🔍 Quick Facts
| Common Name | Sal Tree |
| Scientific Name | Shorea robusta |
| Category | Timber |
| Native Region | India, Nepal |
| Climate | Tropical/Sub-tropical |
| Growth Rate | Moderate |
| Parts Used | Wood, Resin, Leaves, Seeds |
📋 Table of Contents
Overview of Sal Tree
Sacred Indian tree of Buddha's birth — an economically vital timber and resin source. It has been a cornerstone of Ayurvedic and traditional medicine for thousands of years, with documented uses across multiple ancient texts including the Charaka Samhita and Sushruta Samhita.
Known botanically as Shorea robusta, this plant belongs to the Timber category and is native to India, Nepal. It thrives in tropical/sub-tropical climates and is considered a moderate-growing plant.
Traditional Uses
In Ayurveda and traditional medicine, Sal Tree is valued for the following applications:
- Structural timber — used in traditional preparations across generations
- Resin (dammar) — used in traditional preparations across generations
- Religious use — used in traditional preparations across generations
- Fodder — used in traditional preparations across generations
- Traditional medicine — used in traditional preparations across generations
✅ Benefits
- Structural timber
- Resin (dammar)
- Religious use
- Fodder
- Widely available and easy to grow
⚠️ Precautions
- Consult a doctor before medicinal use
- May interact with certain medications
- Avoid during pregnancy unless prescribed
- Excess dosage may cause side effects
Health Benefits
1. Structural timber
Traditional Ayurvedic texts and modern studies both highlight structural timber as a key application of Sal Tree. The active compounds present in the wood, resin, leaves, seeds are responsible for this effect.
2. Resin (dammar)
Traditional Ayurvedic texts and modern studies both highlight resin (dammar) as a key application of Sal Tree. The active compounds present in the wood, resin, leaves, seeds are responsible for this effect.
3. Religious use
Traditional Ayurvedic texts and modern studies both highlight religious use as a key application of Sal Tree. The active compounds present in the wood, resin, leaves, seeds are responsible for this effect.
4. Fodder
Traditional Ayurvedic texts and modern studies both highlight fodder as a key application of Sal Tree. The active compounds present in the wood, resin, leaves, seeds are responsible for this effect.
5. Traditional medicine
Traditional Ayurvedic texts and modern studies both highlight traditional medicine as a key application of Sal Tree. The active compounds present in the wood, resin, leaves, seeds are responsible for this effect.
How to Use Sal Tree
- Tea / Decoction: Boil fresh or dried wood in water for 10–15 minutes. Strain and drink warm.
- Powder (Churna): Dry and grind into a fine powder. Take ½ to 1 teaspoon with honey or warm water.
- Paste / Poultice: Crush fresh wood and apply directly to affected areas for external use.
- Oil Infusion: Infuse in coconut or sesame oil for topical applications.
How to Grow Sal Tree
🌱 Soil & Planting
Prefers well-draining, fertile soil with slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0–7.5). Mix compost into the planting bed for best results.
☀️ Sunlight
Most varieties require full sun (6–8 hours daily). Some may tolerate partial shade.
💧 Watering
Water regularly but avoid waterlogging. Allow topsoil to dry slightly between waterings.
🌿 Care Tips
- Apply organic fertiliser every 4–6 weeks during the growing season.
- Prune regularly to encourage bushy growth.
- Watch for pests — treat with neem oil spray if needed.
- Harvest wood in the morning for maximum potency.
Precautions & Contraindications
- Pregnancy & lactation: Consult a healthcare provider before use.
- Drug interactions: May interact with blood thinners, diabetes medications, or immunosuppressants.
- Allergies: Some individuals may be sensitive. Start with small quantities.
- Children: Use only under professional guidance for children under 12.