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Aquilaria agallocha Roxb.
{{#seo:
|title=Aguru
|titlemode=append
|keywords=Aguru, Aquilaria agallocha Roxb, Aquilaria malaccensis, Eaglewood, Agarwood, 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, Charaka Samhita, agnivesha, atreya, gopal basisht, yogesh deole, charak samhita wikipedia edition, charak samhita new edition, research on charak samhita, text book charak samhita, fundamental principles of ayurveda, basic concepts of ayurveda
|description=Aguru (Aquilaria agallocha Roxb.) is traditionally classified as a vata-kapha hara, lekhana and sugandhi (aromatic) herb, widely used in Ayurveda for skin disorders, respiratory distress, foul odors and nervine conditions.
|image=http://www.carakasamhitaonline.com/resources/assets/ogimgs.jpg
|image_alt=charak samhita
|type=article
}}
 
[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aquilaria_agallocha Aquilaria agallocha Roxb. (syn. Aquilaria malaccensis Lam.)]
 
{{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 = [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aquilaria_agallocha 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 = --
|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.; synonym: ''Aquilaria malaccensis'' Lam.; family: Thymelaeaceae) is a large evergreen tree native to north-eastern India, Bhutan and parts of South-East Asia. The aromatic, resin-impregnated heartwood (agarwood) forms in wounded or infected trees as a defence response, and is valued in [[Ayurveda]] for its penetrating, warming action in respiratory distress, skin disorders and neurological imbalance.<ref name="API" /><ref name="Wang2021" />
 
Eagle wood


==Therapeutic uses==
== Botanical & Vernacular Names ==
Akshiroga (eye disease), swasa(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" />
** ''Anaaryaka'' &ndash; Plant commonly growing in the hilly regions of north-eastern India.


==Synonyms in bhavaprakasa nighantu==
== 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)<ref> Pro. Krushnachandra Chunekar, Bhavaprakash Nighantu. Reprint Edition 2020, Chaukhambha Bharati Academy, Karpuradi varga, verse no.- 21,22</ref>
=== Raja Nighantu ===
 
Five varieties are mentioned:<ref name="RajaNighantu" />
==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
# Krushnagaru
Line 41: Line 62:
# Daahaagaru
# Daahaagaru
# Maangalyaagaru
# Maangalyaagaru


== Ayurvedic pharmacological properties ==  
== Ayurvedic Pharmacological Properties ==
According to classical Ayurvedic pharmacodynamics (''Rasa Panchaka''), Aguru has hot potency and a bitter-pungent taste, making it effective in pacifying Kapha and Vata:<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''), Sharp (''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)
|-
| 2 ||Cha.Sa.[[Sutra Sthana]] 4/9(42)
| Sheetaprashaman mahakashaya(pacifying cold)
|-
| 3 ||Cha.Sa.[[Sutra Sthana]] 5/21
|Dhuma varti  dravya (ingredient of therapeutic inhalation for prevention of disease)
|-
|4
|Cha.Sa.[[Sutra Sthana]] 5/26
|Vairechanika dhuma varti(ingredient of inhalation of smoke with unctuous substances for reducing dryness)
|-
|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 in various conditions)
|-
|9
|Cha.Sa.[[Sutra Sthana]] 26/49
|Veerya varnan
|-
|-
|10
| 1 || Cha.Sa.[[Sutra Sthana]] 4/9(37) || Shwasahara mahakashaya (relieving respiratory distress)
|Cha.Sa.[[Vimana Sthana]] 8/143
|Tiktaskandha(group of bitter drugs)
|-
|-
|11
| 2 || Cha.Sa.[[Sutra Sthana]] 4/9(42) || Sheetaprashamana mahakashaya (pacifying cold)
|Cha.Sa.[[Sharira Sthana]] 8/41
|Prajata stree  paricharya
|-
|-
|12
| 3 || Cha.Sa.[[Sutra Sthana]] 5/21 || Dhuma varti dravya (ingredient of therapeutic inhalation for disease prevention)
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 6/28
|Used for making decoction in ''Kaphaj  prameh''(diabetes)
|-
|-
|13
| 4 || Cha.Sa.[[Sutra Sthana]] 5/26 || Vairechanika dhuma varti (ingredient of smoke inhalation with unctuous substances)
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 12/36
|Ingredient in Punarnavadhyarisht
|-
|-
|14
| 5 || Cha.Sa.[[Sutra Sthana]] 5/63 || Anu taila dravya
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 25/91
|As an ingredient of Kampillakadi taila.
|-
|-
|15
| 6 || Cha.Sa.[[Sutra Sthana]] 6/16 || Vihara in Hemanta Rutu
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 26/182
|Used in Kaphaja sira  shoola for dhoomavarti.
|-
|-
|16
| 7 || Cha.Sa.[[Sutra Sthana]] 6/25 || Vihara in Vasanta Rutu
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 26/188
|As an ingredient of  Pippalyadi churna for kavala karma.
|-
|-
|17
| 8 || Cha.Sa.[[Sutra Sthana]] 25/40 || Agrya Sangraha (collections of best food articles, factors and drugs)
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 26/209
|As an ingredient of Khadiradi gutika.
|-
|-
|18
| 9 || Cha.Sa.[[Sutra Sthana]] 26/49 || Veerya varnan
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 26/270
|As an ingredient of  Mahaneela taila.
|-
|-
|19
| 10 || Cha.Sa.[[Vimana Sthana]] 8/143 || Tiktaskandha (group of bitter drugs)
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 27/41
|As an ingredient  of Piluparnyadi Yoga
|-
|-
|20
| 11 || Cha.Sa.[[Sharira Sthana]] 8/41 || Prajata stree paricharya / Apara patana (post-delivery management)
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 27/54
|As an ingredient  of Vatsakadi Pralepa(external application)
|-
|-
|21
| 12 || Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 6/28 || Used for decoction in ''Kaphaj prameh'' (diabetes)
|Cha.Sa.[[Kalpa Sthana]] 1/23
|Vamanarth(for emesis)
|-
|-
|22
| 13 || Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 12/36 || Ingredient in Punarnavadhyarisht
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 1/1/58
|In  formulation of dwitiya brahma rasayana
|-
|-
|23
| 14 || Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 12/65 || For ''Lepa, Abhyangadi Bahyaprayogarth'' (external applications)
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 2/3/28
|As a mood enhancing
|-
|-
|24
| 15 || Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 12/70 || As a ''Lepa dravya'' in ''Kaphaj Shvayathu'' (swelling)
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 12/36
|Ingredient in ''Punarnavadhyarisht''
|-
|-
|25
| 16 || Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 15/148 || As an ingredient of Madhookasava
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 12/65
|For ''Lepa, Abhyangadi  Bahyaprayogarth''
|-
|-
|26
| 17 || Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 15/163 || As an ingredient of Madhvarista
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 12/70
|As a ''Lepa dravya'' in ''Kaphaj  Shvayathu''(swelling)
|-
|-
|27
| 18 || Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 17/80 || Used for shodhanottara dhumpana
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 15/148
|As an  ingredient of Madhookasava
|-
|-
|28
| 19 || Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 17/123 || As an ingredient of satyadi churna
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 15/163
|As an ingredient of Madhvarista
|-
|-
|29
| 20 || Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 23/77 || As an ingredient of Mahagandha hasti agada
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 17/80
|Used for  shodhanottara dhumpana
|-
|-
|30
| 21 || Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 23/231 || Used in the treatment of animals suffering with poison
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 17/123
|As an ingredient of satyadi churna.
|-
|-
|31
| 22 || Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 25/91 || As an ingredient of Kampillakadi taila
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 23/77
|As an ingredient of Mahagandha hasti agada.
|-
|-
|32
| 23 || Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 26/182 || Used in Kaphaja sira shoola for dhoomavarti
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 23/231
|Used in the treatment of animals suffering with  poison.
|-
|-
|33
| 24 || Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 26/188 || As an ingredient of Pippalyadi churna for kavala karma (gargling)
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 25/91
|As an ingredient of Kampillakadi taila.
|-
|-
|34
| 25 || Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 26/209 || As an ingredient of Khadiradi gutika
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 26/182
|Used in Kaphaja sira  shoola for dhoomavarti.
|-
|-
|35
| 26 || Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 26/270 || As an ingredient of Mahaneela taila
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 26/188
|As an ingredient of Pippalyadi churna for kavala karma(mouth gargaling).
|-
|-
|36
| 27 || Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 27/41 || As an ingredient of Piluparnyadi Yoga
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 26/209
|As an ingredient of Khadiradi gutika
|-
|-
|37
| 28 || Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 27/54 || As an ingredient of Vatsakadi Pralepa (external application)
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 26/270
|As an ingredient of Mahaneela taila.
|-
|-
|38
| 29 || Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 28/150 || As an ingredient of Bala taila
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 27/41
|As an ingredient of Piluparnyadi Yoga
|-
|-
|39
| 30 || Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 28/168 || As an ingredient of Mulakadhya taila
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 27/54
|As an ingredient of Vatsakadi Pralepa
|-
|-
|40
| 31 || Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 28/179 || Agurvadi taila is useful in Vata vyadhi
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 28/150
|As an ingredient of Bala taila.
|-
|-
|41
| 32 || Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 29/92 || As an ingredient of Madhuparnyadi taila
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 28/168
|As an ingredient of Mulakadhya taila.
|-
|-
|42
| 33 || Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 29/107 || As an ingredient of Amrutadhya taila
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 28/179
|Agurvadi taila is useful in Vata vyadhi.
|-
|-
|43
| 34 || Cha.Sa.[[Kalpa Sthana]] 1/23 || Vamanarth (for emesis)
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 29/92
|As an ingredient of Madhuparnyadi taila.
|-
|-
|44
| 35 || Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 1/1/58 || In formulation of dwitiya brahma rasayana
|Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 29/107
|As an ingredient of Amrutadhya taila.
|-
|-
| 36 || Cha.Sa.[[Chikitsa Sthana]] 2/3/28 || As a mood enhancer
|}
|}


==Dose==
== Therapeutic Indications (Classical) ==
* 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>
Aguru is traditionally indicated in:<ref name="API" />
* ''Akshiroga'' (Eye diseases)
* ''Swasa'' (Dyspnea / Respiratory distress)
* ''Karna roga'' (Ear diseases)
* ''Kustha'' (Skin diseases)
* ''Visha'' (Poisoning / Toxic conditions)
 
 
== Dosage & Administration ==
* '''Powder (''Churna''):''' 1&ndash;3 g daily in divided doses.<ref name="API" />
 
== Classical Formulations ==
* ''Madhukasava''
* ''Mrudvikasava''
* ''Karpuradyarka''
* ''Chyavanprasha avaleha''
* ''Anu taila''
* ''Chandanadi taila''
* ''Khadiradi gutika''
* ''Swasahara kashaya churna''
* ''Guduchyadi taila''


==Important formulation==
== Current Researches ==
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>
=== Phytochemical Composition ===
* Madhukasava
Agarwood contains a large number of chemical compounds; more than 300 have been isolated from agarwood and ''Aquilaria'' plants.<ref name="Wang2018" />
* Mrudvikasava
* '''Sesquiterpenes:''' The main phytochemicals of agarwood are terpenoids, dominated by sesquiterpenes.<ref name="Wang2021" />
* Karpuradyarka
* '''Chromones:''' 2-(2-Phenylethyl)chromone derivatives are characteristic constituents; 88 new compounds of this class alone were isolated between 2010 and 2018.<ref name="Wang2018" />
* Chyavanprasa avaleha
* '''Aromatic compounds:''' Aromatic volatile compounds are another important component of agarwood volatile oil.<ref name="Wang2021" />
* Anu taila
* Chandanadi taila
* Khadiradi gutika
* Swasahara kashaya churna
* Guduchyadi taila


=== Pharmacological Activities ===
Terpenoids from agarwood have been reported to possess bacteriostatic, antibacterial, sedative, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, anti-asthmatic, hypoglycaemic and antidepressant properties.<ref name="Wang2021" /> A review of ''Aquilaria'' spp. concluded that the traditional medicinal uses of agarwood are supported by a range of bioactive compounds and pharmacological studies.<ref name="Hashim2016" />
* '''Anti-inflammatory & Analgesic:''' Reported for agarwood extracts and constituents.<ref name="Wang2021" /><ref name="Hashim2016" />
* '''Neuropharmacological (sedative, antidepressant):''' Reported for agarwood extracts and constituents.<ref name="Wang2021" /><ref name="Hashim2016" />
* '''Antimicrobial:''' Bacteriostatic and antibacterial activity has been reported for terpenoids from agarwood.<ref name="Wang2021" />
* '''Anti-asthmatic:''' Reported for terpenoids from agarwood.<ref name="Wang2021" />


== Current availability==
<!-- Removed unsupported mechanism statements (lipoxygenase/cyclooxygenase inhibition, GABAergic action, blood-brain barrier crossing, ROS scavenging). Re-add only with a primary source. -->


Available
== Safety & Conservation ==
India – himalayan region , assama, manipur.
* '''Safety:''' Agarwood plant materials are considered safe at the doses tested, but toxicity and safety, including the smoke from agarwood incense, need further investigation.<ref name="Hashim2016" />
* '''Conservation:''' Wild agarwood trees are critically endangered and vulnerable, and sustainable cultivation and forestry practices are necessary.<ref name="Hashim2016" />


== Current researches ==
== Current Availability ==
https://cb.imsc.res.in/imppat/phytochemical/Aquilaria%20agallocha
* Available in India, particularly in the Himalayan region, Assam and Manipur.
 
== 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> <!-- verify volume/page; original entry lists page "02" -->
<ref name="Bhavaprakash">{{cite book |last=Chunekar |first=Krushnachandra |title=Bhavaprakash Nighantu |year=2020 |publisher=Chaukhambha Bharati Academy |pages=Karpuradi varga, verse 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, verses 85, 87, 89, 91, 92}}</ref>
<ref name="Wang2021">{{cite journal |last1=Wang |first1=Y. |last2=Hussain |first2=M. |last3=Jiang |first3=Z. |last4=Wang |first4=Z. |last5=Gao |first5=J. |last6=Ye |first6=F. |last7=Mao |first7=R. |last8=Li |first8=H. |year=2021 |title=Aquilaria species (Thymelaeaceae) distribution, volatile and non-volatile phytochemicals, pharmacological uses, agarwood grading system, and induction methods |journal=Molecules |volume=26 |issue=24 |pages=7708 |doi=10.3390/molecules26247708 |url=https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8703820}}</ref>
<ref name="Wang2018">{{cite journal |last1=Wang |first1=S. |last2=Yu |first2=Z. |last3=Wang |first3=C. |last4=Wu |first4=C. |last5=Guo |first5=P. |last6=Wei |first6=J. |year=2018 |title=Chemical constituents and pharmacological activity of agarwood and Aquilaria plants |journal=Molecules |volume=23 |issue=2 |pages=342 |doi=10.3390/molecules23020342 |url=https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6017114}}</ref>
<ref name="Hashim2016">{{cite journal |last1=Hashim |first1=Y. Z. H.-Y. |last2=Kerr |first2=P. G. |last3=Abbas |first3=P. |last4=Mohd Salleh |first4=H. |year=2016 |title=Aquilaria spp. (agarwood) as source of health beneficial compounds: a review of traditional use, phytochemistry and pharmacology |journal=Journal of Ethnopharmacology |volume=189 |pages=331–360 |doi=10.1016/j.jep.2016.06.055 |url=https://irep.iium.edu.my/51380/}}</ref>
}}


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


This article is under development ..
''This article is under development ..''

Latest revision as of 06:05, 6 October 2026


Aquilaria agallocha Roxb. (syn. Aquilaria malaccensis Lam.)

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.; synonym: Aquilaria malaccensis Lam.; family: Thymelaeaceae) is a large evergreen tree native to north-eastern India, Bhutan and parts of South-East Asia. The aromatic, resin-impregnated heartwood (agarwood) forms in wounded or infected trees as a defence response, and is valued in Ayurveda for its penetrating, warming action in respiratory distress, skin disorders and neurological imbalance.[1][2]

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:[3]
    • Anaaryaka – Plant commonly growing in the hilly regions of north-eastern India.

Varieties

Raja Nighantu

Five varieties are mentioned:[4]

  1. Swadu
  2. Krushnagaru
  3. Kaasthagaru
  4. Daahaagaru
  5. Maangalyaagaru

Ayurvedic Pharmacological Properties

According to classical Ayurvedic pharmacodynamics (Rasa Panchaka), Aguru has hot potency and a bitter-pungent taste, making it effective in pacifying Kapha and Vata:[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), Sharp (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 Tiktaskandha (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 Kaphaj prameh (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 Madhvarista
18 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 17/80 Used for shodhanottara dhumpana
19 Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 17/123 As an ingredient of satyadi 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 Amrutadhya 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:[1]

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


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

Agarwood contains a large number of chemical compounds; more than 300 have been isolated from agarwood and Aquilaria plants.[5]

  • Sesquiterpenes: The main phytochemicals of agarwood are terpenoids, dominated by sesquiterpenes.[2]
  • Chromones: 2-(2-Phenylethyl)chromone derivatives are characteristic constituents; 88 new compounds of this class alone were isolated between 2010 and 2018.[5]
  • Aromatic compounds: Aromatic volatile compounds are another important component of agarwood volatile oil.[2]

Pharmacological Activities

Terpenoids from agarwood have been reported to possess bacteriostatic, antibacterial, sedative, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, anti-asthmatic, hypoglycaemic and antidepressant properties.[2] A review of Aquilaria spp. concluded that the traditional medicinal uses of agarwood are supported by a range of bioactive compounds and pharmacological studies.[6]

  • Anti-inflammatory & Analgesic: Reported for agarwood extracts and constituents.[2][6]
  • Neuropharmacological (sedative, antidepressant): Reported for agarwood extracts and constituents.[2][6]
  • Antimicrobial: Bacteriostatic and antibacterial activity has been reported for terpenoids from agarwood.[2]
  • Anti-asthmatic: Reported for terpenoids from agarwood.[2]


Safety & Conservation

  • Safety: Agarwood plant materials are considered safe at the doses tested, but toxicity and safety, including the smoke from agarwood incense, need further investigation.[6]
  • Conservation: Wild agarwood trees are critically endangered and vulnerable, and sustainable cultivation and forestry practices are necessary.[6]

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. ↑ 2.0 2.1 2.2 2.3 2.4 2.5 2.6 2.7 Wang, Y.; Hussain, M.; Jiang, Z.; Wang, Z.; Gao, J.; Ye, F.; Mao, R.; Li, H. (2021). "Aquilaria species (Thymelaeaceae) distribution, volatile and non-volatile phytochemicals, pharmacological uses, agarwood grading system, and induction methods". Molecules. 26 (24): 7708. doi:10.3390/molecules26247708. 
  3. ↑ Chunekar, Krushnachandra (2020). Bhavaprakash Nighantu (Reprint ed.). Chaukhambha Bharati Academy. pp. Karpuradi varga, verse 21–22. 
  4. ↑ Tripathi, Indradev (2006). Raja Nighantu of Pandit Narhari. Varanasi: Chaukhambha Krishnadas Academy. pp. Chandanadi varga, verses 85, 87, 89, 91, 92. 
  5. ↑ 5.0 5.1 Wang, S.; Yu, Z.; Wang, C.; Wu, C.; Guo, P.; Wei, J. (2018). "Chemical constituents and pharmacological activity of agarwood and Aquilaria plants". Molecules. 23 (2): 342. doi:10.3390/molecules23020342. 
  6. ↑ 6.0 6.1 6.2 6.3 6.4 Hashim, Y. Z. H.-Y.; Kerr, P. G.; Abbas, P.; Mohd Salleh, H. (2016). "Aquilaria spp. (agarwood) as source of health beneficial compounds: a review of traditional use, phytochemistry and pharmacology". Journal of Ethnopharmacology. 189: 331–360. doi:10.1016/j.jep.2016.06.055. 

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