Amar Sundari Vati – Ingredients, Medicinal Properties, Indications, Dosage & More

Abstract

Amar Sundari Vati is a traditional polyherbo-mineral Ayurvedic formulation classified under Rasaushadhi preparations. This formulation is traditionally used for treating Apasmar (epilepsy), Sannipata Jwara (Tridoshic fevers), Kasa (cough), Shwasa (breathlessness), and women’s postpartum complications. What makes this preparation particularly unique is its adaptability in both acute and chronic presentations of these disorders. In acute phases, it is believed to help calm aggravated doshas quickly due to its Sookshma (deep-acting) and Tikshna (penetrating) qualities.

Introduction

Amar Sundari Vati is a traditional Ayurvedic medicine that brings together purified minerals and carefully selected herbs in a single, thoughtfully prepared formulation. It is believed to exert effects on the nervous system, respiratory tract, and metabolic tissues by its deep-penetrating, detoxifying, and strengthening properties. It promotes normalization of deranged Doshas, especially those that affect neurovascular and gastrointestinal integrity, while also rejuvenating the Dhatus (body tissues), Srotas (body channels), and Agni (digestive/metabolic fire).

Ingredients

• Shuddha Parada (Purified Mercury)
• Shuddha Gandhak (Purified Sulphur)
• Lauh Bhasma (Calcined Iron)
• Shuddha Vatsanabha (Aconitum ferox)
• Renuka Beeja (Vitex agnus)
• Shunthi (Zingiber officinale)
• Maricha (Piper nigrum)
• Pippali (Piper longum)
• Haritaki (Terminalia chebula)
• Bibhitaki (Terminalia bellirica)
• Amalaki (Phyllanthus emblica)
• Pippalimoola (Piper longum – Root)
• Chitrakamoola (Plumbago zeylanica)
• Dalchini (Cinnamomum zeylanicum)
• Tejpatra (Cinnamomum tamala)
• Elaichi (Elettaria cardamomum)
• Nagkeshar (Mesua ferrea)
• Vidanga (Embelia ribes)
• Akarkara (Anacyclus pyrethrum)
• Nagarmotha (Cyperus rotundus)
• Gud (Saccharum officinarum) (used as a binder)

Description of Ingredients

1. Shuddha Parada (Purified Mercury)

Purified mercury, known as Shuddha Parada, is a cornerstone of Rasashastra and is considered Rasendra or the “King of Rasa Dravyas” in Rasashastra. Due to its Yogavahi nature, it penetrates the deepest tissues and stimulates Ojas, making it extremely beneficial in Chronic Vata Vyadhi, including conditions like Pakshaghat (paralysis) and Basti Maruta (neuromuscular weakness). It enhances cellular metabolism and rekindles Agni even in Sannipata Jwara, where digestion is impaired. It potentiates the action of all other herbs, particularly in Shwasa and Kasa, by ensuring deeper bioavailability of bronchodilatory and anti-inflammatory herbs.

2. Shuddha Gandhak (Purified Sulphur)

It is extensively used in Ayurvedic formulations for its antimicrobial, antifungal, and Rasayana properties. It acts as a rejuvenator, improves digestion, and supports the body’s detoxification process. Chemically, it is composed mainly of elemental sulphur, and after purification, it becomes soft and easily assimilable. It helps in skin diseases, respiratory conditions and acts synergistically with Parada in herbo-mineral preparations.

3. Lauh Bhasma (Calcined Iron)

It is a classical Ayurvedic iron preparation, rich in bioavailable iron compounds. It is a potent Raktavardhak (blood enhancer) and Dhatuposhak (tissue nourisher), especially for Rakta (blood) and Majja Dhatu (bone marrow tissue). It is used to manage anemia, general debility, and chronic diseases. Pharmacologically, it acts as a hematinic, digestive stimulant, and Rasayana. The major constituents are iron oxides (Fe₂O₃ and Fe₃O₄), which, after extensive incineration and trituration, become non-toxic and absorbable. It strengthens the circulatory and immune systems.

4. Shuddha Vatsanabha (Aconitum ferox)

After rigorous purification, Shuddha Vatsanabha becomes a highly potent Vedanasthapana (analgesic), Jwaraghna (antipyretic), and Vatanulomaka (Vata pacifier). It has Krimighna (antimicrobial), Rasayana (rejuvenative), and Shothahara (anti-inflammatory) actions. It helps in conditions like fever, neurological disorders, and pain syndromes. The major phytoconstituents include alkaloids like aconitine, which are highly toxic in raw form but become medicinal after proper detoxification (Shodhana). It enhances nervous system function and is often used in balancing Vata disorders.

5. Renuka Beeja (Vitex agnus)

The seeds of Vitex negundo, known as Renuka Beej or Sambhalu, are used for their antispasmodic, analgesic, and anti-inflammatory actions. It supports respiratory and neurological health. Its phytochemical profile includes flavonoids, alkaloids, and glycosides, which contribute to its efficacy in treating cough, asthma, and epilepsy. The seeds are also mildly sedative and promote sleep.

6. Shunthi (Zingiber officinale)

It is a classical Ayurvedic herb revered for its Deepana (digestive stimulant) and Pachana (carminative) properties, meaning it improves appetite and digestion. It alleviates Vata and Kapha doshas, which makes it highly effective in disorders where sluggish metabolism and mucous accumulation predominate. In Vata Vyadhi, it helps in reducing pain, stiffness, and neuro-muscular fatigue by improving peripheral circulation and promoting digestive fire (Agni), which is central to nervous system nourishment. In Sannipata Jwara, it acts by enhancing digestion and clearing Ama (toxins), thereby reducing the fever of mixed doshic origin. In Kasa and Shwasa, gingerols and shogaols exert anti-inflammatory, bronchodilatory, and expectorant effects, helping clear mucus and improve breathing.

7. Maricha (Piper nigrum)

It acts as a bioenhancer and improves digestion and respiratory function. It stimulates digestive fire, clears toxins, and destroys intestinal parasites. Its main bioactive component, piperine, has been studied for its ability to enhance the bioavailability of other drugs and nutrients, which aligns with its Yogavahi (potency enhancer) role in Ayurvedic formulations. It also has antimicrobial and antioxidant effects. Its Srotoshodhana (channel-cleansing) action helps in clearing obstructed bodily channels, allowing proper movement of Vata and detoxification through natural routes. The chief active component of Maricha is piperine, which can increase the bioavailability of various drugs and nutrients by inhibiting enzymes involved in their metabolism. Piperine also possesses potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties.

8. Pippali (Piper longum)

Pippali is a highly regarded Ayurvedic herb known for its deep, systemic actions on the respiratory, digestive, and nervous systems. It is especially useful in conditions characterized by chronic cough, shortness of breath, thick phlegm, poor digestion, bloating, loss of appetite, low vitality, intermittent fever, and weakness of nerves or muscles. Its Snigdha (unctuous) and Ushna (hot potency) properties make it effective in counteracting symptoms of dryness, stiffness, and coldness typically seen in nervous and muscular degeneration. It supports the proper flow of Vata, helping relieve nerve-related pain, spasms, and weakness. It is also an excellent Shwasahara (respiratory restorative) and Kaphanissaraka (mucus eliminator). It promotes clearance of congestion, relaxes the airways, and reduces hypersensitivity of the respiratory tract. These actions are especially helpful in chronic respiratory conditions marked by tightness in the chest, difficulty in breathing, or recurring throat irritation. The major phytoconstituents are piperine, pipalartine, and essential oils, which contribute to its warming, expectorant, and rejuvenating actions.

9. Haritaki (Terminalia chebula)

It acts as a powerful detoxifier and mild laxative. It balances all three doshas, particularly Vata. It addresses symptoms like poor bowel movement, mental fog, lethargy, respiratory congestion, and digestive stagnation. It works as a mild laxative and detoxifier, clearing metabolic waste (Ama) and promoting clarity in the body and mind. Tannins, gallic acid, and chebulinic acid are the main phytochemicals responsible for its astringent, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties.

10. Bibhitaki (Terminalia bellirica)

It is Kaphahara (Kapha-reducing) and balances Vata by its astringent and rejuvenative action. It strengthens the Pranavaha Srotas (respiratory channels), thereby supporting clearer airflow, better oxygenation, and resistance to chronic respiratory infections. Its phytoconstituents include tannins, lignans, and flavonoids, which contribute to its antioxidant and rejuvenating activities.

11. Amalaki (Phyllanthus emblica)

Amalaki is a potent Rasayana (rejuvenator) and a rich source of natural Vitamin C. It supports Ojas (vital essence), promotes digestion, boosts immunity, and balances all three doshas, especially Pitta. Its cooling, anti-inflammatory, and adaptogenic nature makes it ideal for chronic fatigue and low immunity. It strengthens Rasa (circulatory fluid) and Rakta Dhatu (blood tissues), and supports respiratory and cognitive functions. Its phytochemical profile includes ascorbic acid, emblicanin A and B, and gallic acid, making it effective in tissue repair and anti-aging.

12. Pippalimoola (Piper longum – Root)

It is a classical remedy for Shwasa-Kasa (asthma and cough) and digestive weakness. It possesses Deepana (digestive stimulant), Shothahara (anti-inflammatory), and Pranavaha Srotoshodhaka (respiratory channel-cleansing) actions. It relieves breathlessness, chronic cough, and abdominal distension. Its bioactive compounds act as bronchodilators and expectorants, enhancing respiratory flow and Agni (digestive fire). The phytoconstituents include alkaloids and essential oils that have bronchodilator, anti-inflammatory, and adaptogenic effects.

13. Chitrakamoola (Plumbago zeylanica)

It is a powerful Agnideepaka (appetizer) and Ama Pachaka (detoxifier). It is useful in treating chronic indigestion, low digestive fire, and metabolic sluggishness, often seen in Vata-Kapha disorders. It stimulates the digestive enzymes and helps in the removal of metabolic waste. Its key constituents include plumbagin, a naphthoquinone with significant antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects. It is particularly useful in Ama (toxic buildup) conditions.

14. Dalchini (Cinnamomum zeylanicum)

It is aromatic and warming, and it is a well-known Vata-Kapha pacifying herb with Deepana (digestive stimulant), Pachana (carminative), and Hridya (cardiotonic) qualities. It is useful in conditions presenting with fatigue, cold limbs, cough, and loss of appetite. It invigorates the circulation and helps in managing chronic respiratory conditions. It has antioxidant, antimicrobial, and hypoglycemic actions. Its phytoconstituents include cinnamaldehyde, eugenol, and tannins, which support digestive health and help regulate blood sugar levels.

15. Tejpatra (Cinnamomum tamala)

This herb supports digestion and is used in conditions involving flatulence and abdominal distention. Its Ruchikara (taste-enhancing), Shothahara (anti-inflammatory), and Vatanulomana (Vata-regulating) effects are especially helpful in vata and kapha conditions. It contains eugenol, cineole, and other essential oils that give it antimicrobial, carminative, and anti-diabetic actions.

16. Elaichi (Elettaria cardamomum)

It is aromatic and soothing to the stomach and respiratory tract. Elaichi is a Tridoshahara (balancer of all three doshas), particularly soothing for Vata and Kapha. It clears toxins from the stomach and lungs, relieves nausea, mental fog, and chronic respiratory issues. Its Medhya (mind-clarifying), Hridya (heart-strengthening), and Vatanulomana properties support nervous and respiratory health. It has antispasmodic, digestive, and expectorant properties. Its active compounds include cineole, limonene, and flavonoids, which contribute to its digestive and detoxifying roles.

17. Nagkeshar (Mesua ferrea)

It is a Raktastambhaka (hemostatic) and Shothahara herb that pacifies Pitta and reduces inflammatory conditions. It is used in disorders involving mucosal bleeding, burning sensation, and general tissue inflammation. It also supports Rakta and Mamsa Dhatu (blood and muscle tissues), improving resilience and healing. Phytochemicals like mesuaferrone, mesuaxanthone, and tannins provide these benefits and support uterine and gastrointestinal health.

18. Vidanga (Embelia ribes)

It is a Krimighna (anthelmintic) and Deepana herb that helps eliminate intestinal worms and improves digestive absorption. It clears Ama (toxins), relieves bloating, and supports intellectual clarity. By purifying the gastrointestinal tract, it also promotes healthy metabolism and prevents toxin accumulation. Embelin is the chief constituent responsible for its antiparasitic and antioxidant activity. It is also mildly laxative and supports detox.

19. Akarkara (Anacyclus pyrethrum)

It is a potent Vata-stimulating herb with Vajikara (aphrodisiac) and Vedanashamaka (analgesic) properties. It revitalizes the nervous system, enhances speech and memory, and improves circulation to oral and facial nerves. It is particularly useful in conditions like neuralgia, facial palsy, and sensory dullness. It contains alkylamides and pyrethrins that improve circulation, reduce neural pain, and enhance speech and memory functions.

20. Nagarmotha (Cyperus rotundus)

It is a versatile herb used to pacify Kapha and Pitta. It has Deepan (digestive), Pachana (carminative), and antipyretic actions. Its phytoconstituents include cyperene, flavonoids, and sesquiterpenes, which help manage fever, indigestion, and metabolic disorders. It supports digestive clarity, pacifies fever, and regulates metabolic disturbances. It helps manage symptoms like low appetite, heaviness, and recurrent febrile states. It is especially valuable in intermittent fever syndromes and inflammatory digestive disorders.

21. Gud (Saccharum officinarum)

Jaggery acts as a binding agent and also enhances the palatability of the formulation. It has mild laxative, digestive, and nutritive properties. It contains natural sugars, iron, and trace minerals that support vitality and digestion.

Method of Preparation

• Prepare Kajjali: Thoroughly triturate Shuddha Parada and Gandhak.
• Add Metals and Toxins: Incorporate Lauha Bhasma and Shuddha Vatsanabha into the Kajjali and mix thoroughly.
• Combine with Herbs: Finely powder the remaining herbs and combine them with the Kajjali mixture.
• Add Jaggery: Add 40 tolas (approximately 466 grams) of jaggery.
• Form Pills: Prepare pills of 1 ratti size (approximately 125 mg).
• Store: Dry the pills and store them in airtight containers.

Medicinal Properties

• Vatanashak: (pacifies Vata dosha)
• Agnideepak: (digestive stimulant)
• Rasayan: (rejuvenative)
• Shwasahara: (anti-asthmatic)
• Kasanashak: (relieves cough)
• Medhya: (nervine tonic)
• Krimighna: (anthelmintic)

Indications

• Apasmar (Epilepsy)
• Sannipata Jwara (Complex fevers)
• Kasa (Chronic cough)
• Shwasa (Asthma, breathlessness)
• Arsha (Piles)
• Vata Vyadhi (Neurological disorders)
• Jirna Pratishyay (Chronic sinusitis)
• Sutika Rog (Postpartum complications)
• Amajwara (fevers due to undigested toxins)

Dosage

1–3 tablets, 2 to 3 times daily with lukewarm water.

Contraindication

Avoid in children below 5 years and during pregnancy without expert consultation.

Note:

Traditional Variant (Vijaybhairav Ras – Second Method): Compared to the version mentioned in Nighantu Ratnakara (which includes Pippalimoola and Dalchini), this second formulation incorporates Abhraka Bhasma (calcined mica) and Tamra Bhasma (calcined copper), while the rest of the composition remains identical. These mineral additions significantly enhance the efficacy and speed of action of the formulation. This variant is particularly effective in disorders involving the respiratory system, digestive weakness, hepatosplenic enlargements, chronic fevers, postnatal complications, and neuromuscular conditions. It is administered in a dosage of 1–2 tablets based on individual Agni (digestive-metabolic capacity), and taken with suitable Anupana (adjuvants) such as ginger juice and honey in Kapha-predominant disorders (cough, asthma), or Tulsi (Holy Basil) juice in Sannipata Jwara (fevers involving all three doshas).

Conclusion

Amar Sundari Vati is a well-established Ayurvedic formulation that represents the thoughtful integration of herbo-mineral components within a traditional pharmaceutical framework. Its preparation involves classical techniques such as Shodhana (purification) and Bhavana (triturating with liquid media), which are intended to enhance both the safety and bioavailability of its ingredients. The formulation is designed to support systemic homeostasis, particularly through its adaptogenic, neuroprotective, and digestive-enhancing actions. Its multi-targeted composition allows it to act across several physiological systems, making it useful in managing complex clinical presentations rooted in Vata and Kapha imbalances.