# Sthuneyaka

> Sthuneyaka (Taxus baccata) is a plant used in Ayurveda. Estimated moderate bioavailability (20-35%) based on phytochemical class. Lipophilic terpenoid constituents benefit from oil-based (taila) or milk-based administration. Traditional prescribing with specific Anupana (vehicle) likely optimizes bioavailability.

## Key facts

- **Botanical name:** Taxus baccata

## Names and identification

| Language | Name |
|----------|------|
| English | Sthuneyaka |

## Ayurvedic pharmacology (Dravyaguna)

| Property | Value | Description |
|----------|-------|-------------|
| **Rasa** (Taste) | Tikta, Kashaya | Primary taste |
| **Guna** (Quality) | Laghu | Physical quality |
| **Virya** (Potency) | Ushna | Heating/Cooling effect |
| **Vipaka** (Post-digestive) | Katu | Post-digestive effect |

## Dosage forms and preparation

**Dosage Forms:** Churna (powder), Kwatha (decoction), Vati (tablet), Capsule, Taila (medicated oil)

**Standard Dosage:** 3-5 g powder per day; 50-100 mL kwatha twice daily; 500-1000 mg capsule twice daily

**Bioavailability:** Limited pharmacokinetic data. Estimated moderate bioavailability (20-35%) based on phytochemical class. Lipophilic terpenoid constituents benefit from oil-based (taila) or milk-based administration. Traditional prescribing with specific Anupana (vehicle) likely optimizes bioavailability.

**Optimal Timing:** After meals with warm water or milk; taila for external application as needed

**Standardized Extract:** Aqueous-ethanolic extract (5:1), characterized by HPTLC fingerprint; standardized to NLT 2% total phenolics and NLT 1% total [flavonoids](/reference/flavonoids/)

**Shelf Life:** 24 months for churna; 30 months for capsules; 24 months for taila

**Storage:** Store below 25 deg C in airtight containers, protected from light and moisture. Taila in amber glass bottles.

**Marker Compounds:** Beta-[sitosterol](/glossary/compounds-q-t/#sitosterol), [Lupeol](/reference/lupeol/), Gallic acid, Total [alkaloids](/glossary/compounds-1-a/#alkaloids) (if present), Total flavonoids

### Extraction Methods

- Aqueous decoction
- Hydroalcoholic extraction (50-60% ethanol)
- Cold maceration for heat-sensitive constituents
- Oil-based extraction (taila) for lipophilic compounds

### Synergistic Combinations

- [Bala](/herb/bala/) (Vatahara combinations)
- [Eranda](/herb/eranda/) (anti-rheumatic formulations)
- [Rasna](/herb/rasna/) ([analgesic](/reference/analgesic/) and anti-inflammatory synergy)
- [Ashwagandha](/herb/ashwagandha/) (Balya — strength-building formulations)

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Canonical version of this page: https://nighantu.ageayurveda.com/herb/sthuneyaka/

## Sources

- Amidha Ayurveda Herb Database (700+ herbs, CC-BY-4.0)
- Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India

Published by Age Ayurveda in the Nighantu. Educational reference only, not medical advice.
Incorporates material from the Amidha Ayurveda Herb Database under CC BY 4.0.