Nakli Ashoka

  • Botanical Name: Polyalthia longifolia
  • Family: Annonaceae
  • Synonyms: Mast Tree, Indian Fir Tree, False Ashoka
  • Vernacular Name: Commonly known as “Nakli Ashoka” in Hindi, “Mast Tree” in
    English, and “Ashoka Chettu” in Telugu.
  • Classification: A tall, evergreen tree belonging to the Annonaceae family.
  • Habitat: Native to the Indian subcontinent, it thrives in tropical and subtropical regions. It
    is often planted as an ornamental tree along roadsides and in gardens.
  • Morphology: A slender tree that can grow up to 10–20 meters in height. It has a straight
    trunk, drooping branches, and glossy, lance-shaped leaves that are coppery-red when young
    and turn green as they mature. The flowers are small, greenish-yellow, and bloom in clusters.
    The fruits are small, ovoid, and turn purple-black when ripe.
  • Useful Parts: Leaves, bark, and seeds.
  • Chemical Composition: Contains alkaloids, flavonoids, and essential oils. The leaves and
    bark are rich in bioactive compounds with medicinal properties.
  • Pharmacological Action: Known for its antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant
    properties. It is used in traditional medicine for treating fever, skin disorders, and digestive
    issues.
  • Formulation: Used in herbal remedies and decoctions for general health and skin care.
    The tree is also valued for its ornamental and environmental benefits.
    Rasa: Kasaya, Tikta
    Guna: Ruksha , Laghu
    Virya: Sheeta
    Vipaka: Katu