Ashtanga (Astanga Ghrta)

Modern description

A ghee preparation made with milk, used as a nourishing tonic.

Purpose

Classical formulation

Indications

• Indigestion, loss of appetite, abdominal distension, bloating, Vata disorders, Kapha disorders of the digestive system, abdominal colic (Shoola)

Karma

• Deepana (Appetizer)
• Pachana (Digestive)
• Rochana (Improves taste)
• Vatahara (Reduces Vata)
• Kapha Nashak (Reduces Kapha)

Key ingredients

• Assuming 'Ashtanga' refers to 'Ashtanga Lavana': Saindhava Lavana
• Sauvarchala Lavana
• Vida Lavana
• Samudra Lavana
• Audbhida Lavana
• Shunthi
• Pippali
• Maricha

Adult dose

1-3 grams

Pediatric dose

1/2 - 1 teaspoon

Preparation steps

• Collect all the ingredients as per the formulation.
• Clean and pulverize the solid herbs into a fine powder.
• Prepare a decoction (Kashaya) using specified herbs and water.
• Melt ghee in a stainless steel vessel.
• Add the herbal powder and decoction to the melted ghee.
• Heat the mixture on a low flame, stirring continuously to prevent burning.
• Continue heating until all the moisture evaporates and the ghee is properly infused with the herbal extracts. This is confirmed by the absence of crackling sounds and a change in color and aroma.
• Filter the ghee through a clean muslin cloth to remove any solid particles.
• Allow the ghee to cool down to room temperature.
• Store the prepared Ashtanga Ghrita in an airtight glass container away from direct sunlight and moisture.

Safety contraindications

• Not recommended for individuals with acute diarrhea or dysentery.

Related formulations

• Aavaapida
• Abhaya
• Abhaya Amalaki
• Abhaya Amalaki