Dugdha Ark – Medicinal Properties, Ingredients, Indications, Dosage & More
Reference : Ayurveda Sar Sangrah, Page number – 648, 649
Abstract
Dugdha Ark is a classical Ayurvedic distillate prepared from Go-dugdha (cow milk) through the Ark-nirmana process. Revered for its nourishing, cooling, and detoxifying properties, this ark balances Pitta and Vata doshas, and is particularly beneficial in conditions involving digestive debility, inflammation, anemia (Pandu), and bleeding disorders (Raktapitta). It is highly useful in chronic and systemic illnesses due to its Rasayana (rejuvenating) and Shamana (pacifying) properties.
Introduction
In Ayurveda, Go-dugdha (cow milk) is considered a complete food and a natural Ojas-enhancer. When distilled, its subtle essences are extracted as Dugdha Ark, a therapeutic hydrosol that retains the Prabhava (unique effect) of milk while eliminating its heaviness (Guru guna). This makes the ark light (Laghu), easily digestible (Shighrapaki), digestive fire-enhancing (Agnivardhak), and strength-promoting (Shaktivardhak). It is especially beneficial when the digestive fire (Pachakagni) is severely weakened and the patient is unable to digest milk or other heavy nourishing substances. In such conditions, Dugdha Ark provides nourishment without burdening digestion. It is highly effective in managing Pandu (anemia), Kamala (jaundice), Rajayakshma (tuberculosis), and various Udar Rogas (abdominal disorders), making it a valuable formulation in chronic and systemic diseases.
Ingredient
- Go-dugdha (Cow milk)
Description Of The Ingredient
1. Go-dugdha (Cow milk)
In Ayurveda, cow milk is classified as Madhura rasa (sweet), Sheetala veerya (cooling in potency), and Snigdha guna (unctuous). It enhances Ojas, nourishes Dhatus, pacifies Vata and Pitta, and is useful in wasting disorders, anemia (Pandu), and respiratory conditions like Kasa (cough) and Shwasa (dyspnea). In the form of Ark, its qualities are refined to provide therapeutic action without the mucogenic effects.
Method Of Preparation
- Take 20 parts of Go-dugdha (cow milk).
- Place it in the traditional distillation apparatus (Nadika Yantra).
- Collect about 15 bottles of Dugdha Ark from the receiver.
Medicinal Properties
- Dugdha Ark’s natural cooling effect helps calm aggravated Pitta Dosha, making it useful in conditions like Kamala (jaundice), Raktapitta (bleeding disorders), and Jirna Jwara (chronic fevers). It gently supports liver detoxification and bile regulation.
- It purifies the blood and enhances Rakta Dhatu, improving hemoglobin levels and vitality. Beneficial in Pandu (anemia), fatigue, and improving overall complexion.
- Helps eliminate Ama (toxins) by mildly stimulating the digestive fire. Supports gut health, reduces bloating, and is effective in Sangrahani (IBS), Atisara (diarrhea), and Aamajanya Rogas (toxin-related disorders).
Indications
- Udar Rog (Abdominal disorders)
- Shoth (Inflammation)
- Pandu (Anemia)
- Kamala (Jaundice)
- Haleemak (Advanced anemia or jaundice)
- Rajayakshma (Tuberculosis)
- Jeerna Jwara (Chronic fever)
- Kasa (Cough)
- Shwasa (Respiratory disorders)
- Raktapitta (Bleeding disorders)
- Aam Dosha (Toxin accumulation)
- Sangrahani (Irritable bowel syndrome)
- Atisara (Diarrhea)
Dosage
250 ml – 500 ml
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.
Conclusion
Dugdha Ark is a gentle yet powerful Ayurvedic distillate that combines the nourishment of cow milk with the subtle therapeutic actions of Ark. It pacifies aggravated Pitta, improves digestion, purifies the blood, and supports respiratory, hepatic, and gastrointestinal health. Being light, cooling, and rejuvenating, it holds a special place in the treatment of Pandu, Kamala, and Raktapitta conditions, making it a valuable formulation in chronic and systemic disorders.
