Dipterocarpus alatus

Introduction

Dipterocarpus alatus is a giant among trees in Southeast Asia, revered in traditional Ayurveda-like practices for its resin and wood. In this article, we’ll dive into its unique botanical features, historical anecdotes, active phytochemicals, evidence-backed benefits, recommended dosages, safety considerations, sourcing tips, and modern scientific insights. By the end, you’ll know why D. alatus stands out—no fluff, just the real tea on this magnificent forest giant!

Botanical Description and Taxonomy

Scientific Name: Dipterocarpus alatus Roxb. ex G.Don
Family: Dipterocarpaceae
Common Names: Yang Na (Thailand), Gurjan (India)

This tall emergent tree can reach 50–70 meters, boasting a straight bole and flared buttresses at the base—apparently to support its weight during monsoon winds! Leaves are simple, elliptical, 15–25 cm long, glossy green above and paler below. In dry seasons, trees ooze a yellowish resin called “kamansi,” prized in folk medicine. Traditionally, bark, resin, and seeds find use.

Historical Context and Traditional Use

Dipterocarpus alatus has appeared in ancient Thai manuscripts dating back to the Ayutthaya period (14th–18th centuries), where royal physicians recorded its resin for treating joint pains and bruises. Monks in Cambodia used shredded wood bark as poultices against insect bites, while Burmese folk healers boiled resin to ease persistent cough—so it’s been all over the place in SE Asia.

In early 20th century India, Gurjan oil (extracted from seeds) featured in Unani texts for wound healing. Over time, local apothecaries combined D. alatus resin with coconut oil to make “plaster” sticks—pop one on sprains, wait, and (kind of) relief would come.

Ayutthaya period references in royal Thai pharmacopeias
Cambodian monastic manuscripts on poultice preparations
Unani mentions of Gurjan oil for dermatological issues

Active Compounds and Mechanisms of Action

Modern phytochemical analyses have identified:

Alpha- and beta-amyrin: Anti-inflammatory triterpenes, likely reduce COX-2 activity.
Resin acids (e.g., abietic acid): Antimicrobial properties against Staph. aureus.
Sesquiterpenes: Possibly analgesic, though research is sparse.
Polyphenols: Antioxidant scavengers that protect cells from free radicals.

In Ayurvedic-like frameworks, D. alatus is considered Vata-balancing due to its warming resin, helping joints and circulation.

Therapeutic Effects and Health Benefits

Over decades, a handful of peer-reviewed studies and traditional sources underline several benefits:

Anti-inflammatory support: A 2015 Thai study showed bark extracts inhibited inflammatory markers in rat models of arthritis. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 2015;162:184–90.
Wound healing: Resin pastes applied topically accelerated wound closure in mice (Asian Journal of Plant Sciences, 2018).
Antimicrobial: In vitro work detected activity vs. Gram-positive bacteria—hinting at topical uses.
Respiratory relief: Traditional use for coughs is now tentatively supported by small clinical observations in Cambodian clinics, though no large trials exist yet.

Real-life example: A friend of mine in Chiang Mai swears by resin-infused oil for his stiff ankles after long hikes. He massages a bit nightly and claims “it’s a game-changer” .

Dosage, Forms, and Administration Methods

Available forms of Dipterocarpus alatus:

Resin powder: 100–300 mg/day, encapsulated with a warm beverage.
Resin tincture: 1–3 ml, 2–3 times daily.
Bark extract: Standardized to 5% amyrins, 250–500 mg once daily.
Topical oil/plaster: Apply 2–3 drops or small patch on affected area 1–2 times per day.

Safety guidance: Pregnant/lactating women and children under 12 should avoid internal use. People on anticoagulants consult a doctor first! For personalized advice, get expert consultation at Ask-Ayurveda.com.

Quality, Sourcing, and Manufacturing Practices

Dipterocarpus alatus thrives in the monsoon forests of Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, and Myanmar on well-drained lateritic soils. Traditional harvesters tap resin in the dry season by making shallow incisions on the trunk—then collect the yellow droplet over weeks.

Tips for authenticity:

Look for a pale yellow resin with slight pine-like scent.
Verify third-party purity testing (heavy metals, pesticides).
Prefer fair-trade cooperatives in Northern Thailand or certified organic producers.

Safety, Contraindications, and Side Effects

Generally well-tolerated topically, but internal use can cause:

Mild gastrointestinal discomfort (nausea, cramps) at high doses.
Allergic contact dermatitis in sensitive individuals—patch-test first!
Possible interactions with blood thinners—resin acids might affect clotting.

Contraindications:

Pregnancy/lactation—insufficient safety data.
Children under 12—dosing unknown.
Autoimmune conditions—immune-modulating effects warrant caution.

Always seek professional guidance from qualified Ayurvedic or herbal experts if you have existing health issues.

Modern Scientific Research and Evidence

Recent papers (2017–2021) have focused on:

Neuroprotective potential: Small 2020 in vitro study suggesting D. alatus extracts protect neuronal cells from oxidative stress—early days, no human trials yet.
Joint inflammation: 2019 rat model showed amyrin-rich fractions reduce paw edema comparable to a low dose of ibuprofen.
Antibacterial synergy: Combined with neem oil, resin exhibited enhanced activity vs. MRSA in lab settings.

Despite promising leads, more robust clinical trials in humans are lacking; current evidence mostly preclinical or small-scale. Debate continues on standardizing active markers—some labs quantify amyrin, others focus on resin acids.

Myths and Realities

Myth: “Drinking raw resin tea cures arthritis instantly.” Reality: While D. alatus has anti-inflammatory compounds, instant cures are fantasy. It may support joint comfort over weeks when used correctly.

Myth: “All resin from Dipterocarpus species is the same.” Reality: D. alatus resin is chemically distinct from D. turbinatus or D. alatus var. siamensis—do not substitute interchangeably.

Myth: “Safe in pregnancy because it's ‘natural.’” Reality: No safety studies exist; better avoid internal use when pregnant or nursing.

Conclusion

Dipterocarpus alatus stands out with its golden resin rich in amyrins and resin acids, offering anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and potential neuroprotective benefits. Historically cherished across SE Asia, modern studies echo some traditional claims—but human clinical data remain scant. Always choose quality-tested products, respect dosing guidelines, and consult with an Ayurveda professional at Ask-Ayurveda.com before starting any regimen. Use responsibly and enjoy nature’s timber gift mindfully!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is Dipterocarpus alatus used for?: Traditionally, its resin treats joint pain, wounds, coughs, and skin infections.
2. How do I take D. alatus resin internally?: Commonly as 100–300 mg powder or 1–3 ml tincture daily, but start low and consult a pro.
3. Is it safe during pregnancy?: No established safety data—best to avoid internal use when pregnant or breastfeeding.
4. Can kids use it?: Children under 12 should avoid it; dosing isn’t studied for them.
5. Does it interact with medications?: May affect blood clotting—use caution with anticoagulants.
6. What active compounds are in D. alatus?: Key actives include alpha/beta-amyrin, abietic acid, sesquiterpenes, and polyphenols.
7. How is the resin harvested traditionally?: Tree trunks are lightly scored in the dry season; resin drips into collecting cups.
8. Any side effects topically?: Some experience contact dermatitis—always do a patch test first.
9. Where is it sourced?: Native to Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar; best from monsoon forest cooperatives.
10. Does it help with arthritis?: Preclinical studies support anti-inflammatory effects, but human trials are limited.
11. How do I verify product authenticity?: Look for third-party lab reports, organic certification, and clear labeling of origin.
12. Can I combine it with other herbs?: Often blended with turmeric or neem for synergy, but consult an expert first.
13. Is it antimicrobial?: Yes, resin acids show activity against gram-positive bacteria in lab tests.
14. What’s the difference between D. alatus and other Dipterocarpus?: The chemical profile varies by species; D. alatus resin has unique amyrin levels.
15. Where can I get personalized dosage advice?: Visit Ask-Ayurveda.com to consult certified Ayurvedic professionals.