The medium-sized fragrant evergreen Asoka tree (Saraca asoca) is called the “reliever of grief” because of the analgesic, antidotal and astringent properties of its leaves, flowers and seeds. It is labelled a woman’s friend because its bark, in a powdered form, takes care of reproductive health, particularly the menstrual cycle.
However, the legendary Asoka is a rare vulnerable species, often substituted by the false Ashoka (Polyalthia longifolia) or the abundantly available low-cost Indian Charcoal Tree (Trema orientale). 
 
For the lay person, mere distinction in botanical names will not help in locating the chemical and biological properties lacking in the Asoka substitutes. However, if Saraca asoca plant parts are pictorially exhibited, in fresh and dried forms, consumers, and Ayurveda practitioners/healers, can be cautioned against herbal concoctions that claim the medicinal power of Asoka. Such a pictorial display is educational at all points in time, but more significant in a post-pandemic world where people are in search of non-invasive quick herbal immunity-boosting solutions.

Nir Brahmi, a drug, famed in Ayurvedic tradition, has antioxidant properties. It has been used for centuries to counter epilepsy and build memory capacity