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.
The Peepal is a true ‘Tree of Life’ even in the scientific sense. Unlike other trees, it releases oxygen even at night. According to the science of Ayurveda, every part of Pipal tree is useful for treating numerous health issues and ailments. This tree can cure as many as 50 disorders, including diarrhoea, epilepsy and gastric troubles.
PEEPAL TREE AND MYTHOLOGIES
According to the Skanda Purana, Lord Vishnu the Preserver was born, and resided under the Peepal. He likens himself as Ashwattha; (Sanskrit) or the Peepal (Pipal) tree, in the Bhagavad Gita. The Peepal represents the trinity of Bhrama, Vishnu, and Shiva – the roots being Bhrama, the trunk, Vishnu, and the leaves, Shiva.
There are a lot of myths, superstitions and beliefs associated with the Peepal Tree. It’s a popular belief that watering, worshipping and circling around the Peepal Tree will bring wealth, fame and an abundance of happiness and good luck for any individual. Women are even advised to circumambulate pipal tree to overcome their fertility problems and to pray for a long, healthy life for their husbands.
PEEPAL TREE AND AYURVEDA
Ayurveda explains how every part of the sacred fig tree can be used for holistic wellbeing. It works powerfully on Kapha (Water) and Pitta (Fire) Dosha imbalances.
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 Peepal leaf is inherently astringent. When heated, it acts as a purgative tonic. Few common uses of peepal leaves are:
- Treating persistent skin itching
- Repairing Dry, cracked heels
- Treating boils, pimples, and blackheads
The bark of the Peeple tree, rich in vitamin K, is an effective complexion corrector and preserver; which makes bark extractions valuable for:
- Strengthening blood capillaries and minimising inflammation
- Healing skin bruises faster, and increasing skin resilience
- Treating pigmentation issues, wrinkles, dark circles
- Lightening surgery and pregnancy marks, scars, and stretch marks.
The nutrient rich peepal leaf and peepal bark help are used as a part of numerous Ayurvedic health remedies. Let’s now explore some powerful Peeple tree uses and benefits for health and beauty.
BENEFITS AND USES OF PEEPAL TREE
- For Asthma
- For poor appetite
- For stomach pain
- For eczema and itching
- For a brighter complexion
- For cracked heels
- For toothache
- For eye pain
- For constipation
- For diarrhea
- For blood purification
- For snake bite
- For heart disease
- For ear infection
- For impotency
- Swelling, skin wounds, and excessive sweating
- Uterine strengthening, vaginal diseases, and breast firming in women
- Premature ejaculation in men
For reinvigorating detoxification, freshness, and smoothness from Ficus benghalensis, try Kama’s award-winning Kumkumadi Brightening Ayurvedic Face Scrub, or Kumkumadi Miraculous Beauty Fluid Ayurvedic Night Treatment.
You can build your own skincare routine by these products. The latter is more suited to very dehydrated or pigmented, and mature skin types; though it may be included in late 20’s-early 30’s skincare regimen. For men, we have the Himalayan Almond Deep Cleansing Face Scrub.
References –
- 1. “The Bhagavad Gita – Chapter 10 – The Yoga of Manifestation”. Santosha.com.
- 2. “Ficus religiosa — Peepal”. Flowers of India
- 3. “Peepul” – Encyclopædia Britannica – Cambridge University Press
Original Blog : https://www.kamaayurveda.com/blog/peepal-tree/
