Sura

Modern description

Sura is a type of fermented alcoholic beverage (Asava/Arishta) used in Ayurveda for digestive stimulation, appetite enhancement, and balancing Vata and Kapha doshas.

Purpose

General reference to fermented preparations.

Indications

• Loss of appetite, indigestion, anorexia, emaciation, weakness, Vata disorders, Kapha disorders, anemia (sometimes indicated, depending on the specific formulation and individual constitution)

Classical indications

• Aruchi (Anorexia)
• Agnimandya (Digestive impairment)
• durabalata (Weakness)
• vatavikara (Vata disorders)
• kaphavikara (Kapha disorders)

Karma

• Deepana
• Pachana
• Rochana
• Balya
• Vata-Kapha Hara

Key ingredients

• Water - 4 parts
• Yeast - quantity sufficient (approximately 1/8th of the rice quantity)
• Cooked rice - 1 part

Adult dose

24-144 ml (approximately 1/8th to 1/2 cup). Dose varies based on strength and individual tolerance.

Pediatric dose

Not recommended for children

Preparation steps

• Collection of herbs and grains as per formulation.
• Cleaning and drying the ingredients.
• Coarsely powdering the solid ingredients.
• Mixing the ingredients with water and a fermentation starter (like yeast or 'dhataki' flowers).
• Allowing the mixture to ferment in a closed container for a specified period (typically weeks to months).
• Filtering the fermented liquid.
• Storing the Sura in airtight containers.

Safety contraindications

• Pregnancy
• Breastfeeding
• Severe liver disorders
• Acute inflammatory conditions of the digestive system