Why should we circumambulate Peepal (Indian Fig) tree?

Peepal is sacred by all Hindus based on
the declaration of Krishna in Gita that
‘amongst the trees He is Peepal’. Hence, the
tree is worshipped as the very image of
Vishnu. Not only in India, Peepal is considered sacred in the Buddhist countries too. Lord
Buddha attained enlightenment mediating
under the Peepal tree. It is regarded as the
sacred tree and the people uses its leaves for
the religious purposes. According to the
Buddha – ‘He who worships the Peepal tree
will receive the same reward as if he worshiped
me in person’. The Peepal tree has its own
symbolic meaning of Enlightenment and
peace. The Peepal tree is considered to release
enormous amount of oxygen, hence the
Hindus circumambulate it early in the
morning. This tree of life has many medicinal
value. The juice of its leaves extracted by
holding them near the fire can be used as the
ear drop. Its power bark has been used to heal
the wounds for years. The bark of the tree is
useful in inflammations and glandular swelling of the neck. Its root bark is useful for
stomatitis, clean ulcers, and promotes
granulations. Its roots are also good for gout.
The roots are even chewed to prevent gum
diseases. Its fruit is laxative which promotes
digestion and checks vomiting. Its ripe fruits
are good for the foul taste, thirst and heart
diseases. The powered fruit is taken for
Asthma.