Peepal tree (popularly known as ‘Bodhi Tree’) is considered auspicious in Hinduism, Jainism, and Buddhism. Gautam Buddha attained enlightenment under this native deciduous tree of India. This tree is a symbol of the Universe’s never-ending expanse. Indeed, it is revered across the Indian subcontinent, particularly amongst the Hindus, Jains, and Buddhists, as the Tree of Life.  Peepal stem helps reduce the symptoms of diarrhea by contracting the mucosal cells or other body tissues due to its astringent properties. The dried powder of Peepal bark is used to manage respiratory problems due to its anti-allergic properties. The pills made from powdered Peepal leaves might be used to manage constipation due to their laxative properties.

Health benefits:

Diarrhea With Blood:

Diarrhea indicates poor dietary habits or food poisoning. Diarrhea can also cause severe dehydration and fatigue. Pick softer stems from a Peepal branch, wash it clean, and grind it into a paste. Mix it with coriander seeds, and granulated sugar in equal measurements and consume it in small quantities 3 times a day to cure the condition. If it doesn’t stop, see the doctor immediately.

Purifies Blood:

Our healthy blood work often defines our health. It is important to get rid of toxins and flush out impurities to maintain good physical well-being and also to glow from within. Consume tonic made from Peepal sten mixed with equal amounts of honey for purifying the blood and beating anemia. 

Pacifies Ear Pain:

Ear pain can be excruciating and if not treated on time, it will lead to various issues. Take Peepal stems, wash them, and pat dry powder. Heat it on the tawa, be careful not to burn it. When warm, these leaves ooze juice, and put 2 to 3 drops in the ear for instant relief from pain.

Boosts Cardiac Health:

A healthy heart is crucial for keeping other organs up and running. Palpitations are a common problem complained by the elderly often caused due to slow functioning of the heart muscle. To boost heart health, boil the Peepal stem in water and let it stay for overnight. Strain the decoction and sip in the morning. If you have severe cardiac issues, check with your doctor if it is safe for you.

Diarrhea:

Peepal stem is an effective herb for controlling diarrhea. Diarrhea, known as Atisar in Ayurveda, is caused due to improper food, impure water, toxins, mental stress, and Agnimandya (weak digestive fire). All these factors are responsible for aggravating Vata. Aggravated Vata brings fluid in the intestine from various tissues of the body and mixes with the stool which leads to loose, watery motions or Diarrhea. Using a Peepal stem helps to control the loss of water from the body and makes the stool thicker due to its Kashaya (astringent) and Sangrahi (absorbent) properties.

The Peepal tree (Ficus religiosa) is known by various names across different states in India. The stem of the Peepal tree is referred to by the same or similar names in these states:

Hindi (Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, etc.): Peepal Ka Danda

Marathi (Maharashtra): Pimpalacha Kanda

Tamil (Tamil Nadu): Arasa Maram Kombu

Telugu (Andhra Pradesh, Telangana): Raavi Chettu Gadda

Kannada (Karnataka): Arali Gida Kombu

Malayalam (Kerala): Arayal Maram Kombu

Bengali (West Bengal): Ashwathh Gaachher Danda

Gujarati (Gujarat): Piplo No Dando

Punjabi (Punjab): Pippal Di Tanda

Odia (Odisha): Ashwathha Danda

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