Bodhi tree
Ficus religiosa
Ficus religiosa, commonly known as the sacred fig or bodhi tree, is traditionally significant in Hinduism and Buddhism where it is associated with spiritual practices. While its traditional uses are not extensively documented, studies have shown that Ficus religiosa leaf extracts possess antioxidant, cytotoxic, and antibacterial properties, indicating potential medicinal applications. Biogenically synthesized NiO nanoparticles from the leaves effectively sequestered anionic Congo Red dye, suggesting possible environmental remediation capabilities. Among Tharu people in the study area, Ficus religiosa was one of the most frequently cited plants for various uses, though its performance was found to be low and unsuitable for highly polluted areas according to evaluation indices. No major safety concerns or drug interactions have been recorded for this plant.
- Best evidence
- D
- Cautions
- —
Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.
What the science says
- Ficus religiosa leaf extracts showed antioxidant, cytotoxic, and antibacterial activities with distinct chemical profiles compared to other medicinal plants evaluated.
- The study found that biogenically synthesized NiO nanoparticles using Ficus religiosa leaves effectively sequestered anionic Congo Red dye from aqueous solutions.
- Ficus religiosa was the most frequently cited plant species with 180 use reports among the Tharu people in the study area.
- Ficus religiosa showed low performance and was unsuitable for highly polluted areas according to the study's evaluation indices.
Frequently asked questions
What is Bodhi tree?
Bodhi tree (Ficus religiosa) is a plant documented in FolkKB's traditional-medicine reference, drawn from sourced literature and cross-checked against the evidence.
What does the scientific evidence say about Bodhi tree?
4 sourced findings are recorded for Bodhi tree; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: Ficus religiosa leaf extracts showed antioxidant, cytotoxic, and antibacterial activities with distinct chemical profiles compared to other medicinal plants evaluated.
How strong is the evidence for Bodhi tree?
The strongest finding for Bodhi tree carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Bodhi tree safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Bodhi tree in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Bodhi tree interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Bodhi tree in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of Bodhi tree?
Bodhi tree is also known as: фикус священный, Figuier des pagodes.
Is Bodhi tree a proven treatment?
No. FolkKB is informational only. Traditional use and early findings are not proof of efficacy or safety — consult a qualified professional and never self-treat.
Sources
- T2 Roadside Trees as Bioindicators: Air Pollution Tolerance and Physiological Responses in Dhaka, Bangladesh. literature abstract metadata
- T2 LC/MS-Based Phytochemical Profiling and Immunomodulatory Evaluation of Three Medicinal Plants With Anticancer and Antibacterial Activities. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Ethnobotanical knowledge of Tharu people living nearby Koshi River and Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve (KTWR), eastern Nepal. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Biogenic synthesis of NiO nanoparticles using Ficus religiosa and their application to sequestrate anionic dye. literature abstract metadata