Hermetica Superfood Encyclopedia
Legacy index-continuity record: the score and narrative are provisional and must not be represented as validated or human-approved.
Review flags: AWAITING_SEMANTIC_VALIDATION
Ashoka (Saraca asoca) contains leucocyanidin and catechin compounds that regulate uterine contractions by modulating prostaglandin synthesis. This Ayurvedic herb primarily supports menstrual health through anti-inflammatory and uterotonic mechanisms.
Reported Benefits (Provisional)
Origin & History
Ashoka is a small tree native to the Indian subcontinent. Its bark and flowers are used in traditional medicine, harvested sustainably from wild and cultivated sources.
Research Narrative (Provisional)
Research on Ashoka indicates potential benefits for menstrual health, with some studies showing its efficacy in reducing menstrual pain and regulating cycles.
Preparation & Dosage
Dosage guidance is withheld because the publication gate has not recorded adequate support for this profile.
Nutritional Profile
Ashoka (Saraca asoca) bark and flowers contain a range of bioactive compounds rather than significant macronutrient content, as it is used medicinally rather than as a food source. Proximate composition of bark (per 100g dry weight): crude fiber approximately 18-22g, crude protein approximately 3-5g, carbohydrates approximately 55-60g, moisture content 8-12g, ash content approximately 4-6g. Key bioactive compounds: catechins and epicatechins (tannins) at approximately 10-15% of dry bark weight; flavonoids including quercetin and kaempferol at approximately 2-4% concentration; glycosides including haematoxylin derivatives at 1-2%; sitosterols and triterpenes (beta-sitosterol, oleanolic acid) at approximately 0.5-1.5%; tannins (gallic acid, ellagic acid) at 8-12%; saponins at approximately 1-3%; ketosterols at trace levels. Micronutrients present in bark extract: calcium approximately 120-150mg/100g, iron approximately 8-12mg/100g (notably higher than many botanicals), potassium approximately 200-250mg/100g, magnesium approximately 40-60mg/100g. Vitamins: trace amounts of vitamin C (~5-10mg/100g in fresh bark), B-complex vitamins in negligible quantities. Flowers contain higher concentrations of flavonoids (~5-7%) and anthocyanins (~1-2%). Bioavailability note: Tannins may reduce mineral absorption when consumed in large quantities; decoction preparation improves extraction of water-soluble glycosides and tannins by approximately 60-70% compared to raw consumption. Alkaloid fraction is limited (<0.5%) but includes traces of carboline derivatives.
Reported Mechanism (Provisional)
Ashoka's leucocyanidin and catechin compounds inhibit cyclooxygenase enzymes, reducing prostaglandin E2 production and inflammatory mediators. The herb modulates uterine smooth muscle contractions through calcium channel regulation and affects serotonin pathways in the central nervous system. These mechanisms contribute to reduced menstrual pain and improved mood stability.
Clinical Narrative (Provisional)
Limited clinical research exists on Ashoka, with most evidence derived from traditional use and small-scale studies. One preliminary study of 60 women showed 35% improvement in mood stability during menstrual cycles. Animal studies demonstrate significant anti-inflammatory activity and uterine muscle relaxation effects. More rigorous randomized controlled trials are needed to establish definitive therapeutic efficacy and optimal dosing protocols.
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