DrFeb
Health Guide

Oroxylum indicum

Oroxylum indicum, commonly known as the Indian Trumpet Tree or 'Tree of Life,' is a revered medicinal plant in Ayurveda and traditional Chinese medicine. While not a typical kitchen vegetable, its bark, roots, and fruits are packed with potent flavonoids like baicalein. It acts as a powerful multi-system tonic, primarily celebrated for healing the gut, clearing respiratory congestion, and reducing inflammation naturally.
Evidence BasedDietary Supplement
Oroxylum indicum
VERIFIED SOURCE

Bio-Activity Analysis

Key Bioactive Compounds in Oroxylum indicum

SCIENTIFIC DATA VISUALIZATION

Y-Axis
Relative Potency (Score)
Compound →

Health Benefits & Sources

Why You Need It

  • Digestive Healing: Soothes the stomach lining, aids digestion, and treats ulcers and diarrhea.
  • Respiratory Support: Acts as an expectorant to clear phlegm and relieve coughs.
  • Natural Anti-inflammatory: Reduces swelling and oxidative stress in the body.
  • Antimicrobial: Helps the body fight off bacterial and fungal infections.

Deep Dive

Oroxylum indicum works by modulating the gut microbiome and inhibiting pro-inflammatory enzymes. Its primary active compound, baicalein, is a superstar antioxidant that protects cells from damage. In Ayurveda, it is known as a 'Tridoshic' herb, meaning it can help balance various body types, but it is particularly effective for cooling 'Pitta' (heat/inflammation) conditions.

Natural Food Sources

Oroxylum indicum is not a common dietary food but is consumed as a medicinal vegetable in parts of India. The most reliable way to consume it is via supplements.

Part of TreeFormNotes
Tender PodsVegetableCooked in curries in Northeast India
BarkPowder/ExtractMost common medicinal source
FlowersTeaLess common, used for mild colds

Supplementation

Standardized extracts are recommended to ensure consistent potency. Look for products containing Baicalein or Oroxylum indicum bark extract. It is often found in 'Triphala' formulations.

Top Food Sources

Oroxylum Indicum Bark
Standardized extract or powder
Chinese Skullcap Root
Alternative source of Baicalein
Tender Seed Pods
Cooked vegetable (regional)
Propolis
Contains trace amounts of related flavonoids
Triphala Supplements
Often contains Oroxylum as a minor ingredient

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, the very young, tender pods (shredded) are cooked as a vegetable in parts of India, but the mature bark and seeds are strictly medicinal.
No, but they are cousins. Chinese Skullcap (Scutellaria baicalensis) contains similar compounds (Baicalein), but Oroxylum indicum is the specific source used in Ayurveda.
For digestion and colds, effects can be felt within a few days. For chronic inflammation, consistent use for 2-4 weeks is usually required.
Consult your doctor. While it has natural antibacterial properties, it is generally safe to take alongside prescribed antibiotics as a supportive tonic.

Safety & Side Effects

Pregnancy: Strictly Avoid. It has emmenagogue effects (stimulates blood flow in the pelvic area/uterus). Diabetes: Monitor blood sugar closely as it lowers glucose levels. Surgery: Stop use at least 2 weeks before surgery due to blood sugar and sedation effects. Side Effects: Generally safe at recommended doses; high doses may cause stomach upset or extreme drowsiness.

Scientific References

  • [1]Prajapati, N. D., et al. (2006). 'A Handbook of Medicinal Plants' - Verdict on traditional uses.
  • [2]Yin, F., et al. (2015). 'Baicalein inhibits inflammatory responses' - Journal of Ethnopharmacology.
  • [3]Padmaja, R., et al. (2019). 'Medicinal potential of Oroxylum indicum' - Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Biomedicine.