रसगन्धौ वरावह्नी गुग्गुलुः क्रमवर्द्धिताः । एतदेरण्डतैलेन श्लक्ष्णचूर्णं प्रपेषयेत् ॥६९॥
कर्षोऽस्यैरण्डतैलेन हन्त्युष्णजलपायिनाम् । आमवातमतीवोग्रं दुग्धमुद्गादि वर्जयेत् ॥७०॥
Reference – Bhaishajya Ratnavali Amavata Rogadhikara Shalok no.69-70
Abstract
Amavatari Ras is a classical Ayurvedic formulation rooted in the Rasashastra tradition, widely recognized for its efficacy in managing chronic musculoskeletal and autoimmune disorders, particularly Amavata (comparable to Rheumatoid Arthritis). It combines herbo-mineral components such as Rasa (purified mercury), Gandhaka (purified sulfur), Guggulu (Commiphora mukul), and Triphala, synergistically processed with Eranda Taila (Castor oil). This unique blend enhances Ama pachana (detoxification of metabolic toxins) and Vata shamana (pacification of the Vata dosha), addressing both the root cause and clinical symptoms.
Introduction
Amavatari Ras is a classical Ayurvedic herbo-mineral formulation primarily indicated in the management of Amavata (Rheumatoid Arthritis). Amavata arises due to the accumulation of Ama (undigested metabolic toxins) and the vitiation of Vata dosha, which together localize in the joints and cause symptoms such as pain, swelling, stiffness, and restricted mobility. This formulation works through its detoxifying, anti-inflammatory, and deep tissue-penetrating properties, helping to alleviate joint inflammation and discomfort. It acts on the gastrointestinal system to improve digestion and metabolism, thereby reducing the formation of Ama. At the same time, it works on the musculoskeletal system to help pacify Vata, support joint lubrication, and restore normal mobility and flexibility. By cleansing the system of toxins, reducing inflammatory mediators, and rejuvenating the joints and soft tissues, Amavatari Ras helps to break the pathological cycle of inflammation and autoimmunity. Regular use of this formulation under proper medical guidance can lead to noticeable relief in joint swelling, pain, stiffness, and fatigue associated with Rheumatoid Arthritis.
Ingredients
- Shuddha Parada (Purified Mercury)
- Shuddha Gandhaka (Purified Sulphur)
- Triphala (Emblica officinalis, Terminalia chebula, Terminalia bellirica)
- Chitraka Moola (Plumbago zeylanica)
- Shuddha Guggulu (Commiphora mukul)
- Eranda Taila (Ricinus communis)
Description of Ingredients
1. Shuddha Parada (Purified Mercury)
Shuddha Parada is widely used for its Yogavahi (catalytic) property, meaning it helps carry the qualities of other herbs deep into body tissues without losing its potency. In Amavata (Rheumatoid Arthritis), where toxins (Ama) combine with aggravated Vata and settle in the joints, Shuddha Parada facilitates deeper penetration of anti-inflammatory herbs. It also acts as a Rasayana (rejuvenator), Balya (strengthener), and Agni Deepak (digestive stimulant), which helps boost metabolic fire (Agni) and eliminate Ama.
2. Shuddha Gandhaka (Purified Sulphur)
Shuddha Gandhaka is a purified mineral known for its powerful Krimighna (antimicrobial), Kandughna (antipruritic), Vranashodhak (wound-cleansing), and Shothahara (anti-inflammatory) properties. It’s effective in conditions involving immune hyperactivity and chronic inflammation. When combined with Parada as Kajjali, it enhances its effectiveness. Its antioxidant potential helps reduce oxidative stress, which is a major factor in rheumatoid arthritis and other autoimmune diseases.
3. Triphala (Emblica officinalis, Terminalia chebula, Terminalia bellirica)
This “tridoshic” combination of three fruits is renowned for its Rasayana (rejuvenating), Amapachak (detoxifying), and Mriduvirechak (mild laxative) actions. It improves digestion, eliminates metabolic toxins (Ama), and supports liver detoxification. Triphala helps balance all three doshas, making it especially useful for metabolic and inflammatory conditions. Its active components, including chebulinic acid, gallic acid, ellagic acid, emblicanin A and B, flavonoids, and tannins, offer antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory effects. This makes it crucial for cleansing and metabolic enhancement in this formulation.
4. Chitraka Moola (Plumbago zeylanica)
Chitraka Moola is known for its potent Deepana (digestive stimulant), Amapachaka (toxin-digesting), Shothahara (anti-inflammatory), and Lekhaniya (scraping or de-fatting) properties. By boosting digestion and metabolism, Chitraka helps break down and eliminate Ama (toxins), reducing joint stiffness and heaviness. Its Lekhaniya (scraping) action also helps clear obstructions from the srotas (body channels), improving circulation and reducing joint inflammation. The main active constituent, plumbagin, has strong antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and cytotoxic effects. Other components like β-sitosterol, flavonoids, and tannins support its role in improving digestion and immune modulation.
5. Shuddha Guggul (Commiphora mukul)
Shuddha Guggul is a key herb for metabolic and inflammatory conditions, widely used in Ayurveda for its Vata-Kapha Shamak, Shothahara (anti-inflammatory), and Vedanasthapaka (analgesic) actions. In Amavata (Rheumatoid Arthritis), it helps reduce joint stiffness, swelling, and pain while promoting lipid metabolism and removing Ama (toxins). Guggulu’s main active compounds, guggulsterones, have demonstrated anti-inflammatory activity. Its antioxidant properties also help limit oxidative joint damage and support long-term joint integrity.
6. Eranda Taila (Ricinus communis)
Eranda Taila (Castor oil) is considered one of the best substances for pacifying Vata. It possesses Bhedana (purgative), Shoolahara (pain-relieving), Amapachaka (toxin-digesting), and Srotoshodhaka (channel-cleansing) actions. Its unctuous quality helps lubricate joints, reduce stiffness, and restore mobility in musculoskeletal conditions. Rich in ricinoleic acid, it has potent anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects. Other constituents, such as linoleic acid, oleic acid, and tocopherols, provide antioxidant and tissue-nourishing benefits. As a medium in this formulation, it enhances the absorption and bioavailability of the other herbs.
Method of Preparation
- First, prepare Kajjali (black sulphide of mercury) by triturating Shuddha Parada (purified mercury) and Shuddha Gandhaka (purified sulphur) together until a smooth, black, and lusterless mixture is formed.
- Add the powders of Triphala (Emblica officinalis, Terminalia chebula, Terminalia bellirica) and Chitraka Moola (Plumbago zeylanica root) into the Kajjali (black sulphide of mercury) and continue triturating to ensure uniform mixing.
- In a separate vessel, take Shuddha Guggulu (purified resin of Commiphora mukul), add a small amount of water, and gently heat it until it dissolves.
- Mix the Kajjali (black sulphide of mercury)-based herbal powder into the melted Guggulu and perform thorough trituration (mardana).
- Add Eranda Taila (castor oil), approximately 1 tola (about 11.66 grams), to the mixture and continue trituration until a homogeneous blend is obtained.
- Store the prepared formulation in a clean, dry glass container (Kachapatra).
Medicinal Properties
- Deepana-Pachana (Digestive and Metabolic Enhancer)
- Aam-nashak (Detoxifier of endotoxins)
- Vata-shamak (Pacifies Vata dosha)
- Shothahara (Anti-inflammatory)
- Vedana Sthapak (Analgesic)
- Rasayana (Rejuvenative)
Indications
Amavata (Rheumatoid arthritis-like symptoms)
Dosage
1 to 2 grams with Ushnodaka (Lukewarm water)
Contraindication
- Strict dietary restrictions must be followed: Avoid milk, legumes like Moong, and all Aamkarak Ahara (foods that promote toxin formation)
- Avoid during pregnancy and lactation
Conclusion
Amavatari Ras is a classical formulation from the Rasashastra system that combines powerful mineral substances with herbal ingredients to treat chronic systemic conditions such as Amavata (similar to rheumatoid arthritis). When used alongside proper diet and lifestyle modifications, Amavatari Ras not only helps relieve symptoms like joint pain and inflammation but also works as a disease-modifying treatment by targeting the underlying autoimmune and degenerative processes.
