Agaru (Aquilaria agallocha) – Uses in Ayurveda

Botanical Name: Aquilaria agallocha
Common Name: Agaru / Agarwood / Oud
Family: Thymelaeaceae

Ayurvedic Properties

·         Rasa (Taste): Tikta (Bitter), Katu (Pungent)

·         Guna (Qualities): Laghu (Light), Ruksha (Dry), Tikshna (Sharp)

·         Virya (Potency): Ushna (Hot)

·         Vipaka (Post-digestive effect): Katu

·         Dosha Action: Pacifies Vata and Kapha; may aggravate Pitta if used excessively

Parts Used

·         Heartwood (resin-impregnated wood)

Uses in Ayurveda

·         Respiratory Disorders: Useful in asthma, cough, bronchitis, and hiccups

·         Digestive Disorders: Improves appetite, relieves bloating, abdominal pain, and indigestion

·         Nervous System: Acts as a mild sedative; helps in anxiety, stress, and insomnia

·         Cardiac Support: Used in formulations for heart health and palpitations

·         Pain & Inflammation: Reduces body pain, stiffness, and Vata disorders

·         Skin & Fragrance: Used in Ayurvedic perfumes, oils, and skin preparations for its aroma and antimicrobial action

·         Fever: Helpful in chronic and Vata-Kapha type fevers

Dosage

·         Powder (Churna): 250–500 mg

·         Decoction (Kwatha): As prescribed by an Ayurvedic physician

Precautions

·         Use in small quantities due to strong potency

·         Avoid excess use in Pitta-dominant conditions

·         Internal use should be under expert guidance