Evidence supporting the use of: Asoka Tree
For the health condition: Anal Fistula or Fissure
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1
The Asoka tree (Saraca asoca) has a long-standing place in traditional Ayurvedic medicine, where various parts of the plant are used for a range of gynecological and inflammatory conditions. Its bark, in particular, is noted for its use in disorders involving bleeding and inflammation. In the context of anal fistula or fissure, the Asoka tree is sometimes included in polyherbal formulations in Ayurveda, more for its reputed anti-inflammatory and astringent effects than for any specific action on fistula or fissure pathology.
However, classical Ayurvedic texts such as the Charaka Samhita and Sushruta Samhita do not directly mention the use of Asoka specifically for anal fistula (bhagandara) or fissure (parikartika). Its inclusion in modern traditional practice appears to be based on its general wound-healing, astringent, and anti-inflammatory properties, which may theoretically benefit mucosal healing and inflammation associated with these anorectal conditions.
There is currently very limited scientific or clinical evidence to validate the use of Asoka tree specifically for anal fistula or fissure. Most studies focus on its gynecological uses, such as in menorrhagia. Some preclinical studies suggest anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, but direct clinical studies for anal fistula or fissure are lacking. Thus, its use for these conditions is primarily justified by tradition, and the evidence supporting it is weak.
Other ingredients used for Anal Fistula or Fissure
aloe veramyrobalan
chamomile
turmeric
curcumin
fiber blend (proprietary)
gotu kola
licorice root
marshmallow
plantain
psyllium
serratiopeptidase
slippery elm bark
vitamin C
Indian bael
nut grass
caesalpinia crista
trichosanthes
Achyranthes
Aerva lanata
Alkanna
Bai Ji
Baliospermum
Baphicacanthus cusia
Bletilla
Black Nightshade
Boerhavia diffusa
Calotropis gigantea
Castor Oil
Colocynth
Diosmin
Elephant's Head
Euphorbia
Other health conditions supported by Asoka Tree
Abdominal PainAbrasions
Abscesses
Afterbirth Pain
Amenorrhea
Anal Fistula or Fissure
Anemia
Antibiotics (alternatives to)
Anxiety
Arthritis
Asthma
Backache
Bladder Infection
Bleeding (external)
Bleeding (internal)
Boils
Bruises (healing)
Cancer (natural therapy for)
Canker Sores
Chest Pain
Colic (adults)
Colic (children)
Cuts
Depression
Diarrhea
Dysmenorrhea
Dyspepsia
Eczema
Edema
Emotional Sensitivity
Eye Infections
Fever
Gas and Bloating
Gastritis
Headache (general)
Hemorrhoids
Inflammation
Injuries
Irritability
Jaundice (adults)
Labor and Delivery
Leucorrhea
Menopause
Menorrhagia
Menstrual Irregularity
Nausea and Vomiting