This is a large tree that may reach heights of 60 to 80 feet and has a thick trunk that is 3 to 4 feet in diameter. It is indigenous to Southeast Asia. The bark is papery thin and was once used for writing in the same way that Betula utilis tree bark (Bhojpatra in Sanskrit) was. The leaves are leathery thin, glossy, and up to 3 inches long. Flowers are white, and the fruit is about 1 to 2 inches long, smooth, and thin.
In 7 to 8% of the trees, the bark becomes infected with a fungus (Phaeoacremonium parasitica), which causes the bark to transform from light brown to dark brown or black. Because of the presence of oleoresin, this results in a distinct smell specific to the Agaru tree.
This afflicted section of the tree produces Agarwood oil, which is sold in Arabia, China, and Japan. This tree's oil has a great economic worth because it is incredibly expensive, frequently costing the same as 24-carat gold. The reason for this is the time-consuming distillation process, which yields only 30 cc oil from 100 kg of infected wood. The oil is known as Oud and is made entirely of natural essential oils.
The aroma is mostly due to various sesquiterpene and epoxide mixtures, which can also be employed as pheromones to attract the opposite gender.
General Information
The genus Aquilaria contains approximately 17 species, 8 of which are known to produce Agar oil. Aquilaria agallocha is a synonym for Aquilaria malaccensis and Aquilaria secundria.
Agarwood is well-known for its use in the production of incense sticks for various ceremonies. Beautiful carvings and sculptures are also made from the wood. Agarwood beads are created in several Southeast Asian countries to ward off evil spirits and provide good luck.
Special Note
Agarwood Oil
Agarwood oil is extracted from the tree's resin. The plant's resin is known as Gaharu. It forms spontaneously as a result of the tree's reaction to a fungus attack. To defend the wounded region, attacked trees exude fragrant gum, which hardens into a resin. The precious oil is trapped within the Resin in the hardened area. The oil is extracted from this resin.
Habitat of the Plant
This tree is indigenous to Southeast Asia, where it can be found in China, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Eastern India, Thailand, and Malaysia.
Classification
- Latin name - Aquilaria agallocha
- Order - Malvales
- Family - Thymelaeaceae
- Genus - Aquilaria
Names
- Latin Name - Aquilaria agallocha
- Sanskri Name t - Aguru, Loh, Krimij, Krimijagdh ( Because it's infected ), Krumija, Krimijagdha, Anaryaka, Vishvaroopakam, Pravara, Jongakam, ShreshtaVriksha, Vamshika
- Hindi /Urdu Name - Agar
- English Name - Eagle wood
- Bengali Name - Agar Chandan, Agarkashtha, Agaru
- Tamil Name - Agalichandanam, Aggalichandanam
- Kannada Name - Krishna Agaru
- Punjabi Name - Ooda, Pharsi
- Telugu Name - Agaru
- Europe Name - Agilawood, Eaglewood
- Arabic & English Name - Agarwood, Oud, Oodh
- Japan - Jinko
- Chinese Name - Chenxiang
- Cambodia Name - Chann Crassna
- Indonesia / Malay Name - Gaharu
- Laos Name - Mai Ketsana
- Thailand Name - Mai Kritsana
- Myanmar Name - Thit Mhwae
Ayurvedic Properties
|
Particular |
Hindi / Sanskrit |
English |
|
Rasa (Taste) |
Katu |
Pungent |
|
Guna (Physical Property) |
Laghu, Tikshna |
Light, Sharp |
|
Virya (Potency) |
Ushna |
Hot |
|
Vipaka (Post-Digestive Taste) |
Katu |
Pungent |
Effects on Doshas
It balances Vata and Kapha doshas.
|
Charak Samhita |
Sushrut Samhita |
|
|
According to Raj Nighantu, there are 4 types of Agaru.
- Kaashth Agaru
- Krisna Agaru
- Mangalya Agaru
- Daaha Agaru
The Mangalaya Agaru is thought to be the best. The Agaru which is thick and heavy and sinks in water is regarded as the best.
Practical Uses
- The tree's leaves are naturally laxative. Chronic constipation can be treated with an herbal tea made from the leaves.
- Bitterness is beneficial to skin diseases. The bark is brewed into a tea that is used as a blood purifier.
- The paste derived from tree bark can help with a variety of skin conditions, including acne, eczema, edema, and psoriasis.
- It is well-known for its healing properties. It is known as "Sheet-Prashamnan," which means "cold destroyer." The bark paste is applied to the body to treat colds.
- Another indication is the usage of bark powder for gout, dyspepsia, and overall bodily weakness.
- Local applications of the bark paste can be made on aching joints caused by osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. It also helps to eliminate body odor, acts as a stimulant, and has anti-inflammatory qualities.
- Many individuals chew the bark to relieve themselves of foul breath.
- Agarwood oil is also used to treat asthma. Orally, 1-2 drops of oil are administered, then dusted on a beetle leaf and eaten.
- Agarwood smoke is also inhaled in situations of chronic sinusitis, rhinitis, and allergic reactions.
- It balances both the Vata and Kapha Doshas.
Ayurvedic Products
- Himsagar Thailam - An Ayurvedic remedy for vata imbalances.
- Anu Thailam - An Ayurvedic oil used to treat ear, nose, and throat problems.
- Arimedadi Thailam - An Ayurvedic oil used to treat skin conditions, mouth ulcers, and piles.
Dosage
Agarwood Oil - 1 to 4 drops.
Agarwood Bark Powder - 3-6 grams.
Part Used
Agar Oil, Agar resinous wood