Peepal Leaves - Ambhos

 Peepal Leaves

Pipal tree or Peepal tree or Ficus religiosa is a sacred tree native to the Indian subcontinent. It has great religious significance in Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism. It is believed that Lord Brahma resides in the roots, Lord Maha Vishnu in the trunk, and Lord Maha Shiva in the leaves of the Peepal tree. Lord Buddha is known to attain his enlightenment under a Peepal tree, hence, the name Bodhi tree. Therefore, the tree is highly regarded and worshipped. Along with all these religious significances, it is quite popular for its medicinal properties. According to Ayurveda, it has immense medicinal and therapeutic benefits. Here, we shall throw light upon the medicinal aspects of the Peepal tree.

 We go by Ayurvedic books, treatments, and philosophies, Peepal tree is a storehouse of medicines. Different parts have different healing properties like leaves have astringent quality, the bark of this tree is a rich source of Vitamin K, Peepal fruit is a great appetizer and likewise. It is known to cure a wide spectrum of ailments ranging from simple cold and cough, skin diseases to chronic conditions like asthma or blood-related problems.

 A brief insight into all these health benefits of Peepal are discussed below:

⦁For Stomach Ailments- The leaves of the Peepal tree are known to cleanse the digestive system and reduce nausea. It is therefore recommended to people with digestive issues. For this, take 2 to 3 leaves of Peepal along with 50 grams jaggery. It also helps to reduce stomach pain. It also prevents ulcer formation in the stomach by maintaining the pH value in the stomach.

⦁For Constipation- The juice of Peepal leaves possesses laxative properties, therefore it cleans the intestines and treats constipation. It is a well-known cure for issues triggered by Vatta and Pitta doshas. It is recommended to take 1 tablespoon of Peepal leaves juice with warm water before going to bed. This prevents constipation and eases bowel movement.  Even consuming 5 to 10 fruits of peepal tree can prevent constipation.

⦁For Skin Disorders- For eczema, apply a paste prepared by Peepal bark ash, ghee, and lemon. Apply it to the affected areas to reap the benefits. This also provides relief from itching caused due to eczema. Eating soft leaves of peepal trees is usually beneficial to treat other skin problems.

⦁For Diarrhea- Do you powder of Peepal bark is used to treat diarrhea or lose motions? It is because of the astringent and absorbent properties that it helps to prevent water loss from the body and makes the stool thicker. For treating diarrhea-like symptoms it is advised to take 2 to 4 grams of Peepal bark powder in one glass of water. Boil the water till it reduces to 9uarter the amount. Strain it and consume it twice a day. 

⦁Menorrhagia or Painful Menses- For the females who have excessively heavy menstrual bleeding, it is suggested to gulp around one gram of Peepal bark powder with water or drink Peepal leaves juice twice a day. It helps to regulate and control the flow. Thus, reducing pain.

⦁To treat Diabetes- Peepal has anti-diabetic properties. It enhances insulin secretion in our bodies. Thereby significantly decreasing blood sugar levels.

⦁For Heart Diseases- Peepal has proved to be helpful in issues like cardiac weakness and other heart problems. It has antioxidants that regulate blockage in arteries and cardiac cell damage. It further enhances heart health by lowering cholesterol levels and helping in blood purification. For this, it is suggested to soak Peepal leaves in water overnight, strain it and drink this thrice a day.

⦁For Asthma- The powder of bark or ripe fruits of Peepal trees or leaves is beneficial to cure symptoms of asthma. Due to their anti-allergic properties, they prevent narrowing of airways and aid in easing breathing.

⦁As an Appetizer- Ripe fruits of the peepal trees are known to reduce the burning sensation in the stomach and enhance the appetite.

⦁Wound Healing- Due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties it helps in healing the wound. Further, it enhances the process of new skin cell formation and reduces the healing time. For the same reason, it might show some anti-aging properties and is used in face creams or crack heel repair creams, for providing soft skin.

Besides all the above-mentioned benefits, it also provides relief from toothache, eye pain, or ear infections. It is also helpful in treating arthritis and Parkinson's disease.

With all the above-stated benefits, the Peepal tree is sure to help you get a healthier version of yourself. 

However, take into consideration the points listed below before consuming it:

⦁ Consuming Peepal fruit can result in allergies and skin rashes due to the latex present in the fruit.

⦁ Expecting mothers are advised to consult their doctors before consuming it.

⦁       Remember, "excess of anything is bad". So, use it within the limits.