Balarishta
Reference – Bhaisajya Ratnavali, Vatvyadhirogadhikaar 26/572-575
Introduction
Balarishta is a classical polyherbal fermented formulation, which is having balya guna (strengthening properties- both physically and mentally). The main ingredient of this formulation is Bala (Sida cordifolia), and it has restorative action that improves body strength and nourishes organs. It has vata pacifying properties. Balarishta also has some ingredients that help in improving liver functions and digestion.
Ingredients
Balarishta is the classical fermented formulation. It contains multiple ingredients which include:-
- Bala (Sida cordifolia) – 5 kg
- Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) – 5 kg
- Dhataki (Woodfordia fruticosa) – 750 grams
- Ksheera Kakoli (Fritillaria roylei) – 93 grams
- Eranda (Ricinus communis) – 93 grams
- Rasna (Pluchea lanceolata) – 46 grams
- Elaichi (Elettaria cardamomum) – 46 grams
- Gandhprasarini (Paederia foetida) – 46 grams
- Laung (Syzygium aromaticum) – 46 grams
- Ushira (Vetiveria zizanioides) – 46 grams
- Gokshura (Tribulus terrestris) – 46 grams
- Gudd (Jaggery) – 15 kg
Method of Preparation
Take the raw ingredients in the appropriate quantity. Initially the coarse powder of Bala & Ashwagandha are added to the water, then boiled and filtered. Then the jaggery is added to the decoction, and the decoction is filtered again for impurities. Add the rest of the ingredient and keep the mixture in the closed container for one month. After this process of fermentation the medicine obtained is kept in another airtight container.
Medicinal Properties
The balarishta is well known for the treatment of various vata disorders (neurological diseases). It’s ingredients are one of the best nervine tonics. It has properties like balbardhana (improving strength), agni vardhana (improves the digestion strength), pushtivardhanam (nourishes the body), promotes the strength of joints and bones, excellent analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties. This formulation is having anti-inflammatory, nervine tonic, neuroprotective, anodyne, cardioprotective, restorative and strengthening for nerves, mild diuretic, anti-stress, anti-paralytic, adaptogenic, rasayana (rejuvenating), appetizer and digestive stimulant.
Indications
Balarishta is indicated in following diseases:-
- Vataj disorders such as paraplegia, hemiplegia, neuralgia, spondylosis, etc, avascular necrosis, etc.
- General weakness, physical & mental
- Mental debility
- Paralysis
- Hemiplegia
- Paraplegia
- Facial Paralysis
- Sciatic nerve pain
- Rheumatoid Arthritis
- Headache
- Nasal Congestion
- Bronchitis
- Erectile Dysfunction (ED)
- Asthma
- Cough
- Breathing problems
- Tuberculosis
- Diabetes and kidney related disorders.
- Loss of strength,and immune deficiency conditions.
Dosage
10-20 ml with equal amounts of water, twice daily after meals.
Contraindications
- Use of this formulation of an empty stomach is contraindicated.
- It is best to avoid use of balarishta in the patients with chronic gastritis issues.
Side Effects
There is no side effect of this formulation with the recommended dosage of Balarishtam, but it can cause burning sensation in people with already gastric issues if taken in excess dosage or without water.
