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Ficus religiosa L.
Synonym : Ficus peepul Griff.
Family
: Moraceae
Local Names
: Arayaal, Peepal tree,
Sacred fig, Bodhivriksham
Flowering and fruiting period: November – February
Distribution: East Himalayas; planted and
naturalised in India and neighbouring countries
Habitat: Widely planted in temple
premises
IUCN status: Data Deficient
Endemic: Yes
Uses: Sacred Indian plant, Ayurvedic,
anti-diarrheal, anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, remedy for ulcer, bonsai
material, ornamental. The small figs are used mainly as a famine food. It is
used as an antidote against bites of venomous animals, and for the treatment of
haemoptysis and fistula. Aerial roots are used in the treatment of ascites and
are chewed by women to promote fertility. The bark contains tannins and is used
as a dye for cloth.
Key Characters: Ficus religiosa are deciduous trees; aerial roots absent. Leaves
simple, alternate, margin entire, lateral nerves looped near the margin.
