The growing dependency on a sedentary lifestyle and Dosha imbalance, has eventually led most people to get diagnosed with some condition or the other. And one of the most reported ones throughout the common populace is joint pain, early arthritis, and various Vata disorders. Additionally, people who are already suffering from some form of arthritic or body pain fail to withdraw themselves from the no activity lifestyle trap to bypass the pain. But little do they realize that without any kind of movement or exercise, the pain increases instead of decreasing, thus continuing the vicious cycle.
For the unversed, arthritis is an umbrella term that describes more than 100 conditions that affect the joints, tissues around the joint, and other connective tissues. It chiefly defines swelling and tenderness of one or more of the joints within the body. Even though lifestyle modifications, well-balanced food and proper sleep timings, might help one mollify swelling and arthritis, incorporating some home remedies and herbs in the daily lifestyle gives you a better shot to deal with this condition effectively. And much to our respite, Ayurveda, the traditional science of healing brings an absolute formulation to manage Vata disorders like arthritis in the form of Ashtavargam kashayam.
What Is Ashtavargam Kashayam?
Ashtavargam Kashayam, also called Vatahar Kashayam is an ayurvedic proprietary medication used for Vata issues like rheumatic diseases. Sanctified with potent anti-inflammatory and analgesic actions, it reduces joint pain, inflammation, swelling, and stiffness. It is also vital for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, frozen shoulder, and paralytic disorders. This herbal formulation is available in churna, liquid and tablet form.
Ayurvedic Indications Of Ashtavargam Kashayam
Ayurveda, the holistic science of herbal remedies has extensively mentioned this incredible herbal concoction time and gain in several ayurvedic scriptures and journals for various indications which include, Amavata (relieves arthritis), Abhigata (treats pain from trauma), Vedana (treats body pain), Sandhi shula (treats arthritis), Kati prishtha shula (treats pain in the spinal column and lower back), Mamsagata Vata (relieves muscle pain and myalgia), Snayuvitanan (treats sprains), Kasha hara (treats respiratory disorders), Deepana (enhances stomach fire), Pachana (helps in digestion), Amahara (treats indigestion), Dahahara (relieves burning sensation), Shwasha (relieves breathing difficulties), and Anulomana (improves breathing).
How To Make Ashtavargam Kashayam?
Ingredients:
1 part each of:
Sida cordifolia – Bala
Strobilanthes ciliatus – Sahachara
Ricinus communis – Eranda
Zingiber officinale – Sonth (dried ginger)
Pluchea lanceolata – Rasna
Cedrus deodara – Devdaru (Deodar Cedar or Himalayan Cedar)
Vitex negundo – Nirgundi
Allium sativum – Lasun (Garlic)
8 parts Water
Method:
Wash the herbs to remove impurities.
Take them together in a boiler vessel.
Add 8 parts of water.
Boil the concoction till it reduces to ¼.
Pour it in an amber-coloured glass jar for future use.
Health Benefits Of Ashtavargam Kashayam
Remedies Pain And Inflammation
Ashtavargam kashayam inherently possesses powerful analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which is pivotal in reducing joint and muscle pain, thereby reducing the chances of chronic autoimmune inflammatory diseases like rheumatoid arthritis which occurs due to the vitiation of Vata Doshas. It reduces AMA (toxins) in the body, relieves pain, stiffness, and inflammation associated with RA. It is also highly significant in case of osteoarthritis.
Also Read: What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis? Learn How To Deal With It
Relieves Muscle Pain
Excessive exersizing, prolonged sitting or lying down, doing a new physical activity for the first time, sprains or strains may ultimately lead to sudden muscle pain and stiffness. Thanks to the herbal ingredients used in Ashtavargam Kashayam, it is a onestop remedy to provide relief from muscle pain and cramps for a long time.
Enhances Digestion
Prized for its excellent carminative and digestive qualities, this herbal formulation confers an absolute solution for all digestive woes. The anti-flatulent property alleviates the formation of gas in the alimentary canal, thus diminishing flatulence, bloating, constipation, and abdominal distension. The antacid quality of the herbs used prevents the formation of excessive acids in the stomach thereby treating indigestion, ulcer, gastritis and promoting better absorption of nutrients in the body.
Combats Respiratory Issues
Hallowed with powerful anti-inflammatory, anti-biotic, and anti-asthmatic properties, this herbal formulation is considered to be a well-known traditional remedy for all sorts of respiratory woes. It is broadly used for treating and managing the common cold, sore throat, cough and flu symptoms. It also profusely thins and loosens catarrh particles within the chest and nasal cavities and hence facilitates breathing and helps the body to get rid of mucus.
Treats Gout
Ashtavargam kashayam is essentially used in treating gout as it reduces the uric acid levels in the body by actively participating in its removal through the kidneys and hence, prevents them from getting deposited in the synovial tissues.
Effect On Doshas:
This powerful pain-relieving formulation is sanctified with Katu (i.e., pungent) Rasa. It is blessed with Rukshna (i.e., dry) and Laghu (i.e., light) gunas. It has Ushna Virya (i.e., hot potency) and Katu Vipaka (i.e., pungent metabolic property). The bioactive ingredients in this pungent medication pacifies the Vata (air) doshas and Kapha (earth and water) doshas and often an excess of it can aggravate the Pitta (fire and air) doshas. Owing to the intrinsic properties and doshas, ashtavargam kashayam portrays a strong effect on the various Dhatus (i.e. body tissues) which are Rasa (i.e., Plasma), Rakta (i.e., Blood), Mamsa (i.e. Muscles), Medha (i.e., Brain) and Asthi (i.e. Bones).
Also Read: Introduction To Ayurveda: Learn About Vata, Pitta And Kapha Doshas
Dosage:
The appropriate therapeutic dosage of Ashtavarga Kashayam usually varies from person to person depending upon the age, body strength, effects on appetite, severity, and condition of the patient. It is strongly recommended to consult an ayurvedic doctor or practitioner as he or she would evaluate the patient’s indications, past medical conditions and prescribe an effective dose for a specific time period.
The formulation can be taken twice a day before food alongside boiled, cooled water or as directed by the physician.
Side Effects
Thanks to the powerful qualities and host of health-promoting herbal ingredients, Ashtavargam Kashayam is extremely healthful in recommended doses. But if it is consumed in excess or without prior consultation with a doctor, it can lead to side effects like heartburn, gastric irritation, discomfort or restlessness. It is also contraindicated in people suffering from excessive thirst, diarrhoea, dysentery, peptic ulcer, ulcerative colitis, mouth ulcer, heart burn, Crohn’s disease, GERD, haemophilia, heavy menstrual bleeding and other Pitta disorders. Due to its hot potency, it is not suitable for pregnant women as it may cause bleeding leading to abortion. Lactating women can take this medicine but only after prior doctor’s approval.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are The Main Ingredients Of Ashtavargam Kashayam?
The main ingredients of Ashtavargam Kashayam include castor oil (Ricinus communis), Eranda Taila, ginger (Zingiber officinale), and a mix of other medicinal herbs. The combination is known for its potential benefits in managing Vata disorders.
What Health Conditions Is Ashtavargam Kashayam Used For?
Ashtavargam Kashayam is primarily used in Ayurveda for managing various Vata disorders, such as paralysis, facial palsy, arthritis, and joint stiffness. It is also used in the management of constipation.
Is Ashtavargam Kashayam Safe For Everyone?
While Ashtavargam Kashayam is generally considered safe, it's important to consult with a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner before using it, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, or have underlying health conditions. The practitioner will prescribe the appropriate dosage based on your individual health profile.
Can Ashtavargam Kashayam Be Taken Along With Other Medications?
It's essential to inform your healthcare provider about all the medications and supplements you are taking to avoid potential interactions. The practitioner will determine if Ashtavargam Kashayam can be safely taken along with other medications.
Are There Any Known Side Effects Of Ashtavargam Kashayam?
Ashtavargam Kashayam is generally safe when taken in recommended doses. However, in some cases, it may cause mild digestive issues or loose stools.
Conclusion
Ashtavargam Kashayam, a classical herbal formulation has been used since ages for its anti-inflammatory, pain-relieving and analgesic properties. Not only does this incredible concoction of herbs provide relief from joint and arthritic pain, but also treats gout, promotes digestion, remedies muscle pain and fixes respiratory issues.
(The information mentioned regarding this product is to educate about ayurvedic formulation, for additional information regarding dosage, please talk to your health care provider or ayurvedic doctor)
