Dry Tesu (Flower) - Kesuda - Palash (Phool) - Phool Tesu - Dhak Fool - Butea Monosperma by Keshav Keshari

Palash is recognized for its numerous valuable properties, as detailed in the Ayurvedic texts Sushruta Samhita, Charaka Samhita, and Ashtanga Hridaya, making it a versatile medicinal plant. These properties include anti-diarrheal, anthelmintic, anti-diabetic, anti-stress, hepatoprotective, antifungal, astringent, aphrodisiac, laxative, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant benefits. The flowers and leaves of Palash have diuretic, aphrodisiac, and astringent effects, and they enhance blood circulation in the pelvic area.

Uses of Palash

• The flowers, known as Tesu, are used to create natural colors for the Holi festival.

• They are effective in controlling and managing indoor pollutants.

• In tribal regions, women use the flowers for personal adornment.

• Palash flowers hold religious significance and are used in rituals such as havan or yagna.

• This tree is considered sacred, and the Indian Postal Department has even issued a stamp to honor its importance in India.

• Palash, or Butea Monosperma, is the state flower of Jharkhand.

• It is also believed that Palash embodies the God of life, Agni.

• Every part of the tree, from its flowers to its leaves, bark, seeds, stem, and gum, is useful. The tree is widely employed in alternative medicines such as Unani, Homeopathy, and Ayurveda for its pain-relieving, aphrodisiac, and antifertility properties.

Medicinal Uses of Palash

• The bark is applied externally to heal wounds and cuts.

• The seeds are used to treat parasitic infections and are also laxative.

• The gum is beneficial for treating dysentery and diarrhea.

• Dried flowers are used as a dye and in baths to treat skin rashes and infections in the summer. The flowers, rich in sulfur, are ideal for treating skin conditions and purify the blood by removing free radicals. 

• A paste made from the flowers can be applied externally to relieve joint pain, swelling, sprains, injuries, and arthritis. The bark also has blood-purifying attributes.

• A decoction made from the flowers can help alleviate menstrual cramps.

• The plant's fruits and seeds are used to treat skin ulcers, piles, and eye conditions like cataracts.

• The roots of the Palash tree are analgesic and can treat night blindness.