Significance of Arka plant
The Arka plant has significance in both Jyotisha and Rasashastra. In Jyotisha, its blossoms are believed to signal a decrease in the price of gold. Meanwhile, in Rasashastra, the Arka plant is valued for its roots, which are used to create a particular medicinal compound. This dual significance highlights the plant’s importance in both astrological and medicinal practices.
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Arka plant'
In Hinduism, the Arka plant signifies medicinal value through its root used in healing compounds, and its blossom is believed to forecast a decrease in gold prices, symbolizing both health and economic insight.
From: Rasa Jala Nidhi, vol 4: Iatrochemistry
(1) A specific plant whose roots are used for making a decoction that complements the medicine.[1] (2) A plant whose root is utilized in the preparation of a specific medicinal compound.[2]
From: Brihat Samhita
(1) A plant whose blossom indicates that gold will become cheap.[3]
From: Dvisahasri of Tembesvami (Summary and Study)
(1) A plant whose milk is consumed by Upamanyu during a time of hunger, which plays a crucial role in his lesson of resilience.[4]
From: Skanda Purana
(1) The plant referred to in the text, whose leaves, if consumed after a visit to Arkasthala, are considered highly inauspicious and even compared to eating cow's meat.[5]