Albizia lebbeck (Fabaceae) Shirisha

Albizia lebbeck

Albizia lebbeck (Lebbeck Tree, Shirish)

1. Taxonomic insights

Species: Albizia lebbeck

Family: Fabaceae (Leguminosae)

Genus: Albizia

The Fabaceae family is ubiquitous in herbal medicine. Albizia lebbeck represents an important branch of this family used specifically for allergies, inflammation, and detoxification.

Related Herbs from the same family:

• Acacia catechu (Khair): A renowned Ayurvedic herb used for its strong astringent and wound-healing properties. Its heartwood extract, known as katha, is used for sore throat, skin diseases, and dental health.

• Mimosa pudica (Touch-Me-Not, Lajjalu): A famous medicinal plant used in Ayurveda for its antiprotozoal, wound-healing, and anti-inflammatory properties, particularly for bleeding disorders and gynecological conditions.

• Astragalus membranaceus (Huang Qi): While native to China, it is a cornerstone of Traditional Chinese Medicine as a powerful adaptogen and immune tonic, illustrating the family's capacity for producing immunomodulating herbs.

• Glycyrrhiza glabra (Yashtimadhu/Licorice): As previously mentioned, a key Rasayana herb. This highlights the Fabaceae family's diverse range, from potent astringents like Khair to deep rejuvenatives like Yashtimadhu.

2. Common Names:

Scientific Name: Albizia lebbeck | English: Lebbeck Tree, Frywood, Woman's Tongue Tree, Siris Tree | Sanskrit: Shirisha, Bhandi, Mrduchhada | Hindi: Siris, Siras | Tamil: Vagai | Telugu: Dirisanam, Srisa | Kannada: Bage, Seege | Malayalam: Vaka, Nenmenivaka | Marathi: Siras | Bengali: Siris, Kalo siris | Sinhala: Huru Mara | Arabic: Shukashirish | Spanish: Acacia amarilla, Lebbek | French: Bois noir, Albizzie |

3. Medicinal Uses:Antiallergic, Anti-inflammatory, Antiasthmatic, Anthelmintic (expels worms), Antiprotozoal, Hepatoprotective, Antioxidant, Antidotal (neutralizes toxins), Nervine (calms nerves).

Medicinal Parts:The most commonly used parts of the Albizia lebbeck plant in medicine are the stem bark, seeds, and flowers.

• Stem Bark: The primary medicinal part, used in decoctions and powders for internal detoxification and allergies.

• Seeds: Used for their anthelmintic and antiprotozoal properties.

• Flowers: Considered beneficial for skin diseases and as a nervine.

• Leaves: Sometimes used in topical applications for skin issues.

4. Phytochemicals specific to the plant and their action.

Saponins (Albizziosides, Lebbeckanin): These are the primary bioactive compounds. Their actions include potent Antiallergic and Anti-inflammatory effects by stabilizing mast cells and inhibiting the release of histamine. They also exhibit Antiprotozoal and Antifungal activity.

Flavonoids (Quercetin, Fisetin, Kaempferol): These compounds provide strong Antioxidant support. Their actions include Anti-inflammatory, Antiasthmatic (bronchodilatory), and Cardioprotective effects. They work synergistically with saponins to calm allergic responses.

Triterpenoids and Sterols (β-Sitosterol, Echinocystic acid): These contribute to the plant's Anti-inflammatory and Hepatoprotective properties. β-Sitosterol may also support the modulation of immune responses.

Tannins: Present in the bark, they provide Astringent properties, which help tone mucous membranes and dry up excess secretions in conditions like allergic rhinitis.

5. Traditional and Ethnobotanical uses covering the Medicinal uses.

Vishaghna (Antidotal) & Yakrit Vikara (Liver Disorders)

Formulation: Sirisha bark decoction (Kwath).

Preparation & Use: In Ayurveda, Shirisha is classified as a premier Vishaghna (detoxifying) herb. A decoction of the bark is used in cases of suspected poisoning, insect bites, and to treat liver congestion and jaundice.

Reasoning: The saponins and antioxidants help neutralize toxins and protect liver cells from damage, validating its Hepatoprotective and detoxifying claims.

Shwasa (Asthma) & Kasa (Cough) - Allergic Origin

Formulation: Powder of bark or flowers.

Preparation & Use: For allergic asthma, bronchitis, and chronic coughs, the dried bark or flowers are powdered and taken with honey. It is a key herb for managing Kapha-Vata disorders in the respiratory tract.

Reasoning: The mast-cell stabilizing action of saponins prevents the allergic cascade, while flavonoids help relax bronchial muscles, providing Antiallergic and Antiasthmatic relief.

Shitapitta (Urticaria) & Vicharchika (Eczema) - Skin Allergies

Formulation: External paste and internal decoction.

Preparation & Use: A paste of the leaves or bark is applied to itchy, inflamed skin lesions. Concurrently, a mild decoction of the bark is consumed internally to treat the root of the allergy.

Reasoning: The systemic antiallergic and anti-inflammatory action cleanses the blood (Raktashodhaka), while the topical application soothes localized inflammation and itching.

Krimighna (Anthelmintic) & Mutrakrichra (Dysuria)

Formulation: Seed powder.

Preparation & Use: The seed powder is administered with buttermilk or water to expel intestinal worms. The bark decoction is also used for burning sensations during urination.

Reasoning: Saponins have proven antiprotozoal and anthelmintic properties. The diuretic and anti-inflammatory effect of the bark soothes the urinary tract.

6. Healing recipes, Teas, Decoctions and Culinary use (if any):

Albizia lebbeck is a powerful medicinal tree used primarily in therapeutic preparations rather than as a culinary ingredient.

Shirishadi Kwath (Basic Detox Decoction)

Purpose: For seasonal allergies, skin rashes, or as a general detoxifier.

Preparation & Use:

• Take 1-2 teaspoons of dried, crushed Sirisha bark.

• Boil in 2 cups of water until it reduces to 1 cup.

• Strain and drink warm, once or twice a day. Due to its potency, this is best done under guidance for a specific period.

Shirisha-Honey Paste for Allergic Cough

Purpose: To soothe dry, allergic cough and bronchial irritation.

Preparation & Use:

• Take a pinch of fine Sirisha bark powder or flower powder.

• Mix with 1 teaspoon of raw honey.

• Lick this mixture slowly, 2-3 times a day.

Topical Leaf Paste for Itching

Purpose: To relieve localized allergic itching or insect bite reactions.

Preparation & Use:

• Grind a handful of fresh Sirisha leaves with a little water to make a smooth paste.

• Apply a thin layer to the affected area. Let it dry and wash off with cool water.

7. Disclaimer:

Albizia lebbeck is a potent medicinal herb. Its use, especially internal use of the bark or seeds, should be supervised by a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner or healthcare provider. The bark has reported emetic (vomit-inducing) properties in higher doses. It is not recommended for self-treatment. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid it. Due to its significant antiallergic action, it may interact with conventional antihistamine or immunosuppressant medications. This information is for educational and academic purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.

8. Reference Books, Books for In-depth Study:

• Astanga Hridayam (specifically the Uttarasthana)

• Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India

• Indian Medicinal Plants by Dr. K.R. Kiritkar and Dr. B.D. Basu

• Database on Medicinal Plants Used in Ayurveda by Prof. R.H. Singh

9. Further study: Plants that might interest you due to similar medicinal properties

1. Mimosa pudica (Lajjalu, Touch-Me-Not)

• Species: Mimosa pudica | Family: Fabaceae | Genus: Mimosa

• Similarities: Both are Fabaceae herbs with significant antiprotozoal and wound-healing properties. They are used for skin diseases and bleeding disorders. While Albizia is a tree used for systemic allergies, Mimosa is a small herb often used for gynecological and gastrointestinal inflammation.

2. Picrorhiza kurroa (Kutki)

• Species: Picrorhiza kurroa | Family: Plantaginaceae | Genus: Picrorhiza

• Similarities: Both are premier Vishaghna (detoxifying) and hepatoprotective herbs in Ayurveda. They are bitter, cooling, and used to cleanse the liver and blood, making them central to treating skin and allergic disorders rooted in toxicity.

3. Azadirachta indica (Neem)

• Species: Azadirachta indica | Family: Meliaceae | Genus: Azadirachta

• Similarities: Both are bitter, detoxifying, and used extensively for skin diseases (kushta) and allergies. While Neem is broader-spectrum with stronger antimicrobial action, Shirisha is more specific for IgE-mediated allergic responses. They are often combined in formulations.

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