Harshingar (Nyctanthes arbor-tristis): Benefits, Dosage, Safety & Evidence

Questions fréquentes

How does Harshingar work to reduce fever?

Harshingar (Nyctanthes arbor-tristis) contains active compounds including iridoid glycosides, nyctanthoside, and beta-sitosterol that demonstrate antipyretic properties. These compounds appear to work by inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis and modulating inflammatory pathways in the body. The leaves also contain tannins and mannitol which contribute to its therapeutic effects. Research suggests these bioactive constituents help regulate body temperature through anti-inflammatory mechanisms, though evidence remains preliminary (Level C). Traditional Ayurvedic use supports its effectiveness for managing intermittent fevers.

Can I take Harshingar if I am on blood thinners?

No, Harshingar should not be taken if you are on blood-thinning medications. This herb may interact with anticoagulants such as warfarin, aspirin, or clopidogrel, potentially increasing the risk of bleeding. The presence of active compounds like iridoid glycosides may affect blood clotting mechanisms. If you are taking any blood thinners, consult your healthcare provider before using Harshingar or any herbal supplements. This interaction is significant enough that Harshingar is contraindicated for individuals on anticoagulant therapy.

What is the recommended dosage of Harshingar leaf?

The typical adult dosage of Harshingar is 2-4 grams of dried leaf prepared as a tea, taken once or twice daily. Alternatively, a standardized extract of approximately 500mg may be used. Traditional Ayurvedic preparations often use fresh or dried leaves steeped in hot water for 10-15 minutes. Dosage may vary based on the specific condition being treated and individual factors. Always follow product label instructions or consult a qualified herbalist for personalized dosing recommendations, as higher doses may increase the risk of gastrointestinal side effects.

Is Harshingar safe to use during pregnancy?

No, Harshingar is not considered safe during pregnancy. This herb is contraindicated for pregnant women due to insufficient safety data and potential uterine-stimulating effects that could pose risks to the developing fetus. Traditional use and available evidence (Level C) do not support its use during pregnancy. Women who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant should avoid Harshingar in all forms, including teas and extracts. Breastfeeding women should also exercise caution and seek medical advice before use.

What is Harshingar used for in Ayurvedic medicine?

Harshingar, also known as Night Jasmine or Parijat, has been used in Ayurvedic and folk medicine primarily for treating intermittent fevers, including malaria-like symptoms. The leaves and flowers are traditionally employed for managing rheumatism, joint pain, and inflammatory conditions. Additional traditional uses include treating cough, asthma, and digestive complaints. The herb is considered sacred in Hindu culture and is often used in religious ceremonies. Current evidence supporting these uses is rated at Level C, indicating limited clinical evidence but established traditional use.

What are the side effects of Harshingar?

Harshingar is generally well-tolerated at recommended doses, but some individuals may experience side effects. The most commonly reported adverse effects include gastrointestinal upset such as nausea, stomach discomfort, or loose stools. Mild allergic reactions, including skin rash or itching, may occur in sensitive individuals. These side effects are typically dose-dependent and may resolve by reducing the amount taken. If you experience severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing, swelling, or persistent digestive issues, discontinue use and seek medical attention.

Fiche d'information compilée à partir de PubMed

Cette fiche a été compilée à partir de résumés PubMed (NIH) avec l'assistance d'une IA. Chaque affirmation factuelle est citée par un article PubMed réel (voir la liste des sources). Elle n'a pas encore été révisée par un humain — confirmez auprès d'un professionnel de santé avant utilisation.

Compilé à partir de 30 articles PubMed · modèle : gemma4:31b

Résumé

Nyctanthes arbor-tristis, also known as Harshingar or Night Jasmine, is a perennial woody shrub of the Oleaceae family with significant traditional use in Ayurveda for treating inflammation, fever, and joint-related disorders [PMID:23376280, PMID:38148217, PMID:37925001].

Contexte

Nyctanthes arbor-tristis is a perennial woody shrub belonging to the Oleaceae family, characterized by fragrant flowers that bloom at night [PMID:38148217, PMID:41213599]. It is widely utilized in traditional Indian medicinal systems, including Ayurveda, Siddha, and Unani [PMID:23376280, PMID:39873741].

Usages traditionnels

Traditional uses include treating intermittent fevers, arthritis, obstinate sciatica, helminthiasis, skin ailments, ulcers, piles, liver diseases, and as a laxative or sedative [PMID:23376280, PMID:35017935, PMID:39873741, PMID:38992400]. It has also been used for antibilious conditions, gynecological disorders, and cough [PMID:41213599, PMID:25600986].

Composés actifs

Bioactive components include alkaloids, tannins, flavonoids (e.g., quercetin, kaempferol), sterols (e.g., beta-sitosterol), triterpenes, saponins, and glycosides [PMID:39873741, PMID:42107754]. Specifically, it contains iridoid glycosides such as Arbortristoside-A and nyctanthoside, phenylethanoid glycosides like nyctanthesin B, and the apocarotenoid crocetin in the tubular calyx [PMID:42107754, PMID:42287724, PMID:35747356].

Mécanisme d'action

Anti-inflammatory effects are mediated through the inhibition of the NF-κB signaling pathway and reduction of inflammatory mediators such as free radicals, lipid peroxidation, nitrous oxide (NO), and reactive oxygen species (ROS) [PMID:37925001, PMID:42287724]. Antimalarial activity is suggested to occur via the production of oxidative stress, similar to artemisinin [PMID:35017935]. In cancer cells, it may activate p53-independent cell death receptors and necroptosis pathways [PMID:37162805].

Preuves cliniques

Preuve DMalaria

An observational study reported parasite clearance in 76.6% of 120 patients in an earlier study; a subsequent study monitored pyrexia and parasitemia in 20 patients using a leaf paste [PMID:27914754]. In vivo tests in mice showed schizonticidal activity increased with doses of 100-200 mg/kg [PMID:35017935].

Preuve DRheumatoid Arthritis

Hydroethanolic leaf extract (500 mg/kg BW) in rat models reduced paw volumes and inflammatory markers (TNF-α and COX-2) while increasing IL-10 [PMID:38116080]. In vitro studies showed downregulation of TNF-α [PMID:37630377].

Preuve DEpilepsy/Convulsions

Methanolic extract at 400 mg/kg in mice defended against the progress of pentylenetetrazol (PTZ)-induced kindling seizures and associated EEG changes [PMID:38776672].

Preuve DCough

Oral administration of a branched polysaccharide fraction (25 and 50 mg/kg) significantly inhibited citric acid-induced cough efforts in guinea pigs [PMID:25600986].

Preuve DCancer

Alkaloid extracts from fruit and leaf showed cytotoxicity in HepG2 liver cancer cells, inducing apoptosis and reducing mitochondrial membrane potential [PMID:37162805, PMID:39711022].

Sécurité et effets indésirables

A study in Sprague-Dawley rats evaluated the safety of a 500 mg/kg BW dose of hydroethanolic leaf extract as part of a sub-acute toxicity and pharmacovigilance approach [PMID:38116080].

Synthèse des preuves

The majority of evidence is based on in vitro studies, animal models (mice, rats, guinea pigs), and computational simulations (in silico), with limited open-label observational clinical data. Most findings are categorized as level D evidence.

Sources PubMed

1.PMID: 23376280 (2013) — Nyctanthes arbor-tristis Linn--a critical ethnopharmacological review. · Journal of ethnopharmacology
2.PMID: 35017935 (2021) — Evaluation of In vivo Antimalarial Property of Nyctanthes arbor-tristis (Night Jasmine) Leaves. · Journal of pharmacy & bioallied sciences
3.PMID: 41213599 (2026) — Nyctanthes arbor-tristis: A Multifaceted Medicinal Plant in Traditional and Contemporary Medicine. · Planta medica
4.PMID: 38148217 (2023) — Genomic and Transcriptomic Analyses Illuminates Unique Traits of Elusive Night Flowering Jasmine Parijat (Nyctanthes arbor-tristis). · Physiologia plantarum
5.PMID: 39873741 (2026) — Nyctanthes arbor-tristis Linn.: comprehensive insights into its medicinal, phytochemical and safety profiles. · Natural product research

Harshingar

Sources et citations

Calculer une dose sûre de Harshingar

Ribes nigrum

Fomes Fomentarius

Ganoderma Tsugae

Questions fréquentes

Résumé

Contexte

Usages traditionnels

Composés actifs

Mécanisme d'action

Preuves cliniques

Sécurité et effets indésirables

Synthèse des preuves

Sources PubMed

Sources gouvernementales

Harshingar

Sources et citations

Calculer une dose sûre de Harshingar

Plantes associées

Ribes nigrum

Fomes Fomentarius

Ganoderma Tsugae

Questions fréquentes

Résumé

Contexte

Usages traditionnels

Composés actifs

Mécanisme d'action

Preuves cliniques

Sécurité et effets indésirables

Synthèse des preuves

Sources PubMed

Sources gouvernementales