Health & Well-Being A-Z

Terminalia arjuna

Terminalia chebula tree
Description

Terminalia arjuna is a tree. Its bark is traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine.

The bark of the Terminalia arjuna tree contains chemicals that might stimulate the heart. It might also have effects that lower cholesterol and blood pressure.

People use Terminalia arjuna for chest pain, asthma, athletic performance, heart disease, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, obesity, and many other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support these uses.

Don't confuse Terminalia arjuna with other Terminalia species, including Terminalia chebula and Terminalia bellirica. These are not the same.


Is It Effective?

Effective

There is interest in using Terminalia arjuna for a number of purposes, but there isn't enough reliable information to say whether it might be helpful.

Is it Safe?

Safety

When taken by mouth: Terminalia arjuna is possibly safe when used for up to 3 months. But it shouldn't be used without medical supervision. It can have significant effects on the heart.

Special Precautions & Warnings:

Pregnancy and breast-feeding: There isn't enough reliable information to know if Terminalia arjuna is safe to use when pregnant or breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.

Bleeding disorders: Terminalia arjuna might slow blood clotting. This might increase the risk of bruising and bleeding in people with bleeding disorders.

Surgery: Terminalia arjuna might increase the risk of bleeding during surgery. Stop taking Terminalia arjuna at least 2 weeks before a scheduled surgery.

Drug interactions

Medications changed by the liver (Cytochrome P450 2C9 (CYP2C9) substrates)

Interaction Rating=Moderate Be cautious with this combination.

Some medications are changed and broken down by the liver. Terminalia arjuna might change how quickly the liver breaks down these medications. This could change the effects and side effects of these medications.

Medications changed by the liver (Cytochrome P450 2D6 (CYP2D6) substrates)

Interaction Rating=Moderate Be cautious with this combination.

Some medications are changed and broken down by the liver. Terminalia arjuna might change how quickly the liver breaks down these medications. This could change the effects and side effects of these medications.

Medications changed by the liver (Cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) substrates)

Interaction Rating=Moderate Be cautious with this combination.

Some medications are changed and broken down by the liver. Terminalia arjuna might change how quickly the liver breaks down these medications. This could change the effects and side effects of these medications.

Medications that slow blood clotting (Anticoagulant / Antiplatelet drugs)

Interaction Rating=Moderate Be cautious with this combination.

Terminalia arjuna might slow blood clotting. Taking Terminalia arjuna along with medications that also slow blood clotting might increase the risk of bruising and bleeding.

Herb interactions

Herbs and supplements that might slow blood clotting: Terminalia arjuna might slow blood clotting and increase the risk of bleeding. Taking it with other supplements with similar effects might increase the risk of bleeding in some people. Examples of supplements with this effect include garlic, ginger, ginkgo, nattokinase, and Panax ginseng.

Food interactions

There are no known interactions with foods.

Dosage

Terminalia arjuna has most often been used by adults in doses of 500 mg by mouth three times daily for up to 3 months. Keep in mind that Terminalia arjuna can affect the heart and should only be used under medical supervision. Speak with a healthcare provider before use.

Other names

Arjan des Indes, Arjhan, Arjun Chal, Arjun Tree, Arjuna, Axjun Argun, Carambole Marron, Dhavala, Indradru, Kakubha, Kumbuk, Murudhu, Nadisraja, Neer Matti, Partha, Sadado, Sadaru, Tella Maddi, Veeravriksha.

Disclaimer

Information on this website is for informational use only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. While evidence-based, it is not guaranteed to be error-free and is not intended to meet any particular user’s needs or requirements or to cover all possible uses, safety concerns, interactions, outcomes, or adverse effects. Always check with your doctor or other medical professional before making healthcare decisions (including taking any medication) and do not delay or disregard seeking medical advice or treatment based on any information displayed on this website.

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