What is devdaru?
Devdaru, also known as Cedrus deodara, is a tall, majestic tree having its origin in the Himalayan region. The name Devdaru comes from Sanskrit — “Deva” meaning divine and “Daru” meaning tree or wood, together meaning “the tree of the gods.”
In ancient India, Devdaru was considered a sacred plant, used not only in religious rituals but also widely in Ayurvedic medicine. This aromatic wood is powerful in healing various health conditions—from joint pain to respiratory disorders and even mental stress.
In Ayurveda, Devdaru holds a respected place for its balancing effects on the body and mind. Let’s explore this incredible herb in detail—from its Sanskrit and vernacular names to its Ayurvedic benefits and home remedies you can try today.
Latin Name: Cedrus deodara
Vernacular Names:
- Hindi: Devdar/ Devdaru
- Bengali: Devdaru
- Tamil: Devdaru Maram
- Telugu: Devdaru chettu
- Kannada: Devadaru
- Malayalam: Devadharu
- Marathi: Devdar
- Gujarati:
- Punjabi:
- English : Himalayan Cedar
Sanskrit Names:
Indradaru, Devakashta, Devdaru : One which grows in place of god
Suradaru, Surahva, Surakashta, Sura Bhuruha Suradruma :
Shakradru, Drukilinma, Amaradaru, KilimaBhadradaru : Wood of devdaru is very strong
Drukalima: On Injury stem exudate sugar
Putikashta : Wood has pleasant strong odour
Pitadru: Yellow coloured wood.
Shakrapadapa : Liked by lord Indra
Benefits & Ayurvedic Properties of Devdaru
Ras
- Tikta (Bitter)
- Kashay ( Astringent)
Veerya ( Potency)
- Sheet (Cold)
Vipaak ( Post-digestive effect)
- Katu (Pungent)
Guna ( Qualities)
- Laghu (Lightness)
- Rooksha (Dry)
Dosha Effect
Balances: Vata and Kapha dosha
May increase: Pitta (if overused)
Classical Categorization
In Charak Samhita – It is categorized as
- Stanyashodhana : Group of herb that helps in cleansing breast milk.
- Anuvasanopaga: Group of herb useful in Basti (Panckarma treatment)
In sushrut samhita – It is categorized as
- Vatasamshana : Group of herbs that balances Vata dosha.
Health Benefits of Devdaru powder
Joint pain and Arthritis
The Vata balancing nature of devdaru helps reduce swelling and pain in conditions such as
- Rheumatoid Arthritis
- Osteoarthritis
- Sciatica
- Back and neck pain
Respiratory problems
In Ayurveda most of the respiratory problems are caused due to Kapha and Vata dosha imbalance. Devdaru is Vata- Kapha balancing in nature. The kaphahar nature help clear out mucus and soothe inflamed airways, making it helpful in
- Asthma
- Bronchitis
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disorders
- Allergic Rhinitis ( Runny nose)
Neurological problems
Functions of brain and nerves is controlled by Vata dosha. Whenever vata dosha is out of balance it leads to neurological problems. Devadaru is Vata balancing in nature and because of this it is very useful in neurological problems such as
- Diabetic neuropathy
- Epilepsy
- Paralysis
- Parkinson
Useful in Skin problems
Devdaru is said to kusthhar and kanduhar and also posses antibacterial and antifungal properties. Because of this it is very effective in managing skin problems especially the one having vata-kapha imbalance. This includes problems like
- Eczema
- Acne
- Psoriasis
- Non healing wound
Mental Clarity & Stress relief
Devdaru’s scent is grounding. Inhalation or massage with its oil has been known to:
Reduce anxiety
Calm the nervous system
Promote better sleep
This makes it excellent for managing Vata imbalance related to overthinking and restlessness.
Actions (Karma) of Devdaru in Ayurveda
Shothahara – Reduces inflammation and oedema
Vatahara – Calms Vata dosha
Shulahara – Relieves pain
Krimighna – Destroys worms and microbes
Kaphahara – Clears phlegm and congestion
Kushtahar – Good for skin diseases
Anilhara : Balances vata dosha, useful in neurological condition
Amahara : Relieves Ama(toxins) from the body
Shwashara: Useful in treatment of Asthma & chronic respiratory disorder.
Hickaahar: Relieves hiccups
Mehagna : Useful in treatment of Urinary tract disorder and diabetes.
Adhmanahar : Relieves bloating and gaseous distention of abdomen.
Kandughna : Useful is relieving pruritis.
How to use Devdaru
Devdaru can be consumed in various forms, including:
- Decoction: To make the decoction you need 2 cup water and 1 teaspoon of powder of devdaru. Now add this powder in 2 cup of water and boil till one glass is left. Then filter it, your decoction is ready.
- Dosage : 20 to 30 ml two times a day.
- Devdaru powder: 1-2 teaspoon two times daily . It is also used externally for local application.
- Devdaru Capsule : 1 to 2 capsule two times daily with water.
- Part Used : Heartwood.
What are the side effects of Devdaru
Like any other Ayurvedic herb devdaru is having many health benefits . However , it may have some side effects as well They include
Allergic Rashes
If someone is sensitive to devdaru they may see skin rashes or redness and ithcing. In this condition it is advisable to discontinue the use .
Precautions
During breast feeding avoid consuming Devdaru.
Avoid consuming Devadaru during pregnancy due to lack of research on safety during pregnancy.
Always use Devdaru in recommended dosage to avoid potential side effects such as nausea and bloating. It is better to ask Ayurveda doctor about dose and suitability for your body type.
If you have pre existing medical conditions or taking any medications, consult a doctor before using devdaru. This ensures that there are no harmful interactions or contraindications.
Don’t use devdaru continuosly for long period of time . Take break to allow your body to respond appropriately. Also when we use any herb continuosly ,then the body becomes use to it and it don’t respond to it.
Store devdaru in cool and dark place to maintain its potency and prevent it from contamination. Proper storage helps in retaining its therapeutic value.
Home Remedies of Devdaru
Devdaru Decoction for Cough & Cold
To make decoction you will following ingredients:
Devdaru bark or powder – 1 tsp
Water – 2 cups
Tulsi leaves – 4
Black pepper – 2 crushed
How to make the decoction:
Boil all ingredients together until reduced to 1 cup. Strain and drink warm.
It helps to clear the mucus there by relieving chest congestion and strengthening immune system
Skin paste for Acne and Infection
To make the skin paste you need following ingredients:
Devdaru powder – 1 tsp
Neem powder – 1 tsp
Rosewater or plain water – to mix
How to make the paste:
Make a smooth paste by mixing devdaru powder and neem powder in rose water or plain water. Apply on acne spots or small skin infections. Leave for 15–20 mins, then rinse.
This paste is having natural antibacterial property that helps to clear blemishes and soothes itching.
Devadaru oil Massage for Joint pain
To make the you need following ingredients:
Devdaru essential oil – 5 to 10 drops
Sesame oil – 2 tablespoon
How to make the oil:
Mix both the ingredients and massage on the affected part twice daily.
The oil helps to relieve stiffness and pain by improving the blood circulation and calms the Vata dosha.
Frequently asked question
1.Can this herb be used while taking homeopathic medicine ?
Yes. This herb does not react with homeopathic medicine.
2.Can this herb/medicine be continued while taking supplements like multivitamin, omega 3, spirulina ?
Yes .Generally this herb goes well with most dietary supplement. However if you are taking more than one product per day please consult your doctor for opinion.
3. With western/modern medicine
Seek your doctors advice if you are taking this product along with other western (allopathic/modern) medicine. Some ayurvedic herbs can interact with modern medicine.
When taking ayurvedic medicine or herb with modern medicine it is best to keep one hour gap in between both the medicine.
4. How long does devdaru take to start showing benefits ?
It depend on any existing disease, overall health, your prakriti ( genetic make up) all these factors plays a role in how quickly devdaru powder benefits are seen.
5.Can it be used in people with diabetes?
Yes. But always keep watch on your sugar levels. This herb can lower your blood sugar levels. Do not stop your diabetes medicine once you start taking this herb/medicine. Keep in touch with your ayurvedic doctor. They will guide you in this respect.
6.Are there any diet restriction( Pathya) while taking this seeds ?
No .There are no such restriction while taking this product. However if you have been advised with any specific diet based on disease, you should continue to follow it.
Ayurvedic medicine that contains devdaru
Devdar is the main ingredients in following medicines
Ajmodadi churna : It is one of the ayurvedic medicine which is used to treat osteo arthritis of knee joint, back pain and sciatica.
Devdarvadi kwath: This decoction is used in treatment of cold, cough, bronchitis and asthma.
Chandraprabha Vati : This is very famous ayurvedic medicine used in treatment of urinary tract problems, diabetes, enlarged prostrate and male sexual problems.
Conclusion
Devdaru is more than just a fragrant Himalayan tree—it’s a gift from nature, loaded with healing powers. From joint health and respiratory relief to skin clarity and mental peace, this ancient herb continues to offer value in our modern world.
Its versatility, grounding energy, and natural potency make it one of Ayurveda’s most treasured botanicals.
So the next time you light incense, massage with herbal oil, or sip a decoction for cough, think of Devdaru—the divine tree that heals from root to soul.
Please consult your doctor before taking this medicine.
This Article is written by Dr. Ashutosh Tiwari B.A.M.S, PGDCR Director of Risha’s Health And Ayurvedaa Solutions.He is having more than 20 years of experience in field of Ayurvedic medicine.
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Disclaimer :The content provided here is for informational purpose only. This blog is not intended to substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek medical advice of a qualified healthcare provider for any questions or concern you may have regarding a medical conditions.
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