Arjuna
Sanskrit: Arjuna
Terminalia arjuna
The bark of a large Indian tree, traditionally associated in Ayurveda with heart and circulatory wellness.
Also known as
Arjuna · Arjun bark
- hindi:
- Arjun
- tamil:
- Marudham pattai
- telugu:
- Tella maddi
- bengali:
- Arjun
- marathi:
- Arjun sadada
Parts used
- Stem bark
Traditional overview
- Classical Ayurvedic texts describe Arjuna bark in the context of the heart, known as hridya.
- Traditionally prepared as a bark decoction or as ksheerpaka, simmered in milk.
- Used in traditional practice as a supportive tonic, always alongside professional care.
Common traditional forms
- bark decoction
- milk decoction
- powder
- tablet
Wellness tags
- heart wellness
- circulation
Body focus
- heart
- circulatory system
Concerns
- general cardiovascular wellness
What to know before use
A concentrated herbal bark, not a kitchen ingredient. It is traditionally used in the context of heart and circulation, which is precisely why it should never be self-directed: cardiac symptoms need medical assessment, and arjuna must never replace prescribed heart, blood-pressure or blood-thinning medicines. Use only under a qualified practitioner who knows your full medication list.
Important cautions
Heart symptoms are never something to self-manage. Chest pain, breathlessness, palpitations or swelling need immediate medical attention, not a herbal preparation.
Who should avoid it
- Anyone with chest pain or breathlessness, who needs urgent medical care instead
- People on heart, blood pressure or blood-thinning medicines, without cardiologist guidance
- People scheduled for surgery
Medicine interactions
- May interact with blood pressure medicines
- May interact with heart medicines including beta blockers
- Caution alongside blood-thinning medicines
- Caution with thyroid medicines
PregnancyNot advised during pregnancy or nursing without practitioner supervision.
ChildrenNot intended for children.
Quality and buying guidance
Buy only from a licensed manufacturer with the botanical name Terminalia arjuna, a batch number and an expiry date on the pack. Bark is commonly adulterated with other Terminalia species, so avoid loose bulk bark of uncertain identity. Prefer suppliers who publish heavy-metal and microbial testing. Store airtight, cool and dry.
Evidence note
Some early laboratory or small human studies exist, but they are limited and not conclusive. Traditional use remains the main basis for this entry.
Related ingredients
Traditional wellness information only — not medical advice. Start small, and check with a qualified practitioner if you are pregnant, nursing, treating a child, or managing a medical condition.