Have trouble remembering small conversations? Or the place where you left your house keys? Or the name of that new movie you went to? Feeling absent-minded or disorganized off lately? Well, you're not alone. As we age, our brains become more ‘noisy' and are not as good at registering new information or recollecting older ones as they used to before.
And just like all other organs and parts in the body, the brain functioning also starts diminishing as you get older. Hence, it is extremely necessary to incorporate brain tonics and memory-boosting compounds in the daily diet from a very young age to prevent or postpone neural degeneration. Wondering what you can do to empower your brain with that much-needed boost? Here comes Ayurveda, the age-old alternative form of remedy that brings you a concoction of memory-boosting herbs in the form of Saraswatarishta!
What Is Saraswatarishta?
Saraswatarishta, a.k.a Saraswatarishtam is a powerful nervine tonic that comprises 18 herbal ingredients, all targeted towards the treatment and management of acute anxiety, partial loss of memory, fatigue, low grasping power, slurred speech, depression, loss of desire to eat, restlessness, vertigo, ADHD, heart diseases, and other neurodegenerative disorders. This herbo-mineral, hydro-alcoholic preparation is also used to improve sperm quality and motility, remedy menstrual problems, boost immunity and manage sleep-related disorders.
Additionally, the Vata balancing properties of this alcoholic preparation also helps deal with neurological conditions such as Parkinson’s disease (brain condition affecting movements), Alzheimer’s disease (brain disorder impacting the remembrance and reasoning skills), dementia (affects memory and thinking), and seizures or epilepsy (tremors). Taking this decoction in prescribed amounts improves memory, concentration, intelligence, attention span, and mental strength and bestows a glow on the face.
How To Prepare Saraswatarishta?
Ingredients:
Kwath Dravya:
1 kg Brahmi (Water Hyssop) -Bacopa Monnieri
250 gms each of:
Shatavari – Asparagus Racemosa
Vidarikand (Kudzu) – Pueraria Tuberosa
Haritaki – Terminalia Chebula
Ushira (Khas) – Vetiveria Zizanioides
Sonth (Ginger) – Zingiber Officinale
Saunf (Fennel) – Foeniculum Vulgare
12.8 lts Water for Decoction
Prakshepa Dravya:
500 gms Madhu (Honey) or Old Jaggery
1 kg Sarkara or Sugar
259 gms Dhataki – Woodfordia Fruticosa
12.5 grams each of:
Nirgundi Seeds (Renuka) – Vitex Negundo
Pippali (Long Pepper) – Piper Longum
Trivrit – Operculina Turpethum
Laung (Clove) – Syzygium Aromaticum
Vacha – Acorus Calamus
Kushta – Saussurea Lappa
Ashwagandha – Withania Somnifera
Bibhitaki – Terminalia Bellerica
Guduchi (Giloy) – Tinospora Cordifolia
Elaichi (Cardamom) – Elettaria Cardamomum
Vaividang – Embelia Ribes
Dalchini (Cinnamon) – Cinnamomum Zeylanicum
Gold Leaf
Method:
Dry and powder the herbs under kwath dravya
Add these herbs under water and boil
Prepare a decoction by boiling the water until it reduces to ¼ of its volume
Cool the decoction and filter
Add the herbs under prakshepa dravya one by one into the decoction
Now pour the decoction into an earthen vessel or gold vessel
Add the gold leaf on top of it
Close the mouth of the vessel with mud smeared cloth
Allow it to ferment for about a month without any disturbance
After completion of the fermentation process, check whether the gold leaf has disintegrated or else again ferment it for sometime
Once done, filter and pour the arishta liquid into a ghee-smeared earthen vessel for future use
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Medicinal Properties Of Saraswatarishta
Saraswatarishta being a herbal conjugation of powerful Medhya Rasayanas and other potent herbal ingredients has been bequeathed with the following therapeutic qualities:
- Memory enhancing
- Anti-Depressive
- Neuro-protective
- Anti-dementia
- Anxiolytic or anti-anxiety
- Intellect promoting
- Tranquillizing
- Antioxidant
- Anti-Inflammatory
- Anti-stress
- Anti-ageing
- Anti-Dopaminergic Effects
- Anticonvulsant
- Analgesic
- Adaptogenic
- Anti-neoplastic
- Cardioprotective
- Cardiotonic
- Hepatoprotective
- Immuno-stimulatory
- Potential cognitive enhancer
Ayurvedic Indications
This arishtam liquid is categorized as a powerful Medhya Rasayana compound since the archaic times in Ayurvedic literature. Ayurveda mentions the use of this formulation in several health conditions including:
- Medhya (memory booster)
- Rasayana (rejuvenates the body)
- Deepana (enhances stomach fire)
- Pachana (helps in digestion)
- Rochana (stimulates appetite)
- Amahara (treats indigestion)
- Vamana (Vomiting)
- Kusthahara (treats skin disease)
- Shothahara (reduces inflammation)
- Hridaya (treats heart problems)
- Shwasha (treats respiratory woes)
- Chakhushya (treats eye problems)
Health Benefits Of Saraswatarishta
Improves Cognitive Functioning
Saraswatarishta is a traditional recipe to enhance the functioning of brain tissues. The array of dominant antioxidants and flavonoids present in the formulation improves the memory capacity, concentration, composure, and watchfulness of an individual. The abundance of brain tonic and stimulating qualities in Saraswatarishta are widely used to improve recollection, reasoning, problem-solving, and other cognitive capabilities. The neuroprotective components of the active ingredient Brahmi prevent age-related loss of memory and other neural problems like Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s, dementia etc.
Also Checkout: 5 Top Nutrients To Boost Memory And Ace Your Exams - Infographic
Remedies Anxiety
Owing to the powerful anti-stress, anti-depressive and anti-anxiety characteristics of the herbs in use, Saraswatarishta is extremely effective for dealing with different types of psychotic issues like depression, anxiety, dementia, uneasiness, etc. It equalizes the brain chemicals i.e., neurotransmitters and promotes the secretion of dopamine which in turn keeps the level of serotonin hormone in the body under control. helps to decrease various symptoms of anxiety which includes restlessness, uneasiness, cold hands and feet, profuse sweating, etc. and helps de-stress the mind and body.
Also Read: Is Lockdown Stressing You? These 5 Essential Oils Will Calm You Down In A Jiffy
Strengthens Heart Functions
Saraswatarishta plays a crucial role in treating various heart anomalies due to its strong antioxidative essence. It strengthens the heart muscles and prevents the accumulation of fats and lipids in the blood vessels. The bioactive components in the formulation curtail the levels of non-esterified fatty acids in the blood i.e., NEFA, and hence diminishes the risk of heart blocks, heart attacks, blood clots, cardiac arrests etc. It is also beneficial in reducing the levels of cholesterol in the blood which in turn helps in preventing atherosclerosis.
Relieves Insomnia
Saraswatarishta having anti-anxiolytic traits helps reduce the levels of cortisol; a stress hormone in the body and thereby mitigating stress and improving the quality, duration and providing a peaceful night's sleep.
Also Read: Types of Insomnia: Here’s What You Should Do To Sleep
Cures Constipation
Ayurveda, a centuries-old practice strongly approves the use of this herbal concoction in the treatment of constipation. It assists by actively promoting the secretion of bile by the liver, which in turn, acts on the peristalsis movement of the intestines and liver, thereby enabling smooth passage of faecal wastes from the large intestine. It also holds high significance in diminishing mucous and excess fat content in the stools and deterring them from sticking to the intestinal walls and thereby allowing easy movement throughout the intestines.
Also Check out: 5 Best Ayurvedic Remedies To Treat Constipation – Infographic
Enhances Digestion
The abundance of digestive properties in Saraswatarishta enables the breakdown of food particles in the stomach and intestine while stimulating the secretion of the digestive juices and thereby boosting the absorption of essential nutrients through the intestines. Not only does the formulation help to eradicate abdominal gas while reducing bloating, abdominal distension and gaseous cramps but also holds a key role in dealing with a host of gastrointestinal ailments.
Relieves Menopausal Syndrome
Menopausal syndrome chiefly pertains to symptoms associated with physiological and psychological changes that women face every month during the menstrual period. It mainly includes symptoms like application, loss of libido, night sweat, irritability, mood swings, loss of sleep, depression, memory lapse, panic disorder, irregular heartbeat etc. The presence of Brahmi in Saraswatarishta has anxiolytic (anti-anxiety), and tranquilising properties that primarily assist in the management of psychological troubles during menopause, and therefore might help mitigate menopausal syndrome.
Dosage Of Saraswatarishta
The precise therapeutic dosage of Saraswatarishta may differ in different individuals depending upon their age, the severity of the disease and the condition of the patient. One must consult an ayurvedic doctor or medical practitioner for the required dose.
Adults: 3 – 12 ml, with an equal quantity of water, twice a day after meals, or as suggested by the medical professional
Side Effects
Packed with a collection of brain-enhancing herbs, Saraswatarishta is exceptionally helpful in prescribed doses and doesn't show any side effects. However, in certain cases, especially in children, there are reports of raised body temperature in the initial days of taking the medicine which again subsided on its own. There was also a minor side effect of hiccups in taking this formulation which receded on consuming adequate water.
Precautions
Since there is no concrete information regarding the use of this formulation during pregnancy and lactation period, it is strictly advised to avoid taking it when pregnant or breastfeeding without consulting a doctor. There is no reasonable evidence of the interaction of Saraswatarishta with other medicines. Therefore, if you are taking any medication, it is safe to consult the treating doctor before taking Saraswatarishta.
Conclusion
Saraswatarishta is a traditional remedial formulation bestowed with umpteen health benefits. It is extensively used for improving memory capacity, enhancing concentration, remedying mental fatigue, insomnia, anxiety, depression, curing indigestion etc. If taken in the prescribed dosage, one can bathe in the innumerable health benefits of this powerful arishta formulation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does Saraswatarishta contribute to cognitive health?
Saraswatarishta contains potent herbs like Brahmi and Shankhapushpi, known for their memory-boosting and cognitive-enhancing properties. Regular consumption is thought to nourish the brain, improve synaptic function, and enhance cognitive performance.
Can Saraswatarishta help manage stress and anxiety?
Yes, Saraswatarishta is often used as a natural remedy to manage stress and anxiety. The adaptogenic properties of herbs like Ashwagandha help the body adapt to stress, promoting a sense of calmness and relaxation.
Are there any benefits of Saraswatarishta for sleep disorders?
Saraswatarishta, with ingredients like Jatamansi, is believed to have a calming effect on the nervous system, potentially aiding in the management of sleep disorders. It may help improve the quality of sleep and reduce insomnia symptoms.
Can Saraswatarishta be used to improve overall vitality and energy levels?
While Saraswatarishta is primarily known for its effects on cognitive health, its adaptogenic and rejuvenating properties, especially with Ashwagandha, may improve overall vitality and energy levels.
How long does it take to experience the health benefits of Saraswatarishta?
Individual responses vary, but some users may start experiencing subtle cognitive function and stress management improvements within a few weeks of regular use. It's important to note that Ayurvedic remedies often work gradually and may require consistent use for optimal results.
References:
- Saraswatarishta reverses neuronal injury in brain tissues of scopolamine-induced rat model - By Prabhu J, Jayakumari S, Prabhu K, Kumar JA, Subramanian M, Kaviman
J Anat Soc India [Internet]. 2019;68(4):269–73. Available at: https://www.jasi.org.in/temp/JAnatSocIndia684269-4364334_120723.pdf
- Pharmaceutical Preparation and Determination of Quality Standards of Saraswatarishta: a Herbo-Mineral Alcoholic Formulation. - By Koyande AK, Gadgil SS
Int J Res Ayurveda Pharm. 2020;11(5):88–93. Available at: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/346617923_PHARMACEUTICAL_PREPARATION_AND_DETERMINATION_OF_QUALITY_STANDARDS_OF_SARASWATARISHTA_A_HERBO-MINERAL_ALCOHOLIC_FORMULATION
