Aak is well known as ark in Sanskrit and is a flowering plant with purplish-bluish white flowers from the family Asclepiadaceae. There are 2 common varieties of this flower- Calotropisprocera (purple-flowered) and Calotropisgigantea (white-flowered).

Botanical Name : Calotropis gigantean.
Common Name : Madar, Arka, Swallow wort, Sodom’s milkweed, Giant milkweed, Alarka and Erukku.

OTHERS NAME :

1. English: Crown flower, Roostertree, Mudar plant.
2. Sanskrit: Alarka, Rajaarka, Shvetarka, Vasuka, Mandaar,Bhasvanmuula, Dinesh, Prabhakar.
3. Unani: Madaar, Aak.
4. Siddha/Tamil: Erukku.
5. Arabic: Oshar.
6. French: Calotrope, Pomme de Sodome.

Attributes :

1. Aak ke phool cures the flatuence, increase the appetite and indigestion. It also helpful in releasing constipation.
2. Astringent action of Aakkephool is beneficical in many skin related problems.
3. Aak ke phool is effective in treating ascites and abdominal distention.
4. Because of the purgative & stimulant properties of Aakkephool, it also clears off intestinal worms from the body.
5. Aak ke phool is helpful in curing many respiratory problems like cold, coughs, asthma,etc.

1. It is toxic for eyes and its few drops can produces sudden dimness of vision with photophobia.
2. Not recommended in pregnancy and lactation.
3. Overdosage can cause vomiting and diarrhea.
4. Not recommended for children.
5. Consult a doctor before use.

This article is meant only for the use of education and information. It is not in any wayrecommended for substituting prescription drugs or expert medical guidance. We are notprofessionals in healthcare and this information is shared purely based on the interest of spreading the fragrance of Ayurvedic healing, the world’s oldest medical system on earth. Talk with your Ayurvedic practitioner/ healthcare expert before selecting the most suitable essential oils for your prakriti or unique individual constitution and state of health.