The Ayurvedic Wellness Counselor Program

KAA 106: Ayurvedic Herbology (Dravya Guna Karma Shastra)

 Dravya Guna Karma Shastra
Dravya Guna Karma Shastra is the science (Shastra) of
Dravyas (substances, drugs or herbs), their Gunas (properties
and qualities) and Karmas (actions) which aid in the
maintenance of health and alleviation of disease.

Dravyas are Described in Seven Categories

1. Dravya: Substance, Herb
2. Guna: Property or Quality
3. Rasa: Taste
4. Vipaka: Post-Digestive Effect
5. Veerya: Potency
6. Prabhava: Unique Property
7. Karma: Action or Effect
Dravya Guna Karma Shastra
Important Notes about Dravya Guna Karma Shastra

The study of Dravya includes the dosage,

compatibility and processing of herbs.

All Dravya are Panchabhoutic, meaning they
contain different combinations of all five elements.

Tridosha Siddhanta: How the concept of Tridosha
is involved in the study of herbology and disease
management.

Nighantu is a dictionary of medicinal substances in
which the description of herbs–useful parts,
morphology, properties, actions and uses are
mentioned.
Dravya

Dravya is the substance which is
inseparable from Guna and Karma.

Dravya is more important than Guna and karma.

Dravya is Panchabhoutik.

Each Dravya is a medicine.

Like increases like.

Dravya is stable.

Dravya is long-lasting.

Dravya is understood by the five sense organs.

Different parts of Dravyas are used.

Dravyas are used to create various Ayurvedic medicines.
Guna

Guna is the quality of the Dravya through which action,
or karma takes place. It is inseparable from Dravya.

Examples
The cold quality (Guna) in the ice cream (Dravya)
causes coldness (karma) in the body, thereby
reducing Pitta.

The rough quality (Guna) of Guggulu (Dravya)

causes scraping action (karma), which is useful in
lowering cholesterol build up.
Guna: The Twenty Bodily Gunas

There are 20 gunas, or 10 pairs of opposites.

The bodily gunas Heavy, dull, cold, moist,

soft, liquid, dense, stable,
are related to the
clear, subtle (and their
physical body: opposite pairs).
Guna: The Five Bhoutic Gunas
Guna Related Bhuta
Shabda (Sound) Akasha (Ether)
Sparsha (Touch) Vayu (Air)
Roopa (Sight) Teja (Fire)
Rasa (Taste) Aap (Water)
Gandha (Smell) Prithvi (Earth)

 Important Note

Ether helps to cleanse

Air helps to dry and absorb
Fire helps to digest
Water and Earth help to build
Fire and Air help to scrape
Karma

Karma is the action carried out by Dravya, or an action done
to achieve a definite aim. Karma cannot exist without Dravya.

Examples
Shatavari is stanya janana (increases breast milk)
Pippali is ama pachana (digests ama)
Kutaja is atisaraghna (stops diarrhea)
Classification According to the Karmas

1. Deepana
Herbs that stimulate Agni are called
Deepana Dravyas. Their Rasas are mainly
Sour, Salty and Pungent. They increase
Pitta and decrease Vata and Kapha. They
may or may not digest Ama.

Examples
Ginger, black pepper, pippali and chitrak.
Classification According to the Karmas

2. Pachana
Herbs that digest Ama are called Pachana
Dravyas or ama pachanas. They may or
may not strengthen Agni. Their Rasas are
mainly Bitter, Pungent and Sour. Bitter
herbs are the best ama pachanas.

Examples
Musta, kutaja, garlic, ginger and lemons.
Classification According to the Karmas
Shamana Can Be Achieved Through
3. Shamana
Deepana: Herbs such as Ajwan and Trikatu that help
strengthen Agni and balance Kapha and Vata.
Herbs that maintain the balance of the Doshas internally
Pachana: Herbs and substances such as Ginger, lemon
without removing them from the body are called and Kutaja that digest Ama.
Shamana Dravyas. An herb or substance that reduces
Langhana (Fasting): Helps digest Ama and Kapha.
Vata is called Vatashamaka. An herb or substance that
Trut (Reducing Water Intake): Problems such as edema
reduces Pitta is called Pittashamaka. An herb or and water retention (or bloating) can generally be taken
substance that reduces Kapha is called Kaphashamaka. care of by reducing water intake.

Vyayama (Exercise): Increases body heat, digest Ama,
Examples removes srotorodha, decreases Kapha and Vata, helps
reduce weight.
Sesame oil is Vatashamaka, Ghee is Pittashamaka

Atapa Seva (Walking in the Sun): Helps reduce Kapha
and Honey is Kaphashamaka. and Ama.

Maruta Seva (Walking in the Breeze): Helps decrease
Pitta.
Classification According to the Karmas

4. Shodhana
Examples of How Shodhana
Herbs that remove aggravated Doshas Can Be Administered
from the body are called Shodhana
Dravyas. This action is more effective than
Vamana: Upwardly, through the
Shamana because the aggravated Doshas mouth.
actually leave the body.

Virechana: Downwardly, through the
rectum.
Examples
Madanaphala, vacha and nishottar.
Classification According to the Karmas

5. Stambhan
Herbs that absorb the fluids in the colon are called
Stambhan Dravyas. Their qualities are mainly dry,
astringent and cold. They do not digest ama. Their
astringent and cold qualities constrict the channels
while their dry quality absorbs the fluids. These
herbs should not be used in high ama conditions or
to treat ama-related disorders.
Examples
Herbs with astringent tastes such as kutaja and
nagakeshara.
Classification According to the Karmas

6. Grahi
Herbs that help to solidify the stool, increase
the appetite (Deepana) and improve the
digestion (Pachana) and absorption of fluids
are called Grahi Dravyas. These herbs have a
Veerya that is heating (which causes the stool
to solidify) and they are pungent in nature

Examples
Dry ginger, musta and cumin.
Classification According to the Karmas

7. Anuloman
Herbs that act as mild laxatives are called
Anuloman Dravyas. Ama may cause
obstruction in the channels and these herbs
digest Saama malas (meaning malas with Ama)
and eliminate them from the rectum.

Examples
Aragvadha and castor.
Classification According to the Karmas

8. Sramsan
Herbs that act as mild purgatives are called Sramsan
Dravyas. These herbs remove the malas which are
sticking to the intestinal walls and expel them from
the body. These herbs and substances are not ama
pachanas. Sramsan herbs are stronger than
anulomana herbs
Examples
Warm milk and ghee, grapes and haritaki
and triphala.
Classification According to the Karmas

9. Virechana
Herbs that act as strong purgatives
are called Virechana Dravyas. They
forcefully remove both Saama and
Nirama malas in their liquid form
from the body.

Examples
Nishottar and castor oil.
Classification According to the Karmas

10. Bhedana
Herbs that act as drastic purgatives are called
Bhedana Dravyas. They break stony hard stools
and remove liquid malas and aggravated Doshas
from the digestive tract. Bhedana Dravyas are
the strongest Dravyas of all.

Examples
Aloe, kutki and chitrak.
Classification According to the Karmas

11. Lekhana
Herbs that have a scraping action on the Dhatus,
Doshas and Malas are called Lekhana Dravyas. Meda
and Kapha are the primary Dhatus and Doshas removed
by Lekhana Dravyas. This type of herb is especially
effective for removing excess Dhatu build-up in the
body such as is the case in obesity and diabetes.
Examples
Guggulu, haridra, vacha, daruhaladi, warm
water and honey.
Classification According to the Karmas

12. Pramathi
Herbs which expel aggravated Doshas which are
adherent to Srotas. They enter into minute
Srotas due to their ushna and teekshna gunas
and forcefully expel Doshas accumulated there.
These herbs are useful in Kapha, Meda diseases
and in Pranavaha Srotas and shirorogas.
Examples
Black pepper, vacha, chitrak, pippali and
vidanga.
Shad Rasa: The Six Tastes

Rasa (or taste) is the sensation
that the tongue experiences. Notes

Other meanings of the word Rasa: Juice, the first
Dhatu or Mercury.
1. Sweet (Madhura)
Water (Aap) is the Mahabhuta that is mainly
2. Sour (Amla) responsible for Rasa, or taste.
3. Salty (Lavana)
Each Dosha is increased or decreased by certain
4. Pungent (Katu) Rasas, so their balance is dependent on the
consumption of various Rasas through the diet
5. Astringent (Kashaya) and/or herbs.
6. Bitter (Tikta)
Taste is the sense and the tongue is the sense organ.
As soon as the tongue comes into contact with food,
the taste can be perceived.

The Rasa of any food or Dravya is not permanent.
Rasa: Bhoutic Composition
Taste Mahabhutas
The action of each taste depends on its
bhoutic composition.
Sweet (Madhura) Earth + Water
Sour (Amla) Fire + Earth
There are four varieties of taste buds on
the tongue, each perceiving sweet, sour, salty
Salty (Lavana) Fire + Water or bitter tastes. Sweet and salty are perceived
at the tip of the tongue, sour on the sides and
Pungent (Katu) Fire + Air bitter at the back.

The pungent taste irritates the mucus

Astringent (Kashaya) Air + Earth membrane while the astringent taste pulls the
mucus membrane.
Bitter (Tikta) Air + Ether
Rasa: Effect on the Doshas
Taste Kapha Pitta Vata
Sweet (Madhura) ↑ ↓ ↓
Sour (Amla) ↑ ↑ ↓
Salty (Lavana) ↑ ↑ ↓
Pungent (Katu) ↓ ↑ ↑
Astringent (Kashaya) ↓ ↓ ↑
Bitter (Tikta) ↓ ↓ ↑
Rasa: Related to Dosha Shamana
Dosha Shamana Taste Effect
Sweet Moist
Vata Shamana or
Salty Hot, moist
Vatashamaka
Sour Hot
Sweet
Pitta Shamana or
Astringent Cool
Pittashamaka
Bitter
Pungent Hot, light
Kapha Shamana or
Bitter Light, dry
Kaphashamaka
Astringent Dry
Rasa: Related to Dosha Vardhana

Dosha Vardhana Taste Effect

Vata Vardhana Pungent, Astringent, Bitter Dry

Pitta Vardhana Pungent, Sour, Salty Hot

Kapha Vardhana Sweet, Sour, Salty Heavy, moist

Rasa: Related to Dosha Vardhana
Mahabhuta Effect

Akasha Shodhana: Cleansing

Vayu Shoshana: Absorbing

Tejas Deepana: Agni strengthening

Aap, Prithvi Bruhana: Builds dhatus

Vayu, Tejas Lekhana: Scraping dhatus

Vipaka: Post-Digestive Effect

Vipaka, Vishesha Pak represents the Post-Digestive
Effect of a Dravya , or the special effect (Vishesha) of an
herb on the body (Pak).

The Vipaka is the transformed state of the food

after digestion and assimilation

It is the ultimate result of the process of digestion

It is the transformed state after digestion

The final reaction of food on the body
Vipaka: Types
Type Vipaka Taste(s) Effect Examples Exceptions

Honey (pungent
Sweet and Builds the Dhatus, helps heal
Sweet Milk, ghee, butter, sea salt Vipaka), Black
1 salty wounds, moisten the skin and create
(Madhura) and rock salt Gram (Sour
substances well-formed stools and clear urine.
Vipaka)

Forms Rakta Dhatu, strengthens

Sour Agni, reduces Ama, decreases Vata Lime and amalaki
2 Sour (Amla) Oranges, tomatoes
substances (reduces pain), creates sweat and (sweet Vipaka)
cleanses the mouth & tongue.

Pungent, Reduces Meda Dhatu and excessive Chilies, chitrak (pungent), Pippali, dry
Pungent Astringent fluids from the body, depletes the bitter melon, fenugreek ginger, guduchi
3
(Katu) and Bitter Dhatus, causes constipation and (bitters), Lodhra and and haritaki
substances blocks sweat glands. udumbara (astringents). (sweet Vipaka).
 Veerya: Potency
Veeryate anena iti Veeryam: The property or potency of a substance which brings about the action is called Veerya.

Veerya or Potency is responsible for the action of the herb in question. It can be translated to the vigor or essence of an herb.

Types of Veerya
1. Sheeta (Cooling) 2. Ushna (Heating)
Actions: Increases Vata and Kapha, decreases Pitta, Actions: Decreases Vata and Kapha, increases Pitta,
strengthens the Dhatus, stops bowel movements increases Rakta Dhatu, depletes the rest of the
and sweating, increases urination, weakens Agni, Dhatus, dries stools and urine, increases sweat,
creates a feeling of refreshment, tones the Dhatus, causes agni deepana and ama pachana, creates
increases moistness, nourishes the Dhatus and thirst, causes dizziness and opens the Srotas.
creates Srotorodha.
Examples: Dry ginger, pippali and chitrak.
Examples: Chandan, lotus and aloe.
Veerya: Types
In terms of dietetics, Rasa is of primary importance. In terms of herbs, Veerya is.
Generally, Sheeta Veerya increases Kapha, while Ushna Veerya increases Pitta. Vata
works as a buffer. Among the six tastes, three have a Sheeta, or cooling Veerya and three
have an Ushna or heating Veerya.
 Remember the bhoutic composition of the tastes.

Rasa Veerya
Sweet Cooling
Sour Heating
Salty Heating
Pungent Heating
Astringent Cooling
Bitter Cooling
 Veerya: Potency
Prabhavati samarthya vishistham bhavati anena iti Prabhava

Prabhava is the unique property or special effect of a substance which

cannot be explained by Rasa, Veerya or Vipaka. This unique effect is due to its
unique bhoutic composition. It is called Achintya Shakti which translates to “a
power beyond (rational) thinking.”

Examples
Danti and Chitrak have the same Rasa, Veerya and Vipaka: They each have a pungent Rasa and Vipaka and a hot
Veerya. However Danti is a laxative and Chitrak is digesting.

Milk and ghee have the same Rasa, Veerya and Vipaka but ghee creates agni deepana while milk creates agni mandya.

Arjuna and Vidanga have the same Rasa, Veerya and Vipaka but while Arjuna works on the heart while Vidanga acts as
an antiparasitic.
 Oushadha Dravyas

Oushadha or herbs are used as medicine. Ousha or Osha literally
means herbs with medicinal properties Oushadha Dravyas.

Qualities Ahara
Oushadha Dravyas should have four qualities:
The diet rich in

Are adequately available. Rasa helps
nutrition.

Have many medicinal properties so it can be used in many
formulations.

Are very potent in terms of Rasa, Vipaka, Veerya, Prabhava, etc.

Are very potent in particular actions, or Karmas.
 Oushadha Dravyas: Parts Used
No. Part of Plant Examples
The entire body of an herb 1 Roots Dashmoola
or plant is not always potent 2 Bark Arjun, Khadir
medicinally. Certain parts 3 Trunk Sandalwood
carry more potency than 4 Gum Asafoetida, Guggulu
others, so these parts of the 5 Stems Lotus
plant are isolated and used 6 Juice From the fresh leaves of Gotukola
for treatment. 7 Leaves Mango, Vasta
8 Salts Barley, Lotus
9 Pulp Cactus, Aloe
10 Fruits Haritaki, Amla
11 Flowers Rose
12 Ash Triphala
13 Oil Almond
14 Spikes Savari
15 Rhizomes Ginger
16 Seeds Ajwan
17 Herb Gotukola (Sometimes the whole herb is used)
 Oushadha Dravyas: Dosage
Dosage is not standard. It changes
depending on the following factors:

The strength of a patient  Important Note

The strength of a disease
The dose should be higher when the

The strength of the herb degree of Dosha imbalance is high, the

The strength of the digestive fire, or Agni herb potency is low or patient is strong

The duration of the disease The dose should be low when the

The season degree of imbalance is low, or the herb
is strong or the patient is weak

The age and sex of the client
Oushadha Dravyas: Forms Used
General
Form Preparation
Dose
Swarasa (Fresh Juice) Blend fresh herbs with 1/2 to equal amount of water and strain. 10 mL
Kalka (Herbal Paste,
Herbs are pureed in a blender with a little water. 5g
Puree or Powder)
Kwatha (Decoction) Mix one part herbs and 8 parts water. Boil till one part of water remains (it is a strong decoction). 10 mL
Hima (Cold Infusion) Steep herbs (1 part herbs: 3 parts water) in cold water overnight. Good for Pitta. 80 mL
Fanta (Hot Infusion) Steep herbs (1 part herbs: 3 parts water) in boiled water for 1 to 12 hours (depending on herbs). 80 mL
Make a decoction of 1 part herbs and 8 parts water till 1 part remains. Strain the decoction and add
Medicated Oils 10 mL
equal amount of oil (many times sesame oil). Boil on low heat till all the water evaporates.
Make a decoction of 1 part herbs and 8 parts water till 1 part remains. Strain the decoction and add
Medicated Ghee 10 g
equal amount of Ghee. Boil on low heat till all the water evaporates.
Aasava (Ayurvedic Wine
Mix swarasa (juice) of herbs, raw sugar and Dhataki flowers and ferment for 90 days. Better in Pitta
Made with Cold Infusion 15 to 20 mL
conditions.
or Juice of the Herb)
Arishta (Ayurvedic Wine Mix decoction of herbs, jaggery, and Dhataki flowers and ferment for 90 days – better in Kapha and
15 to 20 mL
Made with Decoction) Vata conditions.
Powders This is the most common form. The powders lose their potency after 6 months. 1 to 2 g
Pills Mix powdered herbs and honey or maple syrup and roll into small pills. 2 to 4 g
Oushadha Dravyas: When to Take Herbs

On an empty stomach (early in the morning): For Kapha conditions and if the patient is strong. Herbs taken
on an empty stomach spread throughout the body quickly. If a person is weak, this may cause an adverse
reaction.

Before mealtime: For Vata conditions. Stimulates Apana Vayu, tones the intestinal muscles and helps increase
Agni.

During mealtime: Improves digestion due to the stimulation of Samana Vayu, which stimulates the liver as well
as the excretion of pancreatic enzymes.

After mealtime

After Lunch: Stimulates Vyana Vayu to strengthen the heart.

After Dinner: Stimulates Udana Vayu to strengthen the lungs.

Taken Frequently: For heartburn, cough, asthma, thirst, breathlessness or hiccup, etc.

Bedtime: Diseases of the ear, nose and throat. Stimulates Prana Vayu and acts as a purgative and is sleep
promoting.
 Oushadha Dravyas: Channels of Administration

1. The Mouth 2. The Nose

Using this route as an administrative channel is often
This route is selected for:
referred to as Nasya. This route is the doorway to

General Action: It is the most commonly the brain. It is selected for:
used channel because the herbs are
digested, absorbed and then circulated
Local Action: To treat nasal
through the body. diseases and upper respiratory

Local Action: For oral and dental concerns.
diseases as gargles or in the oral
Inhalation: In respiratory diseases
application of oils. such as using inhalers for Asthma.

Inhalation: In some respiratory diseases
Nasya is also performed for all
by inhaling certain herbal smokes. diseases above the neck, such as

Emesis (Vomiting): Used in some migraine, sinus problems, chronic
digestive diseases. headaches and TMJ.
 Oushadha Dravyas: Channels of Administration
3. The Eyes 6. Urethra
Local Action: Eye drops or ointments for eye or vision Local Action: For urinary problems (very
problems. uncommon).

4. The Ears 6. Vagina

Local Action: Ear drops for ear problems such as discharge, Vaginal Douche: For leucorrhea, candida or
ringing, polyps and pain, etc. dry vagina, etc.

5. The Anus 7. Skin

Enemas: For problems such as constipation, using External Application: For skin diseases,
lubricating or cleansing enemas such as suppositories. swelling of the joints, oil massage, steam bath,
medicinal patches for vitiligo or skin
Basti treatment is very beneficial for Vata diseases. discolorations, etc.
 Anupana: Carrier
Anupana, or Carrier, is a substance taken along with one or more of the
following functions:

To mask certain undesirable tastes: Castor oil in tea or fruit juice.

To strengthen the action: Honey strengthens several of the
medicinal qualities of different herbs.
To neutralize an undesirable effect: Milk neutralizes the excessive
Pitta-aggravating qualities of guggulu when used as an anti-
inflammatory.
To protect the desirable effect of certain herbs in instances of
strong digestive fire: Time-release coating to protect herbs from the
acidic part of digestion so that they can reach the intestine.
To target certain organs: Herbal wines used when looking to reach
the liver directly.
 Common Anupanas
Most of the time, these Anupanas are liquids which help to absorb medicines quickly.
Certain herbs act specifically and effectively when administered with specific anupanas.

Dosha Qualities Examples

Vata Moist and warm Sesame oil, warm water

Pitta Cool and sweet Ghee, cool water, milk

Kapha Dry and warm Honey, warm water

 Anupanas for Each Dhatu
Most of the time, these Anupanas are liquids which help to absorb medicines quickly. Certain herbs act specifically and
effectively when administered with specific anupanas.

Dhatu Anupana
Rasa Water, rock sugar, milk
Rakta Milk, honey, rock sugar
Mamsa Honey
Meda Herbal wines
Asthi Milk, bone soup
Majja Herbal wines
Shukra Milk
 The Herbs in Detail
Amla (Amalaki, Dhatri) Part Used Fruit
Emblica Officinalis
Guna Light, dry, cold

Rasa All tastes except salty; Mainly sour

Vipaka Sweet

Veerya Cooling (Sheetha)

Effect on Dosha Pacifies all of the Doshas, especially Pitta

Rejuvenative, aphrodisiac, laxative, haemostatic, antiaging;

Main Action
The world’s richest source of Vitamin C.
 The Herbs in Detail
Amla (Amalaki, Dhatri) Uses
Emblica Officinalis

Locally: Paste applied on forehead in Pitta headaches, on the face to
improve the complexion and on blemishes on the skin and the head
for early graying.

Beneficial as a Rasayana: Nutritive to all of the Dhatus, rejuvenating
(Chyavanprash)

Good for the digestive system: Used as agnideepana, ama pachana,
anulomana in agnimandya, acid reflux, ulcers and liver diseases.

Used in Pitta fever, skin problems, anemia and diabetes.

Used in bleeding conditions such as bleeding gums, healing wounds,
bleeding in the eyes, redness of the eyes, nose bleeds, bleeding
hemorrhoids and/or ulcers.

Used as an aphrodisiac, for uterine debility, Menorrhegia and
leucorrhea.
The Herbs in Detail
Ashwagandha Part Used Root
Withenia Somnifera
Guna Light, moist

Rasa Sweet, bitter, astringent

Vipaka Sweet

Veerya Heating (Ushna)

Effect on Decreases Vata and Kapha, increases Pitta and Ama if

Dosha taken in excess
Aphrodisiac, sedative, Rasayana, antiaging, nervine,
Main Action
analgesic

Forms Used Decoction, arishta, powder, ghrita, avaleha

The Herbs in Detail
Uses
Ashwagandha
Locally: Paste on enlarged lymph glands, oil in vata diseases.
Withenia Somnifera
Beneficial in instances of infertility, sexual or general debility,
low sperm count and/or low vitality. Useful for pregnant
women to strengthen the uterus and the growing fetus.

Promotes sleep, used in stress, anxiety, nerve pain, muscle pain,
overwork, emaciation, insomnia and acts as a nerve tonic.

Beneficial for arthritis, sciatica, rheumatism, MS and paralysis.

Respiratory: Cough, Asthma, migraine headaches.

The juice of Ashvagandha leaves is used as ear drops for ear
discharge.

Builds the Dhatus, especially mamsa and shukra.

Used in debilitating diseases; Improves immunity.
The Herbs in Detail
Part Used Root, seeds, leaves
Bala
Sida Cardifolia Guna Heavy, moist, slimy

Rasa Sweet

Vipaka Sweet

Veerya Cooling

Effect on
Decreases Vata and Pitta
Dosha

Main Action Rejuvenative, nervine, aphrodisiac, analgesic

Forms Used Oil, decoction, arishta, ghrita

The Herbs in Detail
Bala Uses
Sida Cardifolia
Locally: Paste for healing wounds.

Strengthens the small intestine and improves digestion (useful
in IBS and Crone’s disease). Strengthens the lungs, heals ulcers
and cavities in the lungs; Useful in Pittaja kasa (cough) and
asthma.

Alterative, very useful in Raktapitta and Pitta (burning)
hemorrhoids.

As a tonic, it is useful in general debility, undernourishment
(tuberculosis is an example of this) and in the case of weak
heart muscles.

Strengthens all of the Dhatus but mainly mamsa and shukra.

Aids in Vata disorders such as sciatica, neuralgia and facial
paralysis (anuvasana bastis are useful here).

Beneficial for Rheumatism and chronic fevers .

 The Herbs in Detail
Part Used Fruit
Bibhitaki
Terminelia Belerica Guna Dry, heavy

Rasa Astringent

Vipaka Pungent

Veerya Heating

Effect on Dosha Decreases Kapha and Pitta, mainly Kapha

Rejuvenative, expectorant, laxative, antihelmentic, antiseptic,

Main Action
lithotropic (breaks gall bladder and kidney stones)

Forms Used Oil, powder, decoction

 The Herbs in Detail
Bibhitaki Uses
Terminelia Belerica
Beneficial for cough, asthma, congestion, migraine
headaches; Also works to clear the voice. The partially ripe
fruit works as a laxative.

Gives tone to the body.

The oil can be used in premature graying of the hair and as
a hair tonic.

Acts as an anti emetic and reduces excessive thirst.

Beneficial for Deepana, Pachana, acts as an antihelmentic
and stops bleeding.

The seeds are used to treat insomnia.
The Herbs in Detail
Part Used Leaves

Guna Light
Brahmi
Buccopa Monnieria Rasa Bitter, astringent, sweet

Vipaka Sweet

Veerya Cooling

Effect on Dosha Nervine, Antiepileptic and antihysteric by Prabhava

Main Action Decreases mainly Vata and Pitta

Forms Used Juice, powder, oil

The Herbs in Detail
Uses

Locally: The juice can be applied on painful joints as an analgesic.
Brahmi is useful to calm and cool the mind, especially in instances of high fever
Brahmi

when it reaches a state of delirium, marked by anxiety, disorientation,
Buccopa Monnieria hallucinations, delusions, and incoherent speech.

Works as a brain tonic: Calms the mind, reduces dullness and enhances
intelligence and memory. Brahmi is used in Pitta conditions, Jatamansi in Vataja
conditions and Vacha in Kapha conditions.

Helps with epilepsy, mental retardation, depression, delusion and hallucinations.

Helps relieve pain and inflammation.

Works as a diuretic: Reduces burning and pain during urination.

Acts as a Rasayana: Strengthens all of the dhatus except Rakta.

Since Brahmi is rare, a similar nervine herb is often substituted: Mandukaparni
(Hydrocotyl Asiata).

Brahmi leaves are smooth and have small black spots. Mandukaparni has rough
leaves, is good for the skin and is less nervine than Brahmi.

Gotukola (Centella Asiata) which is commonly used in the US is another sister
variety of Mandukaparni with more diuretic effects. Gotukola is less nervine than
Brahmi.
The Herbs in Detail
Eranda (Castor) Part Used Oil, leaves

Ricinus Communis
Guna Heavy, moist, sharp, subtle

Rasa Sweet, pungent, bitter

Vipaka Pungent

Veerya Heating

Effect on Dosha Decreases Kapha and Vata

Main Action Strong purgative

Forms Used Decoction, oil, paste, juice of the leaves

The Herbs in Detail
Eranda (Castor)
Uses

Locally: Warm leaves are used on painful parts of the body while
Ricinus Communis massaging the abdomen with oil and saindhava in instances of gas
and bloating The main use is for Virechana in Panchakarma. It
causes purgation without cramping.

Useful for any disease caused by Apana Vayu, chronic constipation,
Agnimandya, srotorodha. Acts as an Antihelmentic.

Useful for treating hemorrhoids. The leaves are also useful to
stimulate the liver and to treat obstructive or hemolytic jaundice.

In Amavata, the oil is given with a ginger decoction.

Beneficial for Vata disorders such as tremors, facial palsy and
sciatica.

Helps in Asthma by removing Kapha in the stomach through
purgation.

Antiaging.
The Herbs in Detail
Ginger (Shunthi) Part Used Rhizome

Zinzibar Officinale
Guna Dry Ginger: Light, moist; Fresh Ginger: Dry, sharp and heavy

Rasa Pungent

Vipaka Dry Ginger: Sweet; Fresh Ginger: Pungent

Veerya Heating

Both types decrease Vata and Kapha. The sweet Vipaka of Dry
Effect on Dosha Ginger does not aggravate Pitta while Fresh Ginger increases
Pitta
Stimulates Agni, digestant, carminative, antiemetic, stimulant,
Main Action
analgesic

Paste, powder, oil, candy, juice, tea

Forms Used
The Herbs in Detail
Ginger (Shunthi)
Uses

Locally: The paste is used for sinus headaches and painful joints.
Zinzibar Officinale The oil is used as nasya for congestion.

Works as an agnideepana and pachana as well as an antiflatulent.
Because of this, it is used in agnimandya, vomiting, colds, headaches
and to treat abdominal pain.

Acts as an antihaemorrhoidal and antispasmodic. Removes
srotorodha.

Useful to treat cough, asthma, allergies and both morning & motion
sickness.

Purifies the blood, stimulates the heart and helps treat Kaphaja skin
diseases and fevers.

Acts as an anti-inflammatory and analgesic. Useful for treating
arthritis (with caster oil and Guduchi in instances of Amavata), pain,
swelling and general sprains.

Used in postpartum debility as it acts on all of the physical systems.
The Herbs in Detail
Guduchi (Amrita, Gulwel) Part Used Stems, leaves
Tinosphora Cardifolia
Guna Light, dry and soft

Rasa Astringent, bitter, pungent

Vipaka Sweet

Veerya Heating

Effect on Dosha Balances all the three Doshas

Anupana Ghee in Vataja, sugar in Pittaja and honey in Kaphaja diseases

Dhatu agnideepana, ama pachana, Dhatu strengthening,

Main Action
Rasayana (nutritive), alterative, antiaging, antipyretic
The Herbs in Detail
Guduchi (Amrita, Gulwel)
Uses
Tinosphora Cardifolia
Locally: The oil is used to treat skin problems as well as physical
aches and pains.

Due to Dhatu agnideepana, Guduchi strengthens all of the Dhatus.
It is the best Rasayana herb. Strengthens the small intestine, so it is
used in diarrhea, vomiting, Agnimandya, pain in abdomen,
parasites, amlapitta (GERD), liver diseases and anemia.

Useful for treating all Pitta conditions such as burning hands, feet
and body.

Relieves chronic fevers and bleeding conditions.

Guduchi satva is effective when treating cardiac debility.

Useful in Vata conditions such as Amavata, arthritis, chronic pain
and spasms.

Is used in prameha to absorb kleda.

Useful when treating eye, urinary, respiratory and digestive
diseases that are primarily Pitta-related.
 The Herbs in Detail
Guggulu Part Used Resin
Comiphora Mukul
Guna Light, sharp, subtle

Rasa Bitter, astringent, pungent

Vipaka Pungent

Veerya Heating

Effect on Dosha Decreases Vata and Kapha, increases Pitta

Analgesic, antispasmodic, ama pachana, rejuvenative,

Main Action
stimulant
 The Herbs in Detail
Uses
Guggulu
Acts as an anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antibacterial,
Comiphora Mukul
disinfectant and deodorant.

Has a specific scraping action on excess Meda Dhatu and
Kapha, so it is often used to treat Diabetes, obesity and
edema. Used to treat arthritis, facial paralysis, sciatica, gout
and all Vata disorders.

Rejuvenates the tissue of the body and increases strength.

Useful for treating loss of appetite, constipation, liver
diseases, piles and worms.

Useful when treating many skin diseases.

Many Guggul formulas (such as Triphala Guggul) are popular
for reducing cholesterol.
 The Herbs in Detail
Part Used Fruit
Haritaki Guna Light, dry
Terminelia Chebula
Rasa All except salty, mainly astringent

Vipaka Sweet

Veerya Heating

Effect on Dosha Balances the Tridoshas (mainly Vata)

Main Action Rejuvenative, laxative, antihelmentic, expectorant.

Popular Products Triphala

It can be used in the spring with honey, in the summer with
Anupanas
ghee and in the winter with raw sugar
Forms Used Powder, decoction paste
Physical weakness, pregnancy, dehydration, after severe
Contraindications
exhaustion, after Panchakarma
 The Herbs in Detail
Uses
Haritaki
Locally: The paste is used to alleviate swelling, painful parts of the body.
Terminelia Chebula Decoctions are used to cleanse wounds and for gargling.

One of the main benefits of Haritaki is in balancing Vata. It is useful in
instances of weakness in the nervous system and brain. Works on all Dhatus
by removing blockages in any and all of the channels.

Digestive: Useful in instances of agnimandya, pain in the abdomen,
constipation, parasites, hemorrhoids, gas and/or bloating. Since it is
Astringent, it works to strength the intestines.

Beneficial when treating Kaphaja Hemorrhoids: Haritaki, Vidanga, Kutaja,
Chitrak with buttermilk.

Beneficial when treating Amlapitta: Haritaki, Pippali and jaggery digest
saama Pitta and reduce burning in the chest.

Works to strengthen Mamsa and Meda Dhatus by absorbing excess kleda and
strengthening Dhatuagni. Used to treat Kaphaja skin diseases and Prameha.

Stimulates intelligence and strengthens the sense organs by decreasing
excess Kapha and Meda Dhatu.
 The Herbs in Detail
Uses (Continued)
Haritaki
Excellent for treating eye problems: Wash the eyes with Haritaki tea.
Terminelia Chebula Triphala, Licorice ghee and honey strengthen the eyes.

Useful for treating kidney stones and painful urination. Haritaki, Gokshura
and Pashana bhed tea with honey reduce burning and help break kidney
stones and flush them out of the body.

Finely powdered Haritaki is used as a tooth powder that strengthens the
gums.

Used for respiratory rhinitis, cough, hoarseness of voice, hiccups and
asthma.

Useful in leucorrhoea. Acts as uterine tonic.

Prevents the accumulation of pus in the skin.

Works as a Rasayana to open the channels, remove malas from the Dhatus,
and cleanse all of the Dhatus. Works as an antiaging agent.

Pathya: Removes blockage of the srotas and channels.

Abhaya: Makes the individual fearless.
 The Herbs in Detail
Katuka (Kutaki) Part Used Root
Picrorhiza Kurrooa
Guna Light, dry

Rasa Bitter

Vipaka Pungent

Veerya Cooling

Effect on Dosha Decreases Kapha and Pitta

Main Action Hepatoprotective, laxative

 The Herbs in Detail
Katuka (Kutaki) Uses
Picrorhiza Kurrooa

Useful when treating jaundice,
liver problems and for cleansing
the liver, cleansing the gall
bladder of stones and treating
constipation, flatulence and
ascitis.

Helps regulate heart beats and
constrict the blood vessels. Raises
blood pressure. Useful when
treating bleeding disorders.

Improves Agni, so it is used to
treat Anorexia and indigestion.

Useful when treating cough,
asthma and fever.
The Herbs in Detail
Kumari (Aloe Vera)
Part Used Leaves
Aloe Barbadensis, etc.
Guna Bitter, sweet

Rasa Sweet

Vipaka Sweet

Veerya Cooling

Effect on Dosha Decreases all three Doshas

Main Action Bitter tonic, rejuvenative, alterative

Forms Used Juice from the leaves

The Herbs in Detail
Kumari (Aloe Vera) Uses
Aloe Barbadensis, etc.

Locally: Applied locally to reduce heat. The pulp
moisturizes the skin while the fresh juice is beneficial
when applied to the eyes in case of infection.

Has a laxative effect by irritating the large intestine.

Useful for treating benign in tumors.

Used to treat anemia.

Used to treat amenorrhea, dysmenorrhea, menopause,
inflammatory vaginal conditions, swollen glands, fever and
constipation.

Used to treat common inflammatory skin conditions.

It acts using deepana and pachana properties.

The juice is used to treat loss of appetite, abdominal colic
and worm infestations.
 The Herbs in Detail
Manjishtha Part Used Root
Rubia Cardifolia Guna Heavy, Dry

Rasa Bitter, astringent, sweet

Vipaka Pungent

Veerya Heating

Effect on Dosha Decreases PKV

Main Action On the skin: Alterative, haemostatic

Forms Used Ghee, powder, decoction, kalka (puree)

 The Herbs in Detail
Manjishtha Uses
Rubia Cardifolia

Locally: The paste is used to help heal
wounds.

Works to purify the blood, improve
circulation, stop bleeding and reduce
inflammation.

Beneficial when treating skin
conditions such as acne, freckles,
blisters and skin infections. Improves
the complexion and cleanses wounds.
Manjishtha ghee is used to treat burns.

Useful when treating all conditions
related to menstruation:
Dysmenorrhea, Amenorrhea and
Menorrhegia.
The Herbs in Detail
Part Used Rhizome

Guna Light, Dry

Rasa Pungent, bitter, astringent

Nagarmotha Vipaka Pungent

(Musta, Nutgrass) Veerya Cooling

Cyperus Rotundus
Effect on Dosha Decreases Kapha and Pitta

Stimulant, carminative, alterative, antispasmodic,

Main Action
antihelmentic

Forms Used Decoction, arishta, powder

The Herbs in Detail
Uses

Locally: The paste can be applied to itchy skin rashes or on the
breasts to cleanse breast milk.

Nagarmotha is the best deepana, pachana and grahi, so it is
used to treat diarrhea, malabsorption and indigestion.
Nagarmotha
Serves as the key herb in all types of fevers (except chronic
(Musta, Nutgrass) fevers).
Cyperus Rotundus
Beneficial for increasing and cleansing breast milk.

Enhances memory and strengthens nerves.

Beneficial for treating kidney stones and painful urination.
 The Herbs in Detail
Neem (Nimba)
Part Used Seeds, leaves, bark and flower
Azadirecta Indica
Guna Light, dry

Rasa Bitter, astringent, pungent

Vipaka Pungent

Veerya Cooling

Effect on Dosha Decreases Pitta and Kapha

Antipyretic, alterative (blood purifying), bitter tonic,

Main Action
antiseptic, antiemetic, antibiotic

Forms Used Oil, powder, swarasa (juice)

 The Herbs in Detail
Neem (Nimba) Uses
Azadirecta Indica
Locally: The decoction can be used to cleanse wounds. The oil is
beneficial in chronic or diabetic ulcers, the mouth wash in dental
caries and the smoke of burning leaves cleanses wounds and the
environment. Useful when treating skin diseases such as itching,
dermatitis, eczema, scabies, chronic wounds and burns.

Beneficial for fevers, malaria, Pitta fevers and chronic Kapha fevers.

Acts as an antiparasitic. Should be given with triphala and grape
juice.

Beneficial when treating diabetes, tumors, jaundice, rheumatism
and arthritis.

Several Neem products are available for external use, such as neem
soap and neem toothpaste.

Neem seed oil is very potent medicinally (1 part oil is mixed in 1
million parts of solvent).

In the US, neem is used as a natural pesticide.
 The Herbs in Detail
Part Used Fruit
Pippali
Piper Longum Types Two: Dry and fresh (dry type described below)

Dry Type

Guna Light, moist, sharp

Rasa Pungent

Vipaka Sweet

Veerya Heating (mildly)

Effect on Dosha Decreases Kapha and Vata

Main Action Expectorant, carminative, analgesic

Forms Used Ghee, powder, asava

 The Herbs in Detail
Pippali Uses
Piper Longum

Improves Agnideepana, acts as a carminative (vata
anulomana), analgesic and mild laxative. Beneficial for treating
Amlapitta and enlargements of the liver and spleen.

Beneficial for treating bronchitis, laryngitis, cough, asthma (it
is an expectorant), Hiccups and Tuberculosis.

Strengthens Raktaagni, so it is useful in Anemia (the powder of
pippali and amala).

Digests ama, so it is useful in Amavata and sciatica.

Pippali is used as a Rasayana: Vardhaman Pippali Rasayana
strengthens all dhatus.

Used during delivery to cause contractions of the uterus and
help expel the placenta and cleanse the uterus after delivery.
The Herbs in Detail
Part Used Root, seeds, leaves, whole plant
Types Two: White and red
Main Action Reduces swelling, acts as a laxative and alterative
Effect on Dosha Decreases VPK
Forms Used Asava, paste, decoction
White Type
Guna Light, dry
Rasa Pungent, sweet, bitter, astringent
Vipaka Pungent
Punarnava Veerya Heating
Boerhavia Diffusa Red Type
Guna Light
Rasa Bitter
Vipaka Pungent
Veerya Cooling
The Herbs in Detail
Uses

Locally: The paste is applied to swelling regions and followed by oil massage
for pain and swelling.

Useful for water retention, hypertension, weight gain, swelling and ascitis.
Haritaki, ginger, deodar, guduchi, guggulu and Punarnava are useful in
systemic edema. Useful when treating urinary problems such as urinary
infections and kidney stones.

Improves Agni and absorbs fluids. Because of this, it is often used to treat
agnimandya, abdominal pain and colitis.

Improves the function of the liver and spleen. Used to treat Anemia.
Punarnava
Used externally in many conditions of the eye.
Boerhavia Diffusa
Strengthens the heart and increases Rakta Dhatu, so it is useful when treating
low blood pressure.

Excretes dhatu malas along with regular malas, so it is cleansing to both the
dhatus and they general function of the body while it slows the process of
aging.

Used as a Rasayana in instances of general debility.
 The Herbs in Detail
Shatavari Part Used Root

Asperagus Recemosus Guna Heavy, moist, soft

Rasa Sweet, bitter

Vipaka Sweet

Veerya Cooling (Sheeta)

Effect on Dosha Balances Pitta and Vata and increases Kapha if used in excess

Main Action Rasayana (nutritive), calming, cooling, aphrodisiac, diuretic

Forms Used Decoction, oil, ghee, powder, kalpa

 The Herbs in Detail
Uses
Shatavari
Locally: Used in oil for massage (Narayan oil).
Asperagus Recemosus
Beneficial when treating or promoting the health of the female reproductive
organs, such as in instances of infertility, debility, impotence, menopause and
leucorrhea. Reduces the blood pressure and strengthens the heart.

Benefits digestive disorders such as ulcers, hyperacidity, diarrhea and
dysentery.

Shatavari, licorice and sariva (anant) strengthen Mamsa Dhatu in women and
strengthen the uterus.

Benefial when treating respiratory ailments such as cough, chronic fevers or
lung abscess.

Treats the urinary (Mutravaha srotas) system, such as in instances of painful
urination.

Increases breast milk: Useful for lactating mothers.

Strengthens Ojas and enhances memory.

Increases sperm count and ovulation, prevents abortion and miscarriage and
strengthens the blood vessels.
The Herbs in Detail
Tulsi (Holy Basil) Part Used Leaves, seed, root
Ocimum Sanctum
Guna Light, moist, sharp

Rasa Pungent, Bitter

Vipaka Pungent

Veerya Heating (the seeds are cooling)

Effect on Dosha Decreases Kapha and Vata; the seeds decrease Pitta

Antibacterial, nervine, antispasmodic, diaphoretic, blood

Main Action
purifying
The Herbs in Detail
Tulsi (Holy Basil)
Ocimum Sanctum Uses

Acts mainly on the respiratory tract. Beneficial
when treating cough, cold and Kapha-type
asthma. Tulsi seeds are diuretic, so they are
used to treat dysuria or burning sensations in
the body.

Acts as an agnideepana, so it used to treat
agnimandya.

Used to treat Kapha and Vata fevers.

Acts as an insecticidal and deodorant. In India,
every house has a Tulsi plant in their front
yard.
The Herbs in Detail
Yashtimadhu (Licorice)
Part Used Leaves, seed, root
Glycyrrizha Glabra
Guna Light, moist, sharp

Rasa Pungent, Bitter

Vipaka Pungent

Veerya Heating (the seeds are cooling)

Effect on Dosha Decreases Kapha and Vata; the seeds decrease Pitta

Antibacterial, nervine, antispasmodic, diaphoretic, blood

Main Action
purifying

Part Used Leaves, seed, root

The Herbs in Detail
Yashtimadhu (Licorice) Uses
Glycyrrizha Glabra
Useful when treating cough, cold, bronchitis,
asthma, sore throat and laryngitis. Beneficial for
urinary infections and bleeding disorders.

Beneficial when treating diarrhea, dysentery,
ulcers and heartburn.

Strengthens Shukra Dhatu, Ojas and improves
complexion as an external application.

Strengthens the blood vessels and stops
bleeding. Nourishes Mamsa Dhatu and
strengthens vision.

Builds the Dhatus and slows aging.
 Ayurvedic Formulations
Used for:
Sitopaladi Churna Cough, asthma, agnimandya.

Standard Dose:
2-4 g per day with Honey; Lick
frequently.

Ingredient Quantity

Pippali 4 parts

Cinnamon 1 part

Vanshalochana 8 parts

Cardamom 2 parts

Rock Sugar 16 parts

 Ayurvedic Formulations
Used for:
Sukhasarak Churna Constipation.

Standard Dose:
2 to 4 g per day with warm water
at bed time.

Ingredient Quantity
Sonamukhi 4 parts
Vidanga 2 parts
Ginger 2 parts
Haritaki 2 parts
Ajwan 2 parts
Black salt 2 parts
Amla 1 part
Licorice 1 part
 Ayurvedic Formulations
Used for:
Hingavashtak Churna Indigestion, gas, bloating and
stomachache.
Standard Dose:
2 to 4 g with ghee and warm water
before meals.

Ingredient Quantity
Ginger 1 part
Black Pepper 1 part
Pippali 1 part
Salt 1 part
Ajwan 2 parts
Cumin 1 part
Shahajeere* 1 part
Hing 1 part *Different type of cumin.
 Ayurvedic Formulations
Used for:
Trikatu Churna Digestive problems, weight loss,
cough and asthma.

Standard Dose:
2 to 4 g with warm water or honey
depending on the problem after
meals.

Ingredient Quantity
Ginger 1 part
Pippali 1 part
Black Pepper 1 part
 Ayurvedic Formulations
Ingredient Quantity
Lavana-Bhaskar Churna Sea Salt 12 parts
Rock Salt 3 parts
Black Salt 8 parts
Cardamom 1 part
Used for: Pimpalmula 3 parts
Indigestion, gas, bloating; Ginger 1 ½ parts
improves Agni. Pippali 3 parts
Black Pepper 1 ½ parts
Standard Dose: Talis Patra 3 parts
2 to 4 g per day with buttermilk or Bay Leaves 3 parts
warm water after meals. Nagkeshar 3 parts
Amlavetas 3 parts
Pomegranate Skin 3 parts
Cumin 3 parts
Shahajeere 3 parts
Cinnamon ¾ parts
 Ayurvedic Formulations
Triphala Churna Used for:
Constipation, vision problems,
digestive problems, skin problems,
as a Rasayana.

Standard Dose:
2 to 4 g at bed time.

Ingredient Quantity
Haritaki 1 part
Bibhitaki 1 part
Amla 1 part
 Ayurvedic Formulations
Ingredient Quantity
Avipattikar Churna Ginger 1 part
Pippali 1 part
Black Pepper 1 part
Used for: Haritaki 1 part
Acidity, headache, constipation, Bibhitaki 1 part
improving Agni Amalaki 1 part
Nagarmotha 1 part
Standard Dose: Vidanga 1 part
2 to 4 g per day with milk or warm Cardamom 1 part
water after meals Cinnamon 1 part
Black Salt 1 part
Lavang 13 parts
Nishottar 26 parts
Sugar 39 parts
 Ayurvedic Formulations
Punarnava Guggul
Used for: Ingredient Quantity
Arthritis inflammation
Punarnava 1 part
and pain
Deodar 1 part
Standard Dose:
Guduchi 1 part

2 tabs (250 mg each) Haritaki 1 part

twice a day with warm
Guggul 3 parts
water after meals
 Ayurvedic Formulations
Triphala Guggul
Used for: Ingredient Quantity
Arthritis, sciatica, weight
Haritaki 1 part
loss
Bibhitaki 1 part
Standard Dose:
Amalaki 1 part
2 tabs (250 mg each)
twice a day with warm Pippali 1 part
water after meals
Guggul 5 parts
 Ayurvedic Formulations
Amrutadi Guggul Ingredient Quantity
(Kaishore Guggul) Guduchi 1 part
Used for: Ginger 1 part
Rheumatoid Arthritis Patil 1 part
Black Pepper 1 part
Standard Dose: Pippali 1 part
2 tabs (250 mg each) Haritaki 1 part
twice a day with warm Bibhitaki 1 part
water after meals Amalaki 1 part
Vidanga 1 part
Guggul 9 parts