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Formulation Reference Card

Draksharishta

Draksharishta · Fermented Preparation of Grapes

Category Arishta/Asava (Fermented)
Dosha Effect Balances Vata and Pitta primarily.
Target System Rasavaha srotas (nutritive plasma), Raktavaha srotas (blood), Annavaha srotas (digestive system), Pranavaha srotas (respiratory system), Purishavaha srotas (excretory system)
Dosage 15-30 ml after meals, diluted with equal water, twice daily.
Anupana Equal quantity of water for dilution.
Classical Reference Charaka Samhita, Bhaishajya Ratnavali, Sharangadhara Samhita

About

Draksharishta holds a special place among Ayurvedic fermented preparations as perhaps the most palatable and widely applicable tonic medicine in the classical pharmacopoeia. Built on a base of grapes -- one of the few fruits that Ayurveda classifies as simultaneously nourishing, cleansing, and rejuvenating -- this preparation combines the nutritive richness of its fruit base with the enhanced bioavailability of fermentation to create a gentle, effective, and pleasant-tasting general health tonic. The grape (Draksha) is held in extraordinarily high regard in Ayurvedic dietetics.

Indications

General weakness and debility. Poor appetite and indigestion. Respiratory conditions including cough and bronchitis. Post-illness recovery.

Key Ingredients

Draksha (Vitis vinifera, dried grapes/raisins) as the primary ingredient, combined with Madhuka (Madhuca indica, mahua flowers), Guda (jaggery), Dhataki pushpa (Woodfordia fruticosa flowers for fermentation), Pippali (long pepper), Twak (cinnamon), Ela (cardamom), Nagakeshara (Mesua ferrea), Priyangu (Callicarpa macrophylla), and Vidanga (Embelia ribes). The raisins should be high-quality, dark, sun-dried grapes without added sulfites.

Benefits

Provides rapid nutritive support through its high iron, natural sugar, and mineral content from the grape base. Improves appetite and digestive function gently. Addresses iron-deficiency anemia through a highly bioavailable iron source enhanced by fermentation.

Cautions & Contraindications

Diabetes (high sugar content). Active liver disease. Alcohol use disorder history. Monitor blood sugar levels in pre-diabetic individuals. The pleasant taste may lead to overconsumption -- maintain recommended doses. Store in a cool place and keep the bottle tightly sealed.

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