For information onlyContent on this page is for educational purposes and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or prescription. Consult a qualified physician or registered Ayurvedic practitioner before using any herb or formulation.
01 · Withania somnifera
ChurnaVitality
Ashwagandha
Aśvagandhā
Pacifies Vata and Kapha; may aggravate Pitta in excess.
Traditional uses
- ·Chronic stress and adrenal fatigue
- ·Insomnia and anxiety
- ·Low energy, muscle weakness
- ·Reproductive vitality
How it is taken
1/4 to 1/2 tsp (1–3 g) of root powder with warm milk and honey, once or twice daily. Capsules: 300–600 mg standardized extract.
Avoid in
- ✕Pregnancy — classical texts list it as abortifacient in high doses
- ✕Hyperthyroidism or Graves' disease — may further raise T4
- ✕Active autoimmune flares (lupus, RA, MS) — immunostimulant action
- ✕With sedatives, benzodiazepines, or barbiturates without supervision
- ✕Acute Pitta conditions: gastritis, peptic ulcers, hyperacidity
Allergies
Belongs to the Solanaceae (nightshade) family — those with nightshade sensitivity (tomato, eggplant, potato) should avoid or use cautiously.
Classical alternatives
For Pitta-aggravated or ulcer patients, classical practitioners substitute Shatavari or Vidari (Pueraria tuberosa) for similar rasayana action without the heat.
General caution
May cause drowsiness, mild GI upset, or thyroid hormone elevation with long-term use.
Restorative · Grounding
02 · Curcuma longa
ChurnaJoint
Haridra (Turmeric)
Haridrā
Balances all three doshas in moderation; heating.
Traditional uses
- ·Inflammation and joint stiffness
- ·Skin disorders, acne, eczema
- ·Liver detoxification
- ·Blood purification
How it is taken
1/2 tsp powder with warm milk and a pinch of black pepper, once daily. Or 500 mg curcumin extract with fat.
Avoid in
- ✕Pregnancy in therapeutic (medicinal) doses — culinary amounts are safe
- ✕Active gallstones or bile-duct obstruction — stimulates bile flow
- ✕Two weeks before scheduled surgery — anticoagulant effect
- ✕Peptic ulcer disease and severe GERD at high doses
- ✕With warfarin, clopidogrel, or other anticoagulants
- ✕Iron-deficiency anemia (chelates iron with long-term high doses)
Allergies
Belongs to the Zingiberaceae (ginger) family. Contact dermatitis is documented in sensitive individuals; rare oral allergy with itching or hives.
Classical alternatives
For Pitta-aggravated skin with heat, Manjistha (Rubia cordifolia) or Neem is preferred. For joint inflammation in Pitta types, Guduchi is cooler.
General caution
High doses may thin blood, lower blood sugar, or stimulate uterine contractions.
Purifying · Heating
03 · Bacopa monnieri
ChurnaCognition
Brahmi
Brāhmī
Pacifies Pitta and Kapha; supports Vata in small doses with ghee.
Traditional uses
- ·Memory and concentration
- ·Anxiety and mental fatigue
- ·ADHD support
- ·Nervous system tonic
How it is taken
300–600 mg standardized extract (50% bacosides) daily, or 1/2 tsp powder with ghee. Best taken with breakfast.
Avoid in
- ✕Bradycardia or slow heart rate — Bacopa is mildly cardio-depressive
- ✕Hypothyroidism — may further elevate T4 levels
- ✕Active peptic ulcer (increases gastric secretions)
- ✕Urinary tract obstruction (mild diuretic)
- ✕With calcium-channel blockers, thyroid medication, and sedatives
- ✕Pregnancy and lactation — insufficient safety data
Allergies
Belongs to the Plantaginaceae family. Rare allergic reactions reported; discontinue if rash, itching, or swelling appears.
Classical alternatives
For Vata-aggravated nervous exhaustion, Jatamansi or Shankhpushpi (Convolvulus pluricaulis) is gentler and warmer.
General caution
Mild GI upset, nausea, dry mouth, and increased bowel movements are common in first 1–2 weeks.
Cognitive · Cooling
04 · Three-fruit formula
ChurnaDigestion
Triphala
Triphalā
Balances all three doshas — the classical tridoshic rasayana.
Traditional uses
- ·Chronic constipation
- ·Gentle internal cleansing
- ·Eye health
- ·Digestive regularity
How it is taken
1/2 to 1 tsp powder in warm water at bedtime, or 2 tablets before sleep.
Avoid in
- ✕Pregnancy — Haritaki is contraindicated; can stimulate downward movement
- ✕Active diarrhea, dysentery, or IBS flare
- ✕Severe dehydration or electrolyte imbalance
- ✕Ulcerative colitis flare
- ✕Two weeks before surgery — Amalaki has mild antiplatelet effect
Allergies
Amalaki (Indian gooseberry) is in the Phyllanthaceae family. Vitamin C content can trigger reactions in those with severe citrus or berry hypersensitivity.
Classical alternatives
For pregnancy or Vata-depleted constitutions needing gentle bowel support, use soaked raisins, prunes, or warm castor oil under guidance instead.
General caution
May cause cramping, gas, or loose stools when first started. Start at 1/4 tsp.
Cleansing · Tridoshic
05 · Ocimum sanctum
ChurnaRespiratory
Tulsi (Holy Basil)
Tulasī
Pacifies Vata and Kapha; mildly heating to Pitta.
Traditional uses
- ·Cough, cold, congestion
- ·Stress and immune support
- ·Blood sugar balance
- ·Mental clarity
How it is taken
Tea: 1 tsp dried leaves in hot water, 2–3 cups daily. Capsules: 300–600 mg.
Avoid in
- ✕Pregnancy and active conception attempts — may reduce fertility and uterine contractility in animal studies
- ✕Hypoglycemia or diabetics on insulin/sulfonylureas — monitor closely
- ✕Hypothyroidism — may lower thyroxine
- ✕Two weeks before surgery
- ✕With anticoagulants (warfarin, aspirin) due to eugenol content
Allergies
Belongs to the Lamiaceae (mint) family. Those allergic to basil, mint, oregano, or sage may react. Eugenol can trigger contact dermatitis.
Classical alternatives
For Pitta-dominant respiratory issues with heat, Yashtimadhu (Licorice) or Vasa (Adhatoda) is cooler. During pregnancy, plain ginger tea is safer for colds.
General caution
Mild blood thinning and blood-sugar-lowering effects.
Adaptogen · Warming
06 · Tinospora cordifolia
ChurnaVitality
Guduchi
Guḍūcī
Balances all three doshas; especially clears excess Pitta heat.
Traditional uses
- ·Immune modulation
- ·Chronic fevers
- ·Autoimmune support
- ·Liver health
How it is taken
1/2 tsp powder twice daily with warm water, or 500 mg extract. Guduchi Satva: 250 mg twice daily.
Avoid in
- ✕Pre-existing autoimmune liver disease (autoimmune hepatitis, PBC)
- ✕With immunosuppressants after organ transplant
- ✕Pregnancy and lactation — insufficient data
- ✕With diabetes medications — additive hypoglycemic effect
- ✕Long-term unsupervised use beyond 8–12 weeks
Allergies
Belongs to the Menispermaceae family. No common cross-reactivity, but discontinue if jaundice, dark urine, or fatigue develops.
Classical alternatives
For pregnancy or liver-compromised patients, Amalaki provides immune and antioxidant support more safely.
General caution
Rare reports of drug-induced autoimmune-like hepatitis with prolonged unsupervised use — sourcing matters.
Immune · Tridoshic
07 · Asparagus racemosus
ChurnaVitality
Shatavari
Śatāvarī
Pacifies Vata and Pitta; may increase Kapha in excess.
Traditional uses
- ·Women's reproductive health
- ·Menopausal balance
- ·Lactation support
- ·Dry, depleted constitutions
How it is taken
1 tsp powder with warm milk twice daily, or 500 mg capsules.
Avoid in
- ✕Uterine fibroids — plain Shatavari root may worsen estrogen-sensitive growth
- ✕Endometriosis and estrogen-receptor-positive breast cancer
- ✕Polycystic ovary syndrome with high estrogen patterns
- ✕Severe Kapha imbalance: obesity, edema, heavy mucus, chronic sinus congestion
- ✕Acute kidney disease (mild diuretic action)
- ✕With diuretics, lithium, or estrogen-modulating drugs
Allergies
Asparagus family (Asparagaceae) — those with documented asparagus allergy must avoid Shatavari. Reactions include rash, GI upset, and rarely anaphylaxis.
Classical alternatives
For fibroids, endometriosis, or estrogen-sensitive conditions, classical compound formulations such as Shatavari Gulam, Gopakarnadi Kashayam, Kanchanara Guggulu, and Pushyanuga Churna are traditionally preferred over plain Shatavari. For asparagus-allergic patients, Vidari Kanda (Pueraria tuberosa) offers similar nourishing action.
General caution
Mild estrogenic activity; can be congesting in Kapha-dominant or damp conditions.
Nourishing · Cooling
08 · Azadirachta indica
ChurnaSkin
Neem
Nimba
Pacifies Pitta and Kapha; aggravates Vata if overused.
Traditional uses
- ·Acne, eczema, psoriasis
- ·Blood purification
- ·Antimicrobial support
- ·Diabetes management
How it is taken
300–600 mg capsules daily for short courses (2–4 weeks). Topical oil for skin (diluted).
Avoid in
- ✕Pregnancy — abortifacient; classical contraindication
- ✕Active conception attempts (male and female) — documented antifertility action
- ✕Infants and small children — neem seed oil has caused fatal Reye-like syndrome
- ✕Recent organ transplant — immunostimulant
- ✕Severe Vata depletion, low body weight, dry constitutions
- ✕Liver disease — case reports of hepatotoxicity
- ✕Hypoglycemia or on diabetes medication without monitoring
Allergies
Belongs to the Meliaceae family. Topical contact dermatitis is common; patch-test first. Oral allergy with swelling is rare but documented.
Classical alternatives
For chronic skin conditions in Vata or pregnant patients, Manjistha (Rubia cordifolia) and Sariva (Hemidesmus indicus) purify blood without depleting tissues.
General caution
Highly bitter and cold; depletes ojas with long-term use. Hepatotoxicity reported with neem seed oil and high internal doses.
Bitter · Cooling
09 · Nardostachys jatamansi
ChurnaSleep
Jatamansi
Jaṭāmāṃsī
Pacifies all three doshas; especially calming to Vata and Pitta.
Traditional uses
- ·Insomnia, anxiety
- ·Nervous restlessness
- ·Mild depression
- ·Mental fatigue
How it is taken
1/4 to 1/2 tsp powder with warm milk at bedtime, or 300 mg capsules.
Avoid in
- ✕Pregnancy and lactation — insufficient safety data
- ✕With benzodiazepines, opioids, alcohol, or general anesthesia — additive CNS depression
- ✕Two weeks before surgery
- ✕Severe hypotension or bradycardia
- ✕Driving or operating machinery shortly after dose
Allergies
Valerianaceae family. Those allergic to valerian root may cross-react. Rare reports of headache or paradoxical excitation.
Classical alternatives
Sustainably-sourced Tagara (Valeriana wallichii) or Shankhpushpi gives similar calming action without conservation concerns.
General caution
Source carefully — Nardostachys jatamansi is CITES-listed; many products are adulterated with Valeriana species.
Calming · Cooling
10 · Commiphora mukul
VatiJoint
Guggulu
Guggulu
Pacifies Kapha and Vata; may aggravate Pitta.
Traditional uses
- ·High cholesterol, lipid balance
- ·Joint inflammation, arthritis
- ·Weight management
- ·Thyroid support
How it is taken
Best as classical formulations (Yogaraj, Kaishore, Triphala Guggulu) — 2 tablets twice daily after meals. Always use shuddha (purified) guggulu only.
Avoid in
- ✕Pregnancy — uterine stimulant
- ✕Hyperthyroidism — Guggulu raises T3/T4
- ✕Active peptic ulcer, IBD flare, or hemorrhoidal bleeding
- ✕Severe kidney or liver disease
- ✕Two weeks before surgery — antiplatelet activity
- ✕With statins, propranolol, diltiazem, thyroid medication, oral contraceptives, and tamoxifen (reduces absorption)
Allergies
Burseraceae family (myrrh, frankincense relatives). Skin rash is the most common allergic reaction — discontinue immediately if it appears.
Classical alternatives
For Pitta-dominant arthritis with heat, Kaishore Guggulu (cooler formulation) is preferred over Yogaraj. For pregnancy or hyperthyroid patients, Nirgundi (Vitex negundo) and Shallaki (Boswellia serrata) treat joint inflammation more safely.
General caution
Raw (ashuddha) guggulu causes skin rash, diarrhea, headache, and liver irritation. Always use shodhita (purified) preparations.
Scraping · Warming
11 · Phyllanthus emblica
ChurnaVitality
Amalaki
Āmalakī
Pacifies all three doshas; especially cooling for Pitta. The premier rasayana of the Brihat Trayi.
Traditional uses
- ·Hyperacidity, gastritis, GERD
- ·Hair greying and hair fall
- ·Skin radiance and complexion
- ·Daily vitamin-C–rich rasayana
How it is taken
1/2–1 tsp (2–4 g) of fruit powder with warm water on an empty stomach, or as juice (10–20 ml). Component of Chyawanprash and Triphala.
Avoid in
- ✕Active acute diarrhea or dysentery
- ✕With warfarin and other antiplatelet/anticoagulant drugs
- ✕Diabetics on hypoglycaemics — additive effect, monitor sugars
- ✕Immediately before/after surgery
Allergies
Euphorbiaceae family. Rare oral irritation reported in sensitive individuals.
Classical alternatives
For active diarrhea, classical practice substitutes Bilva (Aegle marmelos) fruit pulp.
General caution
Very sour — may cause loose stool in sensitive individuals. Discontinue 2 weeks before surgery (mild antiplatelet activity).
Rasayana · Pitta-pacifying
12 · Terminalia chebula
ChurnaDigestion
Haritaki
Harītakī
Pacifies all three doshas (with seasonal usage adjustments). Vata-anulomana (downward flow).
Traditional uses
- ·Chronic constipation
- ·Sluggish digestion, low agni
- ·Component of Triphala
- ·Daily detoxifier when used cyclically
How it is taken
1/2 tsp (2–3 g) powder with warm water at bedtime; or 1 tablet of Haritaki Vati. As Triphala — combined with Vibhitaki and Amalaki.
Avoid in
- ✕Pregnancy — uterine stimulant
- ✕Active diarrhea, severe dehydration, or wasting
- ✕Acute fever, extreme fatigue
- ✕Children under 2 without practitioner supervision
Allergies
Combretaceae family — rare cross-reactivity with Vibhitaki.
Classical alternatives
For pregnant or wasted patients, Bilva pulp or Bhumyamalaki provides gentler digestive support.
General caution
Strong purgative when used long term in high doses; can deplete tissues if overused.
Tridoshic · Mild laxative
13 · Convolvulus pluricaulis
ChurnaCognition
Shankhpushpi
Śaṅkhapuṣpī
Pacifies Vata and Pitta; cooling and calming to the mind.
Traditional uses
- ·Anxiety and mental fatigue
- ·Memory and concentration
- ·Insomnia, restlessness
- ·Children's learning support (with practitioner guidance)
How it is taken
1 tsp (3–5 g) of fresh herb juice (svarasa) or 1/2 tsp churna with warm water or milk twice daily.
Avoid in
- ✕Severe hypotension or with antihypertensive medication without monitoring
- ✕Pregnancy — insufficient safety data
- ✕Bradycardia
Allergies
Convolvulaceae family.
Classical alternatives
Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri) for similar medhya action with stronger evidence base.
General caution
Mild hypotensive — monitor in patients on antihypertensives.
Medhya rasayana · Nervine
14 · Pueraria tuberosa
ChurnaVitality
Vidari
Vidārī
Pacifies Vata and Pitta; tonic without heat.
Traditional uses
- ·Tissue depletion, post-illness recovery
- ·Reproductive tonic (male and female)
- ·Burning urination
- ·Substitute for ashwagandha in Pitta types
How it is taken
1/2–1 tsp (3–6 g) of tuber powder with warm milk twice daily.
Avoid in
- ✕Heavy Kapha conditions: obesity, congestion, sluggish digestion
- ✕Severe diabetes without monitoring
Allergies
Fabaceae (legume) family — caution with documented legume allergy.
Classical alternatives
Shatavari for women, Ashwagandha for Vata-Kapha types.
General caution
Sweet and heavy — may aggravate Kapha if overused.
Nourishing · Cooling
15 · Glycyrrhiza glabra
ChurnaRespiratory
Yashtimadhu (Mulethi)
Yaṣṭimadhu
Pacifies Vata and Pitta; aggravates Kapha in excess.
Traditional uses
- ·Sore throat, dry cough, hoarseness
- ·Hyperacidity and peptic ulcer
- ·Adrenal support
- ·Eye-wash component (with Triphala)
How it is taken
1/4–1/2 tsp (1–3 g) powder with honey or warm water 2–3 times daily; or as kashaya. DGL (deglycyrrhizinated) form for long-term ulcer use.
Avoid in
- ✕Hypertension, congestive heart failure, edema
- ✕Hypokalemia or on potassium-wasting diuretics
- ✕Pregnancy (associated with preterm delivery at high doses)
- ✕Liver cirrhosis, severe renal disease
- ✕With digoxin, corticosteroids, MAOIs, oral contraceptives
Allergies
Fabaceae family.
Classical alternatives
For long-term gastric protection, deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL) or Shatavari + Yashtimadhu Ghrita.
General caution
Glycyrrhizin causes sodium/water retention, hypokalemia, and hypertension with prolonged use over ~6 weeks. Use DGL for long-term protocols.
Demulcent · Soothing
16 · Boerhavia diffusa
ChurnaVitality
Punarnava
Punarnavā
Pacifies Kapha and Vata; light effect on Pitta. Reduces shotha (oedema).
Traditional uses
- ·Fluid retention, mild edema
- ·Mild kidney support
- ·Liver congestion (with Bhumyamalaki)
- ·Anaemia with oedema
How it is taken
1/2 tsp (2–4 g) of root powder twice daily with warm water; or 15–30 ml of fresh juice; or as Punarnavadi Kashaya.
Avoid in
- ✕Severe dehydration, hypotension
- ✕With loop diuretics, lithium, ACE inhibitors without monitoring
- ✕Pregnancy (uterine stimulant in animal studies)
- ✕Acute renal failure — use only under specialist guidance
Allergies
Nyctaginaceae family — rare.
Classical alternatives
Gokshura (Tribulus terrestris) for kidney support without strong fluid shift.
General caution
Diuretic — monitor electrolytes with prolonged use.
Diuretic · Anti-edematous
17 · Boswellia serrata
VatiJoint
Shallaki
Śallakī
Pacifies Vata and Kapha; neutral to Pitta. Lekhana (scraping).
Traditional uses
- ·Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis
- ·Ulcerative colitis (low-grade inflammation)
- ·Asthma, chronic bronchitis
- ·Post-injury joint pain
How it is taken
300–500 mg standardized extract (≥30% boswellic acids) twice daily, or 1/2 tsp gum-resin churna with warm water.
Avoid in
- ✕Pregnancy and lactation (insufficient data)
- ✕Active peptic ulcer
- ✕With strong immunosuppressants — may interact
Allergies
Burseraceae family (frankincense, myrrh). Skin rash possible.
Classical alternatives
Guggulu Yogaraj for Vata-predominant joint pain; Nirgundi taila external for localized pain.
General caution
Mild GI upset, acid reflux in some individuals.
Anti-inflammatory · Joint
18 · Compound (Asparagus + Bala + Ashwagandha base in sesame oil)
TailamMedicated Oil
Mahanarayan Taila
Mahānārāyaṇa Taila
Pacifies Vata; warming. For external use on muscles and joints.
Traditional uses
- ·Arthritis, sciatica, frozen shoulder, back pain
- ·Stiff muscles, post-exercise soreness
- ·Abhyanga (full-body massage) for Vata
- ·Localized joint Pichu (oil compress)
How it is taken
External use only. Warm 20–40 ml; massage onto the painful joint or whole body for 10–15 minutes; follow with a warm shower or fomentation. 5–7 days per course.
Avoid in
- ✕Open wounds, broken skin, active eczema or fungal infection
- ✕Fever, acute illness, indigestion (ama)
- ✕Heavy menstruation, first trimester of pregnancy
- ✕Pitta-predominant inflamed/hot joints — use Pinda Taila instead
Allergies
Sesame oil base — those with sesame allergy must avoid. Some formulations also contain Bala (Sida cordifolia).
Classical alternatives
Pinda Taila or Ksheerabala for hot, inflamed Pitta-type joint pain; Murivenna for ligament injuries.
General caution
External use only — never ingest. Patch-test first.
External · Vata-pacifying oil
19 · Bala (Sida cordifolia) processed in milk + sesame oil
TailamMedicated Oil
Ksheerabala Taila
Kṣīrabalā Taila
Pacifies all three doshas. Cooling and nourishing — safe in Pitta.
Traditional uses
- ·Vata-pitta joint and muscle pain
- ·Neurological complaints — neuropathy, tremors
- ·Shirodhara and Shiroabhyanga
- ·Internal drops (101 Avartita) for nervous system — practitioner-only
How it is taken
External: 20–40 ml warmed for Abhyanga or Shirodhara. The high-potency '101 Avartita' form (101× distilled) is taken internally in drops (2–5 drops) only on practitioner prescription.
Avoid in
- ✕Open wounds, acute skin infection
- ✕Pregnancy (internal form)
- ✕Indigestion (internal form)
Allergies
Sesame oil and dairy base — avoid in sesame or cow-milk allergy.
Classical alternatives
Brahmi Taila for purely cooling head application; Mahanarayan for predominantly Vata-cold joints.
General caution
The 101 Avartita internal form must not be self-prescribed.
External & internal · Tridoshic nervine oil
20 · Bacopa monnieri / Centella asiatica in sesame or coconut oil
TailamMedicated Oil
Brahmi Taila
Brāhmī Taila
Pacifies Vata and Pitta; cooling. Calms the mind.
Traditional uses
- ·Insomnia, anxiety, mental tension
- ·Hair fall and premature greying
- ·Shirodhara for stress and Pitta
- ·Daily Shiroabhyanga (head massage) in summer
How it is taken
External: 5–15 ml warmed and massaged into the scalp at night or 1 hour before a warm shower.
Avoid in
- ✕Open scalp wounds, active dandruff infection
- ✕Severe Kapha congestion of the head (use Anu Taila instead)
Allergies
Sesame or coconut oil base.
Classical alternatives
Bhringraj Taila for hair-focused use; Ksheerabala for combined head + body application.
General caution
External use only in this form.
External · Cooling scalp & nervine oil
21 · Eclipta alba in sesame or coconut oil
TailamMedicated Oil
Bhringraj Taila
Bhṛṅgarāja Taila
Pacifies Pitta and Vata; supports Kapha at the scalp.
Traditional uses
- ·Hair fall, thinning, premature greying
- ·Dandruff and dry scalp
- ·Headache, insomnia (scalp application)
How it is taken
External: 10–20 ml warmed; massage into the scalp 30–60 min before a warm shower, 2–3 times a week.
Avoid in
- ✕Open scalp wounds
- ✕Active fungal scalp infection without medical treatment
Allergies
Asteraceae family (ragweed, chrysanthemum allergy → cross-reactivity).
Classical alternatives
Neelibhringadi Taila for stubborn premature greying; Brahmi Taila for calming + hair.
General caution
Patch-test for sensitivity — Eclipta can occasionally darken the skin around the hairline.
External · Hair & scalp tonic
22 · Compound nasal oil (Bilva, Tulsi, etc. in sesame)
TailamMedicated Oil
Anu Taila
Aṇu Taila
Tridoshic; classical daily Nasya (per Aṣṭāṅga Hṛdayam).
Traditional uses
- ·Daily Pratimarsha Nasya (1–2 drops each nostril)
- ·Sinus congestion, allergic rhinitis
- ·Dry nasal passages
- ·Mild headache and brain fog
How it is taken
Pratimarsha (daily) dose: 1–2 drops in each nostril every morning after bathing. Therapeutic Marsha dose (6–10 drops) only under practitioner guidance.
Avoid in
- ✕Acute fever, severe cold with full congestion
- ✕Indigestion (ama) — wait until digestion is normal
- ✕Immediately after eating, drinking alcohol, or bathing in cold water
- ✕Children under 7 (use coconut oil drops instead)
- ✕Pregnancy (Marsha dose); Pratimarsha is acceptable
Allergies
Sesame oil base.
Classical alternatives
Shadbindu Taila for stubborn sinus and migraine; plain coconut oil drops for children and acute Pitta.
General caution
Use only on an empty or light stomach. Tilt head back, allow drops to settle, then sniff gently.
Nasya · Daily nasal oil
23 · Triphala + Commiphora wightii compound
VatiJoint
Triphala Guggulu
Triphalā Guggulu
Pacifies Kapha and Vata; lekhana (scraping) action on accumulations.
Traditional uses
- ·Haemorrhoids and anal fistula
- ·Sluggish lymph, oedema with stagnation
- ·Sinusitis and chronic catarrh
- ·Adjunct in obesity protocols
How it is taken
1–2 tablets (250–500 mg each) twice daily after meals with warm water. 6–8 week courses with practitioner supervision.
Avoid in
- ✕Pregnancy
- ✕Hyperthyroidism, severe peptic ulcer, IBD flare
- ✕With antiplatelet/anticoagulant medication
Allergies
Burseraceae and Combretaceae families.
Classical alternatives
Kanchanara Guggulu for thyroid/lymphatic stagnation; Gokshuradi Guggulu for urinary stones.
General caution
May cause loose stools at higher doses (Triphala effect).
Lekhana · Detoxifying
24 · Santalum album
ChurnaSkin
Chandana (White Sandalwood)
Candana
Strongly pacifies Pitta; mildly pacifies Kapha; can aggravate Vata in excess (drying).
Traditional uses
- ·Night sweats and menopausal hot flushes
- ·Burning sensations, facial flushing, prickly heat
- ·Insomnia from heat and irritability
- ·Hyperacidity, urinary burning (mūtra-dāha)
How it is taken
Internal: 1–3 g of authenticated heartwood powder as cold infusion (hima) sipped through the day. External: 1/2 tsp powder mixed with rose-water as a cooling chest/forehead lepa or body splash at night.
Avoid in
- ✕Pregnancy and lactation (internal use)
- ✕Severe Vata states with dryness and constipation
- ✕Known kidney disease (internal medicinal doses)
- ✕With concurrent sedatives or barbiturates
Allergies
Santalaceae family; patch-test topically — can irritate sensitive or broken skin.
Classical alternatives
Usheera (Vetiveria zizanioides) for similar Pitta-cooling and night-sweat support; Yashtimadhu cold infusion for hot flushes with adrenal depletion.
General caution
Internal use of sandalwood essential oil is NOT advised. Only powdered heartwood from regulated, sustainable sources should be used internally. May reduce urinary output in excess.
Cooling · Pitta-pacifying
25 · Glycyrrhiza glabra
ChurnaWomen's Health
Yashtimadhu for Menopause
Yaṣṭimadhu
Pacifies Vata and Pitta; mildly increases Kapha. Sweet, cooling, ojas-building.
Traditional uses
- ·Menopausal hot flushes and night sweats with fatigue
- ·Adrenal depletion in peri- and post-menopause
- ·Dry cough, dry vaginal tissue, hoarseness from depleted rasa
- ·Emotional heat and irritability
How it is taken
1/4–1/2 tsp (1–3 g) root powder simmered briefly in milk or warm water once or twice daily, for a maximum of 4–6 weeks at a time, then a 2-week break.
Avoid in
- ✕Uncontrolled hypertension, congestive heart failure, oedema
- ✕Hypokalaemia, kidney disease
- ✕With digoxin, diuretics, corticosteroids, warfarin
- ✕Pregnancy and oestrogen-sensitive cancers
Allergies
Fabaceae (legume) family.
Classical alternatives
Shatavari for oestrogen-sensitive patients (with practitioner supervision); Ashwagandha milk decoction for menopausal fatigue without fluid-retention risk.
General caution
Glycyrrhizin can elevate blood pressure and lower potassium with prolonged or high-dose use. Use deglycyrrhizinated (DGL) form if blood pressure is a concern.
Cooling · Adaptogen
26 · Garcinia indica
ChurnaDigestion
Garcinia (Kokum)
Vṛkṣāmla
Pacifies Vata and Kapha; in moderation tolerated by Pitta — excess sour aggravates Pitta.
Traditional uses
- ·Sluggish digestion and poor appetite
- ·Weight management and metabolic support (hydroxycitric acid in the rind)
- ·Acid reflux and burning sensations (cooling sour, unlike vinegar)
- ·Hot-climate hydration as kokum sharbat
How it is taken
Traditionally used as 2–3 dried rinds simmered in 250 ml water as a digestive drink before meals, or as kokum sharbat. Standardised Garcinia extracts (especially G. cambogia HCA products) are NOT recommended for self-use — only under direct supervision of a qualified clinician.
Avoid in
- ✕Pregnancy and lactation — insufficient safety data
- ✕Any history of liver disease, hepatitis, raised liver enzymes or heavy alcohol use
- ✕With paracetamol/acetaminophen, statins, antifungals or other hepatotoxic drugs
- ✕With SSRIs, SNRIs, triptans or other serotonergic medication
- ✕Diabetes medication (risk of hypoglycaemia) and anticoagulants — without clinical supervision
- ✕Children, adolescents and the elderly
- ✕Severe Pitta states with hyperacidity, gastritis or peptic ulcer
Allergies
Clusiaceae family. Reported adverse effects include GI upset, headache, skin rash, and — with concentrated extracts — hepatotoxicity (see cautions).
Classical alternatives
Amalaki (Emblica officinalis) for cooling sour digestive support without hepatotoxicity risk; Triphala for metabolism and elimination; Medoharā lifestyle measures (diet, movement) rather than extracts for weight management.
General caution
Concentrated Garcinia cambogia (HCA) extracts have been linked in multiple published case reports and regulatory alerts (FDA, EMA, MHRA) to acute liver injury, hepatitis and, rarely, liver failure requiring transplant. There are also reports of serotonin syndrome when combined with SSRIs/SNRIs, and of mania in susceptible individuals. Risk appears dose- and duration-dependent; whole-rind culinary use of G. indica (kokum) has a much longer safety record than concentrated weight-loss extracts. Stop immediately and seek medical advice if you notice fatigue, nausea, abdominal pain, dark urine or yellowing of the skin/eyes.
Sour · Cooling
27 · Centella asiatica
VatiCognition
Gotu Kola (Mandukaparni)
Maṇḍūkaparṇī
Tridoshic; particularly pacifying for Pitta and Vata. Cooling, light.
Traditional uses
- ·Memory, focus and mental clarity
- ·Nervous-system tonic and anti-anxiety support
- ·Wound healing, varicose veins and connective-tissue repair
- ·Healthy skin and hair (often paired with Brahmi)
How it is taken
500 mg powder or 1 capsule once or twice daily after meals, or 1 tsp dried leaf as a tea. Usage: warm water or ghee.
Avoid in
- ✕Pregnancy and lactation
- ✕Active liver disease or with hepatotoxic drugs (paracetamol, statins)
- ✕Two weeks before scheduled surgery (sedative effect)
- ✕Children under 12 without supervision
Allergies
Apiaceae family — caution if allergic to celery, carrot or parsley. Contact dermatitis is documented.
Classical alternatives
Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri) for similar nootropic action; Shankhpushpi for anxiety-dominant presentations.
General caution
May cause mild drowsiness, headache or nausea. Long-term high doses have rare hepatotoxicity reports.
Cognitive · Cooling
28 · Moringa oleifera
VatiVitality
Moringa (Shigru)
Śigru
Reduces Kapha and Vata; can mildly aggravate Pitta in excess (heating).
Traditional uses
- ·Iron-deficiency anaemia and low energy
- ·General nutritive tonic — vitamins A, C, calcium, protein
- ·Supports healthy circulation and lactation
- ·Mild anti-inflammatory and blood-sugar support
How it is taken
500 mg leaf powder or 1 capsule once or twice daily with food. Usage: warm water; avoid taking with tea/coffee (impairs iron absorption).
Avoid in
- ✕Pregnancy (root, bark, flowers especially — uterine stimulant)
- ✕With antidiabetic, antihypertensive or thyroid medication without supervision
- ✕Active Pitta heat conditions (severe gastritis, hyperacidity)
Allergies
Moringaceae family. Rare GI upset, heartburn or skin rash reported.
Classical alternatives
Punarnava for oedema with anaemia; Amalaki for Pitta-friendly iron and vitamin-C support.
General caution
Seeds and root bark contain alkaloids and should NOT be used internally — leaf only. May lower blood sugar and blood pressure.
Nutritive · Iron-rich
29 · Momordica charantia
VatiDigestion
Karavellaka (Bitter Gourd)
Kāravellaka
Reduces Pitta and Kapha; can aggravate Vata in excess.
Traditional uses
- ·Blood-sugar regulation (Type-2 diabetes adjunct)
- ·Blood purification and skin disorders
- ·Liver support and sluggish digestion
- ·Mild parasiticide
How it is taken
1 capsule (≈500 mg) once or twice daily before meals, or 30 ml fresh juice on an empty stomach. Usage: warm water.
Avoid in
- ✕Pregnancy — abortifacient in classical texts
- ✕Hypoglycaemia or with insulin/sulfonylureas without medical supervision
- ✕G6PD deficiency (favism risk from seeds)
- ✕Children, severe Vata depletion, post-surgery
Allergies
Cucurbitaceae family — cross-reactivity with cucumber, melon, pumpkin possible.
Classical alternatives
Guduchi or Neem for Pitta-friendly blood purification; Methi (fenugreek) for milder glycaemic support.
General caution
Strong hypoglycaemic action — monitor blood sugar closely. Seeds contain vicine (favism risk in G6PD deficiency).
Bitter · Cooling
30 · Polyherbal · Swertia chirata base
VatiDigestion
Sudarshana Vati
Sudarśana
Pacifies Pitta and Kapha; can mildly aggravate Vata.
Traditional uses
- ·All types of fever (Jvara) — viral, malarial, post-flu
- ·Excess thirst, jaundice, anaemia
- ·Sluggish liver and bile flow
- ·Chronic low-grade respiratory and digestive infections
How it is taken
1–2 tablets (250–500 mg) twice daily after meals. Usage: warm water; with honey for Kapha-dominant fevers.
Avoid in
- ✕Pregnancy and lactation
- ✕Active peptic ulcer or severe gastritis
- ✕Severe Vata depletion, dehydration or wasting
- ✕Children under 12 without supervision
Allergies
Polyherbal — check the full ingredient list for any known sensitivities (typically includes Chirata, Guduchi, Pippali, Haritaki).
Classical alternatives
Guduchi (Tinospora) alone for milder antipyretic action; Mahasudarshana Churna for stronger seasonal fevers.
General caution
Bitter and drying; not for prolonged use without supervision. May cause GI irritation in sensitive patients.
Antipyretic · Bitter
31 · Polyherbal · Haritaki, Ajamoda, Jeera, Saindhava
ChurnaDigestion
Manimantha Choorna
Maṇimantha Cūrṇa
Reduces Kapha primarily; balances Vata. Mildly heating — use cautiously in Pitta.
Traditional uses
- ·Diabetes (Meha) and metabolic sluggishness
- ·Excess fat, obesity, PCOS, high cholesterol (Medohara)
- ·Bloating, gas and slow digestion
- ·Mild laxative action (via Haritaki)
How it is taken
½ teaspoon twice a day. Usage: 30 ml lukewarm or hot water — Kapha disorders before meals, Vata after meals.
Avoid in
- ✕Pregnancy
- ✕Active peptic ulcer, severe gastritis, hyperacidity
- ✕Uncontrolled hypertension (sodium content)
- ✕Severe Vata depletion or dryness
Allergies
Apiaceae and Myrtaceae components — check for celery/cumin sensitivity.
Classical alternatives
Trikatu for warming digestion; Triphala for milder lipid and bowel support.
General caution
Contains rock salt — limit in hypertension and fluid retention. Can be drying with long-term use.
Digestive · Lipolytic
32 · Polyherbal · Fenugreek, Ajwain, Nigella (5:2:1)
ChurnaDigestion
Amahara Choorna (Gut Buddy)
Āmahara Cūrṇa
Reduces Kapha and Vata; balances Pitta in moderate doses.
Traditional uses
- ·Ama pachana — clears digestive toxins, supports diabetes & cholesterol management
- ·Agni deepana — kindles digestive fire
- ·Bloating, wind, indigestion, constipation
- ·Aids sleep and supports gentle weight loss
How it is taken
Kapha conditions: ½ tsp twice daily before meals. Pitta & Vata: ½ tsp twice daily after meals. Usage: 30 ml hot water.
Avoid in
- ✕Pregnancy (uterine-stimulant herbs — fenugreek, ajwain, nigella)
- ✕With diabetic, anticoagulant or thyroid medication without supervision
- ✕Active Pitta inflammation, severe gastritis or peptic ulcer
- ✕Children under 6
Allergies
Fabaceae (fenugreek), Apiaceae (ajwain), Ranunculaceae (nigella). Cross-reactivity with chickpea, peanut, celery possible.
Classical alternatives
Hingvashtaka Churna for Vata-dominant bloating; Trikatu for cold, Kapha-dominant indigestion.
General caution
Fenugreek can lower blood sugar; ajwain and nigella are heating in excess.
Ama-pacifying · Carminative
