The Ayurvedic Wellness Counselor Program

The Ayurvedic Wellness Counselor Program
KAA 106: Ayurvedic Herbology (Dravya Guna Karma Shastra)
Dravya Guna Karma Shastra
Dravya Guna Karma Shastra is the science (Shastra) of
Dravyas (substances, drugs or herbs), their Gunas (properties
and qualities) and Karmas (actions) which aid in the
maintenance of health and alleviation of disease.
Dravyas are Described in Seven Categories
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
Dravya: Substance, Herb
Guna: Property or Quality
Rasa: Taste
Vipaka: Post-Digestive Effect
Veerya: Potency
Prabhava: Unique Property
Karma: Action or Effect
Dravya Guna Karma Shastra
Important Notes about Dravya Guna Karma Shastra
The study of Dravya includes the dosage,
compatibility and processing of herbs.
All Dravya are Panchabhoutic, meaning they
contain different combinations of all five elements.
Tridosha Siddhanta: How the concept of Tridosha
is involved in the study of herbology and disease
management.
Nighantu is a dictionary of medicinal substances in
which the description of herbs–useful parts,
morphology, properties, actions and uses are
mentioned.
Dravya
Dravya is the substance which is
inseparable from Guna and Karma.
Dravya is more important than Guna and karma.
Dravya is Panchabhoutik.
Each Dravya is a medicine.
Like increases like.
Dravya is stable.
Dravya is long-lasting.
Dravya is understood by the five sense organs.
Different parts of Dravyas are used.
Dravyas are used to create various Ayurvedic medicines.
Guna
Guna is the quality of the Dravya through which action,
or karma takes place. It is inseparable from Dravya.
Examples
The cold quality (Guna) in the ice cream (Dravya)
causes coldness (karma) in the body, thereby
reducing Pitta.
The rough quality (Guna) of Guggulu (Dravya)
causes scraping action (karma), which is useful in
lowering cholesterol build up.
Guna: The Twenty Bodily Gunas
There are 20 gunas, or 10 pairs of opposites.
The bodily gunas
are related to the
physical body:
Heavy, dull, cold, moist,
soft, liquid, dense, stable,
clear, subtle (and their
opposite pairs).
Guna: The Five Bhoutic Gunas
Guna
Related Bhuta
Shabda (Sound)
Sparsha (Touch)
Roopa (Sight)
Rasa (Taste)
Gandha (Smell)
Akasha (Ether)
Vayu (Air)
Teja (Fire)
Aap (Water)
Prithvi (Earth)
Important Note
Ether helps to cleanse
Air helps to dry and absorb
Fire helps to digest
Water and Earth help to build
Fire and Air help to scrape
Karma
Karma is the action carried out by Dravya, or an action done
to achieve a definite aim. Karma cannot exist without Dravya.
Examples
Shatavari is stanya janana (increases breast milk)
Pippali is ama pachana (digests ama)
Kutaja is atisaraghna (stops diarrhea)
Classification According to the Karmas
1. Deepana
Herbs that stimulate Agni are called
Deepana Dravyas. Their Rasas are mainly
Sour, Salty and Pungent. They increase
Pitta and decrease Vata and Kapha. They
may or may not digest Ama.
Examples
Ginger, black pepper, pippali and chitrak.
Classification According to the Karmas
2. Pachana
Herbs that digest Ama are called Pachana
Dravyas or ama pachanas. They may or
may not strengthen Agni. Their Rasas are
mainly Bitter, Pungent and Sour. Bitter
herbs are the best ama pachanas.
Examples
Musta, kutaja, garlic, ginger and lemons.
Classification According to the Karmas
3. Shamana
Herbs that maintain the balance of the Doshas internally
without removing them from the body are called
Shamana Dravyas. An herb or substance that reduces
Vata is called Vatashamaka. An herb or substance that
reduces Pitta is called Pittashamaka. An herb or
substance that reduces Kapha is called Kaphashamaka.
Shamana Can Be Achieved Through
Deepana: Herbs such as Ajwan and Trikatu that help
strengthen Agni and balance Kapha and Vata.
Pachana: Herbs and substances such as Ginger, lemon
and Kutaja that digest Ama.
Langhana (Fasting): Helps digest Ama and Kapha.
Trut (Reducing Water Intake): Problems such as edema
and water retention (or bloating) can generally be taken
care of by reducing water intake.
Vyayama (Exercise): Increases body heat, digest Ama,
removes srotorodha, decreases Kapha and Vata, helps
reduce weight.
Atapa Seva (Walking in the Sun): Helps reduce Kapha
and Ama.
Maruta Seva (Walking in the Breeze): Helps decrease
Pitta.
Examples
Sesame oil is Vatashamaka, Ghee is Pittashamaka
and Honey is Kaphashamaka.
Classification According to the Karmas
4. Shodhana
Herbs that remove aggravated Doshas
from the body are called Shodhana
Dravyas. This action is more effective than
Shamana because the aggravated Doshas
actually leave the body.
Examples of How Shodhana
Can Be Administered
Examples
Madanaphala, vacha and nishottar.
Vamana: Upwardly, through the
mouth.
Virechana: Downwardly, through the
rectum.
Classification According to the Karmas
5. Stambhan
Herbs that absorb the fluids in the colon are called
Stambhan Dravyas. Their qualities are mainly dry,
astringent and cold. They do not digest ama. Their
astringent and cold qualities constrict the channels
while their dry quality absorbs the fluids. These
herbs should not be used in high ama conditions or
to treat ama-related disorders.
Examples
Herbs with astringent tastes such as kutaja and
nagakeshara.
Classification According to the Karmas
6. Grahi
Herbs that help to solidify the stool, increase
the appetite (Deepana) and improve the
digestion (Pachana) and absorption of fluids
are called Grahi Dravyas. These herbs have a
Veerya that is heating (which causes the stool
to solidify) and they are pungent in nature
Examples
Dry ginger, musta and cumin.
Classification According to the Karmas
7. Anuloman
Herbs that act as mild laxatives are called
Anuloman Dravyas. Ama may cause
obstruction in the channels and these herbs
digest Saama malas (meaning malas with Ama)
and eliminate them from the rectum.
Examples
Aragvadha and castor.
Classification According to the Karmas
8. Sramsan
Herbs that act as mild purgatives are called Sramsan
Dravyas. These herbs remove the malas which are
sticking to the intestinal walls and expel them from
the body. These herbs and substances are not ama
pachanas. Sramsan herbs are stronger than
anulomana herbs
Examples
Warm milk and ghee, grapes and haritaki
and triphala.
Classification According to the Karmas
9. Virechana
Herbs that act as strong purgatives
are called Virechana Dravyas. They
forcefully remove both Saama and
Nirama malas in their liquid form
from the body.
Examples
Nishottar and castor oil.
Classification According to the Karmas
10. Bhedana
Herbs that act as drastic purgatives are called
Bhedana Dravyas. They break stony hard stools
and remove liquid malas and aggravated Doshas
from the digestive tract. Bhedana Dravyas are
the strongest Dravyas of all.
Examples
Aloe, kutki and chitrak.
Classification According to the Karmas
11. Lekhana
Herbs that have a scraping action on the Dhatus,
Doshas and Malas are called Lekhana Dravyas. Meda
and Kapha are the primary Dhatus and Doshas removed
by Lekhana Dravyas. This type of herb is especially
effective for removing excess Dhatu build-up in the
body such as is the case in obesity and diabetes.
Examples
Guggulu, haridra, vacha, daruhaladi, warm
water and honey.
Classification According to the Karmas
12. Pramathi
Herbs which expel aggravated Doshas which are
adherent to Srotas. They enter into minute
Srotas due to their ushna and teekshna gunas
and forcefully expel Doshas accumulated there.
These herbs are useful in Kapha, Meda diseases
and in Pranavaha Srotas and shirorogas.
Examples
Black pepper, vacha, chitrak, pippali and
vidanga.
Shad Rasa: The Six Tastes
Rasa (or taste) is the sensation
that the tongue experiences.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Sweet (Madhura)
Sour (Amla)
Salty (Lavana)
Pungent (Katu)
Astringent (Kashaya)
Bitter (Tikta)
Notes
Other meanings of the word Rasa: Juice, the first
Dhatu or Mercury.
Water (Aap) is the Mahabhuta that is mainly
responsible for Rasa, or taste.
Each Dosha is increased or decreased by certain
Rasas, so their balance is dependent on the
consumption of various Rasas through the diet
and/or herbs.
Taste is the sense and the tongue is the sense organ.
As soon as the tongue comes into contact with food,
the taste can be perceived.
The Rasa of any food or Dravya is not permanent.
Rasa: Bhoutic Composition
Taste
Mahabhutas
Sweet (Madhura)
Earth + Water
Sour (Amla)
Fire + Earth
Salty (Lavana)
Fire + Water
Pungent (Katu)
Fire + Air
Astringent (Kashaya)
Air + Earth
Bitter (Tikta)
Air + Ether
The action of each taste depends on its
bhoutic composition.
There are four varieties of taste buds on
the tongue, each perceiving sweet, sour, salty
or bitter tastes. Sweet and salty are perceived
at the tip of the tongue, sour on the sides and
bitter at the back.
The pungent taste irritates the mucus
membrane while the astringent taste pulls the
mucus membrane.
Rasa: Effect on the Doshas
Taste
Kapha Pitta Vata
Sweet (Madhura)
↑
↓
↓
Sour (Amla)
↑
↑
↓
Salty (Lavana)
↑
↑
↓
Pungent (Katu)
↓
↑
↑
Astringent (Kashaya)
↓
↓
↑
Bitter (Tikta)
↓
↓
↑
Rasa: Related to Dosha Shamana
Dosha Shamana
Vata Shamana or
Vatashamaka
Pitta Shamana or
Pittashamaka
Kapha Shamana or
Kaphashamaka
Taste
Effect
Sweet
Moist
Salty
Hot, moist
Sour
Hot
Sweet
Astringent
Cool
Bitter
Pungent
Hot, light
Bitter
Light, dry
Astringent
Dry
Rasa: Related to Dosha Vardhana
Dosha Vardhana
Taste
Effect
Vata Vardhana
Pungent, Astringent, Bitter
Dry
Pitta Vardhana
Pungent, Sour, Salty
Hot
Kapha Vardhana
Sweet, Sour, Salty
Heavy, moist
Rasa: Related to Dosha Vardhana
Mahabhuta
Effect
Akasha
Shodhana: Cleansing
Vayu
Shoshana: Absorbing
Tejas
Deepana: Agni strengthening
Aap, Prithvi
Bruhana: Builds dhatus
Vayu, Tejas
Lekhana: Scraping dhatus
Vipaka: Post-Digestive Effect
Vipaka, Vishesha Pak represents the Post-Digestive
Effect of a Dravya , or the special effect (Vishesha) of an
herb on the body (Pak).
The Vipaka is the transformed state of the food
after digestion and assimilation
It is the ultimate result of the process of digestion
It is the transformed state after digestion
The final reaction of food on the body
Vipaka: Types
Type
Vipaka
Taste(s)
Effect
Examples
Exceptions
1
Sweet
(Madhura)
Sweet and
salty
substances
Builds the Dhatus, helps heal
wounds, moisten the skin and create
well-formed stools and clear urine.
Milk, ghee, butter, sea salt
and rock salt
Honey (pungent
Vipaka), Black
Gram (Sour
Vipaka)
Sour (Amla)
Sour
substances
Forms Rakta Dhatu, strengthens
Agni, reduces Ama, decreases Vata
(reduces pain), creates sweat and
cleanses the mouth & tongue.
Oranges, tomatoes
Lime and amalaki
(sweet Vipaka)
Pungent
(Katu)
Pungent,
Astringent
and Bitter
substances
Reduces Meda Dhatu and excessive
fluids from the body, depletes the
Dhatus, causes constipation and
blocks sweat glands.
Chilies, chitrak (pungent),
bitter melon, fenugreek
(bitters), Lodhra and
udumbara (astringents).
Pippali, dry
ginger, guduchi
and haritaki
(sweet Vipaka).
2
3
Veerya: Potency
Veeryate anena iti Veeryam: The property or potency of a substance which brings about the action is called Veerya.
Veerya or Potency is responsible for the action of the herb in question. It can be translated to the vigor or essence of an herb.
Types of Veerya
1. Sheeta (Cooling)
2. Ushna (Heating)
Actions: Increases Vata and Kapha, decreases Pitta,
strengthens the Dhatus, stops bowel movements
and sweating, increases urination, weakens Agni,
creates a feeling of refreshment, tones the Dhatus,
increases moistness, nourishes the Dhatus and
creates Srotorodha.
Actions: Decreases Vata and Kapha, increases Pitta,
increases Rakta Dhatu, depletes the rest of the
Dhatus, dries stools and urine, increases sweat,
causes agni deepana and ama pachana, creates
thirst, causes dizziness and opens the Srotas.
Examples: Chandan, lotus and aloe.
Examples: Dry ginger, pippali and chitrak.
Veerya: Types
In terms of dietetics, Rasa is of primary importance. In terms of herbs, Veerya is.
Generally, Sheeta Veerya increases Kapha, while Ushna Veerya increases Pitta. Vata
works as a buffer. Among the six tastes, three have a Sheeta, or cooling Veerya and three
have an Ushna or heating Veerya.
Remember the bhoutic composition of the tastes.
Rasa
Sweet
Sour
Salty
Pungent
Astringent
Bitter
Veerya
Cooling
Heating
Heating
Heating
Cooling
Cooling
Veerya: Potency
Prabhavati samarthya vishistham bhavati anena iti Prabhava
Prabhava is the unique property or special effect of a substance which
cannot be explained by Rasa, Veerya or Vipaka. This unique effect is due to its
unique bhoutic composition. It is called Achintya Shakti which translates to “a
power beyond (rational) thinking.”
Examples
Danti and Chitrak have the same Rasa, Veerya and Vipaka: They each have a pungent Rasa and Vipaka and a hot
Veerya. However Danti is a laxative and Chitrak is digesting.
Milk and ghee have the same Rasa, Veerya and Vipaka but ghee creates agni deepana while milk creates agni mandya.
Arjuna and Vidanga have the same Rasa, Veerya and Vipaka but while Arjuna works on the heart while Vidanga acts as
an antiparasitic.
Oushadha Dravyas
Oushadha or herbs are used as medicine. Ousha or Osha literally
means herbs with medicinal properties Oushadha Dravyas.
Qualities
Oushadha Dravyas should have four qualities:
Are adequately available.
Have many medicinal properties so it can be used in many
formulations.
Are very potent in terms of Rasa, Vipaka, Veerya, Prabhava, etc.
Are very potent in particular actions, or Karmas.
Ahara
The diet rich in
Rasa helps
nutrition.
Oushadha Dravyas: Parts Used
The entire body of an herb
or plant is not always potent
medicinally. Certain parts
carry more potency than
others, so these parts of the
plant are isolated and used
for treatment.
No.
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
Part of Plant
Roots
Bark
Trunk
Gum
Stems
Juice
Leaves
Salts
Pulp
Fruits
Flowers
Ash
Oil
Spikes
Rhizomes
Seeds
Herb
Examples
Dashmoola
Arjun, Khadir
Sandalwood
Asafoetida, Guggulu
Lotus
From the fresh leaves of Gotukola
Mango, Vasta
Barley, Lotus
Cactus, Aloe
Haritaki, Amla
Rose
Triphala
Almond
Savari
Ginger
Ajwan
Gotukola (Sometimes the whole herb is used)
Oushadha Dravyas: Dosage
Dosage is not standard. It changes
depending on the following factors:
The strength of a patient
The strength of a disease
The strength of the herb
The strength of the digestive fire, or Agni
The duration of the disease
The season
The age and sex of the client
Important Note
The dose should be higher when the
degree of Dosha imbalance is high, the
herb potency is low or patient is strong
The dose should be low when the
degree of imbalance is low, or the herb
is strong or the patient is weak
Oushadha Dravyas: Forms Used
Form
Preparation
Swarasa (Fresh Juice)
Kalka (Herbal Paste,
Puree or Powder)
Kwatha (Decoction)
Hima (Cold Infusion)
Fanta (Hot Infusion)
Blend fresh herbs with 1/2 to equal amount of water and strain.
General
Dose
10 mL
Herbs are pureed in a blender with a little water.
5g
Mix one part herbs and 8 parts water. Boil till one part of water remains (it is a strong decoction).
Steep herbs (1 part herbs: 3 parts water) in cold water overnight. Good for Pitta.
Steep herbs (1 part herbs: 3 parts water) in boiled water for 1 to 12 hours (depending on herbs).
Make a decoction of 1 part herbs and 8 parts water till 1 part remains. Strain the decoction and add
equal amount of oil (many times sesame oil). Boil on low heat till all the water evaporates.
Make a decoction of 1 part herbs and 8 parts water till 1 part remains. Strain the decoction and add
equal amount of Ghee. Boil on low heat till all the water evaporates.
10 mL
80 mL
80 mL
Medicated Oils
Medicated Ghee
Aasava (Ayurvedic Wine
Made with Cold Infusion
or Juice of the Herb)
Arishta (Ayurvedic Wine
Made with Decoction)
Powders
Pills
Mix swarasa (juice) of herbs, raw sugar and Dhataki flowers and ferment for 90 days. Better in Pitta
conditions.
Mix decoction of herbs, jaggery, and Dhataki flowers and ferment for 90 days – better in Kapha and
Vata conditions.
This is the most common form. The powders lose their potency after 6 months.
Mix powdered herbs and honey or maple syrup and roll into small pills.
10 mL
10 g
15 to 20 mL
15 to 20 mL
1 to 2 g
2 to 4 g
Oushadha Dravyas: When to Take Herbs
On an empty stomach (early in the morning): For Kapha conditions and if the patient is strong. Herbs taken
on an empty stomach spread throughout the body quickly. If a person is weak, this may cause an adverse
reaction.
Before mealtime: For Vata conditions. Stimulates Apana Vayu, tones the intestinal muscles and helps increase
Agni.
During mealtime: Improves digestion due to the stimulation of Samana Vayu, which stimulates the liver as well
as the excretion of pancreatic enzymes.
After mealtime
After Lunch: Stimulates Vyana Vayu to strengthen the heart.
After Dinner: Stimulates Udana Vayu to strengthen the lungs.
Taken Frequently: For heartburn, cough, asthma, thirst, breathlessness or hiccup, etc.
Bedtime: Diseases of the ear, nose and throat. Stimulates Prana Vayu and acts as a purgative and is sleep
promoting.
Oushadha Dravyas: Channels of Administration
1. The Mouth
This route is selected for:
General Action: It is the most commonly
used channel because the herbs are
digested, absorbed and then circulated
through the body.
Local Action: For oral and dental
diseases as gargles or in the oral
application of oils.
Inhalation: In some respiratory diseases
by inhaling certain herbal smokes.
Emesis (Vomiting): Used in some
digestive diseases.
2. The Nose
Using this route as an administrative channel is often
referred to as Nasya. This route is the doorway to
the brain. It is selected for:
Local Action: To treat nasal
diseases and upper respiratory
concerns.
Inhalation: In respiratory diseases
such as using inhalers for Asthma.
Nasya is also performed for all
diseases above the neck, such as
migraine, sinus problems, chronic
headaches and TMJ.
Oushadha Dravyas: Channels of Administration
3. The Eyes
6. Urethra
Local Action: Eye drops or ointments for eye or vision
problems.
Local Action: For urinary problems (very
uncommon).
4. The Ears
6. Vagina
Local Action: Ear drops for ear problems such as discharge,
ringing, polyps and pain, etc.
Vaginal Douche: For leucorrhea, candida or
dry vagina, etc.
5. The Anus
7. Skin
Enemas: For problems such as constipation, using
lubricating or cleansing enemas such as suppositories.
External Application: For skin diseases,
swelling of the joints, oil massage, steam bath,
medicinal patches for vitiligo or skin
discolorations, etc.
Basti treatment is very beneficial for Vata diseases.
Anupana: Carrier
Anupana, or Carrier, is a substance taken along with one or more of the
following functions:
To mask certain undesirable tastes: Castor oil in tea or fruit juice.
To strengthen the action: Honey strengthens several of the
medicinal qualities of different herbs.
To neutralize an undesirable effect: Milk neutralizes the excessive
Pitta-aggravating qualities of guggulu when used as an antiinflammatory.
To protect the desirable effect of certain herbs in instances of
strong digestive fire: Time-release coating to protect herbs from the
acidic part of digestion so that they can reach the intestine.
To target certain organs: Herbal wines used when looking to reach
the liver directly.
Common Anupanas
Most of the time, these Anupanas are liquids which help to absorb medicines quickly.
Certain herbs act specifically and effectively when administered with specific anupanas.
Dosha
Qualities
Examples
Vata
Moist and warm
Sesame oil, warm water
Pitta
Cool and sweet
Ghee, cool water, milk
Kapha
Dry and warm
Honey, warm water
Anupanas for Each Dhatu
Most of the time, these Anupanas are liquids which help to absorb medicines quickly. Certain herbs act specifically and
effectively when administered with specific anupanas.
Dhatu
Anupana
Rasa
Water, rock sugar, milk
Rakta
Milk, honey, rock sugar
Mamsa
Honey
Meda
Herbal wines
Asthi
Milk, bone soup
Majja
Herbal wines
Shukra
Milk
The Herbs in Detail
Amla (Amalaki, Dhatri)
Emblica Officinalis
Part Used
Fruit
Guna
Light, dry, cold
Rasa
All tastes except salty; Mainly sour
Vipaka
Sweet
Veerya
Cooling (Sheetha)
Effect on Dosha
Pacifies all of the Doshas, especially Pitta
Main Action
Rejuvenative, aphrodisiac, laxative, haemostatic, antiaging;
The world’s richest source of Vitamin C.
The Herbs in Detail
Uses
Amla (Amalaki, Dhatri)
Emblica Officinalis
Locally: Paste applied on forehead in Pitta headaches, on the face to
improve the complexion and on blemishes on the skin and the head
for early graying.
Beneficial as a Rasayana: Nutritive to all of the Dhatus, rejuvenating
(Chyavanprash)
Good for the digestive system: Used as agnideepana, ama pachana,
anulomana in agnimandya, acid reflux, ulcers and liver diseases.
Used in Pitta fever, skin problems, anemia and diabetes.
Used in bleeding conditions such as bleeding gums, healing wounds,
bleeding in the eyes, redness of the eyes, nose bleeds, bleeding
hemorrhoids and/or ulcers.
Used as an aphrodisiac, for uterine debility, Menorrhegia and
leucorrhea.
The Herbs in Detail
Ashwagandha
Part Used
Root
Guna
Light, moist
Rasa
Sweet, bitter, astringent
Vipaka
Sweet
Veerya
Heating (Ushna)
Effect on
Dosha
Decreases Vata and Kapha, increases Pitta and Ama if
taken in excess
Aphrodisiac, sedative, Rasayana, antiaging, nervine,
analgesic
Withenia Somnifera
Main Action
Forms Used
Decoction, arishta, powder, ghrita, avaleha
The Herbs in Detail
Uses
Ashwagandha
Withenia Somnifera
Locally: Paste on enlarged lymph glands, oil in vata diseases.
Beneficial in instances of infertility, sexual or general debility,
low sperm count and/or low vitality. Useful for pregnant
women to strengthen the uterus and the growing fetus.
Promotes sleep, used in stress, anxiety, nerve pain, muscle pain,
overwork, emaciation, insomnia and acts as a nerve tonic.
Beneficial for arthritis, sciatica, rheumatism, MS and paralysis.
Respiratory: Cough, Asthma, migraine headaches.
The juice of Ashvagandha leaves is used as ear drops for ear
discharge.
Builds the Dhatus, especially mamsa and shukra.
Used in debilitating diseases; Improves immunity.
The Herbs in Detail
Bala
Sida Cardifolia
Part Used
Root, seeds, leaves
Guna
Heavy, moist, slimy
Rasa
Sweet
Vipaka
Sweet
Veerya
Cooling
Effect on
Dosha
Decreases Vata and Pitta
Main Action
Rejuvenative, nervine, aphrodisiac, analgesic
Forms Used
Oil, decoction, arishta, ghrita
The Herbs in Detail
Uses
Bala
Sida Cardifolia
Locally: Paste for healing wounds.
Strengthens the small intestine and improves digestion (useful
in IBS and Crone’s disease). Strengthens the lungs, heals ulcers
and cavities in the lungs; Useful in Pittaja kasa (cough) and
asthma.
Alterative, very useful in Raktapitta and Pitta (burning)
hemorrhoids.
As a tonic, it is useful in general debility, undernourishment
(tuberculosis is an example of this) and in the case of weak
heart muscles.
Strengthens all of the Dhatus but mainly mamsa and shukra.
Aids in Vata disorders such as sciatica, neuralgia and facial
paralysis (anuvasana bastis are useful here).
Beneficial for Rheumatism and chronic fevers
.
The Herbs in Detail
Part Used
Fruit
Guna
Dry, heavy
Rasa
Astringent
Vipaka
Pungent
Veerya
Heating
Effect on Dosha
Decreases Kapha and Pitta, mainly Kapha
Main Action
Rejuvenative, expectorant, laxative, antihelmentic, antiseptic,
lithotropic (breaks gall bladder and kidney stones)
Forms Used
Oil, powder, decoction
Bibhitaki
Terminelia Belerica
The Herbs in Detail
Uses
Bibhitaki
Terminelia Belerica
Beneficial for cough, asthma, congestion, migraine
headaches; Also works to clear the voice. The partially ripe
fruit works as a laxative.
Gives tone to the body.
The oil can be used in premature graying of the hair and as
a hair tonic.
Acts as an anti emetic and reduces excessive thirst.
Beneficial for Deepana, Pachana, acts as an antihelmentic
and stops bleeding.
The seeds are used to treat insomnia.
The Herbs in Detail
Brahmi
Buccopa Monnieria
Part Used
Leaves
Guna
Light
Rasa
Bitter, astringent, sweet
Vipaka
Sweet
Veerya
Cooling
Effect on Dosha
Nervine, Antiepileptic and antihysteric by Prabhava
Main Action
Decreases mainly Vata and Pitta
Forms Used
Juice, powder, oil
The Herbs in Detail
Uses
Brahmi
Locally: The juice can be applied on painful joints as an analgesic.
Brahmi is useful to calm and cool the mind, especially in instances of high fever
when it reaches a state of delirium, marked by anxiety, disorientation,
hallucinations, delusions, and incoherent speech.
Works as a brain tonic: Calms the mind, reduces dullness and enhances
intelligence and memory. Brahmi is used in Pitta conditions, Jatamansi in Vataja
conditions and Vacha in Kapha conditions.
Helps with epilepsy, mental retardation, depression, delusion and hallucinations.
Helps relieve pain and inflammation.
Works as a diuretic: Reduces burning and pain during urination.
Acts as a Rasayana: Strengthens all of the dhatus except Rakta.
Since Brahmi is rare, a similar nervine herb is often substituted: Mandukaparni
(Hydrocotyl Asiata).
Brahmi leaves are smooth and have small black spots. Mandukaparni has rough
leaves, is good for the skin and is less nervine than Brahmi.
Gotukola (Centella Asiata) which is commonly used in the US is another sister
variety of Mandukaparni with more diuretic effects. Gotukola is less nervine than
Brahmi.
Buccopa Monnieria
The Herbs in Detail
Eranda (Castor)
Ricinus Communis
Part Used
Oil, leaves
Guna
Heavy, moist, sharp, subtle
Rasa
Sweet, pungent, bitter
Vipaka
Pungent
Veerya
Heating
Effect on Dosha
Decreases Kapha and Vata
Main Action
Strong purgative
Forms Used
Decoction, oil, paste, juice of the leaves
The Herbs in Detail
Uses
Eranda (Castor)
Ricinus Communis
Locally: Warm leaves are used on painful parts of the body while
massaging the abdomen with oil and saindhava in instances of gas
and bloating The main use is for Virechana in Panchakarma. It
causes purgation without cramping.
Useful for any disease caused by Apana Vayu, chronic constipation,
Agnimandya, srotorodha. Acts as an Antihelmentic.
Useful for treating hemorrhoids. The leaves are also useful to
stimulate the liver and to treat obstructive or hemolytic jaundice.
In Amavata, the oil is given with a ginger decoction.
Beneficial for Vata disorders such as tremors, facial palsy and
sciatica.
Helps in Asthma by removing Kapha in the stomach through
purgation.
Antiaging.
The Herbs in Detail
Ginger (Shunthi)
Zinzibar Officinale
Part Used
Rhizome
Guna
Dry Ginger: Light, moist; Fresh Ginger: Dry, sharp and heavy
Rasa
Pungent
Vipaka
Dry Ginger: Sweet; Fresh Ginger: Pungent
Veerya
Heating
Effect on Dosha
Main Action
Forms Used
Both types decrease Vata and Kapha. The sweet Vipaka of Dry
Ginger does not aggravate Pitta while Fresh Ginger increases
Pitta
Stimulates Agni, digestant, carminative, antiemetic, stimulant,
analgesic
Paste, powder, oil, candy, juice, tea
The Herbs in Detail
Uses
Ginger (Shunthi)
Zinzibar Officinale
Locally: The paste is used for sinus headaches and painful joints.
The oil is used as nasya for congestion.
Works as an agnideepana and pachana as well as an antiflatulent.
Because of this, it is used in agnimandya, vomiting, colds, headaches
and to treat abdominal pain.
Acts as an antihaemorrhoidal and antispasmodic. Removes
srotorodha.
Useful to treat cough, asthma, allergies and both morning & motion
sickness.
Purifies the blood, stimulates the heart and helps treat Kaphaja skin
diseases and fevers.
Acts as an anti-inflammatory and analgesic. Useful for treating
arthritis (with caster oil and Guduchi in instances of Amavata), pain,
swelling and general sprains.
Used in postpartum debility as it acts on all of the physical systems.
The Herbs in Detail
Guduchi (Amrita, Gulwel)
Part Used
Stems, leaves
Guna
Light, dry and soft
Rasa
Astringent, bitter, pungent
Vipaka
Sweet
Veerya
Heating
Effect on Dosha
Balances all the three Doshas
Anupana
Ghee in Vataja, sugar in Pittaja and honey in Kaphaja diseases
Main Action
Dhatu agnideepana, ama pachana, Dhatu strengthening,
Rasayana (nutritive), alterative, antiaging, antipyretic
Tinosphora Cardifolia
The Herbs in Detail
Uses
Guduchi (Amrita, Gulwel)
Tinosphora Cardifolia
Locally: The oil is used to treat skin problems as well as physical
aches and pains.
Due to Dhatu agnideepana, Guduchi strengthens all of the Dhatus.
It is the best Rasayana herb. Strengthens the small intestine, so it is
used in diarrhea, vomiting, Agnimandya, pain in abdomen,
parasites, amlapitta (GERD), liver diseases and anemia.
Useful for treating all Pitta conditions such as burning hands, feet
and body.
Relieves chronic fevers and bleeding conditions.
Guduchi satva is effective when treating cardiac debility.
Useful in Vata conditions such as Amavata, arthritis, chronic pain
and spasms.
Is used in prameha to absorb kleda.
Useful when treating eye, urinary, respiratory and digestive
diseases that are primarily Pitta-related.
The Herbs in Detail
Guggulu
Part Used
Resin
Guna
Light, sharp, subtle
Rasa
Bitter, astringent, pungent
Vipaka
Pungent
Veerya
Heating
Effect on Dosha
Decreases Vata and Kapha, increases Pitta
Main Action
Analgesic, antispasmodic, ama pachana, rejuvenative,
stimulant
Comiphora Mukul
The Herbs in Detail
Guggulu
Uses
Acts as an anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antibacterial,
disinfectant and deodorant.
Has a specific scraping action on excess Meda Dhatu and
Kapha, so it is often used to treat Diabetes, obesity and
edema. Used to treat arthritis, facial paralysis, sciatica, gout
and all Vata disorders.
Rejuvenates the tissue of the body and increases strength.
Useful for treating loss of appetite, constipation, liver
diseases, piles and worms.
Useful when treating many skin diseases.
Many Guggul formulas (such as Triphala Guggul) are popular
for reducing cholesterol.
Comiphora Mukul
The Herbs in Detail
Haritaki
Terminelia Chebula
Part Used
Fruit
Guna
Light, dry
Rasa
All except salty, mainly astringent
Vipaka
Sweet
Veerya
Heating
Effect on Dosha
Balances the Tridoshas (mainly Vata)
Main Action
Rejuvenative, laxative, antihelmentic, expectorant.
Popular Products
Triphala
Anupanas
It can be used in the spring with honey, in the summer with
ghee and in the winter with raw sugar
Forms Used
Powder, decoction paste
Contraindications
Physical weakness, pregnancy, dehydration, after severe
exhaustion, after Panchakarma
The Herbs in Detail
Haritaki
Uses
Locally: The paste is used to alleviate swelling, painful parts of the body.
Decoctions are used to cleanse wounds and for gargling.
One of the main benefits of Haritaki is in balancing Vata. It is useful in
instances of weakness in the nervous system and brain. Works on all Dhatus
by removing blockages in any and all of the channels.
Digestive: Useful in instances of agnimandya, pain in the abdomen,
constipation, parasites, hemorrhoids, gas and/or bloating. Since it is
Astringent, it works to strength the intestines.
Beneficial when treating Kaphaja Hemorrhoids: Haritaki, Vidanga, Kutaja,
Chitrak with buttermilk.
Beneficial when treating Amlapitta: Haritaki, Pippali and jaggery digest
saama Pitta and reduce burning in the chest.
Works to strengthen Mamsa and Meda Dhatus by absorbing excess kleda and
strengthening Dhatuagni. Used to treat Kaphaja skin diseases and Prameha.
Stimulates intelligence and strengthens the sense organs by decreasing
excess Kapha and Meda Dhatu.
Terminelia Chebula
The Herbs in Detail
Haritaki
Uses (Continued)
Excellent for treating eye problems: Wash the eyes with Haritaki tea.
Triphala, Licorice ghee and honey strengthen the eyes.
Useful for treating kidney stones and painful urination. Haritaki, Gokshura
and Pashana bhed tea with honey reduce burning and help break kidney
stones and flush them out of the body.
Finely powdered Haritaki is used as a tooth powder that strengthens the
gums.
Used for respiratory rhinitis, cough, hoarseness of voice, hiccups and
asthma.
Useful in leucorrhoea. Acts as uterine tonic.
Prevents the accumulation of pus in the skin.
Works as a Rasayana to open the channels, remove malas from the Dhatus,
and cleanse all of the Dhatus. Works as an antiaging agent.
Pathya: Removes blockage of the srotas and channels.
Abhaya: Makes the individual fearless.
Terminelia Chebula
The Herbs in Detail
Katuka (Kutaki)
Part Used
Root
Guna
Light, dry
Rasa
Bitter
Vipaka
Pungent
Veerya
Cooling
Effect on Dosha
Decreases Kapha and Pitta
Main Action
Hepatoprotective, laxative
Picrorhiza Kurrooa
The Herbs in Detail
Uses
Katuka (Kutaki)
Picrorhiza Kurrooa
Useful when treating jaundice,
liver problems and for cleansing
the liver, cleansing the gall
bladder of stones and treating
constipation,
flatulence
and
ascitis.
Helps regulate heart beats and
constrict the blood vessels. Raises
blood pressure. Useful when
treating bleeding disorders.
Improves Agni, so it is used to
treat Anorexia and indigestion.
Useful when treating
asthma and fever.
cough,
The Herbs in Detail
Kumari (Aloe Vera)
Aloe Barbadensis, etc.
Part Used
Leaves
Guna
Bitter, sweet
Rasa
Sweet
Vipaka
Sweet
Veerya
Cooling
Effect on Dosha
Decreases all three Doshas
Main Action
Bitter tonic, rejuvenative, alterative
Forms Used
Juice from the leaves
The Herbs in Detail
Kumari (Aloe Vera)
Uses
Aloe Barbadensis, etc.
Locally: Applied locally to reduce heat. The pulp
moisturizes the skin while the fresh juice is beneficial
when applied to the eyes in case of infection.
Has a laxative effect by irritating the large intestine.
Useful for treating benign in tumors.
Used to treat anemia.
Used to treat amenorrhea, dysmenorrhea, menopause,
inflammatory vaginal conditions, swollen glands, fever and
constipation.
Used to treat common inflammatory skin conditions.
It acts using deepana and pachana properties.
The juice is used to treat loss of appetite, abdominal colic
and worm infestations.
The Herbs in Detail
Manjishtha
Rubia Cardifolia
Part Used
Root
Guna
Heavy, Dry
Rasa
Bitter, astringent, sweet
Vipaka
Pungent
Veerya
Heating
Effect on Dosha
Decreases PKV
Main Action
On the skin: Alterative, haemostatic
Forms Used
Ghee, powder, decoction, kalka (puree)
The Herbs in Detail
Uses
Manjishtha
Rubia Cardifolia
Locally: The paste is used to help heal
wounds.
Works to purify the blood, improve
circulation, stop bleeding and reduce
inflammation.
Beneficial
when
treating
skin
conditions such as acne, freckles,
blisters and skin infections. Improves
the complexion and cleanses wounds.
Manjishtha ghee is used to treat burns.
Useful when treating all conditions
related
to
menstruation:
Dysmenorrhea,
Amenorrhea
and
Menorrhegia.
The Herbs in Detail
Part Used
Rhizome
Guna
Light, Dry
Rasa
Pungent, bitter, astringent
Nagarmotha
Vipaka
Pungent
(Musta, Nutgrass)
Veerya
Cooling
Effect on Dosha
Decreases Kapha and Pitta
Main Action
Stimulant, carminative, alterative, antispasmodic,
antihelmentic
Forms Used
Decoction, arishta, powder
Cyperus Rotundus
The Herbs in Detail
Uses
Nagarmotha
(Musta, Nutgrass)
Cyperus Rotundus
Locally: The paste can be applied to itchy skin rashes or on the
breasts to cleanse breast milk.
Nagarmotha is the best deepana, pachana and grahi, so it is
used to treat diarrhea, malabsorption and indigestion.
Serves as the key herb in all types of fevers (except chronic
fevers).
Beneficial for increasing and cleansing breast milk.
Enhances memory and strengthens nerves.
Beneficial for treating kidney stones and painful urination.
The Herbs in Detail
Neem (Nimba)
Azadirecta Indica
Part Used
Seeds, leaves, bark and flower
Guna
Light, dry
Rasa
Bitter, astringent, pungent
Vipaka
Pungent
Veerya
Cooling
Effect on Dosha
Decreases Pitta and Kapha
Main Action
Antipyretic, alterative (blood purifying), bitter tonic,
antiseptic, antiemetic, antibiotic
Forms Used
Oil, powder, swarasa (juice)
The Herbs in Detail
Uses
Neem (Nimba)
Azadirecta Indica
Locally: The decoction can be used to cleanse wounds. The oil is
beneficial in chronic or diabetic ulcers, the mouth wash in dental
caries and the smoke of burning leaves cleanses wounds and the
environment. Useful when treating skin diseases such as itching,
dermatitis, eczema, scabies, chronic wounds and burns.
Beneficial for fevers, malaria, Pitta fevers and chronic Kapha fevers.
Acts as an antiparasitic. Should be given with triphala and grape
juice.
Beneficial when treating diabetes, tumors, jaundice, rheumatism
and arthritis.
Several Neem products are available for external use, such as neem
soap and neem toothpaste.
Neem seed oil is very potent medicinally (1 part oil is mixed in 1
million parts of solvent).
In the US, neem is used as a natural pesticide.
The Herbs in Detail
Pippali
Part Used
Fruit
Piper Longum
Types
Two: Dry and fresh (dry type described below)
Dry Type
Guna
Light, moist, sharp
Rasa
Pungent
Vipaka
Sweet
Veerya
Heating (mildly)
Effect on Dosha
Decreases Kapha and Vata
Main Action
Expectorant, carminative, analgesic
Forms Used
Ghee, powder, asava
The Herbs in Detail
Uses
Pippali
Piper Longum
Improves Agnideepana, acts as a carminative (vata
anulomana), analgesic and mild laxative. Beneficial for treating
Amlapitta and enlargements of the liver and spleen.
Beneficial for treating bronchitis, laryngitis, cough, asthma (it
is an expectorant), Hiccups and Tuberculosis.
Strengthens Raktaagni, so it is useful in Anemia (the powder of
pippali and amala).
Digests ama, so it is useful in Amavata and sciatica.
Pippali is used as a Rasayana: Vardhaman Pippali Rasayana
strengthens all dhatus.
Used during delivery to cause contractions of the uterus and
help expel the placenta and cleanse the uterus after delivery.
The Herbs in Detail
Part Used
Root, seeds, leaves, whole plant
Types
Two: White and red
Main Action
Reduces swelling, acts as a laxative and alterative
Effect on Dosha
Decreases VPK
Forms Used
Asava, paste, decoction
White Type
Punarnava
Boerhavia Diffusa
Guna
Light, dry
Rasa
Pungent, sweet, bitter, astringent
Vipaka
Pungent
Veerya
Heating
Red Type
Guna
Light
Rasa
Bitter
Vipaka
Pungent
Veerya
Cooling
The Herbs in Detail
Uses
Locally: The paste is applied to swelling regions and followed by oil massage
for pain and swelling.
Useful for water retention, hypertension, weight gain, swelling and ascitis.
Haritaki, ginger, deodar, guduchi, guggulu and Punarnava are useful in
systemic edema. Useful when treating urinary problems such as urinary
infections and kidney stones.
Improves Agni and absorbs fluids. Because of this, it is often used to treat
agnimandya, abdominal pain and colitis.
Improves the function of the liver and spleen. Used to treat Anemia.
Punarnava
Used externally in many conditions of the eye.
Boerhavia Diffusa
Strengthens the heart and increases Rakta Dhatu, so it is useful when treating
low blood pressure.
Excretes dhatu malas along with regular malas, so it is cleansing to both the
dhatus and they general function of the body while it slows the process of
aging.
Used as a Rasayana in instances of general debility.
The Herbs in Detail
Shatavari
Part Used
Root
Asperagus Recemosus
Guna
Heavy, moist, soft
Rasa
Sweet, bitter
Vipaka
Sweet
Veerya
Cooling (Sheeta)
Effect on Dosha
Balances Pitta and Vata and increases Kapha if used in excess
Main Action
Rasayana (nutritive), calming, cooling, aphrodisiac, diuretic
Forms Used
Decoction, oil, ghee, powder, kalpa
The Herbs in Detail
Uses
Shatavari
Locally: Used in oil for massage (Narayan oil).
Asperagus Recemosus
Beneficial when treating or promoting the health of the female reproductive
organs, such as in instances of infertility, debility, impotence, menopause and
leucorrhea. Reduces the blood pressure and strengthens the heart.
Benefits digestive disorders such as ulcers, hyperacidity, diarrhea and
dysentery.
Shatavari, licorice and sariva (anant) strengthen Mamsa Dhatu in women and
strengthen the uterus.
Benefial when treating respiratory ailments such as cough, chronic fevers or
lung abscess.
Treats the urinary (Mutravaha srotas) system, such as in instances of painful
urination.
Increases breast milk: Useful for lactating mothers.
Strengthens Ojas and enhances memory.
Increases sperm count and ovulation, prevents abortion and miscarriage and
strengthens the blood vessels.
The Herbs in Detail
Tulsi (Holy Basil)
Ocimum Sanctum
Part Used
Leaves, seed, root
Guna
Light, moist, sharp
Rasa
Pungent, Bitter
Vipaka
Pungent
Veerya
Heating (the seeds are cooling)
Effect on Dosha
Decreases Kapha and Vata; the seeds decrease Pitta
Main Action
Antibacterial, nervine, antispasmodic, diaphoretic, blood
purifying
The Herbs in Detail
Tulsi (Holy Basil)
Ocimum Sanctum
Uses
Acts mainly on the respiratory tract. Beneficial
when treating cough, cold and Kapha-type
asthma. Tulsi seeds are diuretic, so they are
used to treat dysuria or burning sensations in
the body.
Acts as an agnideepana, so it used to treat
agnimandya.
Used to treat Kapha and Vata fevers.
Acts as an insecticidal and deodorant. In India,
every house has a Tulsi plant in their front
yard.
The Herbs in Detail
Yashtimadhu (Licorice)
Glycyrrizha Glabra
Part Used
Leaves, seed, root
Guna
Light, moist, sharp
Rasa
Pungent, Bitter
Vipaka
Pungent
Veerya
Heating (the seeds are cooling)
Effect on Dosha
Decreases Kapha and Vata; the seeds decrease Pitta
Main Action
Antibacterial, nervine, antispasmodic, diaphoretic, blood
purifying
Part Used
Leaves, seed, root
The Herbs in Detail
Yashtimadhu (Licorice)
Glycyrrizha Glabra
Uses
Useful when treating cough, cold, bronchitis,
asthma, sore throat and laryngitis. Beneficial for
urinary infections and bleeding disorders.
Beneficial when treating diarrhea, dysentery,
ulcers and heartburn.
Strengthens Shukra Dhatu, Ojas and improves
complexion as an external application.
Strengthens the blood vessels and stops
bleeding. Nourishes Mamsa Dhatu and
strengthens vision.
Builds the Dhatus and slows aging.
Ayurvedic Formulations
Sitopaladi Churna
Used for:
Cough, asthma, agnimandya.
Standard Dose:
2-4 g per day with Honey; Lick
frequently.
Ingredient
Quantity
Pippali
4 parts
Cinnamon
1 part
Vanshalochana
8 parts
Cardamom
2 parts
Rock Sugar
16 parts
Ayurvedic Formulations
Sukhasarak Churna
Used for:
Constipation.
Standard Dose:
2 to 4 g per day with warm water
at bed time.
Ingredient
Quantity
Sonamukhi
4 parts
Vidanga
2 parts
Ginger
2 parts
Haritaki
2 parts
Ajwan
2 parts
Black salt
2 parts
Amla
1 part
Licorice
1 part
Ayurvedic Formulations
Hingavashtak Churna
Used for:
Indigestion, gas, bloating and
stomachache.
Standard Dose:
2 to 4 g with ghee and warm water
before meals.
Ingredient
Quantity
Ginger
1 part
Black Pepper
1 part
Pippali
1 part
Salt
1 part
Ajwan
2 parts
Cumin
1 part
Shahajeere*
1 part
Hing
1 part
*Different type of cumin.
Ayurvedic Formulations
Trikatu Churna
Used for:
Digestive problems, weight loss,
cough and asthma.
Standard Dose:
2 to 4 g with warm water or honey
depending on the problem after
meals.
Ingredient
Quantity
Ginger
1 part
Pippali
1 part
Black Pepper
1 part
Ayurvedic Formulations
Lavana-Bhaskar Churna
Used for:
Indigestion, gas, bloating;
improves Agni.
Standard Dose:
2 to 4 g per day with buttermilk or
warm water after meals.
Ingredient
Sea Salt
Rock Salt
Black Salt
Cardamom
Pimpalmula
Ginger
Pippali
Black Pepper
Talis Patra
Bay Leaves
Nagkeshar
Amlavetas
Pomegranate Skin
Cumin
Shahajeere
Cinnamon
Quantity
12 parts
3 parts
8 parts
1 part
3 parts
1 ½ parts
3 parts
1 ½ parts
3 parts
3 parts
3 parts
3 parts
3 parts
3 parts
3 parts
¾ parts
Ayurvedic Formulations
Triphala Churna
Used for:
Constipation, vision problems,
digestive problems, skin problems,
as a Rasayana.
Standard Dose:
2 to 4 g at bed time.
Ingredient
Quantity
Haritaki
1 part
Bibhitaki
1 part
Amla
1 part
Ayurvedic Formulations
Avipattikar Churna
Used for:
Acidity, headache, constipation,
improving Agni
Standard Dose:
2 to 4 g per day with milk or warm
water after meals
Ingredient
Ginger
Pippali
Black Pepper
Haritaki
Bibhitaki
Amalaki
Nagarmotha
Vidanga
Cardamom
Cinnamon
Black Salt
Lavang
Nishottar
Sugar
Quantity
1 part
1 part
1 part
1 part
1 part
1 part
1 part
1 part
1 part
1 part
1 part
13 parts
26 parts
39 parts
Ayurvedic Formulations
Punarnava Guggul
Used for:
Arthritis inflammation
and pain
Standard Dose:
2 tabs (250 mg each)
twice a day with warm
water after meals
Ingredient
Quantity
Punarnava
1 part
Deodar
1 part
Guduchi
1 part
Haritaki
1 part
Guggul
3 parts
Ayurvedic Formulations
Triphala Guggul
Used for:
Arthritis, sciatica, weight
loss
Standard Dose:
2 tabs (250 mg each)
twice a day with warm
water after meals
Ingredient
Quantity
Haritaki
1 part
Bibhitaki
1 part
Amalaki
1 part
Pippali
1 part
Guggul
5 parts
Ayurvedic Formulations
Amrutadi Guggul
(Kaishore Guggul)
Used for:
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Standard Dose:
2 tabs (250 mg each)
twice a day with warm
water after meals
Ingredient
Guduchi
Ginger
Patil
Black Pepper
Pippali
Haritaki
Bibhitaki
Amalaki
Vidanga
Guggul
Quantity
1 part
1 part
1 part
1 part
1 part
1 part
1 part
1 part
1 part
9 parts