Medical Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only. It is not medical advice. Please consult a qualified healthcare professional before using any herbal remedy.
Safety Overview
Toxicity: safe
Edibility: Not established as edible food use
Conservation: LC
Evidence: traditional
1.Indian Rosewood — Introduction & Highlights
Dalbergia sissoo, widely recognized as shisham or Indian rosewood, is a majestic, fast-growing deciduous tree belonging to the extensive Fabaceae family. This species is indigenous to the Indian subcontinent, encompassing regions of India, Nepal, and Pakistan, extending westward into Southern Iran. It holds significant ecological and economic importance, notably serving as the state tree of Punjab, India. The genus name 'Dalbergia' was bestowed in honor of the Swedish botanists Carl and Nils Dalberg, while 'sissoo' is a direct transliteration from its common Hindi nomenclature, highlighting its deep cultural roots. Morphologically, Dalbergia sissoo typically grows to a height of 20-30 meters, featuring a widespread, open crown and a relatively short, often crooked trunk when grown in open areas, though it can develop a straight bole in denser stands. Its bark is thick, grey-brown, and characterized by irregular longitudinal furrows and fissures, flaking off in narrow strips.
The leaves are alternate, pinnately compound, with 3-5 (rarely 7) broadly ovate or nearly round leaflets, typically 3-6 cm long, exhibiting a distinctive leathery texture and a smooth, glossy upper surface. The venation is reticulate and prominent. The flowers are small, fragrant, pale yellow to whitish, and sessile, arranged in short, axillary panicles or racemes, blooming primarily between March and June. These delicate flowers attract various pollinators. Following flowering, the tree produces distinctive, flat, thin, oblong pods, 4-8 cm long and 1 cm wide, which are light brown when mature and contain 1-4 kidney-shaped seeds. These pods persist on the tree for extended periods.
The root system is deep and extensive, making it highly effective in soil stabilization and erosion control, especially in riparian zones. Furthermore, as a legume, Dalbergia sissoo possesses the remarkable ability to fix atmospheric nitrogen through symbiotic bacteria in its root nodules, enriching soil fertility. Historically, Dalbergia sissoo boasts a rich legacy of human interaction. Its timber, renowned as 'Indian rosewood,' is exceptionally durable, aesthetically pleasing with its golden-brown heartwood, and highly resistant to termites and decay. This makes it a prized material for high-quality furniture, cabinetry, veneer, musical instruments, and carvings.
Trusted Scientific References
1. Authoritative external sources for Dalbergia Sissoo
1.1 Wikipedia — Dalbergia Sissoo
1.2 Kew POWO (Plants of the World Online)
1.3 PubMed — peer-reviewed research
1.4 NCBI Taxonomy Browser
1.5 GBIF — Global Biodiversity
1.1.Indian Rosewood — Key Features
- ✓Deciduous Tree — Sheds its leaves seasonally, typically during the dry winter months.
- ✓Fast — Growing — Known for its rapid growth rate, making it valuable for reforestation and timber.
- ✓Heartwood — Possesses a distinctive golden-brown to dark brown heartwood, highly valued for its beauty and durability.
- ✓Pinnately Compound Leaves — Characterized by alternate leaves with 3-5 broadly ovate leaflets.
- ✓Pale Yellow Flowers — Small, fragrant, sessile flowers arranged in axillary panicles.
- ✓Flat Seed Pods — Produces thin, oblong, light brown pods containing 1-4 kidney-shaped seeds.
- ✓Drought — Tolerant — Highly adaptable to arid and semi-arid conditions once established.
- ✓Nitrogen — Fixing — Symbiotic relationship with soil bacteria enriches soil fertility.
- ✓Termite Resistant Timber — Its wood is naturally resistant to termite attacks, enhancing its longevity.
- ✓State Tree of Punjab — Holds cultural and official significance in the Indian state of Punjab.
- ✓Astringent Properties — Contains tannins, contributing to its tissue-tightening and wound-healing effects.
- ✓Anti — inflammatory — Contains compounds like biochanin A that reduce inflammation.
- ✓Diverse Phytochemicals — Rich in flavonoids, isoflavonoids, lignans, and triterpenoids.
- ✓Traditional Medicine Staple — Integral to Ayurvedic and Unani pharmacopoeias for centuries.
- ✓Soil Conservationist — Deep root system helps prevent soil erosion and stabilizes banks.
1.2.Indian Rosewood — At-a-Glance Summary
- ✓Primary Use — Revered for its anti-inflammatory, astringent, and wound-healing properties.
- ✓Key Compound — Flavonoids like Biochanin A and neoflavonoids such as Dalbergin are central to its efficacy.
- ✓Traditional System — Extensively utilized in Ayurveda (Shinshapa) and Unani medicine for centuries.
- ✓Timber Value — Highly prized as 'Indian rosewood' for durable furniture and musical instruments.
- ✓Ecological Role — Crucial for soil conservation, nitrogen fixation, and agroforestry.
- ✓Safety Note — Contraindicated during pregnancy and for individuals with specific pre-existing conditions.
- ✓Skin Benefits — Widely used for managing various skin diseases and improving complexion.
- ✓Metabolic Support — Shows potential for antidiabetic and lipid-regulating activities.
2.Indian Rosewood — Scientific Identity
3.Indian Rosewood — Botanical Stats
4.Indian Rosewood — Structural Profile
5.Indian Rosewood — Where It Grows
6.Indian Rosewood — Ethnobotanical Uses
7.Indian Rosewood — Active Compounds
- ✓Flavonoids — Key compounds include Biochanin A and Tectorigenin, found predominantly in leaves and bark. These contribute significantly to the plant's antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antidiabetic activities by modulating enzyme pathways and scavenging free radicals.
- ✓Isoflavonoids — A class of flavonoids that includes compounds like Iso Tectorigenin in the stem bark. These are known for their phytoestrogenic properties and potential roles in cancer prevention and metabolic regulation.
- ✓Neoflavonoids — Dalbergin and Methyl dalbergin are prominent neoflavonoids found in the heartwood. They exhibit diverse pharmacological actions, including antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant effects.
- ✓Lignans — Present in the heartwood, lignans contribute to the plant's structural integrity and possess antioxidant and potential anticarcinogenic properties.
- ✓Steroids — Various steroidal compounds are present, contributing to the plant's overall therapeutic profile, particularly in modulating inflammatory responses and hormonal balance.
- ✓Triterpenoids — These compounds are found in different parts of the plant and are recognized for their anti-inflammatory, hepatoprotective, and adaptogenic properties.
- ✓Phenolic Compounds — A broad category including various phenolic acids and polyphenols, abundant in the bark and leaves. These are primary contributors to the potent antioxidant and antimicrobial activities of Dalbergia sissoo.
- ✓Tannins — Concentrated in the bark and leaves, tannins are responsible for the strong astringent properties of the plant, aiding in wound healing, tissue contraction, and antidiarrheal effects.
- ✓Dalberg Phenol — A specific phenolic compound isolated from the heartwood, contributing to its unique chemical signature and potentially its medicinal efficacy.
- ✓Delbergenone — A ketone derivative identified in the heartwood, likely contributing to its pharmacological actions, though specific mechanisms are still under investigation.
- ✓Carbohydrates — Present in the ethanolic extract of bark, providing structural and energy components, though not typically considered active medicinal compounds.
- ✓Proteins and Amino Acids — Found in bark extracts, essential for cellular functions but not primary active constituents for most traditional medicinal uses.
- ✓Saponins — While not explicitly listed in the immediate source, saponins are common in Fabaceae and could contribute to expectorant or anti-inflammatory actions, warranting further investigation.
- ✓Quinones — These compounds, though not detailed in the provided text, are often found in woody plants and can contribute to antimicrobial and antioxidant properties.
8.Indian Rosewood — Modern Studies
- ✓Anti-inflammatory Properties — Dalbergia sissoo bark and leaves contain compounds like biochanin A and dalbergin, which have been shown to inhibit prostaglandin synthesis and COX-2 enzyme activity. This makes it highly effective in reducing inflammation associated with conditions such as arthritis, joint pain, and other inflammatory disorders, as recognized in both Ayurvedic and modern pharmacological studies.
- ✓Astringent Action — Rich in tannins, the bark and leaves of shisham exhibit potent astringent properties. This makes them traditionally useful for wound healing, arresting bleeding, treating diarrhea and dysentery by reducing fluid secretions, and tightening tissues, as documented in Ayurveda and Unani medicine.
- ✓Antimicrobial Activity — Extracts from Dalbergia sissoo have demonstrated significant antimicrobial effects against a range of bacterial and fungal strains. This suggests its utility in combating various infections, supporting its traditional use for skin conditions and internal parasitic infestations.
- ✓Antioxidant Effects — The diverse phytochemical profile, including flavonoids and phenolic compounds, contributes to the powerful antioxidant capacity of Dalbergia sissoo. These compounds scavenge free radicals, protecting cells from oxidative stress and potentially reducing the risk of chronic diseases.
- ✓Antidiabetic Potential — Research indicates that bark extracts of Dalbergia sissoo can significantly reduce blood glucose levels, particularly in alloxan-induced diabetic models. This effect is attributed to improved insulin sensitivity and pancreatic function, aligning with its use in traditional systems for metabolic balance.
- ✓Wound Healing — Traditional applications and modern studies affirm the efficacy of shisham in promoting wound healing. Its astringent, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties collectively aid in faster tissue regeneration, reducing infection risk, and minimizing scarring.
- ✓Blood Purification — In Ayurvedic and Unani medicine, Dalbergia sissoo is revered as a 'rakta shodhak' or blood purifier. It is traditionally used to cleanse the blood, which is believed to help in managing skin diseases, allergies, and improving overall complexion.
- ✓Skin Conditions Management — Due to its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and blood-purifying actions, shisham is a traditional remedy for various skin ailments including leprosy, vitiligo, eczema, psoriasis, and general skin eruptions. Topical applications and internal consumption are common.
- ✓Antipyretic (Fever Reducer) — The heartwood of Dalbergia sissoo, particularly its decoction, has been traditionally used to alleviate fever. This antipyretic action helps in managing symptomatic relief during febrile conditions, as mentioned in Sushruta Samhita.
- ✓Analgesic (Pain Relief) — Ethanolic extracts of the bark have shown significant antinociceptive (pain-reducing) activity in animal models. This supports its traditional use in managing pain associated with inflammatory conditions like sciatica and other Vata-related disorders.
- ✓Digestive Health Support — The root and leaf extracts are traditionally used for their carminative and absorbent actions. They help alleviate digestive issues such as diarrhea, dysentery, abdominal colic, and worm infestations by regulating bowel movements and reducing inflammation in the gut.
- ✓Respiratory Aid — Dalbergia sissoo is considered beneficial for balancing Kapha dosha, making it useful in productive cough and asthma. Its properties help in clearing congestion and soothing the respiratory tract, as per Ayurvedic texts.
- ✓Anti-obesity and Lipid Regulation — Heartwood extracts have shown potential in correcting lipid profiles by lowering LDL and VLDL cholesterol while increasing HDL. This supports its traditional use in managing obesity and metabolic syndrome.
- ✓Diuretic Properties — Leaf extracts are traditionally believed to increase urine production, making them useful in urinary tract infections (UTIs) and conditions like hematuria (blood in urine). This helps flush out toxins and maintain urinary health.
- ✓Uterine Contraction and Menstrual Regulation — The heartwood is traditionally believed to help contract uterine muscles and induce menstruation, making its leaf juice extract useful for managing secondary amenorrhea. However, this also implies a contraindication during pregnancy.
- ✓Oral Hygiene — In many traditional cultures, twigs of Dalbergia sissoo are used as natural toothbrushes, owing to their antimicrobial and astringent properties that help maintain oral hygiene and prevent gum diseases.
- ✓Anti-emetic — The wood and leaf extracts have been traditionally employed to alleviate vomiting, suggesting a role in soothing gastric irritation and regulating emetic responses.
8.1.Indian Rosewood — Health Applications
Arthritis
Inflammatory Disorders
Wounds
Diarrhea
Dysentery
Bacterial Infections
Fungal Infections
Diabetes (Type 2)
Oxidative Stress
Skin Diseases (Eczema, Psoriasis, Vitiligo)
Leprosy
Fever
Pain
Sciatica
Intestinal Worms
Obesity
High Cholesterol
Urinary Tract Infections
Secondary Amenorrhea
Cough
Asthma
Vomiting
Hiccups
Anemia
Blood Disorders
9.Indian Rosewood — Risk Profile
9.1.Indian Rosewood — Warnings
- ✓Pregnancy Contraindication — Dalbergia sissoo is strictly contraindicated during pregnancy, as traditional texts indicate it can induce abortion (Garbhapatini).
- ✓Constipation Aggravation — The root of Dalbergia sissoo has absorbent properties and should be avoided by individuals prone to constipation, as it may worsen the condition.
- ✓Heavy Periods Exacerbation — Leaf juice extract, which can induce menstruation, is contraindicated in women experiencing heavy menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia) as it may exacerbate the condition.
- ✓Allergic Reactions — Sensitive individuals may experience allergic reactions, such as skin rashes or gastrointestinal upset, especially with high doses or prolonged use. Discontinue use if adverse reactions occur.
- ✓Gastrointestinal Discomfort — High doses of Dalbergia sissoo, particularly the powder, may lead to mild gastrointestinal discomfort, including bloating or indigestion.
- ✓Drug Interactions — Potential interactions with blood-thinning medications, antidiabetic drugs, or hormone therapies due to its properties affecting blood coagulation, glucose levels, and estrogenic activity. Consult a healthcare professional.
- ✓Dryness (Rooksha Guna) — Due to its 'Rooksha' (dry) quality in Ayurveda, excessive or prolonged use might lead to increased dryness in the body, which could be problematic for individuals with Vata imbalance.
- ✓Hot Potency (Ushna Veerya) — Its 'Ushna' (hot) potency may not be suitable for individuals with dominant Pitta constitutions or conditions characterized by excessive heat, potentially aggravating burning sensations or inflammatory responses in sensitive individuals.
9.2.Indian Rosewood — Safety Overview
- ✓Drug Interactions — Dalbergia sissoo may interact with certain medications. Its potential antidiabetic effects could synergize with hypoglycemic drugs, necessitating blood sugar monitoring. Its influence on lipid profiles suggests caution with cholesterol-lowering medications. Furthermore, its traditional use for uterine contraction means it could potentially interact with hormonal therapies or medications affecting uterine function. Always consult a healthcare provider before combining with prescription drugs.
- ✓Pregnancy Warning — Dalbergia sissoo is contraindicated during pregnancy due to its traditional classification as 'Garbhapatini' (inducing abortion). There is insufficient safety data for its use during lactation, so it is best to avoid it during breastfeeding.
- ✓Children and Elderly — While traditional uses exist, specific dosage and safety data for children and the elderly are limited. Administration in these populations should be under strict medical supervision.
- ✓Pre-existing Conditions — Individuals with chronic constipation should avoid the root. Those with bleeding disorders or on anticoagulant therapy should exercise caution due to its potential effects on blood coagulation. Individuals with severe liver or kidney conditions should consult a physician before use.
- ✓Allergic Sensitivity — Although generally well-tolerated, individuals with known allergies to plants in the Fabaceae family or with sensitive skin should perform a patch test before topical application. Discontinue use if any allergic reaction occurs.
- ✓Dosage Adherence — Adhering to recommended dosages is crucial. Excessive intake of Dalbergia sissoo can lead to adverse effects, as observed with any potent herbal remedy. Long-term use should also be monitored by a qualified practitioner.
- ✓Quality and Purity — Ensure that any Dalbergia sissoo product is sourced from reputable suppliers to guarantee its purity and freedom from contaminants like heavy metals, pesticides, or microbial pathogens. Adulteration with other species is a known risk.
- ✓Traditional System Guidance — For specific therapeutic applications, especially in Ayurveda and Unani, it is highly recommended to seek guidance from a qualified practitioner who can assess individual constitution and specific health needs.
10.Indian Rosewood — Application Forms
- ✓Decoction/Tea — For internal use, a decoction can be prepared by boiling 5-10 grams of dried bark or heartwood powder in 200-400 ml of water until reduced by half. Dosage is typically 50-100 ml, taken once or twice daily, for conditions like inflammation, fever, or blood purification.
- ✓Powder (Churna) — Dried leaves, bark, or heartwood can be finely powdered. The recommended dosage for powder is 2-6 grams per day, usually mixed with honey or warm water, for digestive issues, skin conditions, or as a general tonic.
- ✓Topical Application (Paste) — A paste can be made by grinding fresh leaves or bark with a small amount of water. This paste is applied externally to wounds, skin diseases, swellings, or areas of pain to leverage its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and astringent properties.
- ✓Oil (Taila) — Shisham oil, prepared by infusing the bark or leaves in a carrier oil (like sesame or coconut oil), is used for external application. It is massaged onto affected areas for pain relief, inflammatory conditions, or for treating infested wounds and sinuses.
- ✓Leaf Juice Extract — Fresh leaf juice, extracted by crushing leaves and straining, can be consumed for conditions like secondary amenorrhea or used topically for eye disorders. Dosage for internal use should be cautious, typically a few milliliters.
- ✓Ksheerapaka (Milk Decoction) — As per Ayurvedic tradition, the heartwood (Sara) can be boiled with milk to create a 'Ksheerapaka,' particularly indicated for fever and certain metabolic disorders. This enhances the bioavailability of fat-soluble compounds.
- ✓Dental Twigs — Fresh, young twigs of Dalbergia sissoo are chewed as traditional toothbrushes (datun). This practice helps clean teeth, strengthens gums, and benefits from the natural antimicrobial properties of the plant.
- ✓Herbal Wines (Asava/Arishta) — In Ayurveda, Dalbergia sissoo is a source for herbal wines (Asavayoni). These fermented preparations are used for a range of conditions, often enhancing the efficacy and shelf-life of the herbal constituents.
- ✓Bath Water Infusion — For widespread skin conditions or general detoxification, a strong decoction of Dalbergia sissoo leaves or bark can be added to bath water. This provides a systemic topical application of its beneficial compounds.
- ✓Fumes (Dhupan) — In some traditional practices, dried leaves or wood chips might be burned, and the fumes inhaled or used to fumigate an area for respiratory ailments or as an antiseptic, though this method requires caution.
11.Indian Rosewood — Growing Guide
- ✓Soil Requirements — Dalbergia sissoo thrives in a wide range of soils but prefers deep, well-drained alluvial loams, sandy loams, or gravelly soils. It tolerates slightly alkaline to neutral pH (6.5-8.0) and can grow in nutrient-poor or saline soils, showcasing its adaptability.
- ✓Watering — As a hardy tree, Dalbergia sissoo is drought-tolerant once established. Young plants require regular watering to establish a strong root system, especially during dry periods. Mature trees generally do not need supplemental irrigation except in extreme, prolonged droughts.
- ✓Sunlight — This species is a sun-loving tree and requires full sunlight for optimal growth and development. It does not tolerate shade well, which can stunt its growth and reduce timber quality.
- ✓Temperature and Climate — Dalbergia sissoo is well-suited to tropical and subtropical climates, tolerating a wide temperature range from 4°C to 49°C. It is frost-tender when young but can withstand light frost once mature.
- ✓Propagation — Primarily propagated by seeds, which should be pre-treated by soaking in hot water or scarification to improve germination rates. It can also be propagated through root suckers, stem cuttings, or tissue culture for mass production of desired genotypes.
- ✓Planting — Seeds are typically sown in nurseries and transplanted as saplings. For direct planting, well-prepared pits should be dug, and saplings planted at the onset of the monsoon season to utilize natural rainfall.
- ✓Fertilization — Generally, Dalbergia sissoo does not require extensive fertilization due to its nitrogen-fixing capabilities. However, incorporating organic matter like compost can enhance soil structure and initial growth for young trees.
- ✓Pests and Diseases — While generally robust, young trees can be susceptible to defoliators and borers. Fungal diseases like heart rot can affect older trees. Regular monitoring and appropriate integrated pest management strategies are recommended.
- ✓Pruning — Pruning is often done to shape the tree, remove dead or diseased branches, and encourage a straight bole for timber production. It is best performed during the dormant season.
- ✓Harvesting — For timber, trees are typically harvested after 15-25 years, depending on growth rate and desired wood quality. Leaves and bark for medicinal use can be harvested sustainably without damaging the tree, usually from mature specimens.
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Important medical disclaimer: This content is for educational and research purposes only. It is not medical advice and is not a substitute for consultation with a licensed healthcare provider. Do not use any herb to self-treat a medical condition without professional guidance.
Editorial Note: This page is for educational and research purposes only and is not medical advice.
Written by: Flora Medical Global Editorial Team
Reviewed by: Flora Medical Global Botanical Review Panel
Last Updated: June 21, 2026
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