Dadhikam

Modern description

A ghee-based formulation likely used as a tonic and for balancing all three doshas, possibly indicated in respiratory conditions based on the reference chapter.

Purpose

Used as medicine and also in preparatory procedure called Snehakarma for the treatment of epilepsy, toxic conditions, dysuria, Ascites, malabsorption syndrome, bloating, etc.

Indications

• Agni Mandya (digestive impairment)
• Aruchi (anorexia/loss of taste)
• Adhmana (abdominal distension)
• Pleeha Vriddhi (splenomegaly - as an adjunct treatment)
• Vata related abdominal disorders

Karma

• Deepana (appetizer)
• Pachana (digestive)
• Rochana (improves taste)
• Vatahara (alleviates Vata)
• Kaphavardhana (increases Kapha) - if used in excess or by Kapha prakriti individuals

Key ingredients

• Based on common usage
• Dadhikam typically involves: Dadhi
• Trikatu
• small quantity
• Saindhava Lavana
• Jeeraka
• Dhanyaka
• Hingu
• Ghrita

Adult dose

2-4 tablespoons (30-60ml), 1-2 times a day

Pediatric dose

2.5-5 grams

Preparation steps

• Collect all the ingredients.
• Ensure the ingredients are of good quality and properly cleaned.
• Prepare a decoction using specified herbs, if the formula requires it.
• Melt the ghee in a clean pan on low heat.
• Add the herbal paste (Kalka) and/or decoction (Kwatha) to the melted ghee.
• Simmer the mixture on low heat, stirring occasionally, until all the water content evaporates.
• Continue heating until the ghee is clear and the herbal solids settle at the bottom.
• Filter the ghee through a clean muslin cloth to remove any remaining solid particles.
• Allow the ghee to cool and store it in an airtight container away from sunlight and moisture.

Safety contraindications

• People with diabetes, high cholesterol, heart diseases and high BP should exercise precaution. In very high dose, it may cause diarrhea and indigestion.