Ashoka (Saraca asoca, Saraca indica)

Gynecological Conditions
The bark is rich in flavonoids, tannins, and glycosides that work as a uterine sedative that has a direct impact on the fibers present in the muscles of the uterus. It has a stimulating effect on endometrial and ovarian tissue. The bark also contains natural phytoestrogens which help to regulate the menstrual cycle, stimulating the uterus to normalize menstrual flow.18

Bark extracts are useful in internal bleeding, hemorrhoids, ulcers, uterine affections, and menorrhagia especially due to uterine fibroids, leucorrhea, ovarian cysts, and certain skin eruptions -acne. Women of Chhattisgarh boil the bark of Ashoka in cow's milk, add sugar, and consume it once a day for three days and repeat the course after three months to prevent gynecological disorders. It is also traditionally used to encourage urine flow and thus helps in treating conditions that cause painful urination, such as urinary tract infections.20

In general, Ashoka can be effectively used to aid several uncomfortable menstrual disorders such as premenstrual syndrome (PMS), amenorrhea (absent periods), dysmenorrhea (painful periods), and menorrhagia (heavy and prolonged menstrual bleeding).

Menopause
The presence of quercetin, beta-sitosterol, and luteolin, phytoestrogens support healthy hormonal function during the transition into menopause. Furthermore, it can aid the healthy production of estrogen and progesterone when it is needed. Thus, the hormonal balance that is promoted by this tree makes it effective against many menopause symptoms including hot flashes, night sweats, sleep problems, mood swings, and weight gain.19

Infertility
Ashoka is considered particularly effective for female infertility and endometriosis. Ashoka is one of the key herbal remedies used by traditional healers of India to treat “reproductive disorders”.20 The success of Ashoka in the treatment of infertility in women may be linked to the herb’s ability to successfully treat endometriosis - one of the leading causes of infertility in women.

Other Benefits
Whilst Ashoka primarily is used to support female health throughout each stage of their reproductive lives, other benefits include:21

Anti-inflammatory – especially effective for the heart, Ashoka has been shown to protect cardiac tissues from infiltration by inflammatory cells.

Sleep Aid - The bark and seeds of Ashoka help to relax an overactive central nervous system, helping to reduce the time it takes to drop off to sleep. The quality and duration of sleep can be improved due to the presence of certain flavonoids, glycosides, and tannins.

Skin Health - The root, bark, and seeds of Ashoka are useful in the treatment of skin conditions including eczema, acne, dermatitis, herpes scabies, and psoriasis. It is also widely used to rejuvenate the complexion.