Lodhra (Symplocos racemosa Roxb.) - Lodhra powder is a single-ingredient powder made from dried stem bark of an evergreen tree Symplocos racemosa Roxb., which is 6 to 8.5 metres tall, found abundantly in the plains and lower hills throughout India.
The bark of Lodhra tree is used orally as well as for topical application in the form of a vaginal douche. The formulation is mentioned in classical Ayurvedic texts and in the Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India for use in conditions with increased discharge like diarrhoea, dysentery, leucorrhoea, excessive menstrual bleeding, haemorrhagic disorders, conjunctivitis, etc.
Composition - The formulation consists of finely powdered stem bark of Symplocos tree.
English name - Symplocos bark
Latin name - Symplocos racemosa Roxb.
Family - Symplocaceae
Part used - Dried stem bark
Main chemical constituents - Alkaloids (loturine, loturidine and colloturine) and red colouring matter.
Dosage form - Grayish-brown powder for oral use and decoction for vaginal wash
Indications and uses -
(1) Leucorrhoea. (2) Menorrhagia or metrorrhagia.
Precautions and safety aspects -
(1) It is advisable to diagnose the cause of leucorrhoea before starting treatment with Lodhra.
(2) Overdose and empty-stomach consumption of Lodhra powder may cause abdominal heaviness, nausea and constipation in individuals prone to gastro-intestinal upsets. These symptoms can be avoided by taking light or liquid diet.
(3) Decoction of Lodhra bark for vaginal wash should be prepared fresh and should not be left uncovered for a long time. It is better to use the decoction within an hour or so of preparation.
(4) A smaller dose of Lodhra powder may be taken, if menstrual flow gets diminished.
(5) Excessive use of spicy and sour food items, curd and yoghurt should be avoided during medication.
(6) Mental stress aggravates the symptoms of leucorrhoea and hence an attempt should be made to remain stress-free, relaxed and physically active.
(7) If significant control of symptoms is not achieved in three to four weeks, medical opinion must be sought.
(8) No adverse effect of Lodhra powder is reported when taken in recommended doses.
(9) It is safe for the baby if a nursing mother is taking this medication. However, Lodhra powder should not be used for a long duration during pregnancy.