Therapeutic Uses of Agaru (Aquilaria Agallocha) in Ayurveda

Abstract

Agaru (Aquilaria agallocha), or Agil or agarwood, is one of the most precious timbers in the world, with its pleasant, resinous nature and considerably used in the perfumery, medicinal, and other industries. It is cultivated as a colony crop in Sri Lanka and Southeast Asia. In Ayurveda, Agaru is recognized for its wide range of traditional and therapeutic uses. Although it is largely excavated in scientific literature, no important research is available on Agaru from an Ayurveda perspective. This review aims to examine the traditional Ayurveda uses of Agaru from the classical handbooks, analogous as Caraka Samhita, Susruta Samhita, Ashtanga Hridaya Samhita, Bhava Prakasha, Sharngadhara Samhita, and Bhaishajya Ratnavali, and from other literature. In Caraka Samhita, Agaru is noted to soothe Vata and Kapha dosas and treat respiratory, digestive, and skin diseases. Susruta Samhita mentioned its wound healing and anti- inflammatory properties, and Ashtanga Hridaya directs towards its restorative action on mental health, including enhancement of intellect and the cure for stress. Bhava Prakasha announces measures of Agaru, Rasayana (rejuvenation) and recommends its actions under urinary disorders and durability treatment. Sharngadhara Samhita refers to its scent and analgesic operations in oil formulations, and Bhaishajya Rathnawali specifies its action for fever, asthma, and gastro-intestinal conditions. This study collected 110 Ayurveda drugs that contained Agaru, which were used in the treatment of more than 34 diseases. Agaru is administered both internally and externally, either as a mono drug or in drug combinations. Its antimicrobial, analgesic, nervine, and rejuvenating activities validate its vital part in Ayurveda practice.