Lodhra
Sanskrit: Lodhra
Symplocos racemosa
A tree bark used in classical Ayurveda within practitioner-guided formulations of the women wellness tradition, and in some regional external preparations for the skin. It is astringent in taste and is almost always used as part of a compound rather than alone. Like Ashoka, it is frequently adulterated in the raw-herb market.
Also known as
Lodh
- hindi:
- Lodh
- bengali:
- Lodhra
- kannada:
- Lodhra
Parts used
- Stem bark
- Flowers in some regional preparations
Traditional overview
- Bark used within classical formulations of the stri-roga (women wellness) tradition
- Astringent bark decoction used traditionally as an external wash
- Included in traditional face packs and skin preparations in some regions
- Combined classically with ashoka and other astringent barks
Common traditional forms
- bark powder in classical formulations
- bark decoction
- external face and skin packs
Wellness tags
- skin
- women wellness
Body focus
- skin
- reproductive system
Concerns
- traditional skin care
- practitioner-guided women wellness
What to know before use
Not a self-treatment for menstrual, bleeding or fertility concerns, all of which need a proper medical assessment first. External use should be patch tested. Nothing here should replace investigation of abnormal bleeding.
Important cautions
Traditional use only. No hormone, fertility or gynaecological claims are made here. Patch test external pastes first. Internal use belongs with a qualified practitioner.
Who should avoid it
- People with sensitive skin, without a patch test
- Anyone self-treating a diagnosed gynaecological condition
- People taking hormone-related medicines, without guidance
Medicine interactions
- Caution with hormone-related medicines
- Caution with any prescribed gynaecological treatment
PregnancyAvoid internal use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
ChildrenNot advised for children.
Quality and buying guidance
Confirm the botanical name Symplocos racemosa; several unrelated barks are sold under the Lodhra name. Buy from a licensed manufacturer, and prefer compound formulations from an established maker over loose bark of unknown origin.
Evidence note
This entry rests on traditional and household use recorded over generations, not on clinical trials. Treat it as cultural and educational information.
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.