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

द्राक्षापलशतं दत्त्वा चतुर्दोणेऽम्भसः पचेत् ।

द्रोणशेषे रसे तस्मिन् पूते शीते प्रदापयेत् ॥१७०॥

शर्करायास्तुलां दत्त्वा तत्तुल्यं मधुनस्तथा ।

पलानि सप्त धातक्याः स्थापयेदाज्यभाजने ॥१७१॥

जातीलवङ्गकंक्कोललवलीफलचन्दनैः कृष्णात्रिगन्धसंयुक्तैर्भागैरर्द्धपलांशकैः

त्रिसप्ताहाद्भवेत् पेयं तस्य मात्रा यथाबलम् ।

नाम्ना द्राक्षासवो ह्येष नाशयेद् गुदकीलकान् ॥१७३॥

शोथारोचकहृत्पाण्डुरक्तपित्तभगन्दरान् गुल्मोदरक्रिमिग्रन्थिक्षतशोषज्वरान्तकृत्

वातपित्तप्रशमनः शस्तश्च बलवर्णकृत् ॥१७४॥

(Bhaishajya Ratnawali Arshorogadhikara 9/170-174)

Reference: Bhaishajya Ratnawali Arshorogadhikara 9/170-174

Abstract

Piles is a prevalent anorectal disorder marked by swelling, pain, bleeding, and discomfort during defecation. It affects a significant portion of the population globally, with lifestyle factors such as sedentary habits, low-fiber diet, constipation, and chronic straining contributing to its rise. From an Ayurvedic perspective, Arsha arises due to Mandagni (weakened digestive fire) and vitiation of Vata, Pitta, and Kapha doshas, particularly Apana Vayu. This leads to the accumulation of Ama (toxins) and obstruction in the Purishavaha Srotas (fecal channels), ultimately causing Guda Shotha (rectal inflammation) and the formation of pile masses. Ayurveda emphasizes treating the root cause by restoring Agni, regulating bowel habits, and clearing Dosha-induced srotorodha (channel blockage). Drakshasava, an Asava-type formulation, is designed to address these core imbalances.

Introduction

Drakshasava is a classical Ayurvedic formulation prepared through natural fermentation, utilizing Draksha (Vitis vinifera) as its principal ingredient. Enriched with Deepana-Pachana (digestive-stimulating), Raktavardhaka (blood-enriching), and Shothahara (anti-inflammatory) herbs, this formulation addresses a wide spectrum of digestive, hepatic, and metabolic conditions. It combines coarsely powdered herbal ingredients (Yavakuta), sweetening agents, and fermentation enhancers like Dhataki Pushpa (Woodfordia fruticosa) to yield a mildly alcoholic, self-preserving tonic. Traditionally used in conditions like Arsha (piles), Pandu (anemia), and Rajayakshma (chronic wasting disorders), Drakshasava supports systemic rejuvenation and functional balance in the gastrointestinal tract.

Classical Indication: Arsha (Piles)

Ingredients

Kwath Dravya (Decoction Base)

1. Draksha (Vitis vinifera) – 100 Pala (approx. 4.8 kg)
2. Water – 4 Shven (128 Ser) approx. 102.4 litres

Fermentation Agent

3. Khanda (Sugar) – 6½ Ser (approx. 5.2 kg)
4. Madhu (Honey) – 6½ Ser (approx. 5.2 kg)
5. Dhataki Pushpa (Woodfordia fruticosa) – 80 Tola (approx. 933 g)

Prakshep Dravya (Herbs for Fermentation)

6. Kankola (Piper cubeba)
7. Lavanga (Syzygium aromaticum)
8. Jatiphala (Myristica fragrans)
9. Kali Mirch (Piper nigrum)
10. Dalchini (Cinnamomum zeylanicum)
11. Badi Elaichi (Amomum subulatum)
12. Tejpatra (Cinnamomum tamala)
13. Nagkeshar (Mesua ferrea)
14. Pippali (Piper longum)
15. Chitrak Mool (Plumbago zeylanica root)
16. Chavya (Piper retrofractum)
17. Pippali Mool (Root of Piper longum)
18. Renuka Beeja / Sammalu Beej (Vitex negundo seeds)

Description of Ingredients

1. Draksha (Vitis vinifera)

This herb is Draksha, Madhura (sweet) in Rasa, Guru (heavy), Snigdha (unctuous) in Guna, and Sheeta (cool) in Veerya. It is Balya (strengthening), Raktavardhaka (blood tonic), and Vatanulomaka (carminative). In Arsha (piles), where Apana Vayu is obstructed, Draksha helps in softening the stools and easing bowel movements due to its Mridurechana (mild laxative) action. Its Pushtikar (nutritive) property helps in counteracting Dhatukshaya (tissue depletion) seen in chronic bleeding piles. It contains resveratrol, flavonoids, iron, potassium, and antioxidants. It promotes anti-inflammatory, laxative, hepatoprotective, and anti-anemic actions. It supports hemoglobin levels and reduces oxidative stress in inflamed anorectal tissues.

2. Dhataki Pushpa (Woodfordia fruticosa)

It has Sangrahi (absorbent), Stambhaka (hemostatic), Raktasthambhaka (anti-hemorrhagic), and Shothahara (anti-inflammatory) actions. It helps maintain the integrity of the Purishavaha Srotas (large intestine), strengthening the tone of intestinal walls and preventing prolapse or laxity of veins. Its Kashaya Rasa (astringent taste) contracts the dilated, bleeding vessels in the rectal region, while its Sheeta Veerya (cool potency) soothes the Pitta-aggravated burning and inflammation frequently seen in Raktarsha (bleeding piles). It also promotes the repair of irritated and eroded mucosa due to its Vrana Ropana (wound-healing) and Shothahara (anti-inflammatory) properties. As a natural fermentation initiator, Dhataki holds a special place in Asava–Arishta preparations like Drakshasava, where its floral yeast supports the maturation and biochemical transformation of the formulation.

3. Kankola (Piper cubeba)

It is classified as Deepana (appetizer), Pachana (digestive stimulant), Vatanulomaka (carminative), and Krimighna (antiparasitic). These properties make it highly effective in correcting Agni mandya (low digestive fire), which is the root cause of Ama (toxin) accumulation. It enhances digestion, reduces bloating, and promotes easier bowel movement. Its Ushna Veerya helps counter Sanga (obstruction) and Stambha (stasis) of Kapha and Vata in the Guda (anal region), reducing inflammation and pile mass. It contains cubebin, which exhibits antimicrobial, carminative, anti-inflammatory, and spasmolytic actions. These properties help reduce anorectal inflammation, combat infection, and relieve pain during defecation.

4. Lavanga (Syzygium aromaticum)

It has Deepana (digestive stimulant), Pachana (metabolic corrector), Shulahara (pain reliever), and Krimighna (antiparasitic) action. It facilitates Vatanulomana (proper downward flow of Vata), which is critical in relieving pressure in the rectal veins. Its Ushna nature (hot potency) helps dissolve Kapha accumulation and reduce Shotha (inflammation) in the anorectal area. It contains eugenol, a compound with well-documented anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antiseptic properties. Eugenol soothes inflamed tissues, reduces pain during defecation, and prevents secondary infections.

5. Jatiphala (Myristica fragrans)

This herb has Tikta-Katu Rasa (bitter and pungent taste), Ushna Veerya (hot potency), and Grahi (absorbent) and Shulahara (pain-relieving) properties. In the context of Arsha (piles), especially those accompanied by Drava Mala Pravritti (loose stools) or Shleshma yukta Mala (mucous-laden stools), its Grahi (absorbent) property helps in drying and toning the large bowel, reducing excessive discharge, and preventing irritation of the anorectal mucosa. It contains active compounds such as myristicin, elemicin, and essential oils, which exhibit significant antidiarrheal, antispasmodic, and anti-inflammatory effects. These constituents help calm hyperactive intestinal movements, reduce inflammation, and modulate pain signals, thereby providing symptomatic relief.

6. Kali Mirch (Piper nigrum)

It is Agnivardhaka (digestive stimulant), Amapachaka (detoxifier), and Vatanulomaka (carminative) herb, widely used in conditions where Mandagni (low digestive fire) and Ama (toxic undigested material) contribute to the pathogenesis. Its Tikshna guna (sharp nature) helps in penetrating and clearing Srotorodha (obstruction in bodily channels), thereby reducing the congestion and inflammation in the hemorrhoidal veins. It contains piperine, a bioactive alkaloid known for its bioenhancing, anti-inflammatory, digestive, and analgesic effects. Piperine stimulates gastric secretion, enhances intestinal absorption of nutrients and other herbs, and reduces local inflammation.

7. Dalchini (Cinnamomum zeylanicum)

This herb has Deepana (digestive stimulant), Pachana (metabolic corrective), Shothahara (anti-inflammatory), and Krimighna (antiparasitic) actions. Its warming and circulatory stimulating qualities help in reducing venous stasis and inflammation in the anorectal region. It also alleviates Udara Shula (abdominal colic) and supports the downward movement of Apana Vayu, which is essential for maintaining regular and pain-free evacuation of stool. It contains cinnamaldehyde, eugenol, and various essential oils, which exhibit antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and circulatory stimulant effects. These constituents help reduce mucosal inflammation, fight local infections, and improve microcirculation in anorectal tissues.

8. Badi Elaichi (Amomum subulatum)

It is well-regarded in Ayurveda as a Deepana (digestive enhancer), Pachana (metabolic stimulant), Vatanulomaka (corrects downward flow of Vata), Shothahara (anti-inflammatory), and Krimighna (anthelmintic) herb. It clears Srotorodha (obstruction of channels) and supports the breakdown of hardened Meda-Kapha material in anorectal tissues, which contributes to the formation of piles. Its action is especially beneficial in those with Mandagni (weak digestion), Anaha (bloating), and Adhmana (distension). It contains essential oils such as 1,8-cineole, α-terpineol, and limonene, which exhibit potent digestive, antispasmodic, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial activities. These compounds support smooth intestinal movement, reduce spasm and pain, and protect the rectal mucosa from infections.

9. Tejpatra (Cinnamomum tamala)

It has Deepana (digestive stimulant), Pachana (carminative), and Vatanulomaka (regulating Apana Vayu) action, making it useful in conditions such as Arsha (piles), Gulma (abdominal masses), Udararoga (abdominal disorders), Aruchi (anorexia), and Krimi (parasitic infestations) by clearing Ama (toxins) and improving Agni (digestive fire). It also supports Jwara (fever), Pandu (anemia), and Hridroga (heart disorders) through its circulatory-enhancing and mild antipyretic effects. It’s compounds like eugenol, linalool, and cinnamaldehyde, which exhibit anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial, and carminative properties.

10. Nagkeshar (Mesua ferrea)

This herb has Raktastambhaka (hemostatic), Shothahara (anti-inflammatory), Grahi (absorbent), and Balya (strength-promoting) properties. It is especially effective in Arsha (bleeding piles), Raktapitta (bleeding disorders), Pandu (anemia), and Granthi (glandular swellings) by reducing bleeding, cooling aggravated Pitta, and strengthening Rakta and Mamsa Dhatus (blood and muscle tissues). It is also beneficial in Jwara (fever), Rajayakshma (wasting diseases), and Kshaya (emaciation). Its bioactive compounds, like mesuaferrone, ferulic acid, flavonoids, and tannins, which exhibit hemostatic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial activities, help reduce local bleeding, tissue swelling, and oxidative damage in the anorectal region.

11. Pippali (Piper longum)

It is known for its Agnivardhaka (digestive/metabolic enhancer), Deepana (appetizer), Rasayana (rejuvenator), and Vatanulomaka (carminative) properties. It is highly beneficial in Arsha (piles), Gulma (abdominal tumors), Udararoga (digestive disorders), Pandu (anemia), Aruchi (loss of appetite), Rajayakshma, and Granthi, where it boosts digestion, nutrient absorption, and reduces tissue depletion. Its Yogavahi (bioenhancer) quality amplifies the effects of other herbs. Its major alkaloid, piperine, shows bioavailability-enhancing, anti-inflammatory, carminative, immunomodulatory, and antioxidant actions, making it valuable in managing Shotha (inflammation), Urahkshat (chest injury), Krimi (parasitic infestations), and chronic wasting conditions like Rajayakshma (tuberculosis).

12. Chitrak Mool (Plumbago zeylanica)

It is one of Ayurveda’s most potent Agnivardhaka Dravyas (digestive fire stimulants). It is known for its Katu (pungent) and Tikta (bitter) Rasa, Laghu (light) and Tikshna (sharp) Guna, Ushna Veerya (hot potency), and Katu Vipaka (pungent post-digestive effect). Chitrak is particularly revered for its Deepana (appetizer), Pachana (digestive stimulant), Amapachaka (detoxifier of undigested waste), Bhedana (purgative), and Shothahara (anti-inflammatory) actions. It clears the Purishavaha Srotas (colon channels) and helps normalize bowel movement, which is essential in preventing the recurrence or worsening of piles. It contains active compounds such as plumbagin, an alkaloid with powerful anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, digestive stimulant, and anti-tumor properties. Plumbagin enhances gastrointestinal secretions, supports peristalsis, reduces flatulence, and inhibits microbial activity in the gut.

13. Chavya (Piper retrofractum)

It is a powerful Agnivardhaka (digestive fire stimulant) and Vatanulomaka (carminative) herb. In Anaha (constipation), Adhmana (abdominal distension), and sluggish bowel movement, Chavya acts as a Srotoshodhana (channel-clearing) agent, enabling unobstructed flow and reducing pressure in the Guda Pradesh (anal region). It also has mild Vedana-shamaka (pain-relieving) and Krimighna (anthelmintic) actions, making it useful where there is associated rectal irritation, parasites, or chronic mucosal damage. Its active component, piperine, shows bioenhancing, anti-inflammatory, carminative, and antimicrobial properties.

14. Pippali Mool (Piper longum)

It shares the qualities of Pippali but with stronger Vatanulomaka (regulator of Apana Vayu) and Shoolahara (pain-relieving) effects. It is especially indicated in Vata-Kaphaja Arsha (Piles) and Udararoga (Abdominal disorders), where it helps relieve constipation, abdominal pain, and gas. It contains piperine and related alkaloids, offering carminative, anti-inflammatory, spasmolytic, and digestive stimulant effects, helpful in managing anorectal pain and mucosal inflammation.

15. Renuka Beeja / Sammalu Beej (Vitex negundo)

It is known for its Shothahara (anti-inflammatory), Krimighna (antiparasitic), and Vedanasthapaka (analgesic) properties. It is helpful in cases where Vata Kopa (aggravated Vata) causes symptoms like Adhmana (abdominal distension), Anaha (retention of feces/gas), and chronic colicky pain that worsens with piles. It supports the elimination of Vishamvata (irregular Vata flow) and restores functional balance in the Pakvashaya (large intestine). It has active compounds such as flavonoids, alkaloids, iridoid glycosides, and essential oils that offer anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antioxidant, and spasmolytic effects. These properties reduce rectal inflammation and alleviate painful defecation.

Method of Preparation

• Draksha is boiled with water until ¼ remains. The residue is mashed and filtered.
• The filtered decoction is poured into a large earthen pot or steel vessel. Sugar and honey are dissolved in it.
• All the above herbs are Yavakuta (coarsely powdered).
• Mix into the lukewarm, filtered decoction along with sugar, honey, and Dhataki flowers (Woodfordia fruticosa).
• Store in Grit-lipta Patra (ghee-smeared vessel) and seal properly.
• Allow fermentation for 1 month (30 days).
• After the completion of fermentation, filter the liquid and preserve it.

Medicinal Properties

• Jwaraghna (Antipyretic)
• Balya (Strength promoting)
• Hridaya Balya (Cardiotonic)
• Raktavardhak (Haematinic)
• Pachan (Digestive)
• Agnideepak (Appetite stimulant)
• Rasayana (Rejuvenative)
• Vata-Pitta Shamaka (Balances Vata and Pitta)

Indications

• Arsha (Piles)
• Shotha (Inflammation)
• Aruchi (Anorexia)
• Jwara (Fever)
• Pandu (Anemia)
• Hridroga (Heart disorders)
• Raktapitta (Bleeding disorders)
• Gulma (Abdominal masses)
• Udararoga (Abdominal diseases)
• Krimi (Parasitic infestations)
• Rajayakshma (Tuberculosis and other wasting diseases)
• Kshaya (Emaciation)
• Granthi (Glandular swellings)
• Urahkshat (Chest injury)

Dosage

• Recommended Dosage: 1 to 2 Tola (12–25 ml), twice daily after meals
• Anupana (Vehicle): Equal quantity of water
• Time: After meals

Contraindication

This formulation is generally safe; however, its use in children and pregnant women should be undertaken only under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional.

Conclusion

Drakshasava offers a gentle yet effective way to support overall digestive and metabolic health. Its natural ingredients work together to ease discomfort, improve digestion, and bring balance to the body, especially for those dealing with conditions like piles, weakness, or poor appetite. Because it’s made through traditional fermentation, it’s easy to absorb and can be taken over time with proper guidance. In today’s world, where irregular eating habits and stress often disturb our internal balance, Drakshasava serves as a time-tested Ayurvedic remedy that helps restore strength, comfort, and vitality from within.