Ashoka (Saraca Indica)
A classical Ayurvedic uterine tonic with centuries of use and almost no controlled human data. What exists is preclinical, plus a large descriptive literature.
Evidence last reviewed: August 2026
What the science says
- Menstrual bleeding and pain Limited evidence
A comprehensive ethnopharmacology review of Saraca asoca catalogues its traditional use for menorrhagia and dysmenorrhea and notes that the biological work is overwhelmingly in vitro and in animals, with no adequately controlled clinical trials.
- Prostaglandin-related mechanism Limited evidence
An older laboratory study found that Saraca asoca bark inhibits the prostaglandin H2 synthetase complex, a plausible route to reduced uterine cramping. This is an enzyme-level finding only.
Dosage & safety
Studied doseNo trial-established dose. Traditional Ayurvedic use is 3-6 g of bark powder daily, or 10-20 ml of the bark decoction (ashokarishta); commercial extracts commonly supply 500 mg per capsule as a label dose.
SafetyPoorly characterized. Species adulteration is a documented problem in the trade, so identity of the raw material is a real concern. Avoid in pregnancy; no data in breastfeeding or with hormone-sensitive conditions.
Scientific references
Where to buy
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