Draksharishta (Draksharishtam) – Benefits, Usage, Indications and Dosage

Reference: Sharangadhara Samhita, Madhyamakhanda

Introduction

Draksharishta is an herbal medicine primarily used in the treatment of respiratory and intestinal diseases. Draksha can also be called raisins or dry grapes, which is the main ingredient of this formulation. Draksharishta contains 5-10 percent self-generated alcohol. The self-generated alcohol and water present in the formulation act as a media to deliver the active herbal substances to the body. Draksharishta is used in respiratory disorders like cold, cough, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), chest injuries.

Draksharishta is one of those uncommon Ayurvedic formulations which improve strength and increase digestive power and promote bowel movements. Draksharishta also acts as an intestine cleanser. It effectively relieves gastritis and hyperacidity also. Draksharishta cures Pitaj disorders also.

Ingredients

S. No. Name Latin Name Quantity
Kwatha Dravya (Herbs for decoction)
1. Draksha/raisin Vitis vinifera 2.400 kg
Sandhana Dravya (Fermentative agents)
2. Jaggery (guda) 9.600kgs
3. Water for decoction 49.152 litres
Prakshepa dravyas (Herbal additives for aroma and for accelerating process of fermentation)
4. Tvak Cinnamomum verum 48 g
5. Ela/green cardamom Elettaria cardamomum 48 g
6. Patra Cinnamomum tamala 48 g
7. Nagkeshra Mesua ferrea 48 g
8. Priyangu Callicarpa macrophylla 48 g
9. Maricha Piper nigrum 48 g
10. Pippali Piper longum 48 g
11. Vidanga Embelia ribes 48 g
12. Dhataki Woodfordia fruticosa 384 g

Method of Preparation

Wash and crush the given amount of Draksha. Thoroughly clean the Prakshepa dravyas separately and obtain a fine powder. Add the given amount of water to the Kwatha Dravya, and let it soak overnight, boil till it is reduced to ¼, then slowly and gradually filter it with a muslin cloth to obtain the decoction. Add the given amount of Jaggery to the decoction; allow dissolving completely and filtering with a muslin cloth. Transfer the filtered substance to a clean container and add the Prakshepa Dravyas and stir well and seal the container and move it to the fermentation room and regularly check for the signs of conclusion till the fermentation process is actually done. Now, store the final product in an amber-hued bottle and keep it in a cool, dark and moisture-free place.

Dosage

  • It should be taken in a quantity of 15 to 25 ml mixed with an equal amount of water after meals twice every day.
  • Children over 5 years can consume this formulation in a lesser amount.

Properties

Draksharishta amazing medicinal properties like being a potent antioxidant and good in vitamin C, provide essential nutrients and strengthen the immune system which helps in maintaining the healthy body by getting rid of diseases.

It is suitable for managing symptoms that happens due to respiratory infections like cold, cough, blood purification and general weakness.

It is good to use in sinusitis also. It relieves the problem of nose block, running nose, persistent sneezing, headache, and fever. It can manage the chest injuries. It is helpful in the quick healing of the affected part and restores the functions of the lungs.

It is a useful Ayurvedic remedy for asthma which is effective in diminishing the shortness of breath, and wheezing and prevents its recurrent attacks.

It brings about positive effects in managing digestive problems and stimulates the bowel movements. It helps to empty of intestinal which leads to the elimination of toxic substances from the body. Useful in treating hyperacidity and give lessens the symptoms of gastritis like heartburn, pain in the epigastric region, nausea, vomiting, and headache.

Indications

  • Weak digestion
  • Asthma
  • Cough
  • Dyspnoea
  • Chest injuries
  • Lung disorders
  • As a laxative
  • Lack of strength
  • Throat diseases

Contraindications

It should be avoided during pregnancy and lactation period or consumed under medical supervision. Over dosage is also discouraged.

Note:- This is pure classical Ayurvedic medicine and should be strictly consumed only after prescription of an Ayurvedic doctor and to be taken under medical supervision only.