Ankol (Alangium salvifolium) Pain & Inflammation Relief – Ayurvedic & Therapeutic Profile

Ankol, known in Ayurveda as Ankola / Ankota, is a potent medicinal plant traditionally used for pain relief, inflammation control, and Vata disorders. Various parts of the plant—especially the root bark and seeds—are employed in classical Ayurvedic practice under professional guidance.

---

Ayurvedic Profile

·         Rasa (Taste): Tikta (Bitter), Kashaya (Astringent)

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

·         Virya (Potency): Ushna (Hot)

·         Vipaka (Post-digestive effect): Katu

·         Dosha Action:

o    Pacifies: Vata, Kapha

o    Aggravates: Pitta (in excess)

---

Key Medicinal Properties

·         Shothahara – Anti-inflammatory

·         Vedanasthapana – Analgesic (pain-relieving)

·         Vatahara – Alleviates Vata disorders

·         Krimighna – Anthelmintic

·         Deepana–Pachana – Improves digestion

---

Major Therapeutic Uses

1. Pain & Inflammation

·         Effective in arthritis, joint pain, swelling

·         Useful in muscular pain and stiffness

·         Applied externally in sprains and injuries

2. Neuromuscular Disorders

·         Beneficial in sciatica, neuralgia, paralysis

·         Helps relieve nerve-related pain

3. Skin Disorders

·         Used in infected wounds, ulcers, swelling

·         Exhibits antimicrobial and healing action

4. Digestive & Worm Infestation

·         Helps in intestinal worms

·         Improves appetite and digestion

---

Uses in Ayurveda

·         Included in formulations for Vata roga

·         Used in external oils and pastes

·         Mentioned in classical texts for Shotha (inflammation) and Shoola (pain)

---

Parts Used

·         Root bark (main medicinal part)

·         Seeds and leaves (less commonly, under strict supervision)

---

Dosage (Strict Medical Supervision Required)

⚠️ Ankol is a potent herb and can be toxic if misused

·         Root bark powder: 125–250 mg

·         Decoction: As prescribed by an Ayurvedic physician

·         External paste/oil: As required

---

Side Effects & Precautions

⚠️ Improper or excessive use may cause:

·         Nausea, vomiting

·         Dizziness

·         Toxic symptoms

🚫 Contraindicated in:

·         Pregnancy & lactation

·         Children (internal use)

·         Pitta-dominant individuals

·         Long-term unsupervised use

---

Modern Research Insights

·         Contains alkaloids with analgesic and anti-inflammatory activity

·         Demonstrates antimicrobial and anti-arthritic potential (experimental studies)

---

Conclusion

Ankol (Alangium salvifolium) is a powerful pain- and inflammation-relieving herb, particularly effective in Vata–Kapha disorders. Due to its potency and toxicity risk, it should only be used under expert Ayurvedic supervision, especially for internal use.