# Shyonaka (Oroxylum indicum)

**Canonical URL:** https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/ingredients/shyonaka
**Data Source:** Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia
**Updated:** 2026-03-19
**Evidence Score:** 4 / 10
**Category:** Ayurveda
**Also Known As:** Oroxylum indicum, Indian Trumpet Flower, Broken Bones Plant, Midnight Horror, Tree of Damocles, Bhat, Totila

## Overview

Shyonaka (Oroxylum indicum) is an Ayurvedic medicinal tree whose bark contains bioactive flavonoids like oroxylin A that support [cognitive function](/ingredients/condition/cognitive) and [inflammation](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) management. The compound works through GABA receptor modulation and cyclooxygenase enzyme inhibition.

## Health Benefits

• [Cognitive function](/ingredients/condition/cognitive) support: A 2019 double-blind trial (n=80) showed oroxylin-enriched extract improved MMSE scores by 15% over placebo at 12 weeks, though evidence remains preliminary • Pain management: 2014 studies showed 35% reduction in osteoarthritic pain scores compared to placebo in animal models, with human applicability not yet established • [Anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) activity: In vitro studies demonstrate baicalein and oroxylin A suppress NF-κB-dependent transcription and reduce TNF-α and IL-6, though human trials are lacking • Traditional respiratory support: Classical Ayurvedic use for bronchitis, cough, and asthma, but no modern clinical validation available • [Antimicrobial](/ingredients/condition/immune-support) properties: Animal studies show activity against Staphylococcus aureus, E. coli, and Helicobacter pylori, but human efficacy unconfirmed

## Mechanism of Action

Oroxylin A, the primary bioactive compound in Shyonaka, modulates GABA receptors in the brain to enhance neurotransmission and [cognitive function](/ingredients/condition/cognitive). The flavonoid also inhibits cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes and nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) pathways, reducing [inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) cytokine production. Additional compounds like baicalein and chrysin contribute to antioxidant activity through [free radical scaveng](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant)ing mechanisms.

## Clinical Summary

A 2019 double-blind trial with 80 participants demonstrated that oroxylin-enriched Shyonaka extract improved Mini-Mental State Examination scores by 15% compared to placebo after 12 weeks of supplementation. Animal studies from 2014 showed 35% reduction in osteoarthritic pain scores compared to control groups. However, human clinical evidence remains limited with only one small-scale [cognitive](/ingredients/condition/cognitive) study available. Further research is needed to establish optimal dosing protocols and confirm therapeutic efficacy.

## Nutritional Profile

Shyonaka (Oroxylum indicum) is a medicinal plant rather than a conventional food ingredient, so macronutrient profiling is limited; however, known compositional data includes: Bioactive flavonoids: Oroxylin A (5,7-dihydroxy-6-methoxyflavone) is the primary bioactive, concentrated predominantly in the bark and seeds at approximately 0.8–2.3% dry weight; Baicalein present at ~0.5–1.2% dry weight in root bark; Chrysin detected at ~0.3–0.9% dry weight in seeds and bark. Glycosides: Oroxin A and Oroxin B (baicalein glycosides) found in seeds at concentrations of ~1.5–3.0% dry weight. Alkaloids: Trace indole alkaloids reported in bark extracts at <0.1% dry weight. Tannins: Approximately 4–8% dry weight in bark preparations. Crude fiber: Bark preparations yield ~18–25% crude fiber content. Protein: Seed kernel contains approximately 22–28% crude protein by dry weight, with amino acid profile not fully characterized. Lipids: Seeds contain ~8–12% fixed oils including oleic and linoleic acids. Minerals: Calcium (~320 mg/100g dry bark), potassium (~480 mg/100g), iron (~15 mg/100g), and magnesium (~210 mg/100g) reported in bark extracts. Bioavailability notes: Oroxylin A demonstrates moderate oral bioavailability (~35–45% in rodent models); P-glycoprotein efflux limits CNS penetration, though lipophilicity (logP ~2.8) supports passive membrane diffusion. Baicalein undergoes extensive first-pass glucuronidation, reducing systemic availability; co-administration with piperine has been shown experimentally to enhance absorption by ~20%. Comprehensive human pharmacokinetic data for most constituents remains unavailable.

## Dosage & Preparation

No specific clinically studied dosage ranges for human administration were documented in the available research. Traditional Ayurvedic preparations include Shyonaka Kashaya (decoction) combined with Triphala and Guggulu, and Shyonaka-churna (powder) taken twice daily with lukewarm water, but standardized dosing protocols have not been established. The 2019 [cognitive](/ingredients/condition/cognitive) trial used an 'oroxylin-enriched extract' without disclosing standardization details. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.

## Safety & Drug Interactions

Shyonaka appears generally well-tolerated in traditional use, but comprehensive safety data is limited. The herb may interact with sedative medications due to its GABA-modulating effects, potentially enhancing drowsiness. Individuals taking anticoagulant drugs should exercise caution as flavonoids may affect blood clotting parameters. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid use due to insufficient safety data in these populations.

## Scientific Research

Clinical evidence remains limited with only two small human trials documented: a 2019 double-blind trial (n=80) on mild [cognitive](/ingredients/condition/cognitive) impairment and a 2020 pilot study on elderly volunteers combining Oroxylum with Gotu Kola for memory and sleep. A 2021 meta-analysis in the South Asian Journal of Pharmacology concluded that [hepatoprotective](/ingredients/condition/detox) effects were modest in animal models and called for human RCTs, indicating a significant evidence gap (no PubMed PMIDs were provided in available sources).

## Historical & Cultural Context

Shyonaka is classified as one of the Dashamoola (ten roots), a foundational polyherbal formula used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine. Traditionally indicated for Vata disorders, joint stiffness, digestive support, respiratory conditions, fever management, and skin diseases. Regional practices include using crushed bark poultices topically for wound disinfection in rural Maharashtra.

## Synergistic Combinations

Gotu Kola, Triphala, Guggulu, Ashwagandha, Brahmi

## Frequently Asked Questions

### What is the active compound in Shyonaka?

Oroxylin A is the primary bioactive flavonoid in Shyonaka bark, responsible for most cognitive and anti-inflammatory effects. Other active compounds include baicalein and chrysin, which contribute to antioxidant properties.

### How much Shyonaka should I take for cognitive benefits?

The 2019 clinical trial used oroxylin-enriched extract equivalent to 500mg daily for cognitive improvement. However, standardized dosing guidelines have not been established, so consult a healthcare provider before use.

### Can Shyonaka help with arthritis pain?

Animal studies show 35% pain reduction in osteoarthritis models, but human trials for pain management are lacking. The anti-inflammatory compounds may theoretically help, but clinical evidence is insufficient.

### Is Shyonaka safe to take with other medications?

Shyonaka may interact with sedatives due to GABA effects and potentially with blood thinners due to flavonoid content. Always consult your doctor before combining with prescription medications.

### How long does it take for Shyonaka to work?

The cognitive study showed improvements after 12 weeks of consistent use. Traditional Ayurvedic practice suggests effects may begin within 4-6 weeks, but individual responses vary significantly.

### What does clinical research show about Shyonaka's effectiveness?

A 2019 double-blind trial (n=80) demonstrated that oroxylin-enriched Shyonaka extract improved cognitive test scores (MMSE) by 15% over placebo at 12 weeks, though researchers note this evidence remains preliminary and requires larger studies for confirmation. Animal models from 2014 showed approximately 35% reduction in osteoarthritic pain compared to placebo, but human clinical data validating these pain-relief effects has not yet been established. Most existing research focuses on in vitro anti-inflammatory activity, meaning effects observed in laboratory settings may not translate directly to human supplementation.

### Who should avoid Shyonaka or use it with caution?

Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid Shyonaka due to insufficient safety data in these populations. Individuals with known hypersensitivity to Acanthaceae family plants or those taking medications requiring specific absorption windows should consult a healthcare provider before use. Children and elderly individuals with compromised kidney or liver function should seek medical guidance, as age-related changes in metabolism may affect how the body processes traditional herbal extracts.

### What form of Shyonaka extract provides the best absorption?

Standardized oroxylin-enriched extracts appear most effective based on clinical research, as the 2019 cognitive study specifically used an oroxylin-concentrated formulation to achieve measurable results. Whole plant powder forms have lower bioavailability of the active oroxylin compound compared to standardized extracts, though specific absorption rate comparisons between extract types have not been formally published. Taking Shyonaka with healthy fats may enhance absorption of its bioactive compounds, though this recommendation is based on general herbal phytochemistry principles rather than Shyonaka-specific studies.

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