Drakshamadhukadi Kashaya (2) – Ingredients, Preparation, Ayurvedic Properties, Indications & Dosages

Introduction

Drakshamadhukadi Kashaya is a multi-herbal Ayurvedic decoction described for Unmada (severe disturbance of mental and behavioural functions). The formulation contains a large combination of cooling, nourishing, calming, digestive and Pitta-pacifying herbs, along with Ghrita (medicated ghee) as an additive. The formulation is composed of Draksha (Vitis vinifera), Yashtimadhu (Glycyrrhiza glabra), Lodhra (Symplocos racemosa), Vacha (Acorus calamus), Sariva (Hemidesmus indicus), Haritaki (Terminalia chebula), Chandana (Santalum album), Rakta Chandana (Pterocarpus santalinus), Gambhari (Gmelina arborea), Utpala (Nymphaea stellata), Parushaka (Grewia asiatica), Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus), Dhattura (Datura metel) etc. Water is used as the decoction medium and Ghrita (cow’s ghee) is added before administration. The classical verse describes the formulation as capable of managing Unmada (severe disturbance of mental and behavioural functions), with administration extending over three Paksha (forty-five days). Its composition is notable for the large number of Sheeta (cooling), Madhura (sweet) and Pitta-pacifying ingredients, combined with Vacha (Acorus calamus), which has a specific place in Ayurvedic management of disorders involving mental functions.

Classical Reference

द्राक्षा मधुक लोध्रत्वग्वचाऽनन्ताजलाभयैः।
चन्दनद्वन्द्वं काश्मर्यमधूककुसुमोत्पलैः।।
परुषकबिसाभीरुगोपिका हेमपत्रकैः।
हन्त्युन्मादं त्रिभिः पक्षैः सघृतैषः कषायकः।। (Sahasrayogam)

A decoction prepared from the specified group of herbs and administered with Ghrita (ghee) is described for alleviating Unmada (severe disturbance of mental and behavioural functions). The classical description specifies administration for three Paksha (forty-five days).

Ingredients

Draksha – Vitis vinifera – 1 part
Yashtimadhu – Glycyrrhiza glabra – 1 part
Lodhra Tvak – Symplocos racemosa – 1 part
Vacha – Acorus calamus – 1 part
Sariva – Hemidesmus indicus – 1 part
Hribera – Pavonia odorata – 1 part
Haritaki – Terminalia chebula – 1 part
Chandana – Santalum album – 1 part
Rakta Chandana – Pterocarpus santalinus – 1 part
Gambhari – Gmelina arborea – 1 part
Madhuka Pushpa – Madhuca longifolia – 1 part
Utpala – Nymphaea stellata – 1 part
Parushaka – Grewia asiatica – 1 part
Kamala Nala – Nelumbo nucifera – 1 part
Shatavari – Asparagus racemosus – 1 part
Dhattura – Datura metel – 1 part
Water – 16 parts to the total herbal mixture

Method of Preparation

All the herbal ingredients are cleaned and converted into a coarse powder. The combined coarse powder is placed in a suitable vessel and 16 parts of water are added. The mixture is boiled until the volume is reduced to one-eighth of the initial quantity. After adequate reduction, the decoction is filtered through a clean cloth to obtain the finished Kashaya (decoction). The preparation is used in a lukewarm state. Ghrita (cow’s ghee) is added as the specified Anupana or therapeutic additive before administration.

Dose And Administration

Dose: 40 ml
Frequency: Twice daily
Route: Internal
Additive: Ghrita (cow’s ghee)
Duration: Three Paksha (45 days)

The duration and dose should not be applied automatically to every patient. Individual assessment of Dosha (functional principle), Bala (strength), Agni (digestive capacity), age and clinical condition is necessary.

Ayurvedic Properties of The Ingredients

Draksha – Vitis Vinifera

Draksha possesses Madhura Rasa (sweet taste), Snigdha Guna (unctuous quality), Sheeta Virya (cooling potency) and Madhura Vipaka (sweet post-digestive effect). Its nourishing profile is useful when mental or systemic disorders are accompanied by weakness, dryness or depletion.

Yashtimadhu – Glycyrrhiza Glabra

Yashtimadhu has Madhura Rasa (sweet taste), Guru and Snigdha Guna (heavy and unctuous qualities), Sheeta Virya (cooling potency) and Madhura Vipaka (sweet post-digestive effect). It provides a soothing and nourishing component and is associated with Pitta-pacifying activity.

Lodhra Tvak – Symplocos Racemosa

Lodhra Tvak has Kashaya Rasa (astringent taste), Laghu and Ruksha Guna (light and dry qualities), Sheeta Virya (cooling potency) and Katu Vipaka (pungent post-digestive effect). Its astringent profile supports the formulation where Pitta and Rakta-related disturbances are considered.

Vacha – Acorus Calamus

Vacha possesses Katu and Tikta Rasa (pungent and bitter tastes), Laghu and Tikshna Guna (light and sharp qualities), Ushna Virya (warming potency) and Katu Vipaka (pungent post-digestive effect). It is particularly important in Ayurvedic descriptions of Medhya (supportive of intellect and mental functions) and Manovaha Srotas (channels associated with mental functions).

Sariva – Hemidesmus Indicus

Sariva is characterized by Madhura and Tikta Rasa (sweet and bitter tastes), Guru and Snigdha Guna (heavy and unctuous qualities), Sheeta Virya (cooling potency) and Madhura Vipaka (sweet post-digestive effect). It provides cooling support and is associated with Pitta and Rakta Shamana (reduction of aggravated Pitta and Rakta-related disturbances).

Hribera – Pavonia Odorata

Hribera possesses cooling and aromatic qualities and is included among herbs associated with relief from Daha (burning sensation) and Pitta aggravation. Its presence adds a cooling and soothing component to the formulation.

Haritaki – Terminalia Chebula

Haritaki possesses five Rasa (tastes) except Lavana Rasa (salty taste), with Kashaya Rasa (astringent taste) predominant. It has Laghu and Ruksha Guna (light and dry qualities), Ushna Virya (warming potency) and Madhura Vipaka (sweet post-digestive effect). Its Anulomana (support of normal downward movement) action is an important part of its Ayurvedic profile.

Chandana – Santalum Album

Chandana is predominantly associated with Tikta and Madhura Rasa (bitter and sweet tastes), Laghu and Ruksha Guna (light and dry qualities), Sheeta Virya (cooling potency) and Madhura Vipaka (sweet post-digestive effect). It is valued for its cooling effect and relevance in Pitta-associated Daha (burning sensation).

Rakta Chandana – Pterocarpus Santalinus

Rakta Chandana has Kashaya and Tikta Rasa (astringent and bitter tastes), Guru and Ruksha Guna (heavy and dry qualities), Sheeta Virya (cooling potency) and Katu Vipaka (pungent post-digestive effect). It provides an additional cooling and Rakta-oriented component.

Gambhari – Gmelina Arborea

Gambhari possesses Madhura and Tikta Rasa (sweet and bitter tastes), Guru and Snigdha Guna (heavy and unctuous qualities), Sheeta Virya (cooling potency) and Madhura Vipaka (sweet post-digestive effect). It supports a nourishing approach when depletion and Vata-Pitta involvement are considered.

Madhuka Pushpa – Madhuca Longifolia

Madhuka Pushpa possesses Madhura Rasa (sweet taste), Guru and Snigdha Guna (heavy and unctuous qualities), Sheeta Virya (cooling potency) and Madhura Vipaka (sweet post-digestive effect). It provides nourishment and cooling support.

Utpala – Nymphaea Stellata

Utpala is associated with Madhura and Tikta Rasa (sweet and bitter tastes) and Sheeta Virya (cooling potency). It is particularly relevant to Pitta-associated Daha (burning sensation), mental restlessness and excessive internal heat

Parushaka – Grewia Asiatica

Parushaka possesses Madhura and Kashaya Rasa (sweet and astringent tastes) and is associated with cooling and thirst-relieving properties. Its inclusion supports the formulation’s Pitta-pacifying and nourishing profile.

Kamala Nala – Nelumbo Nucifera

Kamala Nala refers to the stalk or tubular portion associated with the lotus plant. It has cooling and Pitta-pacifying characteristics and is relevant where Daha (burning sensation), Rakta involvement and excessive internal heat are considered.

Shatavari – Asparagus Racemosus

Shatavari possesses Madhura Rasa (sweet taste), Guru and Snigdha Guna (heavy and unctuous qualities), Sheeta Virya (cooling potency) and Madhura Vipaka (sweet post-digestive effect). It supports nourishment and Vata-Pitta pacification.

Dhattura – Datura Metel

Dhattura is a potent medicinal plant containing tropane alkaloids such as atropine and scopolamine. Its Ayurvedic use requires strict attention to appropriate processing, dose and indication. Because excessive exposure can produce anticholinergic toxicity, it should not be treated as an ordinary dietary herb.

Ayurvedic Pharmacological Profile

The formulation has a predominantly cooling and nourishing character, with several ingredients possessing Madhura Rasa (sweet taste), Sheeta Virya (cooling potency) and Pitta-pacifying properties. This profile is complemented by Vacha, which provides a sharper action relevant to Manovaha Srotas (channels associated with mental functions). Ghrita (cow’s ghee) acts as an important vehicle in the formulation. In Ayurvedic pharmacology, Ghrita is regarded as suitable for delivering herbal substances and is associated with Medhya (supportive of intellect and mental functions), Vata-Pitta Shamana (reduction of aggravated Vata and Pitta) and nourishing effects. The formulation therefore combines two distinct therapeutic directions: cooling and nourishing support on one side, and stimulation of mental and digestive functions through selected sharper ingredients on the other.

What is Unmada?

Unmada (severe disturbance of mental and behavioural functions) is described in Ayurveda as a disorder involving disturbance of Manas (mind), Buddhi (intellect), Smriti (memory), Jnana (knowledge or cognition), Bhakti (preferences or attachments), Sheela (behavioural disposition) and Cheshta (activities). Ayurvedic assessment considers the involvement of Dosha (functional principles), Manas (mind), Indriya (sensory faculties), Agni (digestive and metabolic function) and the patient’s overall strength. Different forms are described according to predominant Dosha and other causative factors. The presence of Vacha, Ghrita and several cooling and nourishing herbs gives this formulation a specific Ayurvedic importance for disorders involving disturbed mental functions, particularly where Vata-Pitta features are considered. Unmada should not automatically be equated with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, psychosis or any other single modern psychiatric diagnosis. Proper clinical assessment is essential before assigning a modern diagnosis or treatment plan.

Ayurvedic Mode of Action

The formulation can be understood through several coordinated actions:

Sheeta Virya (Cooling Potency)

→ Pitta Shamana
→ support for excessive internal heat, irritability and Daha

Madhura Rasa and Snigdha Guna (Sweet Taste And Unctuous Quality)

→ nourishment and Vata-Pitta pacification
→ support for depleted or excessively dry states

Vacha Action on Manovaha Srotas (Mental-Function Channels)

→ support for disturbed cognitive and behavioural functions

Ghrita As The Therapeutic Vehicle

→ supports delivery of the formulation’s active herbal components
→ provides an unctuous and nourishing component

Haritaki And Selected Digestive Herbs

→ support appropriate gastrointestinal movement and Agni
→ address digestive factors that can influence systemic Dosha status

This combination creates a formulation that addresses mental, Dosha-related, digestive and nourishing dimensions rather than relying on a single therapeutic action.

Therapeutic Significance in Unmada

Drakshamadhukadi Kashaya is significant because its formulation brings together herbs with different therapeutic roles within one preparation. Vacha provides a distinct Manas-oriented component, while the cooling herbs are directed toward Pitta-related manifestations. Draksha, Yashtimadhu, Gambhari, Madhuka Pushpa and Shatavari provide a nourishing dimension. Chandana, Rakta Chandana, Sariva, Hribera and Utpala strengthen the cooling aspect. Haritaki provides Anulomana (support of normal downward movement), while Ghrita complements the unctuous and nourishing character of the preparation. The formulation’s broad composition suggests that it is intended for individualized Ayurvedic management rather than unsupervised use based only on the presence of mental or behavioural symptoms.

Pathya-Apathya

Pathya (Wholesome Measures)

Maintain a regular daily routine with adequate sleep.
Prefer freshly prepared and easily digestible meals.
Avoid excessive fasting or prolonged gaps between meals.
Maintain a calm and supportive environment around the patient.
Follow regular medication and clinical monitoring when modern psychiatric treatment is prescribed.
Encourage appropriate rest and supervised daily activity.

Apathya (Unwholesome Measures)

Avoid excessive alcohol and intoxicating substances.
Avoid sleep deprivation and irregular daily routines.
Avoid excessive sensory stimulation when it aggravates symptoms.
Avoid unnecessary fasting or severe dietary restriction.
Avoid self-administration of potent herbs or alteration of prescribed doses.

Clinical Considerations

Unmada-like presentations require careful evaluation because changes in behaviour, perception, cognition or consciousness can occur in psychiatric, neurological, metabolic, toxicological and infectious conditions. Sudden onset of confusion, altered consciousness, seizures, severe agitation, suicidal behaviour, violent behaviour, high fever, head injury, suspected poisoning or rapidly changing mental status requires urgent medical assessment. The classical duration of three Paksha (45 days) should be understood as a formulation-specific Ayurvedic reference and should not be treated as a universal treatment duration. Modern psychiatric medicines should not be stopped or reduced solely because an Ayurvedic preparation has been initiated.

Precautions

Dhattura requires particular caution because its tropane alkaloids can produce significant anticholinergic toxicity when the dose is excessive or the preparation is improperly processed. Symptoms of toxicity can include marked dryness, dilated pupils, rapid heartbeat, urinary retention, agitation, confusion, hallucinations, seizures and severe alteration of consciousness. Therefore, a preparation containing Dhattura should only be prescribed and prepared under qualified Ayurvedic supervision using an appropriate pharmaceutical process. It should never be self-prepared from an unidentified plant or used by increasing the dose independently. Patients receiving treatment for a diagnosed psychiatric or neurological disorder should have coordinated clinical monitoring.

Conclusion

Drakshamadhukadi Kashaya is a complex Ayurvedic decoction described for Unmada (severe disturbance of mental and behavioural functions). Its composition combines cooling, nourishing, Pitta-pacifying and Manovaha Srotas-oriented herbs with Ghrita as an additive. Vacha provides a distinctive mental-function component, while Draksha, Yashtimadhu, Sariva, Chandana, Gambhari and Shatavari provide cooling and nourishing support. The classical reference specifies a three-Paksha (45-day) course, but duration must be individualized. Because the supplied formulation contains Dhattura, professional supervision and strict attention to preparation and dosing are essential.