Ficus religiosa or Sacred fig or Ashvattha (commonly known as Peepal tree in India) is one of the oldest trees mentioned in Indian literature which grows very large in size with wide spreading branches. This sacred tree is significant to major religions of Hinduism, Buddhism and Jainism. It is believed that Gautama Buddha attained enlightenment while meditating underneath a sacred fig. Hindu and Jain ascetics worshipped and often meditated under the shade of this sacred tree. The Bodhi tree is counted one among the Nakshatra vana and represents the Pushya Nakshatra or Cancri in the Cancer constellation. All parts of this tree are rich in phytochemicals and are used in various food and medicinal preparations. The ripe fruits of Peepal are edible and rich source of proteins and minerals. Peepal has been reported to have medicinal properties like antibacterial, anti-diabetic, anti-amnesic, anti-ulcer, and antioxidant properties.
Peepal tree leaves are used in conditions like vomiting, gonorrhoea etc. Soaking of leaves overnight and consumption of its extract thrice a day has a curative effect on cardiac problems. Leaves tied on bleeding wounds are reported to immediately stop the flow of blood in wounds. Its juice is beneficial in conditions like asthma, cough, diarrhoea, gastric problems. Instilling a few drops of leaves sap in nostrils will stop nose bleeding. The bark is used in diarrhoea, dysentery, inflammation, bacterial infections, bleeding, paralysis, skin diseases, mouth ulcers, diabetes, bone fracture, inflammations of the neck and glandular swellings. Paste of bark powder mixed with honey gives freshness to the face. Shoots are used in treating skin problems as well as in urinary disorders and problems of the digestive system. Chewing the roots of a Peepal tree is said to help prevent gum diseases. Its fruit is laxative which promotes digestion and checks vomiting. Its ripe fruits are good for the foul taste, thirst, and heart diseases while the powdered fruit is taken for Asthma. Its seeds have proved useful in urinary troubles. Peepal is being used to cure various infections and food poisonings.
Moreover, Peepal is a good avenue tree where apart from its medicinal values it is used for fodder, fuel and for its fruit. Ashvattha also balance climatic conditions, control soil erosion, improve soil structure and its fertility. It is also dust and sound absorbent. Peepal tree is also known as pollution indicators. In recent study, researchers observed that pollutants such as sulphur dioxide, nitrous oxide and dust choke the roots, stem, flowers, and fruits of the plants. Leaves are particularly sensitive to pollution.
As Yoga enthusiasts all over the world are gearing up to celebrate the 9th edition of International Yoga Day on June 21, 2023, our topic Ashvattha has its importance based on the theme of “Vasudaiva Kutumbakom” for its cultural, religious and spiritual aspirations.