Kushmanda Ghritam

Reference – Ashtanga hridayam uttarsthan 7/ 28

Abstract

Kushmanda Ghritam is a classically described herbal ghrita formulation which is primarily used in psychological disorders such as depression, mood swings, anxiety. It is also known as Medyarasyana ghrita. It is very effective for calming children with mental illness. In this article we will discuss Kushmanda ghrita’s ingredients, method of preparation, benefits and dosage.

Introduction

Kushmanda ghrita is a medicated preparation in which ghee is used as a base. This ghee is infused with various herbal drugs having its phyto active principles. It acts as a rejuvenator to both body and mind. It enhances cognitive functions and improves memory. It nourishes health, intellect, immunity and longevity. According to Ayurveda it boosts Dhii (intellect), dhriti (retention power) and samriti (memory).

Classical Indication

According to classical texts, Kushmanda ghrita is indicated in vata predominant dosha among all (vata, pitta and kapha). It is mentioned by Acharya Vagbhata and also in Bhaishjyaratnavali texts. Some of classical indications of Kushmanda ghrita are as following-

  • Apasmar roga (psychosis)
  • Buddhi vardhak (boosts intelligence)
  • Vani, swar vridhi (improves speech)

Ingredients

There are only three ingredients for preparation of Kushmanda ghrita-

  1. Kushmand (Benincasa hispida) – 18 prasth/ 3200g
  2. Mulethi/ Yashtimadhu (Glycyrrhiza glabra) – 16 tola/ 192g
  3. Cow’s Ghee – 1 prasth/400g

Benefits Of Ingredients

The benefits of ingredients are given as following-

  • Kushmand – It boosts memory, intellect and overall health of a person. It is very effective in dullness in children due to undeveloped brain and seizures. It also strengthens the respiratory system and heals damage caused by chronic bronchitis. It is a rich source of calcium, proteins and vitamins (vit. B, C) so helps in boosting immunity. It is used in all types of psychological disorders. It acts as a rejuvenative for the mind so used for managing depressive illness.
  • Yashtimadhu – It helps in removing vitiated vata and pitta dosha. It improves blood circulation to the brain and normalizes pitta disorders. It has strong anti-oxidant properties and acts as a brain tonic. It is a very potent stress busting and memory enhancing herb. It acts as an antidepressant and improves the quantity, quality of circulating blood. It reduces inflammation and removes all toxins from the body. 
  • Cow Ghee – It acts as nectar for the brain, it boosts all neurological functions that controls conscious and subconscious movements. It improves decision making power, prevents dementia and Alzheimer like conditions. It boosts immunity and helps in growth, repair of brain cells.

Method Of Preparation

The steps for preparation of Kushmanda ghrita are given as following-

  • Firstly collect all the drugs mentioned above and wash them properly.
  • Make kalka (paste) of the kalka dravya i.e. yashtimadhu in a clean stainless steel vessel.
  •  Then add cow ghee to the kalka prepared and mix it properly.
  • Then extract swaras or decoction from kushmand in a vessel.
  • Add decoction to the kalka-ghee mixture, stir the solution continuously and mix it well.
  • Cook the solution obtained on mild fire and reduce it till it remains in quantity of ghrita.
  • Filter the ghrit obtained, store it in an airtight glass container and keep away from direct sunlight.

Properties

The properties of Kushmanda Ghrita are given as following-

  • It acts as an antidepressant.
  • Improves blood circulation.
  • It has anti-epileptic properties.
  • It has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Indications

The indications of Kushmanda Ghrita are given as following-

  • Delusions
  • Depression
  • Insanity
  • Amnesia
  • Stammering
  • Secondary amenorrhoea
  • ADHD (Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder)

Contraindications

No such conditions are mentioned when Kushmanda Ghrita is not given.

Dosage / Usage

10-20 ml twice a day after meals.

Anupana

With lukewarm water or milk.

Taste

Madhur (Sweet)

Smell

Like Ghee

Conclusion

Kushmanda Ghritam is a unique poly herbal formulation recommended for managing psychological health, depression, insomnia like conditions. In today’s busy lifestyle stress and anxiety is very commonly found even in the younger generation also, so you must use Kushmanda ghrita for such conditions. If there is any concern or severity you may consult a physician.