A Comprehensive Guide to Ayurvedic Specialties
Ajamodaka Drava
1. Reference
This formulation is classically referenced in the Ayurveda Prakāśa and is also included in the modern compendium, the Ayurvedic Formulary of India (AFI), Part I, Section 3.2 (Drava Kalpana). It is a recognized medicinal arishta (fermented liquid preparation).
2. Composition (Sanskrit & Botanical Equivalents)
The formulation is a single-herb preparation (as per the provided information from the Ayurvedic Formulary of India).
अजमोदा (Ajamōda) (Trachyspermum roxburghianum DC. (Syn. Apium graveolens L. or Carum roxburghianum Benth.))
Note: There is potential ambiguity in the botanical source of "Ajamoda." While often equated with Celery (Apium graveolens), the authentic Ayurvedic source is widely accepted as Trachyspermum roxburghianum (Wild Celery or Indian Celery), which possesses stronger pharmacological actions. This distinction is critical for clinical efficacy.
3. Therapeutic Indications
Primary & Classical Diagnoses (Sanskrit):
Ajīrṇa: Indigestion, impaired digestive function.
Charddi: Vomiting, emesis.
Āma Doṣa: Conditions arising from unmetabolized toxins and waste products.
Viśūcikā: A condition resembling cholera, characterized by severe vomiting and diarrhea.
Śūla: Colicky or gripping pain, especially in the abdominal region.
Kṛmi: Helminthiasis; worm infestations.
Scope of Application (Modern & Integrated Clinical Correlation):
This formulation's primary action is on the gastrointestinal system, making it applicable in a wide range of modern conditions.
Gastrointestinal Disorders: Functional dyspepsia, flatulence, bloating, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) with constipation, intestinal worm infestations (e.g., roundworm, threadworm), mild food poisoning, and gastroenteritis.
Metabolic & Toxic Conditions: Supports agni (digestive fire) to manage conditions linked to metabolic toxins (āma), such as certain types of chronic fatigue, sluggish metabolism, and skin conditions with an underlying digestive component.
Pain Management: Effective for managing abdominal colic and pain related to gas and spasms in the gut.
4. Pharmacological Properties (Dravyaguna)
Dosha Karma (Action on Humors): Kapha-Vāta Śamana (pacifies Kapha and Vata Dosha); Pitta Kara (can increase or aggravate Pitta Dosha if used in excess or in Pitta-predominant individuals); Vātānulōmana (facilitates the downward movement of Vata, relieving gas and constipation).
Dhātu Karma (Action on Tissues): Primarily acts on the Rasa (plasma) and Anna Vaha Srotas (channels carrying food), purifying them of toxins (āma).
Agni Karma (Action on Metabolic Fire): Dīpana (kindles the digestive fire, enhancing enzymatic activity and digestion).
Srotas Karma (Action on Bodily Channels): Acts primarily on Anna Vaha Srotas (digestive channel), Purīṣa Vaha Srotas (colon and excretory channel), and Udaka Vaha Srotas (water metabolism channel).
Roga Karma (Action on Diseases): Antidyspeptic, carminative, antispasmodic, anthelmintic.
Lakṣaṇika Karma (Symptomatic Action): Śūla Praśamana (alleviates colicky pain); Kṛmighna/Jantūghna (destroys worms and microbes); may cause Vidāhi (a burning sensation) in Pitta-predominant conditions due to its Uṣṇa Vīrya (hot potency).
5. Pharmacodynamics (Rasa, Guṇa, Vīrya, Vipāka)
Attribute (Guṇa) Property
Rasa (Taste) Kaṭu (Pungent), Tikta (Bitter)
Guṇa (Quality) Laghu (Light), Tīkṣṇa (Sharp, Penetrating)
Vīrya (Potency) Uṣṇa (Hot)
Vipāka (Post-Digestive Effect) Kaṭu (Pungent)
Modern Correlate Actions: The formulation exhibits carminative, digestive stimulant, antispasmodic, anthelmintic, and antimicrobial properties, primarily due to the volatile oils present in Ajamoda.
6. Approved Manufacturers
The following companies are known to manufacture this formulation:
Everest Ayurvedic Medicines
Kerala Ayurveda Ltd
SKM Siddha and Ayurveda (Ayurveda Prakāśa)
Changampally Ayurveda Vaidyasala (Special)
Asoka Pharmaceuticals (Yögagrantham)
Arya Vaidya Vilasini Vaidyasala
Deseeya Ayurvedic Pharmacy
Viswakeerthy Herbals (INDIA) Pvt. Ltd
Vaidyaratna Prabha Vaidyasala
Dosage & Contraindications:
Dose: 5 - 20 ml, diluted with an equal amount of hot water or a suitable decoction (kaṣāya), taken after food.
Contraindications: Pittānubandha conditions (where Pitta Dosha is predominantly vitiated or aggravated), hyperacidity, peptic ulcer disease, GERD, and inflammatory conditions characterized by burning sensations. Use with caution during pregnancy.