Jhau
Jhau
Jhau is an evergreen shrub. All parts of this plant have medicinal properties (leaves, flowers, roots) due to the presence of various constituents like saponins, flavonoids, glycosides, tannins, phenols, alkaloids, steroids etc.
Jhau roots show liver-protecting property due to the presence of antioxidants that prevent liver cell damage. It also provides relief from gas and strengthens the digestive system due to its carminative property. The flavonoids present in Jhau help to reduce hepatic and spleen inflammation due to its anti-inflammatory property.
As per Ayurveda, Jhau helps in wound healing due to its Ropan (healing) and Kashaya (astringent) properties. It helps in restoring the inflamed tissue and strengthens the skin. It also prevents the skin against certain infections due to its antimicrobial and antifungal properties[1][3].
Jhau roots show liver-protecting property due to the presence of antioxidants that prevent liver cell damage. It also provides relief from gas and strengthens the digestive system due to its carminative property. The flavonoids present in Jhau help to reduce hepatic and spleen inflammation due to its anti-inflammatory property.
As per Ayurveda, Jhau helps in wound healing due to its Ropan (healing) and Kashaya (astringent) properties. It helps in restoring the inflamed tissue and strengthens the skin. It also prevents the skin against certain infections due to its antimicrobial and antifungal properties[1][3].
What are the synonyms of Jhau?
Tamarix dioica, Tamarix gallica, Indian Tamarisk, Jhao, Pichul, Pakke, Siru Savukku, Jhabuk, Aphalah, Bahugranthih, Jhavukah, Pichulah, Ciru-cavukku, Kotai-c-cavukku.
What is the source of Jhau?
Plant Based
Benefits of Jhau
Modern Science View
Jhau root extract might help manage Liver problems due to its hepatoprotective (Liver-protecting) property. It contains antioxidants (flavonoids) that fight against free radicals and prevents liver cell damage[3].
Modern Science View
Although enough scientific evidence is not available to support the role of Jhau in kidney problems. However, it might help manage kidney problems such as renal stone formation due to its diuretic property. It increases the production and frequency of urine that helps to flush out toxins from the body[1][4].
Ayurvedic View
Jhau helps to improve kidney function and reduces the chance of stone formation. Renal stone is the stone formed in the urinary tract. According to Ayurveda, it is considered as Mutrashmari. Mutrashmari (renal calculi) is a disease of Vata-Kapha origin which causes Sanga (obstruction) in the Mutravaha Srotas (urinary system). Urinary stones are classified based on doshas as Vata, Pitta, Kapha and treatment is given accordingly. Jhau helps to remove the renal stone by increasing urinary flow because of its Mutral (diuretic) nature.
Tips for using Jhau for kidney problems
Jhau is generally used as an ingredient of Ayurvedic medicines.
a. Take 1-2gm (as per directed by the physician) of Jhau (Gall) powder.
b. Mix it with water.
c. Have it once or twice a day to get rid of the symptoms of kidney problems.
Tips for using Jhau for kidney problems
Jhau is generally used as an ingredient of Ayurvedic medicines.
a. Take 1-2gm (as per directed by the physician) of Jhau (Gall) powder.
b. Mix it with water.
c. Have it once or twice a day to get rid of the symptoms of kidney problems.
Modern Science View
Jhau roots or galls might help manage fever due to its antipyretic property. It brings down the body temperature and provides relief from the symptoms of fever[3][4].
How effective is Jhau?
Insufficient evidence
Fever, Kidney stone, Liver disease
Precautions when using Jhau
Breastfeeding
Modern Science View
Since enough scientific evidence is not available for the role of Jhau during Breastfeeding. So, it is advisable to consult a physician before taking Jhau during breastfeeding[2].
Pregnancy
Modern Science View
Since enough scientific evidence is not available for the role of Jhau in pregnancy. So, it is advisable to consult a physician before taking Jhau in pregnancy[2].
How to use Jhau
Jhau powder for liver and kidney problems
Jhau is generally used as an ingredient of Ayurvedic medicines.
a. Take 1-2gm (as per directed by the physician) of Jhau (Gall) powder.
b. Mix it with water.
c. Have it once or twice a day to get rid of the symptoms of liver and kidney problems.
Jhau is generally used as an ingredient of Ayurvedic medicines.
a. Take 1-2gm (as per directed by the physician) of Jhau (Gall) powder.
b. Mix it with water.
c. Have it once or twice a day to get rid of the symptoms of liver and kidney problems.
Frequently asked questions
Modern Science View
Tamarix gallica is commonly known as Jhau. It is also known as Indian Tamarisk, Jhao, Pichul, Pakke, Siru Savukku, Jhabuk, Aphalah, Bahugranthih, Jhavukah, Pichulah, Ciru-cavukku and Kotai-c-cavukku.
Modern Science View
Jhau is rich in antioxidants. It is a good source of alkaloids, flavonoids and other polyphenols which are responsible for its antioxidative properties. Its leaves and flowers are known for their anti-inflammatory and anti-diarrheic properties.
Ayurvedic View
Jhau leaves might provide relief from the gaseous problems due to its carminative property. This property provides relief from flatulence by reducing the accumulation of gas in the alimentary canal and facilitates its release.
References
- Samejo MQ, Sumbul A, Shah S, et.al.Phytochemical screening of Tamarix dioica Roxb. ex Roch.J Pharm Res.2013;7(2):181-183.
- WebMD.Tamarix Dioica: Uses, Side effects, Doses, Interactions [Internet].Atlanta [last updated in 2016].
- Riaz U, Sadiq N, Tahir M, et.al.Hepatoprotective effect of Tamarix dioica Roots on Acetaminophen Induced Hepatotoxicity in Male Mice.JIIMC.2018;13(4):189-193.
- Al-Jaber N, Allehalb L.The Pharmacological Activity of Some Tamaricaceae Plants.Nat Prod Chem Res.2017;5(3):1-6.
- Khan S, Khan GM, Mehsud S, et al. Antifungal activity of Tamarix dioica – An in vitro study. Gomal Journal of Medical Sciences [Internet]. 2004 [cited 2025 Mar 28];2(2):40-42.
Disclaimer
The content is purely informative and educational in nature and should not be construed as medical advice. Please use the content only in consultation with an appropriate certified medical or healthcare professional.