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

Reference: Ayurved Saar Sangrah, Asav-Arisht prakaran, Page no. 734- 735

Abstract

Chronic issues related to breathing, metabolism, and digestion are becoming more common in today’s clinical practice, largely due to hectic lifestyles, irregular eating habits, mental stress, and growing environmental pollution. Ayurveda describes such conditions primarily under the categories of Kasa, Shwasa, Rajayakshma, Prameha, and Mandagni, which are often characterized by Dhatukshaya (tissue depletion), Ama (endotoxins), Agni-mandya (digestive impairment), and Vata-Kapha vitiation. Chittachandirasava, a classical Asava preparation found in Ayurveda, is a potent polyherbal fermented medicine formulated to address these very conditions through deep-seated Srotoshodhana (cleansing of microchannels), Agni-deepana, and Balya Rasayana karma (rejuvenation and tissue-strengthening).

Introduction

Chittachandirasava is a classical Ayurvedic fermented formulation (Asava) traditionally used in the management of chronic respiratory and metabolic disorders. It is particularly indicated in conditions such as Rajayakshma (pulmonary tuberculosis), Kasa (chronic cough), Shwasa (breathlessness), and Prameha (metabolic disorders including diabetes). This preparation is made using a wide range of medicinal herbs and minerals known for their Deepana (appetizer), Pachana (digestive), Shothahara (anti-inflammatory), and Rasayana (rejuvenative) actions. The unique preparation method of Chittachandirasava involves Sandhana Kalpana (natural fermentation).

Ingredients

Fermentation Base

• Munakka (Vitis vinifera) – 2 seer (approx. 1866.2 g ) 6 chhatank (approx. 349.92 g) 2 tola (approx. 23.32 g)
• Dhay ke phool (Woodfordia fruticosa) – 32 tola (approx 373.12 g)
• Purana Gud (Jaggery) – 12 seer (approx. 11,197.2 g)
• Water – 20 seer (approx. 18,662.00 g) 12 chhatank (approx. 699.84 g) 4 tola (approx. 46.64 g)

Prakshep Dravya (Herbs Added Before Fermentation)

Each 3 tola (approx. 34.98 g):

• Nagarmotha (Cyperus rotundus)
• Kali Mirch (Piper nigrum)
• Chavya (Piper retrofractum)
• Chitrak Mool (Plumbago zeylanica)
• Haldi (Curcuma longa)
• Pippali (Piper longum)
• Vidanga (Embelia ribes)
• Amla (Emblica officinalis)
• Usheera (Vetiveria zizanioides)
• Chharila (Parmotrema perlatum)
• Supari (Areca catechu)
• Lodhra (Symplocos racemosa)
• Patraka (Cinnamomum tamala)
• Kutki (Picrorhiza kurroa)
• Safed Chandan (Santalum album)
• Tagar (Valeriana wallichii)
• Jatamansi (Nardostachys jatamansi)
• Dalchini (Cinnamomum zeylanicum)
• Laung (Syzygium aromaticum)
• Godanti Bhasma (Gypsum)
• Nagkeshar (Mesua ferrea)

Description Of Ingredients

1. Munakka (Vitis vinifera)

It is classified as Madhura rasa (sweet taste), Snigdha guna (unctuous in quality), Sheetala veerya (cool in potency), and Madhura vipaka (sweet post-digestive effect). These properties make it a Balya (strength-promoting), Hridaya-hita (cardioprotective), and Mridu virechaka (gentle laxative) agent. It lubricates and soothes the mucosal lining of the respiratory tract, thereby relieving the dryness, irritation, and tickling sensation commonly seen in chronic Kasa (cough) and Shwasa (asthma or breathlessness). Munakka also supports tissue regeneration and counters Kshaya (emaciation and tissue depletion), a hallmark of chronic wasting diseases, such as Rajayakshma (pulmonary tuberculosis). It is rich in bioactive compounds such as resveratrol, flavonoids, iron, and tannins, which exhibit antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, mucoprotective, and hemopoietic properties.

2. Dhay Ke Phool (Woodfordia fruticosa)

Dhataki (Woodfordia fruticosa) contributes to tissue healing, inflammation reduction, and internal cleansing, especially in diseases of the respiratory and urogenital systems. In Kasa (chronic cough) and Shwasa (breathlessness, asthma), where Kapha obstructs Prana vaha srotas (channels of respiration) and is compounded by Vata vitiation, causing spasmodic cough or dyspnea, Dhataki aids by Shothahara (reducing inflammation) and Srotoshodhaka (channel-purifying) action. Its gentle astringent profile enables it to stabilize aggravated Vata and Kapha without provoking Pitta, making it ideal in chronic and debilitated conditions like Rajayakshma (pulmonary tuberculosis), where the balance between repair and strength is delicate. In such contexts, Dhataki also supports Dhatu kshaya nivarana (reversing tissue depletion), improving stamina and modulating the immune response. In Mandagni (low digestive capacity), it gently rekindles digestive processes without aggravating internal inflammation, making it ideal for chronic conditions where metabolic functions are compromised. It is rich in tannins, flavonoids, and polyphenols, which provide antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory effects.

3. Purana Gud (Aged Jaggery)

It plays a critical role in the formulation of Asava-Arishta preparations like Chittachandirasava. In Ayurveda, Gud (jaggery) is not just used as a sweetener or for fermentation. It is also a powerful medicine with its healing properties. The use of aged jaggery rather than fresh is intentional and medicinally significant, as aging reduces its Kapha-provoking nature while enhancing its deepana (digestive-stimulating), pachana (digestive-processing), and anulomana (carminative) effects. In the management of Kasa (chronic cough) and Shwasa (asthma, breathlessness), Purana Gud functions as a mucolytic and demulcent, helping to liquefy accumulated Kapha and facilitating its expulsion from the respiratory channels. Its Snigdha (unctuous) and Sara (flow-promoting) nature counters the dryness and rigidity brought on by aggravated Vata, thereby easing spasmodic cough, bronchial constriction, and associated fatigue. It contains natural iron, calcium, potassium, and antioxidants. Aged jaggery exhibits prebiotic properties, supporting gut microbiota, enhancing nutrient assimilation, and promoting gentle detoxification.

4. Nagarmotha (Cyperus rotundus)

This ayurvedic herb helps in Agnimandya (hypofunction of the digestive system), Kasa (cough), Shwasa (dyspnea), and various Mutravaha (urinary tract) and Annavaha srotas (digestive tract) disorders. In Mandagni, it helps by regulating digestive secretions, optimizing gut motility, and preventing the stagnation of food, which often leads to gas, heaviness, and constipation. Its Anulomana (downward-regulating) property facilitates the movement of Vata in its natural direction, relieving Malavrodh (constipation) and gaseous distention. It contains essential oils like cyperene and cyperol, along with sesquiterpenes, flavonoids, and alkaloids, which give it antibacterial, antispasmodic, fever-reducing, digestion-boosting, and liver-protective properties.

5. Kali Mirch (Piper nigrum)

It is a potent Deepaniya (appetizer) and Pachaniya (digestive), widely recognized for stimulating Agni (digestive fire) and relieving Aamavastha (toxicity due to indigestion). In respiratory conditions like Kasa and Shwasa, it helps dissolve Kapha due to its Ushna (hot) nature and Tikshna (penetrating) potency. Piperine, its chief alkaloid, improves the bioavailability of other herbs and exhibits anti-inflammatory, bronchodilatory, and antitussive effects. Its regular use enhances respiratory tone and promotes metabolic functions, making it useful in Rajayakshma (Tuberculosis) and Mandagni (low digestive power).

6. Chavya (Piper retrofractum)

This herb is Shothahara (anti-inflammatory) and Vatanulomaka (regulator of downward-moving Vata), highly valued in Ayurvedic therapeutics for its ability to address disorders rooted in impaired digestion and obstructed channels. Its sharp and penetrating qualities allow it to effectively dislodge and eliminate vitiated Vata and Kapha doshas from the gastrointestinal and metabolic pathways, which makes it especially effective in conditions such as Malavrodh (constipation), abdominal bloating, and sluggish bowel movements. Enhances Agni (digestive fire), stimulates peristalsis, and reduces gas formation, thereby addressing Annavaha Srotas Dushti (disorders of the digestive channel). Its carminative effect supports intestinal cleansing and nutrient absorption, crucial in diseases characterized by Mandagni (hypo-functioning digestion) and Prameha (urinary/metabolic disorders, including diabetes), where poor metabolism and accumulation of toxic residues (Ama) lead to systemic imbalance and tissue dysfunction.

7. Chitrak Mool (Plumbago zeylanica)

It is one of the most powerful Agnideepaka (digestive fire stimulants) and Amapachaka (detoxifying agents for metabolic toxins) used in Ayurvedic medicine. This herb addresses the root of many chronic conditions by correcting Mandagni (suppressed digestive function), a fundamental causative factor in numerous systemic disorders, including Kasa (chronic cough), Shwasa (asthma), Prameha (urinary/metabolic disorders), and Malavrodh (constipation). Its deep and penetrating action targets Aamashaya (stomach) and Pakwashaya (intestines), where undigested material (Ama) accumulates and obstructs physiological pathways. By breaking down this toxic load, Chitrak facilitates the proper assimilation and transformation of nutrients through the Dhatu parinama process (tissue-level nourishment and conversion). It is known to contain plumbagin, a bioactive naphthoquinone compound with proven anti-inflammatory, digestive, antimicrobial, and anticancer properties. Plumbagin enhances gastric secretion, accelerates bowel transit, and exhibits broad-spectrum antimicrobial effects, which are highly relevant in treating digestive stagnation, chronic respiratory infections, and urinary tract disturbances.

8. Haldi (Curcuma longa)

It is known for its multifaceted role as a Krimighna (antimicrobial), Shothahara (anti-inflammatory), Kaphaghna (Kapha-reducing), and Raktashodhaka (blood purifier). It plays a vital role in the treatment of Kasa (chronic cough), Shwasa (asthma), Rajayakshma (pulmonary tuberculosis), Mandagni (low digestive fire), and Prameha (urinary/metabolic disorders). It contains curcumin, a polyphenolic compound with strong anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, hepatoprotective, and immunomodulatory actions.

9. Pippali (Piper longum)

It is a classic Rasayana (rejuvenator) and is especially revered in Kasa (cough), Shwasa (asthma), and Rajayakshma (pulmonary TB). It strengthens tissues (Dhatu Pushtikar – nourishing) and enhances Agni (digestive fire). Piperine in Pippali supports mucolysis and improves respiratory tone, while also enhancing the absorption of nutrients and medications.

10. Vidanga (Embelia ribes)

It is a potent Krimighna (antiparasitic) and Shodhana (detoxifying) herb in Ayurveda. It is used in the management of chronic Kasa (cough), Shwasa (asthma), Mandagni (weak digestion), Prameha (urinary/metabolic disorders), and Malavrodh (constipation). Its detoxifying action helps remove accumulated Kapha and clears Pranavaha srotas (respiratory pathways), thus restoring the natural flow of Vata and Prana. Its anti-inflammatory nature supports relief from bronchial irritation and chronic allergies. It contains embelin, a benzoquinone derivative known for its antimicrobial, anthelmintic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant actions. Embelin has demonstrated efficacy against intestinal parasites, bacterial overgrowth, and even metabolic abnormalities like dyslipidemia and insulin resistance.

11. Amla (Emblica officinalis)

It is one of the most important Rasayana (rejuvenative) herbs in Ayurveda, revered for its ability to restore tissue strength, modulate immunity, and balance all three doshas (biological humors: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha). It serves as a key ingredient for its antioxidant, reparative, and immune-boosting properties. It soothes the mucous membranes, reduces oxidative stress in the lungs, and promotes expectoration of residual Shleshma (mucus), thereby reducing inflammation and chronic cough. Balances gut flora, supports enzymatic secretions, and aids in the assimilation of nutrients without increasing internal heat, making it a safe and effective digestive tonic even in Pitta-prone individuals. Its gentle action promotes Apana Vayu regulation (downward movement of wind energy), easing Malavrodh (constipation) and bloating while improving bowel regularity.

12. Usheera (Vetiveria zizanioides)

It is Sheetala (cooling), Shothahara (anti-inflammatory), and Mutrala (diuretic) herb in Ayurvedic medicine. Its cooling action alleviates dryness and irritation in the respiratory tract while supporting expectoration and easing Prana Vayu disturbances (disorders of breath and energy flow). As a gentle digestive aid, it balances Agni (digestive fire) and promotes bowel regularity without provoking heat. In urinary disorders, it soothes burning micturition, clears Mutravaha srotas (urine carrying channels), and reduces urinary tract inflammation. It contains vetiverol, khusimol, and flavonoids, known for their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial actions.

13. Chharila (Parmotrema perlatum)

It has Deepana (digestive stimulant), Pachana (detoxifying), and Krimighna (antimicrobial/antiparasitic) properties. It plays a supportive role in managing Mandagni (low digestive fire), Malavrodh (constipation), Kasa (chronic cough), and Shwasa (asthma) by aiding the breakdown of Ama (undigested toxins) and promoting gut and respiratory detoxification. Its bitter and penetrating action helps cleanse Annavaha srotas (digestive channels). It contains usnic acid and other lichen acids with known antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties, validating its traditional use in gastrointestinal infections and respiratory ailments.

14. Supari (Areca catechu)

It is known for its Grahi (absorbent), Deepana (digestive stimulant), and Krimighna (antiparasitic) properties. It stabilizes gastrointestinal function, promoting gut motility and preventing Malavrodh (constipation) by enhancing both Agni (digestive fire) and intestinal tone. It is particularly beneficial in Mandagni (weak digestion) and Prameha (metabolic/urinary disorders), where poor absorption and sluggish digestion lead to systemic imbalances. It contains arecoline, tannins, and flavonoids, which exhibit anthelmintic, astringent, and antioxidant activities. These support its traditional use in gastrointestinal cleansing, mucosal toning, and metabolic correction.

15. Lodhra (Symplocos racemosa)

It is a Shothahara (anti-inflammatory), Raktashodhaka (blood purifier), and Stambhaka (astringent and secretion-regulating) herb, well-regarded for its stabilizing action on mucosal linings and inflammatory conditions. Its astringent and cooling nature makes it particularly effective in calming aggravated Pitta and Kapha, reducing inflammation in the respiratory and urinary tracts, and promoting wound healing at the microvascular level. In Prameha, it helps in regulating Medo dhatu (fat metabolism). It contains symplocosides, tannins, and flavonoids, which exhibit proven anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and mucosal protective effects.

16. Patraka (Cinnamomum tamala)

It is recognized for its Deepana (digestive stimulant), Pachana (detoxifying), and Vatanulomana (regulator of downward-moving Vata) properties. Its aromatic, mildly warming nature helps open the Annavaha srotas (digestive channels) and Pranavaha srotas (respiratory passages), easing symptoms like bloating, heaviness, and breathlessness. It contains essential oils (like cinnamaldehyde), eugenol, and flavonoids, which possess antioxidant, antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, and carminative activities, supporting its classical use in chronic digestive and metabolic disorders.

17. Kutki (Picrorhiza kurroa)

It is a renowned Yakrit-Uttajaka (liver tonic), Deepana (digestive stimulant), and Pittashamak (Pitta-pacifying) herb in Ayurveda. It is particularly effective in clearing Pitta-Kapha accumulation in the gastrointestinal and hepatobiliary systems. By improving bile flow and supporting liver detoxification, Kutki alleviates chronic indigestion, nausea, and heaviness. In Prameha, it enhances metabolism and supports glycemic regulation through its Medoghna (fat-regulating) and Mutravirechaka (diuretic) actions. It contains kutkin, picroside I and II, and apocynin in Picrorhiza kurroa, which exhibit hepatoprotective, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory properties.

18. Safed Chandan (Santalum album)

It is a classical Sheetala (cooling), Raktashodhaka (blood purifier), and Pittashamak (Pitta-pacifying) herb, highly valued for its soothing and anti-inflammatory effects. It soothes the irritated Pranavaha srotas (respiratory tract), offering relief in dry, spasmodic cough and chest heat, commonly observed in Vata-Pitta predominant Kasa and Shwasa. In cases associated with Pitta-Kapha dosha (imbalance of bile and phlegm), it helps control Daha (a burning sensation), excessive thirst, and irritability in the Mutravaha srotas (urinary tract). It promotes diuresis gently without causing fluid loss or depletion of strength. It is rich in α- and β-santalol, terpenoids, and volatile oils, which exhibit clinically significant anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, antioxidant, calming, and mild diuretic properties.

19. Tagar (Valeriana wallichii)

It is a Vedanasthapaka (pain-relieving), Nidrajanaka (sleep-inducing), and Vatanulomaka (Vata-pacifying) herb. Its Sthambhaka (grounding) and Shamana (calming) properties play a crucial role in pacifying Prana Vayu (the vital force that governs respiration). By regulating the flow of Prana Vayu (the vital force that governs respiration) within the Urasthana (thoracic region), it helps reduce hyperresponsiveness of the respiratory tract, thus proving beneficial in chronic conditions such as Shwasa (dyspnoea/asthma) and Rajayakshma (pulmonary tuberculosis), where the equilibrium of Vata is profoundly disturbed. Additionally, in the Adhobhaga (lower abdomen), it exerts a stabilizing influence on Apana Vayu (the vital force which governs downward movement). By facilitating Vatanulomana (restoration of proper Vata flow), it alleviates Shoola (colic pain), Aadhmana (gaseous distension), and Malavrodha (constipation), thereby supporting overall digestive issues and Anulomana (proper evacuation).

20. Jatamansi (Nardostachys jatamansi)

It is one of Ayurveda’s most valued Medhya (cognitive enhancer), Manashshamak (mind-calming), and Vatanulomaka (Vata-regulating) herbs. It promotes calmness, restful sleep, and emotional balance. It aids in restoring strength in Rasa (circulatory fluid) and Majja dhatus (bone marrow tissues), which are often depleted in chronic debilitating diseases like Rajayakshma (pulmonary tuberculosis) and Prameha (urinary disorders).

21. Dalchini (Cinnamomum zeylanicum)

It is a classic Deepana (appetizer), Pachana (digestive stimulant), and Kaphanashaka (Kapha-reducing) herb. It effectively expels excess Kapha Dosha from the Amashaya (stomach) and Urasthana (chest), making it beneficial in Kasa (cough), Shwasa (dyspnoea), and Pinasa (chronic rhinitis). It contains cinnamaldehyde, eugenol, and polyphenols, known for antioxidant, antidiabetic, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory effects.

22. Laung (Syzygium aromaticum)

It is a Deepana (digestive stimulant), Kaphaghna (Kapha-pacifying), and Shwasahara (respiratory-relieving) herb. In the Pranavaha Srotas (respiratory channels), it exerts a powerful expectorant and bronchodilatory effect, liquefying Kapha and facilitating its expulsion. This makes it particularly beneficial in managing Kasa (chronic cough), Shwasa (asthma, breathlessness), and other Kapha-Vata dominant respiratory disorders. It is rich in eugenol, flavonoids, and tannins, which offer antimicrobial, carminative, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory actions. These support its traditional role in respiratory, digestive, and infectious conditions.

23. Godanti Bhasma (Gypsum)

It is a classical Shothahara (anti-inflammatory), Jwaraghna (antipyretic), and Rasayana (rejuvenative) mineral preparation. It functions as a stabilizing mineral that not only calms systemic inflammation but also restores vitality in Pittaj-Vataja conditions with symptoms like dry cough, fever, and wasting. Its role is especially valuable where Pitta-Vata Dushti (vitiation) leads to chronic respiratory and febrile states. It primarily contains calcium sulfate, which supports anti-inflammatory, antipyretic, and mineral-replenishing actions.

24. Nagkeshar (Mesua ferrea)

It is a Raktastambhaka (anti-hemorrhagic), Shothahara (anti-inflammatory), and Tridoshahara (balancer of all three doshas) herb in classical Ayurveda. It exerts a profound pacifying effect on aggravated Pitta and Kapha, especially in conditions marked by inflammation, heat, and mucosal irritation. It helps stabilize Agni (digestive and metabolic fire) and supports healthy Meda Dhatu (fat tissue), which is especially beneficial in Prameha (metabolic and urinary disorders), where impaired metabolism and inflammatory tendencies coexist. It contains mesuol, ferulic acid, and flavonoids, known for their anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and astringent actions, supporting its classical indications in bleeding disorders, respiratory inflammation, and metabolic dysregulation.

Method Of Preparation

• Dissolve the jaggery completely in the prescribed water.
• Add Munakka and Dhay ke Phool to the jaggery water and mix well.
• Add the Yavakuta Churna (coarsely powdered herbs) to the above mixture.
• Transfer the entire mixture into a Ghrita-lipta Patra (ghee-smeared fermentation vessel).
• Seal the vessel as per Sandhana Vidhi (fermentation protocol) and keep undisturbed for 1 month (Eka Maasa) in a warm place.
• After 1 month, open the container and filter the liquid carefully through a clean cotton cloth.
• Store the filtered Asava (fermented herbal tonic) in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.

Medicinal Properties

• Agnideepana (Appetizer)
• Pachana (Digestive)
• Mridu Virechana (Mild laxative)
• Shwasahara (Relieves breathlessness)
• Kasahara (Anti-tussive)
• Pramehahara (Alleviates urinary disorders)
• Balya (Strengthening and restorative)
• Rasayana (Rejuvenator)
• Mutravirechaka (Promotes urine flow)

Indications

This Ayurvedic formulation is helpful in conditions such as:

• Kasa (Chronic cough)
• Shwasa (Asthma, breathlessness)
• Rajayakshma (Pulmonary tuberculosis)
• Mandagni (Low digestive fire)
• Prameha (Urinary disorders, including diabetes)
• Mutravikara (Urinary tract conditions)
• Malavrodh (Constipation)

Dosage

1 to 2 tola (approximately 12–24 ml), twice daily after meals with an equal quantity of water.

Contraindications

None specifically mentioned. However, use caution in people sensitive to alcohol.

Conclusion

It is a traditional Ayurvedic remedy made with natural herbs and fruits, used to help people who suffer from long-term issues like cough, breathlessness, weak digestion, tiredness, frequent urination, or constipation. It’s especially helpful when your body feels heavy, bloated, or low in energy for weeks or even months. This herbal tonic works in a gentle but effective way. It improves your digestion, clears out toxins from the system, strengthens your lungs, and supports your urinary health. Unlike harsh medicines, it works gradually but deeply, with benefits that grow over time when taken consistently with proper diet and lifestyle.