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Sariva

Sariva · Hemidesmus indicus

Rasa (Taste) Madhura (sweet), Tikta (bitter)
Virya (Energy) Sheeta (cooling)
Vipaka Madhura (sweet)
Part Used Root
Dosha Effect Tridoshahara — balances all three doshas, with particular affinity for Pitta. Its sweet, cooling nature strongly pacifies Pitta, while its bitter taste helps reduce Kapha, and its sweet vipaka nourishes Vata.
Family Apocynaceae (formerly Asclepiadaceae)

Traditional Uses

The Charaka Samhita classifies Sariva in multiple important therapeutic groups: the Jvarahara gana (fever-reducing), Dahaprashamana gana (burning sensation-relieving), and Trishnanigrahana gana (thirst-quenching). These classifications collectively describe a cooling, Pitta-pacifying herb of the highest order. Charaka recommends Sariva specifically for raktapitta (bleeding disorders with heat), visarpa (herpes/erysipelas), kushtha (skin diseases), and prameha (urinary disorders).

Preparations

Sariva kwatha (root decoction) as a cooling drink. Sarivadyasava (fermented preparation) for long-term blood purification. Sariva churna (root powder) taken with milk, ghee, or sugar.

Dosage

Churna (powder): 3-6 grams per day, taken with milk or water. Kwatha (decoction): 50-100 ml twice daily.

Dosha Guidance

Sariva is one of Ayurveda's finest Pitta-pacifying herbs, suitable for virtually all Pitta conditions. Its sweet-bitter taste, cooling energy, and sweet post-digestive effect address Pitta at every metabolic stage. Pitta types can use Sariva freely and over extended periods for blood purification, skin health, urinary support, and general cooling.

Synergistic Combinations

Combined with Manjistha for comprehensive blood purification (a classical pairing for skin diseases). Paired with Ushira (Vetiver) for cooling and anti-inflammatory effects.

Contraindications

Generally very safe with few contraindications. One of the gentlest herbs in the Ayurvedic pharmacopoeia. Use in moderation during pregnancy — small amounts are generally considered safe, but therapeutic doses should be discussed with a practitioner.

Tissues & Channels

Dhatus: Rasa (plasma), Rakta (blood), Mamsa (muscle), Shukra (reproductive tissue)

Srotas: Raktavaha srotas (blood channels), Mutravaha srotas (urinary channels), Artavavaha srotas (reproductive channels), Rasavaha srotas (plasma channels)

Where to Buy

Authentic Sariva roots are slender, brownish-black externally and whitish internally, with a distinctive sweet, vanilla-like aroma. This aroma is the best indicator of quality — roots lacking fragrance have lost potency.

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