Satyori — Punarnava Kashaya Formulation Reference Card
Formulation Reference Card
Punarnava Kashaya
Punarnava Kashayam · That Which Renews the Body Decoction
About
Punarnava is one of Ayurveda's great kidney herbs, and its name -- literally 'that which renews again' -- speaks to its remarkable regenerative capacity. This is a plant that Indian physicians have relied upon for millennia to address one of medicine's most challenging problems: how to remove excess fluid from the body without damaging the delicate organs responsible for fluid regulation. Punarnava achieves this through a mechanism that modern pharmacology would describe as a potassium-sparing diuretic effect, but which Ayurveda understands more holistically as nourishing the Mutravaha srotas (urinary channels) while simultaneously correcting the Kapha imbalance that causes fluid accumulation.
Indications
Edema (shotha) of all types including renal, cardiac, and hepatic edema. Kidney disorders including nephritis, urinary tract infections, and kidney stones. Liver enlargement and ascites. Inflammatory joint conditions with swelling.
Key Ingredients
Punarnava (Boerhavia diffusa) root and whole plant. The classical texts prefer the root for kashaya preparation, though the whole plant including stems and leaves may be used when fresh root is unavailable. The red-flowered variety (Rakta Punarnava) is considered more potent than the white-flowered variety for kidney and edema conditions.
Benefits
Powerful yet gentle diuretic that removes excess fluid without depleting minerals and electrolytes. Reduces edema from renal, cardiac, and hepatic causes. Protects and rejuvenates kidney tissue -- hence its name, Punarnava, meaning 'that which makes the body new again.' Reduces hepatomegaly and supports liver regeneration.
Cautions & Contraindications
Severe dehydration, hypokalemia, or electrolyte imbalance. Use with caution alongside diuretic medications to avoid excessive fluid loss. Not recommended in conditions where fluid retention serves a protective purpose (such as severe hypoalbuminemia without addressing the underlying cause). Monitor fluid intake and electrolyte balance during extended use. Patients on cardiac medications (especially ACE inhibitors, ARBs, or pharmaceutical diuretics) should be monitored for additive effects. Reduce dose in elderly patients or those with compromised kidney function.
Your Prakriti Guide
The right formulation depends on your constitution. A Prakriti Guide maps your unique doshic balance so you can choose formulations, dosages, and anupanas with confidence.