Lodhra: the astringent bark of Ayurvedic face packs
What lodhra bark is, how it has been used in lepas, what pharmacology reviews report and why it suits oil-balancing face packs.
1 min read · Updated 2026-11-14
The bark
Lodhra is the dark grey stem bark of Symplocos racemosa, a small evergreen tree of north and north-east India. Sanskrit names link it to the tilak: the bark was used to make the forehead mark.
In Ayurveda
The Sushruta Samhita describes gargles of lodhra for spongy gums, and the bark has a long place in face pastes for oily and blemish-prone skin. It is also used in classical internal formulas, which are outside the scope of this guide.
What research shows
A 2016 review in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology found most pharmacology work on the stem bark. It reports antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and wound-healing activity in laboratory and animal models, and identifies phenolic glycosides such as symplocoside and triterpenoids such as betulinic acid. Human cosmetic trials are few.
In a face pack
Lodhra's astringency suits pre-wash packs. Kart Naturals' Insta Glow Brightening Lepa combines it with other herbs: mix the powder with rose water or milk, apply for a few minutes and rinse.
This guide is general information, not medical advice.
Questions
What does lodhra feel like on skin?
Its glycosides are strongly astringent, so lodhra packs feel tightening and leave skin looking matte.
What is Pathani lodhra?
Texts describe two kinds, Sabara and Patika lodhra. Patika or Pathani lodhra is usually identified as Symplocos crataegoides, a close relative.
Is lodhra endangered?
Conservation data show some Symplocos species are at risk in the wild because of restricted distribution, so sustainable sourcing matters.
Sources
This guide is general information about traditional and natural care. It is not medical advice. For a skin, scalp or health condition, speak to a dermatologist or qualified practitioner.
