Herb guide › Ashoka Bark
Ashoka Bark
A medium-sized evergreen tree with smooth gray-brown bark, compound leaves, and clusters of fragrant orange, yellow, or reddish flowers. Saraca asoca bark is collected in thin strips or coarse pieces and has a strongly astringent, bitter taste. Curved or quilled strips of bark, grey-brown and rough externally with warty nodes; inner surface is smooth, reddish-brown, tough, and fibrous. Used in Ayurvedic medicine. The dried bark produces a reddish-brown to deep brown infusion.
Traditionally used for
Menstrual discomfort, Heavy menstrual flow, Pelvic discomfort, Menstrual cramps, Hormone imbalance
Potential benefits
Astringent, menstrual wellness, uterine tonic, anti-inflammatory, regulates heavy or painful menstruation, supports hormone balance, digestion aid, skin health
Ingredients
Ashoka Bark, Saraca asoca bark
Origin
India, Nepal, Sri Lanka
How it is traditionally prepared
No standardized tea dosage established. Traditional preparations vary considerably. 8–10 tsp bark, simmered and diluted to 40–80 ml, taken with meals.
Cautions and who should avoid it
Avoid during pregnancy unless directed by a qualified practitioner, in cases of amenorrhea, and in individuals with heart conditions; may cause GI discomfort. Use caution with hormone-sensitive conditions and medications because clinical safety data are limited.
Get tea recommendations for how you feel, and keep a journal of what works for you.