Ashoka

BotanicalBest with a meal

What is it

Ashoka (Saraca asoca) is the same medicinal tree as the 'asoka tree' entry. The name 'ashoka' is the more common transliteration in modern Ayurvedic and supplement marketing.

Evidence for 1 use

AI-assisted evidence assessment — talk to your doctor before relying on any single supplement.

Menstrual / gynecological support (traditional)

Mixed Evidence

Based on Ayurvedic tradition and small studies of multi-herb formulas; standalone clinical evidence is limited.

How it works

Ashoka bark contains tannins, flavonoids, sterols, and saponins. Traditional and preclinical work suggests mild uterotonic, astringent, and anti-inflammatory effects, supporting Ayurvedic use for menorrhagia, dysmenorrhea, and uterine tone. Most modern use is within classical formulas like Ashokarishta. Controlled human trials specifically on standalone ashoka are sparse.

Dosage

There is no RDA. Traditional doses are 1-3 g of bark or equivalent extract daily, in divided doses. DSLD does not provide a median dose for this entry.

When and how to take it

Traditional liquid preparations are taken in divided doses with meals.

1 commercial form

Compare the main delivery options and what they’re best suited for.

Ashoka bark extract / powder / liquid extract

Used in Ashokarishta and modern standardized capsules.

Composition varies by extraction and plant part.

Safety

Generally well tolerated short-term at traditional doses. Long-term safety data are limited.

Who should be cautious

Pregnancy/breastfeeding: traditional use exists but Western practice usually avoids uterotonic herbs in pregnancy. Discuss with a clinician for menstrual disorders or hormonal conditions.

Interactions

Theoretical interactions with hormonal therapies. Clinical interaction data are limited.

Frequently asked questions

How is ashoka different from the asoka tree entry?⌄

They refer to the same plant; ashoka is the more common modern spelling.

Can ashoka help with cramps?⌄

Traditional use targets uterine tone and menstrual symptoms; controlled clinical evidence is limited.

References

Ashoka on Wikidata — Wikidata link

Ashoka on NIH DSLD (US supplement label database) — NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database link

Research on Ashoka (PubMed search) — PubMed link

Track Ashoka with Pilora

Set up dose reminders, check interactions, and join the community in the Pilora iPhone app.

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Evidence-based·How we grade evidence

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This page is educational, not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Evidence grades are AI-assisted assessments — talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement, especially if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, on medications, or managing a chronic condition.