkable medicinal properties. In Ayurveda, it’s regarded as a rejuvenative herb for overall health.
Sanskrit: Bibhitaka, Aksha, Karshaphala,
Kalidruma, Bhutavasa, Kaliyugalaya
English: Belleric myrobalan
Hindi: Baheda, Bahira, Bahura
Latin name: Terminalia belerica
Family: Combretaceae
Morphology
Tree
Large deciduous tree found across Indian forests with broadly elliptic, clustered towards branch ends.
Flowers
Greenish-yellow flowers with an offensive odor in axillary spikes.
Fruit
Green and inflated when young, yellowish and ribbed when mature, stony nut inside.
Medicinal Properties
Ayurvedic properties
- Rasa: Kashaya (astringent)
- Guna: Ruksha (dry), Laghu (light)
- Vipaka: Madhura (sweet)
- Virya: Ushna (hot)
- Doshakarma: Pacifies Kapha and Pitta
Chemical Composition
Triterpenoids: Cardiac glycoside saponins, bellericoside
Sterols: B-sitosterol
Tannins: Gallic acid, ellagic acid.
Pharmacological Activities
Anti-inflammatory, anti-asthmatic, antibacterial, antifungal, rejuvenative, etc.
Uses of Bibhitaki
Respiratory Health:
Relieves blocked phlegm, eases bronchospasms.
Insomnia:
Promotes deep sleep in Vata disorders
Diarrhea:
Mature fruit acts as a natural remedy.
Digestive Health:
Helps in anorexia, flatulence, piles.
External Uses
Wound Healing: Powder for wound dressing.
Hair Growth: Paste for premature graying and boosting hair growth.
Conjunctivitis: Paste for eyelid application.
Home Remedies
For Severe Cough and Asthma:
Churna of dried fruit pulp mixed with honey.
For Eye Care:
Decoction of dried fruit as an eyewash.
FAQ’s
When should Bibhitaki be avoided?
High Vata, dry cough, and excessively dry skin.
Respiratory Health Benefits of Bibhitaki
Bibhitaki supports respiratory health by alleviating cough, clearing blocked phlegm, and relieving bronchospasms. It acts as an expectorant and helps control bleeding in sputum, promoting better lung function. Its anti-asthmatic and bronchodilatory properties make it effective for respiratory conditions.
Antiviral and Antifungal Properties
Bibhitaki exhibits potent antiviral properties, including activity against viral hepatitis and HIV-1. Its antifungal effects help combat various fungal infections, promoting overall immune health.