What to know about Terminalia belerica (bahera) before using it medicinally

Terminalia belerica, commonly known as Bahera, is a herb revered for its numerous health benefits, including its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties, which contribute to its effectiveness in treating various ailments and improving overall well-being.

Horticulturally, Bahera is a deciduous tree that is relatively easy to cultivate, with a moderate growth rate and adaptability to various soil types and climatic conditions. Botanically, Bahera belongs to the family Combretaceae and is characterized by its distinctive bark, leaves, and seeds, which contain bioactive compounds that contribute to its medicinal properties.

Historically, Bahera has been mentioned in the ancient Ayurvedic text, the Charaka Samhita, and is still used in traditional Indian medicine to treat a range of health conditions.

This article explains the medicinal, horticultural, botanical, and historical aspects of Terminalia belerica .

What are the medicinal properties of Terminalia belerica ?

Terminalia belerica helps with various medicinal purposes, including treatment of fever, cough, bronchitis, and skin diseases. It is also used as an antiseptic and anti-inflammatory agent. Its extracts have antimicrobial and antiviral properties.

The active constituents of Terminalia belerica include tannins, flavonoids, alkaloids, and terpenoids. These compounds are responsible for its medicinal properties, including its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activities. The plant's extracts also contain phenolic acids and glycosides.

The bark, seeds, and leaves of Terminalia belerica are the most commonly used parts for medicinal purposes. The bark is traditionally used for treating fever, cough, and bronchitis, while the seeds are used for skin diseases. The leaves are used as an antiseptic and anti-inflammatory agent.

Improper use of Terminalia belerica may cause gastrointestinal side effects, including nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. High doses may also lead to allergic reactions and kidney damage.

Precautions include consulting a healthcare professional before using Terminalia belerica, especially for pregnant or breastfeeding women, and those with kidney or liver problems. Its use should also be avoided in children and individuals with allergies.

What are the horticulural aspects of Terminalia belerica ?

Terminalia belerica grow best in subtropical and tropical regions, requiring full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil with a pH range of 5.5-7.5. Annual rainfall of 120-150 cm and an average temperature of 20-30°C support optimal growth.

Planting tips for Terminalia belerica involve selecting a location with minimal competition and sufficient space for mature growth. The optimal planting time is during the rainy season, and a spacing of 10-15 meters is recommended to allow for proper air circulation. Young plants require regular watering and mulching to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Harvesting Terminalia belerica typically involves collecting mature seeds or bark in the wild. The fruiting stage usually occurs between August and November, with seeds being harvested after they have fallen from the tree. Bark is typically harvested when the tree is 50-100 years old, and only the outer bark is removed to avoid damaging the tree.

Pests and diseases affecting Terminalia belerica include the stem canker disease caused by Colletotrichum gloeosporioides, as well as infestation by insects such as the lac insect, scale, and bagworm. Regular monitoring and integrated pest management practices are essential to mitigate the impact of these pests and diseases on the plant.

What are the botanical aspects of Terminalia belerica ?

Terminalia belerica is a deciduous tree with a straight bole, smooth grey bark, and a flat or rounded crown. The leaves are bipinnate, 10-20 cm long, with 7-15 pairs of pinnae and 4-12 pairs of leaflets. The flowers are greenish-yellow, in axillary panicles, and the fruit is a drupe, 3-6 cm long and 2-3 cm wide.

Terminalia belerica belongs to the family Combretaceae, subfamily Myrothamnoideae, tribe Terminalieae, subtribe Terminaliinae, and genus Terminalia. The species is also known as Terminalia chebula Roxb. or Terminalia chebula Retz. The plant is often confused with Terminalia arjuna, but the latter has a distinctive red-brown bark.

Several variants of Terminalia belerica have been recognized, including the Malabar variety, which has smaller fruits, and the Himalayan variety, which has larger leaves. The plant has also been cultivated in various parts of Asia, where it has been naturalized. The cultivated varieties are often used in traditional medicine.

Terminalia belerica is native to the Himalayas and the eastern parts of India. It has also been introduced to other parts of Asia, including Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and Myanmar. The plant grows in deciduous forests, often along rivers and streams, at elevations of up to 2,000 meters above sea level.

The life cycle of Terminalia belerica begins with germination, which takes place in 2-4 weeks. The seedling grows into a sapling within a year, and reaches maturity in 5-10 years. The tree can live for up to 150 years in the wild, during which time it produces fruit in June and July.

What are the historical aspects of Terminalia belerica ?

Terminalia belerica is a plant species with a long history of medicinal and cultural uses. It was traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine to treat various health conditions, including fever, rheumatism, and digestive issues. The plant's bark, seeds, and leaves were used in different preparations.

In ancient Hindu mythology, Terminalia belerica was associated with the goddess Durga, who was said to have emerged from the plant's roots. The mythological text, the Mahabharata, describes the plant's connection to the goddess. The plant was also mentioned in the Atharvaveda, a Vedic text.

In Hindu culture, Terminalia belerica is associated with the concept of "karma" and spiritual growth. The plant is said to represent the connection between the physical and spiritual worlds. Its bark is used in rituals to promote spiritual growth and protection.

Historical texts, such as the Charaka Samhita and the Sushruta Samhita, mention Terminalia belerica as a medicinal plant. The Charaka Samhita describes the plant's use in treating fever and rheumatism, while the Sushruta Samhita mentions its use in treating digestive issues.

Terminalia belerica has been depicted in various historical artifacts, including sculptures and paintings. The plant is often depicted in Ayurvedic manuscripts and ancient Indian art. These depictions showcase the plant's significance in ancient Indian culture and its association with mythology and spirituality.