We had discussed the importance of Ayurvedic decoction therapy in the previous issue and introduced the basics as rediscovered in the Ayurvedic research labs at Brahmavarchas Research Centre, Shantikunj Hardwar. The ingredients of three different types of kwathas (plant medicinal decoctions) namely, kalamegha, vasa and kutaj that are found effective in treatment of several diseases were also described. If necessary, decoction therapy may be continued along with allopathic medicines; however, the duration of the latter should be kept to a minimal level. In case antibiotics are consumed as part of the latter then the Ayurvedic medicines should be continued for a few weeks (or as per the Ayurvedic doctor’s advice) even after healing of the ailment; this helps in neutralizing the negative side-effects of the antibiotics. Here we present the constitutions [measures given in units of tsp (teaspoon), which is about 5gm] and method of preparation of some more kwathas prescribed by the Kadha lab at Brahmavarchas.

1. Nirgundi Kwatha: It is prescribed in vata dosha related problems including joint-pain, rheumatism, arthritis, spondylitis, siatica, etc. This together with small amounts of the gum of sarai (Brosvelia Serreta) also cures Osteo-arthritis.

Ingredients: Nirgundi 1 tsp, Sarai Chhala 1/2 tsp, Nagarmotha 1 tsp, Ashwagandha 1/2 tsp, Mulahathi 1 tsp, Sauntha 1/2 tsp, Pure Gugala 1/5 tsp, Hinga (Asefoetida) 1/5 tsp, Chitraka 1/4 tsp. The coarse powder prepared for vasa kwatha 1 tsp, Rasna 1/2 tsp, Maharasna 1/2 tsp, Dashamula 1 tsp.

The terms Maharasna and Dashamula used here refer to combination of several herbs. Namely, one kg of Maharasna consists of 600 gms of rasna and 12 gms each of the following: Dhamasa, Bala, Erandmula Chhala, Devadara, Kachura, Bacha, Vasa, Sontha, Harada, Chavya, Nagarmotha, Punarnava, Giloya, Vidhara, Saunfa, Gokshura, Ashwagandha, Atisa, Amaltasa Pulp, Shatavara, Chhoti Pippali, Kata Saraiyya, Dhaniya, Chhoti Kantakari, Badi Kantakari. The following ten herbs (dry plant medicines) mixed in equal amounts make Dashamula: Bilva Chhala, Gambhari Chhala, Padhala Chhala, Arani Chhala, Shyonaka Chhala, Shalaparni, Prashniparni, Small Kantakari, Big Kantakari, Gokshura.