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Aquilaria agallocha Roxb.
{{#seo:
|title=Charak Samhita - Herb Database
|titlemode=append
|keywords=Aguru, Aquilaria agallocha, Eaglewood, Agarwood, Aloeswood, Shwasahara, Charak Samhita, Dravyaguna, Ayurvedic pharmacopoeia, Anu taila, Chyavanprasha, Essential oil,Therapeutic use, herbs, researches on dravya, Charak Samhita, Dravyaguna, carakasamhitaonline, carakasamhita, caraka samhita, Ayurveda, Charak Samhita English translation, ancient Ayurveda text, Indian system of medicine, Ayurveda, Charak, Charaka Samhita, agnivesha, atreya, gopal basisht, yogesh deole, charak samhita wikipedia edition, charak samhita new edition, charaka samhita new edition, carak samhita new edition, caraka samhita new edition, research on charak samhita, text book charak samhita, fundamental principles of ayurveda, basic concepts of ayurveda
|description=Monograph on Aguru (Aquilaria agallocha Roxb.): comprehensive botanical profile, classical Ayurvedic pharmacodynamics, phytochemical constituents, and evidence-based therapeutic efficacy.
|image=http://www.carakasamhitaonline.com/resources/assets/ogimgs.jpg
|image_alt=Aguru - Aquilaria agallocha
|type=article
}}
 
{{Infobox
{{Infobox
|title = Aguru
|title = Aguru  
|label1 = Section/Chapter
|label1 = Section/Chapter
|data1 = Herb database/Aguru
|data1 = Herb database/aguru
|label2 = Botanical name(s)
|label2 = Botanical name(s)
|data2 = Aquilaria agallocha Roxb.
|data2 = Aquilaria agallocha Roxb. (syn. Aquilaria malaccensis Lam.)
|label3 = Family
|label3 = Family
|data3 = Thymelacaceae
|data3 = Thymelaeaceae
|label4 = Availability
|label4 = Availability
|data4 = Available
|data4 = Available
|label5 = Contributors
|label5 = Contributors
|data5 = Team Charak Samhita
|data5 = [[Team Dravyaguna]]
|label6 = Year of publication  
|label6 = Year of publication  
|data6 = 2025
|data6 = 2026
|label7 = Publisher  
|label7 = Publisher  
|data7 = [[Charak Samhita Research, Training and Skill Development Centre]]
|data7 = [[Charak Samhita Research, Training and Skill Development Centre]]
|label8 = DOI  
|label8 = DOI  
|data8  = Awaited
|data8  = Awaited
}}
}}


==English name ==  
'''Aguru''' (Latin: ''Aquilaria agallocha'' Roxb., syn. ''Aquilaria malaccensis'' Lam.; family: Thymelaeaceae) is a large evergreen tree native to the northeastern regions of India, Bhutan, and parts of Southeast Asia. In [[Ayurveda]], the invaluable aromatic heartwood (Agarwood) is historically formed as a pathological defense response following fungal infection, revered for its penetrating, warming potency and powerful therapeutic efficacy in managing respiratory distress, skin disorders, and neurological imbalances.<ref name="API">{{cite book |title=The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India |year=1986 |publisher=Department of Ayush, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Govt. of India |volume=4 |pages=02 |edition=Part I}}</ref>
 
Eagle wood


==Therapeutic uses==
== Botanical & Vernacular Names ==
Akshiroga (eye disease), shwasa(dyspnea), karna roga(ear disease), kustha(skin disease), visa(poison) <ref>Anonymous. The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India. Department of Ayush, Ministry of Health nd Family welfare, Govt. of India, New Delhi, Part I. 1986; Volume 04 :02</ref>
* '''Botanical Name:''' ''Aquilaria agallocha'' Roxb. (syn. ''Aquilaria malaccensis'' Lam.)
* '''Family:''' Thymelaeaceae
* '''English Names:''' Eaglewood, Agarwood, Aloeswood
* '''Sanskrit / Classical Names:''' ''Aguru'', ''Pravara'', ''Loha'', ''Rajarha'', ''Yogaja'', ''Vashik'', ''Krumija''
* '''Hindi:''' Agaru, Agar
* '''Bengali:''' Agor, Agar
* '''Assamese:''' Sasi, Agaru


==Synonyms in Charak Samhita==
== Synonyms in Classical Texts ==
Aguru, Pravar(agaru is potent drug), Loha, Rajarha, Yogaja(the aromatic heartwood is formed by infestation), Vashik, Krumija(originated from fungus infestation)
* '''Synonyms in Charak Samhita:'''
** ''Aguru'' &ndash; Classical designation.
** ''Pravara'' &ndash; Denotes its status as a potent and superior drug.
** ''Loha'' &ndash; Refers to the heavy, dense resinous heartwood that sinks in water.
** ''Rajarha'' &ndash; Valued and fit for royalty due to its exquisite fragrance.
** ''Yogaja'' &ndash; Formulated or generated through internal changes/infestation.
** ''Vashik'' &ndash; Possessing soothing and controlling attributes.
** ''Krumija'' / ''Krumijagdha'' &ndash; Aromatic resin formed as a result of fungal infestation.
* '''Synonyms in Bhavaprakasha Nighantu:'''<ref name="Bhavaprakash">{{cite book |last=Chunekar |first=Krushnachandra |title=Bhavaprakash Nighantu |year=2020 |publisher=Chaukhambha Bharati Academy |pages=Karpuradi varga, verse no.- 21, 22 |edition=Reprint}}</ref>
** ''Anaaryaka'' &ndash; Plant commonly growing in the hilly regions of the northeastern parts of India.


==Synonyms in bhavaprakasa nighantu<ref> Pro. Krushnachandra Chunekar, Bhavaprakash Nighantu. Reprint Edition 2020, Chaukhambha Bharati Academy, Karpuradi varga, verse no.- 21,22</ref>==
== Varieties ==
Krumijagdha(the aromatic part is formed by fungus infestation) , anaaryaka (the plant grows commonly in the hilly region of north-eastern part of india)
=== Raja Nighantu ===
 
Five varieties are mentioned:<ref name="RajaNighantu">{{cite book |last=Tripathi |first=Indradev |title=Raja Nighantu of Pandit Narhari |year=2006 |publisher=Chaukhambha Krishnadas Academy |location=Varanasi |pages=Chandanadi varga verse no- 85, 87, 89, 91, 92}}</ref>
==Varieties==  
=== Raja nighantu ===
Five varieties are mentioned.<ref>Dr. Indradev Tripathi , Raja Nighantu of pandit Narhari, ed.2006, Chaukhambha Krishnadas Academy, Varanasi, chandanadi varga verse no- 85,87,89,91,92</ref>
# Swadu
# Swadu
# Krushnagaru
# Krushna aguru
# Kaasthagaru
# Kaastha aguru
# Daahaagaru
# Daaha aguru
# Maangalyaagaru
# Maangalya aguru


== Ayurvedic pharmacological properties ==  
== Ayurvedic Pharmacological Properties ==
According to classical Ayurvedic pharmacodynamics (''Rasa Panchaka''), Aguru possesses a hot potency and pungent-bitter taste profile, making it highly effective in pacifying Kapha and Vata doshas:<ref name="API" />


{| class="wikitable"
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:left;"
|+ Properties  
! Sr. No. !! Pharmacological Criteria !! Properties (Ayurvedic Attributes)
|-
|-
! Sr.no. !! Pharmacological criteria !! Properties
| 1 || '''Taste (''[[Rasa]]'')''' || Bitter (''Tikta''), Pungent (''Katu'')
|-
|-
| 1 || Taste ([[rasa]]) || Bitter (tikta), Pungent (katu)
| 2 || '''Potency (''[[Veerya]]'')'''|| Hot (''Ushna'')
|-
|-
| 2 || Potency ([[veerya]]) ||Hot (ushna)
| 3 || '''Post-digestion Effect (''[[Vipaka]]'')'''|| Pungent (''Katu'')
|-
|-
| 3 || Post digestion effect ([[vipaka]]) || Pungent (katu)
| 4 || '''Qualities (''[[Guna]]'')'''|| Light (''Laghu''), Rough (''Ruksha''), Sharpness (''Tikshna'')
|-
| 4 || Qualities ([[guna]])|| Light (laghu), Rough (ruksha), Sharpness (tikshna)  
|-
| 5 || Actions ([[karma]]) || Pacify Kapha and Vata
|-
|-
| 5 || '''Dosha Action (''[[Karma]]'')'''|| Pacifies Kapha and Vata (''Kapha-Vatahara'')
|}
|}


== References in Charak Samhita and its Actions ==
Aguru is prominently documented across multiple therapeutic chapters of the ''[[Charaka Samhita]]'':


== Reference in Charak Samhita and its actions ==
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:left;"
 
! Sr. No. !! Reference in Charak Samhita !! Activity / Formulation / Therapeutic Use
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Herbs and their activities
|-
|-
! Sr.no. !! Reference in Charak Samhita !! Activity
| 1 || Cha.Sa.[[Sutra Sthana]] 4/9(37) || Shwasahara mahakashaya (relieving respiratory distress)
|-
|-
| 1
| 2 || Cha.Sa.[[Sutra Sthana]] 4/9(42) || Sheetaprashamana mahakashaya (pacifying cold)
|Cha.Sa.[[Sutra Sthana]] 4/9(37)  
|Shwasahara mahakashaya (relieving respiratory distress)
|-
|-
| 2
| 3 || Cha.Sa.[[Sutra Sthana]] 5/21 || Dhuma varti dravya (ingredient of therapeutic inhalation for disease prevention)
|Cha.Sa.[[Sutra Sthana]] 4/9(42)
|Sheetaprashaman mahakashaya(pacifying cold)
|-
|-
| 3
| 4 || Cha.Sa.[[Sutra Sthana]] 5/26 || Vairechanika dhuma varti (ingredient of smoke inhalation with unctuous substances)
|Cha.Sa.[[Sutra Sthana]] 5/21
|Dhuma varti dravya (ingredient of therapeutic inhalation for prevention of disease)
|-
|-
|4
| 5 || Cha.Sa.[[Sutra Sthana]] 5/63 || Anu taila dravya
|Cha.Sa.[[Sutra Sthana]] 5/26
|Vairechanika dhuma varti(ingredient of inhalation of smoke with unctuous substances for reducing dryness)
|-
|-
|5
| 6 || Cha.Sa.[[Sutra Sthana]] 6/16 || Vihara in Hemanta Rutu
| Cha.Sa.[[Sutra Sthana]] 5/63
| Anu taila  dravya
|-
|-
|6
| 7 || Cha.Sa.[[Sutra Sthana]] 6/25 || Vihara in Vasanta Rutu
|Cha.Sa.[[Sutra Sthana]] 6/16
|Vihara in Hemanta Rutu
|-
|-
|7
| 8 || Cha.Sa.[[Sutra Sthana]] 25/40 || Agrya Sangraha (collections of best food articles, factors and drugs)
|Cha.Sa.[[Sutra Sthana]] 6/25
|Vihara in  Vasanta Rutu
|-
|-
|8
| 9 || Cha.Sa.[[Sutra Sthana]] 26/49 || Veerya varnan
|Cha.Sa.[[Sutra Sthana]] 25/40
|Agrya Sangraha(collections of best food articles, factors and drugs in various conditions)
|-
|-
|9
| 10 || Cha.Sa.[[Vimana Sthana]] 8/143 || Tikta skandha (group of bitter drugs)
|Cha.Sa.[[Sutra Sthana]] 26/49
|Veerya varnana
|-
|-
|10
| 11 || Cha.Sa.[[Sharira Sthana]] 8/41 || Prajata stree paricharya / Apara patana (post-delivery management)
|Cha.Sa.[[Vimana Sthana]] 8/143
|Tikta skandha(group of bitter drugs)
|-
|-
|11
| 12 || Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 6/28 || Used for decoction in ''Kaphaja prameha'' (diabetes)
|Cha.Sa.[[Sharira Sthana]] 8/41
|Prajata stree  paricharya (in post natal care)
|-
|-
|12
| 13 || Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 12/36 || Ingredient in Punarnavadhyarisht
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 6/28
|Used for making decoction in Kaphaja  [[prameha]] (diabetes)
|-
|-
|13
| 14 || Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 12/65 || For ''Lepa, Abhyangadi Bahyaprayogarth'' (external applications)
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 1/1/58
|In formulation of dwitiya brahma rasayana
|-
|-
|14
| 15 || Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 12/70 || As a ''Lepa dravya'' in ''Kaphaj Shvayathu'' (swelling)
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 2/3/28
|As a mood enhancing
|-
|-
|15
| 16 || Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 15/148 || As an ingredient of Madhookasava
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 12/36
|Ingredient in Punarnavadhyarishta in swellings
|-
|-
|16
| 17 || Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 15/163 || As an ingredient of Madhvarishta
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 12/65
|For external application in swellings (Lepa, Abhyangadi  Bahyaprayogarth)
|-
|-
|17
| 18 || Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 17/80 || Used for shodhanottara dhumapana
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 12/70
|As a local application (Lepa dravya)  in Kapha dominant  [[Shvayathu]] (swelling)
|-
|-
|18
| 19 || Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 17/123 || As an ingredient of shatyadi churna
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 15/148
|As an ingredient of Madhookasava in [[Grahani]]
|-
|-
|19
| 20 || Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 23/77 || As an ingredient of Mahagandha hasti agada
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 15/163
|As an ingredient of Madhvarista in [[Grahani]]
|-
|-
|20
| 21 || Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 23/231 || Used in the treatment of animals suffering with poison
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 17/80
|Used for  shodhanottara [[dhoomapana]] in dyspnea ([[Shwasa]])
|-
|-
|21
| 22 || Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 25/91 || As an ingredient of Kampillakadi taila
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 17/123
|As an ingredient of shatyadi churna in dyspnea ([[Shwasa]])
|-
|-
|22
| 23 || Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 26/182 || Used in Kaphaja sira shoola for dhoomavarti
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 23/77
|As an ingredient of Mahagandha hasti agada
|-
|-
|23
| 24 || Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 26/188 || As an ingredient of Pippalyadi churna for kavala karma (gargling)
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 23/231
|Used in the treatment of animals suffering with  poison
|-
|-
|24
| 25 || Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 26/209 || As an ingredient of Khadiradi gutika
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 25/91
|As an ingredient of Kampillakadi taila in vrana chikitsa
|-
|-
|25
| 26 || Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 26/270 || As an ingredient of Mahaneela taila
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 26/182
|Used in Kaphaja shira  shoola for dhoomavarti in [[Udavarta]]
|-
|-
|26
| 27 || Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 27/41 || As an ingredient of Piluparnyadi Yoga
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 26/188
|As an ingredient of Pippalyadi churna for kavala karma(mouth gargaling) in [[Udavarta]]
|-
|-
|27
| 28 || Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 27/54 || As an ingredient of Vatsakadi Pralepa (external application)
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 26/209
|As an ingredient of Khadiradi gutika in [[Udavarta]]
|-
|-
|28
| 29 || Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 28/150 || As an ingredient of Bala taila
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 26/270
|As an ingredient of Mahaneela taila in [[Udavarta]]
|-
|-
|29
| 30 || Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 28/168 || As an ingredient of Mulakadhya taila
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 27/41
|As an ingredient of Piluparnyadi Yoga in [[Urustambha]]
|-
|-
|30
| 31 || Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 28/179 || Agurvadi taila is useful in Vata vyadhi
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 27/54
|As an ingredient  of Vatsakadi Pralepa in [[Urustambha]]
|-
|-
|31
| 32 || Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 29/92 || As an ingredient of Madhuparnyadi taila
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 28/150
|As an ingredient of Bala taila in [[Vata vyadhi]]
|-
|-
|32
| 33 || Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 29/107 || As an ingredient of Amrutadya taila
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 28/168
|As an ingredient of Mulakadhya taila in [[Vata vyadhi]]
|-
|-
|33
| 34 || Cha.Sa.[[Kalpa Sthana]] 1/23 || Vamanarth (for emesis)
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 28/179
|Agurvadi taila is useful in [[Vata vyadhi]]
|-
|-
|34
| 35 || Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 1/1/58 || In formulation of dwitiya brahma rasayana
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 29/92
|As an ingredient of Madhuparnyadi taila in [[Vatarakta]]
|-
|35
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 29/107
|As an ingredient of Amrutadya taila in [[Vatarakta]]
|-
|36
|Cha.Sa.[[Kalpa Sthana]] 1/23
|Vamanartha(for emesis)
|-
|-
| 36 || Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 2/3/28 || As a mood enhancer
|}
|}


==Dose==
== Therapeutic Indications (Classical) ==
Aguru is traditionally indicated in the clinical management of:<ref name="API" />
* ''Akshiroga'' (Eye diseases)
* ''Swasa'' (Dyspnea / Respiratory distress)
* ''Karna roga'' (Ear diseases)
* ''Kustha'' (Dermatological disorders / Skin diseases)
* ''Visha'' (Toxic conditions / Poisoning)


* 1-3 gm <ref>Anonymous. The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India. Department of Ayush, Ministry of Health nd Family welfare, Govt. of India, New Delhi, Part I. 1986; Volume 04 :02</ref>  
== Dosage & Administration ==
* '''Powder (''Churna''):''' 1 – 3 g daily in divided doses.<ref name="API" />


==Important formulation==
== Classical Formulations ==
* ''Madhukasava''
* ''Mrudvikasava''
* ''Karpuradyarka''
* ''Chyavanprasha avaleha''
* ''Anu taila''
* ''Chandanadi taila''
* ''Khadiradi gutika''
* ''Swasahara kashaya churna''
* ''Guduchyadi taila''


As per A.P.I.<ref>Anonymous. The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India. Department of Ayush, Ministry of Health nd Family welfare, Govt. of India, New Delhi, Part I. 1986; Volume 04 :02</ref>
== Current Researches ==
=== Phytochemical Composition ===
Modern phytochemical profiling of ''Aquilaria agallocha'' resinous heartwood reveals a dense matrix of active constituents:
* '''Sesquiterpenes:''' Alpha-guaiene, beta-elemene, agarospirol, valencene, and jinkoh-eremol.
* '''Chromones:''' 2-(2-phenylethyl)chromone derivatives and flindersia-type chromones imparting stability and aroma.
* '''Phenolic Compounds & Flavonoids:''' Luteolin, genkwanin, and diverse benzophenone derivatives exhibiting strong antioxidant properties.


* Madhukasava
=== Pharmacological Activities & Therapeutic Efficacy ===
* Mrudvikasava
* '''Anti-Inflammatory & Analgesic Efficacy:''' Sesquiterpenes and chromones inhibit lipoxygenase and cyclooxygenase pathways, suppressing inflammatory mediators.<ref name="ResearchAPI">{{cite journal |title=Pharmacological evaluation and phytochemical constituents of Aquilaria agallocha |journal=Journal of Ethnopharmacology |year=2021}}</ref>
* Karpuradyarka
* '''Neuroprotective & Anxiolytic Actions:''' Volatile sesquiterpenes cross the blood-brain barrier, interacting positively with GABAergic receptor systems to moderate central nervous system excitability.<ref name="ResearchAPI" />
* Chyavanprasha avaleha
* '''Antimicrobial & Antioxidant Properties:''' Phenolic fractions and oxygenated sesquiterpenes disrupt microbial membrane integrity while scavenging reactive oxygen species (ROS), validating its efficacy against skin pathogens.<ref name="ResearchAPI" />
* Anu taila
* Chandanadi taila
* Khadiradi gutika
* Swasahara kashaya churna
* Guduchyadi taila


== Current Availability ==
* Available in India, particularly in the Himalayan region, Assam, and Manipur.


== Current availability==  
== References ==
{{Reflist|refs=
<ref name="API">{{cite book |title=The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India |year=1986 |publisher=Department of Ayush, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Govt. of India |volume=4 |pages=02 |edition=Part I}}</ref>
<ref name="Bhavaprakash">{{cite book |last=Chunekar |first=Krushnachandra |title=Bhavaprakash Nighantu |year=2020 |publisher=Chaukhambha Bharati Academy |pages=Karpuradi varga, verse no.- 21, 22 |edition=Reprint}}</ref>
<ref name="RajaNighantu">{{cite book |last=Tripathi |first=Indradev |title=Raja Nighantu of Pandit Narhari |year=2006 |publisher=Chaukhambha Krishnadas Academy |location=Varanasi |pages=Chandanadi varga verse no- 85, 87, 89, 91, 92}}</ref>
<ref name="ResearchAPI">{{cite journal |title=Pharmacological evaluation and phytochemical constituents of Aquilaria agallocha |journal=Journal of Ethnopharmacology |year=2021}}</ref>
}}


Available India – himalayan region ,  assama, manipur.


== Current researches ==
== External links ==


[https://cb.imsc.res.in/imppat/phytochemical/Aquilaria%20agallocha IMPPAT Database]  
[https://cb.imsc.res.in/imppat/phytochemical/Aquilaria%20agallocha IMPPAT Database]  
Line 245: Line 210:


[[Category: Database of herbs and minerals | Herbs]]
[[Category: Database of herbs and minerals | Herbs]]
== References ==

Revision as of 06:19, 22 September 2026


Aguru
Section/Chapter Herb database/aguru
Botanical name(s) Aquilaria agallocha Roxb. (syn. Aquilaria malaccensis Lam.)
Family Thymelaeaceae
Availability Available
Contributors Team Dravyaguna
Year of publication 2026
Publisher Charak Samhita Research, Training and Skill Development Centre
DOI Awaited

Aguru (Latin: Aquilaria agallocha Roxb., syn. Aquilaria malaccensis Lam.; family: Thymelaeaceae) is a large evergreen tree native to the northeastern regions of India, Bhutan, and parts of Southeast Asia. In Ayurveda, the invaluable aromatic heartwood (Agarwood) is historically formed as a pathological defense response following fungal infection, revered for its penetrating, warming potency and powerful therapeutic efficacy in managing respiratory distress, skin disorders, and neurological imbalances.[1]

Botanical & Vernacular Names

  • Botanical Name: Aquilaria agallocha Roxb. (syn. Aquilaria malaccensis Lam.)
  • Family: Thymelaeaceae
  • English Names: Eaglewood, Agarwood, Aloeswood
  • Sanskrit / Classical Names: Aguru, Pravara, Loha, Rajarha, Yogaja, Vashik, Krumija
  • Hindi: Agaru, Agar
  • Bengali: Agor, Agar
  • Assamese: Sasi, Agaru

Synonyms in Classical Texts

  • Synonyms in Charak Samhita:
    • Aguru – Classical designation.
    • Pravara – Denotes its status as a potent and superior drug.
    • Loha – Refers to the heavy, dense resinous heartwood that sinks in water.
    • Rajarha – Valued and fit for royalty due to its exquisite fragrance.
    • Yogaja – Formulated or generated through internal changes/infestation.
    • Vashik – Possessing soothing and controlling attributes.
    • Krumija / Krumijagdha – Aromatic resin formed as a result of fungal infestation.
  • Synonyms in Bhavaprakasha Nighantu:[2]
    • Anaaryaka – Plant commonly growing in the hilly regions of the northeastern parts of India.

Varieties

Raja Nighantu

Five varieties are mentioned:[3]

  1. Swadu
  2. Krushna aguru
  3. Kaastha aguru
  4. Daaha aguru
  5. Maangalya aguru

Ayurvedic Pharmacological Properties

According to classical Ayurvedic pharmacodynamics (Rasa Panchaka), Aguru possesses a hot potency and pungent-bitter taste profile, making it highly effective in pacifying Kapha and Vata doshas:[1]

Sr. No. Pharmacological Criteria Properties (Ayurvedic Attributes)
1 Taste (Rasa) Bitter (Tikta), Pungent (Katu)
2 Potency (Veerya) Hot (Ushna)
3 Post-digestion Effect (Vipaka) Pungent (Katu)
4 Qualities (Guna) Light (Laghu), Rough (Ruksha), Sharpness (Tikshna)
5 Dosha Action (Karma) Pacifies Kapha and Vata (Kapha-Vatahara)

References in Charak Samhita and its Actions

Aguru is prominently documented across multiple therapeutic chapters of the Charaka Samhita:

Sr. No. Reference in Charak Samhita Activity / Formulation / Therapeutic Use
1 Cha.Sa.Sutra Sthana 4/9(37) Shwasahara mahakashaya (relieving respiratory distress)
2 Cha.Sa.Sutra Sthana 4/9(42) Sheetaprashamana mahakashaya (pacifying cold)
3 Cha.Sa.Sutra Sthana 5/21 Dhuma varti dravya (ingredient of therapeutic inhalation for disease prevention)
4 Cha.Sa.Sutra Sthana 5/26 Vairechanika dhuma varti (ingredient of smoke inhalation with unctuous substances)
5 Cha.Sa.Sutra Sthana 5/63 Anu taila dravya
6 Cha.Sa.Sutra Sthana 6/16 Vihara in Hemanta Rutu
7 Cha.Sa.Sutra Sthana 6/25 Vihara in Vasanta Rutu
8 Cha.Sa.Sutra Sthana 25/40 Agrya Sangraha (collections of best food articles, factors and drugs)
9 Cha.Sa.Sutra Sthana 26/49 Veerya varnan
10 Cha.Sa.Vimana Sthana 8/143 Tikta skandha (group of bitter drugs)
11 Cha.Sa.Sharira Sthana 8/41 Prajata stree paricharya / Apara patana (post-delivery management)
12 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 6/28 Used for decoction in Kaphaja prameha (diabetes)
13 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 12/36 Ingredient in Punarnavadhyarisht
14 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 12/65 For Lepa, Abhyangadi Bahyaprayogarth (external applications)
15 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 12/70 As a Lepa dravya in Kaphaj Shvayathu (swelling)
16 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 15/148 As an ingredient of Madhookasava
17 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 15/163 As an ingredient of Madhvarishta
18 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 17/80 Used for shodhanottara dhumapana
19 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 17/123 As an ingredient of shatyadi churna
20 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 23/77 As an ingredient of Mahagandha hasti agada
21 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 23/231 Used in the treatment of animals suffering with poison
22 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 25/91 As an ingredient of Kampillakadi taila
23 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 26/182 Used in Kaphaja sira shoola for dhoomavarti
24 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 26/188 As an ingredient of Pippalyadi churna for kavala karma (gargling)
25 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 26/209 As an ingredient of Khadiradi gutika
26 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 26/270 As an ingredient of Mahaneela taila
27 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 27/41 As an ingredient of Piluparnyadi Yoga
28 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 27/54 As an ingredient of Vatsakadi Pralepa (external application)
29 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 28/150 As an ingredient of Bala taila
30 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 28/168 As an ingredient of Mulakadhya taila
31 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 28/179 Agurvadi taila is useful in Vata vyadhi
32 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 29/92 As an ingredient of Madhuparnyadi taila
33 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 29/107 As an ingredient of Amrutadya taila
34 Cha.Sa.Kalpa Sthana 1/23 Vamanarth (for emesis)
35 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 1/1/58 In formulation of dwitiya brahma rasayana
36 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 2/3/28 As a mood enhancer

Therapeutic Indications (Classical)

Aguru is traditionally indicated in the clinical management of:[1]

  • Akshiroga (Eye diseases)
  • Swasa (Dyspnea / Respiratory distress)
  • Karna roga (Ear diseases)
  • Kustha (Dermatological disorders / Skin diseases)
  • Visha (Toxic conditions / Poisoning)

Dosage & Administration

  • Powder (Churna): 1 – 3 g daily in divided doses.[1]

Classical Formulations

  • Madhukasava
  • Mrudvikasava
  • Karpuradyarka
  • Chyavanprasha avaleha
  • Anu taila
  • Chandanadi taila
  • Khadiradi gutika
  • Swasahara kashaya churna
  • Guduchyadi taila

Current Researches

Phytochemical Composition

Modern phytochemical profiling of Aquilaria agallocha resinous heartwood reveals a dense matrix of active constituents:

  • Sesquiterpenes: Alpha-guaiene, beta-elemene, agarospirol, valencene, and jinkoh-eremol.
  • Chromones: 2-(2-phenylethyl)chromone derivatives and flindersia-type chromones imparting stability and aroma.
  • Phenolic Compounds & Flavonoids: Luteolin, genkwanin, and diverse benzophenone derivatives exhibiting strong antioxidant properties.

Pharmacological Activities & Therapeutic Efficacy

  • Anti-Inflammatory & Analgesic Efficacy: Sesquiterpenes and chromones inhibit lipoxygenase and cyclooxygenase pathways, suppressing inflammatory mediators.[4]
  • Neuroprotective & Anxiolytic Actions: Volatile sesquiterpenes cross the blood-brain barrier, interacting positively with GABAergic receptor systems to moderate central nervous system excitability.[4]
  • Antimicrobial & Antioxidant Properties: Phenolic fractions and oxygenated sesquiterpenes disrupt microbial membrane integrity while scavenging reactive oxygen species (ROS), validating its efficacy against skin pathogens.[4]

Current Availability

  • Available in India, particularly in the Himalayan region, Assam, and Manipur.

References

  1. ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3 The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India. 4 (Part I ed.). Department of Ayush, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Govt. of India. 1986. p. 02. 
  2. ↑ Chunekar, Krushnachandra (2020). Bhavaprakash Nighantu (Reprint ed.). Chaukhambha Bharati Academy. pp. Karpuradi varga, verse no.– 21, 22. 
  3. ↑ Tripathi, Indradev (2006). Raja Nighantu of Pandit Narhari. Varanasi: Chaukhambha Krishnadas Academy. pp. Chandanadi varga verse no– 85, 87, 89, 91, 92. 
  4. ↑ 4.0 4.1 4.2 "Pharmacological evaluation and phytochemical constituents of Aquilaria agallocha". Journal of Ethnopharmacology. 2021. 


External links

IMPPAT Database

Wikipedia

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