Ashtangavaleha – Medicinal Properties, Ingredients, Indications, Dosage & More

Reference : Ayurveda Sar Sangrah, Page number – 608

Abstract

Ashtangavaleha is a classical polyherbal formulation designed to manage aggravated Kapha dosha in the respiratory tract. The unique combination of Trikatu (Pippali, Marich, Sunthi) with Vata-Kapha balancing herbs such as Pushkarmool (Inula racemosa), Kakdasingi (Pistacia integerrima) helps in dissolving and eliminating sticky phlegm. The Avaleha format ensures prolonged contact with mucosal surfaces, enhancing therapeutic absorption and ease of administration, especially in pediatric and geriatric cases.

Introduction

Ashtangavaleha is a traditional Ayurvedic formulation primarily used for managing Kapha-related respiratory disorders such as cough (Kasa), respiratory disorder (Shwasa Roga), and Kapha Jwara (fever with phlegm accumulation). This Avaleha combines mucolytic, expectorant, bronchodilating, and anti-inflammatory herbs in a palatable honey-based base. It is highly effective in expelling deep-seated Kapha, especially in conditions like pneumonia, dry and wet cough, and chronic bronchial congestion.

Ingredient

1. Kaiphal (Myrica nagi)
2. Pushkaramool (Inula racemosa)
3. Kakdasingi (Pistacia integerrima)
4. Sunthi (Zingiber officinale)
5. Marich (Piper nigrum)
6. Pippali (Piper longum)
7. Javasa (Alhagi camelorum)
8. Kala Jeera (Nigella sativa)

Description Of The Ingredient

1. Kaiphal (Myrica nagi)

It is also known as Myrica nagi or Bayberry, is a potent Kapha-pacifying herb known for its astringent, anti-inflammatory, and mucolytic properties. It contains active constituents like myricetin, flavonoids, and tannins that help reduce inflammation in the respiratory tract. In Kapha Jwara, it assists in breaking down Ama and clearing systemic congestion. In Shwasa and Kasa, Kaiphal aids in expelling deep-seated phlegm, relieving chest tightness and breathlessness. It is particularly effective in Hikka (hiccups) due to its antispasmodic effect on the diaphragm and also in Kanthavarodh (throat obstruction) by soothing the throat and reducing mucosal inflammation.

2. Pushkaramool (Inula racemosa)

It is a powerful expectorant and bronchodilator herb used traditionally in managing chronic respiratory disorders. Its active compounds, like alantolactone, isoalantolactone, and inulin, have proven antispasmodic, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory effects. In Kapha Jwara, Pushkaramool works by clearing the respiratory passages and reducing systemic inflammation. In Shwasa, it eases breathlessness by dilating bronchial tubes and removing mucus blockages. In Kasa, it acts as a soothing agent that promotes the expulsion of sputum while reducing coughing bouts and airway inflammation.

3. Kakdasingi (Pistacia integerrima)

It is also called the galls of Pistacia, and is traditionally indicated in chronic cough, asthma, and tuberculosis. It contains active compounds such as gallic acid, tannins, and flavonoids, which have potent astringent, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties. In Kapha Jwara, Kakdasingi helps control secondary respiratory infections and reduces excessive mucus formation. In Shwasa, it relieves constriction and inflammation in the airways. In Kasa, it is particularly useful for dry and irritable coughs, as it stabilizes the bronchial mucosa and reduces hyper-reactivity.

4. Sunthi (Zingiber officinale)

Also known as dry ginger, is a well-known Deepana-Pachana (digestive stimulant) and mucolytic herb in Ayurveda. It contains gingerol, shogaol, and zingerone, which provide strong anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and warming effects. In Kapha Jwara, Sunthi helps digest Ama and breaks the Kapha-induced fever cycle. In Shwasa, it reduces inflammation of the bronchial mucosa and clears phlegm from the lungs, thereby relieving dyspnea. In Kasa, especially a productive cough, it promotes mucus expectoration, while in a dry cough, it soothes throat irritation and reduces the intensity of coughing fits.

5. Marich (Piper nigrum)

This herb is commonly known as black pepper, is a potent Ushna (hot) and Laghu (light) herb that pacifies Kapha and Vata doshas. Its major active alkaloid, piperine, enhances the bioavailability of other herbs while also offering antipyretic, anti-inflammatory, and mucolytic properties. In Kapha Jwara, Marich helps to kindle the digestive fire (Agni), digest accumulated Ama (toxins), and reduce phlegm-induced fever. In Shwasa, it clears blocked airways by thinning and mobilizing Kapha. In Kasa, it facilitates mucus expulsion and reduces cough intensity by soothing the respiratory channels.

6. Pippali (Piper longum)

It is a renowned Rasayana herb known for its rejuvenative and Tridosha-balancing qualities, particularly effective against Vata-Kapha disorders. Its active alkaloids, mainly piperine and piplartine, show immunomodulatory, expectorant, and bronchodilatory effects. In Kapha Jwara, Pippali enhances metabolic transformation and reduces fever by digesting Ama. In Shwasa, it relaxes bronchial muscles, improves oxygenation, and reduces wheezing. In Kasa, especially for chronic cough, Pippali acts as a tonic for the lungs, liquefying and removing deep-seated phlegm while preventing relapse.

7. Javasa (Alhagi camelorum)

It is a lesser-known but highly effective herb with expectorant, antipyretic, and demulcent actions. Its active phytoconstituents include flavonoids, alkaloids, and phenolic compounds, which collectively act to soothe inflamed mucosa and promote healthy expectoration. In Kapha Jwara, it helps detoxify the system and reduce phlegm-induced fever. In Shwasa, it relaxes bronchial spasms and facilitates clearer breathing. For Kasa, it calms the irritated throat lining and reduces cough frequency. Its nerve-calming and demulcent action also makes it beneficial in Hikka by controlling spasms, and in Kanthavarodh, by reducing dryness and clearing phlegmatic obstruction in the throat.

8. Kala Jeera (Nigella sativa)

This herb is also known as black cumin, is a powerful Kapha-Vata pacifier with Ushna Virya (hot potency). Its active component, thymoquinone, offers antioxidant, bronchodilatory, and antihistaminic effects. In Kapha Jwara, Kala Jeera improves digestion, clears Ama, and prevents further phlegm formation. In Shwasa, it relaxes the smooth muscles of the bronchial tree and improves airflow. In Kasa, its mucolytic action helps break down thick mucus, making it easier to expel, while its antimicrobial properties prevent secondary respiratory infections.

Method Of Preparation

• All the ingredients should be powdered finely after cleaning and sieving through a cloth.
• Mix the powdered herbs with honey to prepare the avaleha (herbal jam) for licking.

Medicinal Properties

• Acts as an effective mucolytic and expectorant for Kapha-related respiratory blockages
• Exhibits anti-inflammatory and bronchodilating properties, easing breathlessness
• Works as a Rasayana for strengthening the lungs and enhancing respiratory immunity

Indications

• Kapha Jwara (fever)
• Shwasa (Respiratory disorder)
• Kasa (Cough)
• Hikka (hiccups)
• Kanthavarodh (throat obstruction)

Dosage

1 to 2 mashas (approx. 1 to 2 grams), twice daily

Contraindication

• This herbal formulation does not have any side effects.
• Pregnant women, breastfeeding women, and children below 5 years should consult a healthcare provider before using this herbal formulation.
• Avoid overdose in cases of Pitta predominance or hyperacidity.

Conclusion

Ashtangavaleha is a classical and time-tested formulation for respiratory ailments of Kapha origin. Its potent combination of herbs helps in breaking down, liquefying, and eliminating stubborn mucus from the lungs and chest. Ideal for use in chronic cough, pneumonia-related congestion, and recurrent respiratory allergies, it is safe, effective, and suitable for long-term management with proper supervision. Its Avaleha form ensures palatability and easy compliance for patients of all ages.