FICUS RELIGIOSA

SOURCE INFORMATION

• Common Names: Pippala, Pipal, Sacred-Fig, Aveyal, Jeri

Scientific Classification

• Kingdom: Plantae
• Family: Moraceae
• Genus: Ficus
• Species: F. religiosa

Origin

• Ficus religiosa is native to the Indian subcontinent and Indochina.
• It is considered sacred in Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism.
• The leaves, bark, and sap of the tree are traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine for treating various ailments, including gastrointestinal issues, respiratory problems, and bleeding disorders.

Historical Facts

• Historically, the sacred fig tree is significant in various cultural and religious traditions.
• It is believed that Gautama Buddha attained enlightenment under a Ficus religiosa tree, making it a symbol of spiritual knowledge and peace.
• Its medicinal properties have been utilized in traditional medicine systems for centuries, particularly for treating bleeding disorders and respiratory issues.

Parts Used

• Bark: Known for its astringent and haemostatic properties.
• Leaves: Used in poultices for wound healing and as a remedy for various respiratory issues.
• Roots: Employed in traditional medicine to treat various skin conditions and digestive issues.
• Sap: Utilized for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects.

Active Constituents

Ficus religiosa contains several bioactive compounds that contribute to its therapeutic properties:

• Flavonoids: Provide antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.
• Tannins: Known for their astringent properties, which help in contracting tissues and reducing bleeding.
• Alkaloids: Possess a range of biological activities, including antimicrobial and analgesic effects.
• Saponins: Contribute to the plant’s anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting effects.

DRUG PATHOGENESIS

Ficus religiosa acts by addressing hemorrhagic conditions, helping to stop or reduce bleeding, and alleviating associated symptoms such as weakness, nausea, and respiratory difficulties.

KEY CHARACTERISTICS

• Hemorrhages: Effective for various types of bleeding, including gastrointestinal, menstrual, and respiratory.
• Respiratory distress: Alleviates symptoms like cough and difficult breathing, particularly when accompanied by bleeding.
• Weak pulse: Addresses conditions where there is significant blood loss leading to a weak pulse.

DETAILED ORGAN SYMPTOMS

HEAD

• Melancholic-quiet: Patients may exhibit a quiet, melancholic disposition.
• Burning at vertex: Sensation of burning at the top of the head.
• Vertigo and slight headache: Dizziness and mild headache symptoms.

STOMACH

• Nausea and vomiting of bright red blood: Significant gastrointestinal bleeding leading to nausea and vomiting.
• Pain and sick feeling in stomach: General discomfort and pain in the stomach region.

RESPIRATORY

• Difficult breathing: Respiratory distress with labored breathing.
• Cough with vomiting of blood: Severe coughing episodes accompanied by blood.
• Pulse very weak: Indicating significant blood loss and weakness.

MODALITIES

• Aggravations: Symptoms worsen with exertion and during episodes of significant bleeding.
• Ameliorations: Symptoms improve with rest and proper management of bleeding.

RELATIONSHIP WITH OTHER DRUGS

• Compare with: Acalypha, Millefolium (Yarrow), Thlaspi, Ipecac.

DOSE

• Mother Tincture: Used for general and acute symptoms.
• Potency: Recommended potencies include 3x, 6, and 30 for chronic conditions and specific symptoms.

Frequently Asked Questions

What conditions does Ficus religiosa treat?

• It is primarily used for treating various hemorrhagic conditions such as hematemesis, menorrhagia, haemoptysis, and haematuria.

How should Ficus religiosa be dosed?

• It is usually prescribed in the first potency, based on the specific symptoms and the individual’s response to the remedy.