Agarkasth (Agaru) benefits and side effects

Agaru or Agarkasth is a large tree native to the regions of South-East Asia. Commonly referred to as Eagle Wood, the thin bark of this tree was used as a writing surface in olden times. In a little under 10% of all trees, the bark gets infected with a certain fungus. This results in the bark turning dark and resinous. It also imparts a specific kind of fragrance to agaru, hence making it an important component in most incense sticks.

Agarkasth can grow to around 60-80 feet and has been spoken of highly in both Ayurveda and traditional Chinese medicine texts. It has thin leaves up to three inches long. In many cultures, it is said to ward off bad energies. Continue reading to find out about the various medicinal benefits of Agarkasth.

Basic information about Agarkasth

Botanical name: Aquilaria agallocha
Common name: Agarkasth
Family: Thymelaeaceae
Native region and geographical distribution: North-East India, Bangladesh, Bhutan and parts of South-East Asia
Energetics: Known to pacify Kapha and Vata “doshas”

Agarkasth benefits for health
Agarkasth dosage and side effects

Doctors for Agarkasth benefits and side effects

Agarkasth benefits for health

Traditionally, some of the properties ascribed to Agarwood or Agarkasth are as follows:

Analgesic
Sedative
Aids digestion
Anti-microbial
Carminative
Aphrodisiac
Astringent
Stimulant
Anti-inflammatory
Aromatic
Laxative

Agarwood leaves tea has again become a popular herbal remedy. Leaves of different trees of the species—Aquilaria crassna, Aquilaria malaccensis and Aquilaria sinensis—have been found to contain compounds like hexadecanoic acid and squalene that have antifungal and antioxidant properties. However, research has also shown that A. malaccensis has a very slight cytotoxic and genotoxic effect and "can be classified as slightly hazardous (Class III)" to humans.

According to research published in the Journal of Herbal Medicine, the leaves of agarwood trees contain compounds like 2-(2-phenylethyl) chromones, phenolic acids, steroids, fatty acids, benzophenones, xanthonoids, flavonoids, terpenoids and alkanes which may give them some pharmacological properties, including properties like relief from pain and inflammation, anticancer and antitumor properties, antioxidant properties, antimicrobial properties, and liver-protecting or hepatoprotective properties among other benefits.

Agarkasth for constipation

Constipation is a condition wherein it becomes difficult for the person to pass stool. It can happen for various reasons. The leaves of agaru tree are laxative in nature, that is, they can induce bowel movements. A tea made from these leaves can help in relieving constipation.

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Agarkasth for arthritis

In case of painful joints in both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, local application of a paste made from the bark of the agarkasth tree can provide much relief. This is due to its anti-inflammatory properties.

Agarkasth for clear skin

Among the many properties of agaru are its abilities to fight microbes and inflammation. It is due to these that agakasth has the ability to provide relief from skin conditions such as acne, eczema and psoriasis.

Applying a paste made with the bark on affected areas is usually recommended. Apart from this, tea made from the bark is known to purify the blood, thereby making the skin healthier. (Read more: How to get glowing skin)

Agarkasth for heartburn and nausea

Inhaling the smoke that arises after burning a small amount of agarwood provides relief from acidity and vomiting sensation. One can also prepare a decoction of agarwood and sip it for relief.

Agarkasth for mental health

One of the most astounding benefits offered by agarwood is that when its oil is used in aromatherapy, it can provide relief from various mental health conditions including anxiety and depression.

Agarkasth for asthma

Oil obtained from agarkasth is useful in the management of asthma. It can be consumed with beetel (paan) leaves. If the oil isn’t available for oral consumption, the bark is boiled in water to create a decoction which can either be mixed with coconut oil or applied directly on the scalp of the asthma patient.

Please talk to your doctor before trying this or any other herbal remedy for asthma. This is important because some remedies could interact with your regular medicines and reduce their efficacy. Some herbal remedies may also not be suitable for you, given your overall health. It is best to consult your GP before adding anything to your medicines or therapies list.

Agarkasth for digestion

Agarkasth is widely used in indigestion and other problems of the kidney as well as the liver, including jaundice. When a person experiences a loss of appetite, agarwood powder mixed along with honey is sometimes prescribed in Ayurveda.

Agarkasth for body odour and bad breath

Body odour, even though a common occurrence, can be embarrassing in social situations. Agarkasth has aromatic properties and it has been lauded for its ability to fight body odour (read more: Remedies to get rid of body odour). Applying a paste made of agarwood and milk/rosewater is likely to leave you feeling fresh and rejuvenated. Further, the bark can be chewed to ward off bad breath.

Agarkasth dosage and side effects

The dosage will depend on your health and requirement. Usually, it is used as one to four drops of agarwood oil per usage. In the case of agarwood powder, 3-6 grams are usually recommended. Agarkasth is likely safe in the prescribed dosage and, usually, no side effects are noticed.