Beleric Myrobalan (Terminalia belerica)

Beleric Myrobalan (Terminalia belerica) is a member of the Combretaceae family, native to India, Southeast Asia, and Indo-China. Traditionally, its bark, fruits, and resin have been used for decoctions, powders, and infusions.

This herb is particularly valued for its anti-inflammatory, tonic, and astringent actions, and has a long history of use in ayurvedic medicine, traditional chinese medicine, and tibetan medicine.

Beleric Myrobalan (Terminalia belerica) dried pieces of the herb arranged on a wooden table for reference — Beleric Myrobalan (Terminalia belerica) dried pieces of the herb arranged together on a wooden table for reference, used in teas and remedies.

Quick Facts / Key Information

Common Name	Beleric Myrobalan
Scientific Name	Terminalia belerica
Plant Family	Combretaceae
Genus	Terminalia
Species	belerica
Native Range	India, Southeast Asia, Indo-China
Plant Parts Used	Bark, Fruits, Resin
Primary Medicinal Actions	Anti-Inflammatory, Tonic, Astringent
Primary Traditional Systems	Ayurvedic Medicine, Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tibetan Medicine
Historical Preparation Methods	Decoction, Powder, Infusion

Botanical Identity

Scientific Name: Terminalia belerica
Common Name: Beleric Myrobalan
Synonyms / Alternative Names: Belleric Myrobalan, Indian Gooseberry, Indian Bdellium
Plant Family: Combretaceae
Genus: Terminalia

Botanical Description

Growth Habit: Perennial woody tree.
Height: It typically grows to a height of 10 to 20 meters.
Leaves: Broad leaves with upper surface glabrous and pale green, lower surface pubescent and darker green, exhibiting prominent stomatal bands along the midrib.
Flowers: Flowers are solitary, actinomorphic, with five white petals and five yellow stamens, bearing a prominent yellow disk at the base of the corolla.
Stems: Elongated, erect growth habit, opposite branching pattern, glabrous surface, presence of persistent stipules.

Traditional Uses / Historical Use

Traditional Systems

Ayurvedic Medicine
Traditional Chinese Medicine

Historical Preparation Methods

Decoction
Powder
Infusion
Tincture

Medicinal Actions

Anti-inflammatory: Traditionally described as a cooling anti-inflammatory, in tissue-soothing contexts.
Tonic: In herbal literature, noted as a soothing tonic, in general wellness contexts.
Astringent: As described in traditional systems, a warming astringent, in tissue-toning contexts.
Diuretic: Historically regarded as a calming diuretic, for elimination-focused applications.

Active Compounds

Tannin: High-molecular-weight phenolic compounds found in many plant species.
Flavonoid: A chemical class commonly identified in plant tissues, especially flowers and leaves.
Phenolic Acid: Naturally occurring phenolic compounds present in many plant species.
Saponin: Secondary plant compounds composed of sugar-linked aglycones.

Modern Research Overview

Scientific literature concerning this plant spans multiple areas, including phytochemistry and laboratory research. Detailed analysis of published studies is not included at this time and will be added as part of future editorial expansion.

Safety & Contraindications

General Precautions: The use of this herb may warrant general caution in certain situations.
Contraindications: The use of this herb has been associated with reported contraindications in some situations.
Allergies: Reports of allergic reactions to this herb are not well documented in available sources.
Drug Interactions: Interactions with prescription medications have not been well documented.
Toxicity: There is insufficient evidence to determine the toxic potential of this herb.
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: There is insufficient evidence to determine the safety of this herb during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Preparation & Usage Methods

Infusion: Infusions are commonly prepared using hot water to release aromatic and soluble components.
Decoction: Plant material is simmered in water to extract compounds from tougher parts.
Poultice: This method uses direct contact between plant material and the skin.
Powder: Powdered preparations use finely milled plant parts.
Extract: This method isolates plant compounds using alternative solvents.

Growing, Harvesting & Storage

Growing / Cultivation

Soil: Prefers loamy soil with well-drained conditions. Typically grows best in organically rich soils.
Sunlight: Thrives in partial shade. Tolerates full sun to partial shade.
Watering: Prefers well-balanced moisture levels. Tolerates moderate moisture fluctuations.