A Comprehensive Guide to Ayurvedic Specialties
Intuppu kāņam (Sahasrayoga- cūrņa prakarana)
1. Reference
Sahasrayoga (Cūrṇa Prakaraṇa)
This formulation is a classical compound medicine (Yoga) referenced in the authoritative text Sahasrayoga, specifically in the chapter dedicated to powders (Cūrṇa Prakaraṇa). The name "Intuppu Kāņam" indicates a formulation where the ingredients are measured in a specific unit called a Kāņam (equivalent to 3.25 grams).
2. Composition (Sanskrit & Botanical Equivalents)
The formulation is prepared according to a specific ratio using the traditional unit Kāņam (approx. 3.25g).
सैंधव लवण (Saindhava Lavaṇa) (1 Kāṇam) - Rock Salt
अजमोदा (Ajamōdā) (2 Kāṇam) - (Trachyspermum roxburghianum)
पिप्पली (Pippalī) (4 Kāṇam) - (Piper longum)
हरीतकी (Harītakī) (6 Kāṇam) - (Terminalia chebula)
3. Therapeutic Indications
Primary & Classical Diagnoses (Sanskrit):
Agnimāndya: Impaired digestive fire, the primary indication, leading to indigestion and poor metabolic function.
Gulma: A condition characterized by a palpable, moving mass in the abdomen, often related to gaseous distension, resembling phantom tumor or functional abdominal lumps.
Arśas: Hemorrhoids (piles).
Kṛmi: Helminthiasis (worm infestation).
Ādhmāna: Abdominal bloating and distension.
Ajīrṇa: Indigestion.
Scope of Application (Modern & Integrated Clinical Correlation):
Gastrointestinal System: Primary use for functional dyspepsia, hypochlorhydria (low stomach acid), intestinal gas and bloating (e.g., IBS), worm infestations, and hemorrhoids. In small doses, it may act as an antacid for hyperacidity resulting from weak digestion (āma).
Hepatobiliary System: Supports liver function and stimulates bile flow as a digestive stimulant.
Metabolic System: Used as an adjuvant in weight management protocols due to its deepana (appetite stimulating) and kapha-reducing properties.
4. Pharmacological Properties (Dravyaguna)
Dosha Karma (Action on Humors): Primarily Vāta-Kapha Šamana (pacifies Vāta and Kapha doshas). It is specifically Vātānulōmana (facilitates the downward movement of Apāna Vāyu, correcting its upward flow which causes bloating and gas).
Dhātu Karma (Action on Tissues): Its primary action is on the Rasā (plasma) and Māṃsa (muscle) dhātus, helping to normalize digestive function and alleviate abnormal growths like Gulma.
Agni Karma (Action on Digestive Fire): Strong Dīpana action (kindles the digestive fire and enhances appetite).
Srotas Karma (Action on Body Channels): Srotōśōdhana (cleanses and removes obstructions from the bodily channels, especially the Anna Vaha Srotas - food channel).
Roga Karma (Action on Specific Diseases): Kṛmighna (anthelmintic - destroys worms).
Lakṣaṇika Karma (Symptomatic Action): Malānulōmana (promotes gentle evacuation of bowels - mild laxative), Sṛṣṭa Mala (promotes regular bowel movement).
5. Pharmacodynamics (Rasa, Guṇa, Vīrya, Vipāka)
Attribute (Guṇa) Property
Rasa (Taste) Predominantly Kaṣāya (Astringent), Katu (Pungent), Lavaṇa (Salty), Tikta (Bitter)
Guṇa (Quality) Laghu (Light), Rūkṣa (Dry)
Vīrya (Potency) Uṣṇa (Hot)
Vipāka (Post-Digestive Effect) [Not explicitly stated in source; often Katu for similar formulations]
Modern Correlate Actions: This formulation demonstrates potent carminative, digestive stimulant, antacid (in small doses), anthelmintic, and mild laxative activities. It likely acts as a gastrokinetic agent, promoting normal peristalsis and digestive secretion.
6. Approved Manufacturers
This classical formulation is manufactured by several GMP-certified and reputable Ayurvedic companies, including:
Arya Vaidya Sala - Kottakkal
The Arya Vaidya Pharmacy (Coimbatore) Limited
Nagarjuna Ayurvedic Group
Thaikkattu Mooss ETM Oushadhasala (INDIA) Ltd
SNA Oushadhasala Pvt. Ltd.
Vaidyaratnam Oushadhasala
Vaidyaraj Oushadhasala
Vaidyaratna Prabha Vaidyasala
Changampally Ayurveda Vaidyasala
Everest Ayurvedic Medicines
SKM Siddha and Ayurveda
Pam Labs
Viswakeerthy Herbals (INDIA) Pvt. Ltd
Important Note: The recommended Anupāna (vehicle for administration) is Uṣṇa Jala (hot water), Takra (buttermilk), or other suitable adjuvants. It primarily acts on Samāna Vāyu, Apāna Vāyu, and Pācaka Pitta, making it highly specific for gastrointestinal tract disorders. Contraindication: It is generally not advised in pure Pitta or Raktaja conditions (inflammatory conditions with blood involvement) due to its Uṣṇa (hot) potency.