A Comprehensive Guide to Ayurvedic Specialties
Karpūrarasan Gulika
Bhaishajya Ratnavali, Atisārādhikāra (The Chapter on Diarrhea/Dysentery in the 'Jewel Garland of Medicines').
The formulation is prepared with one part each of the following ingredients:
हिङ्गुल `(Hiṅgula)` - Cinnabaris (Purified and processed Mercuric Sulphide)
अहिफेन `(Ahiphena)` - Papaver somniferum (Opium, processed and used under strict medical supervision)
मुस्त `(Mustā)` - Cyperus rotundus
इन्द्रयव `(Indrayava)` - Holarrhena pubescens
जातिफल `(Jātiphala)` - Myristica fragrans (Nutmeg)
कर्पूर `(Karpūra)` - Cinnamomum camphora (Camphor)
Primary & Classical Diagnoses (Sanskrit)
अतिसार `(Atisāra)`: A condition characterized by frequent discharge of liquid stools; diarrhea and dysentery.
ज्वरातिसार `(Jwarātisāra)`: Diarrhea or dysentery associated with fever.
षट्प्रकार ग्रहणी `(Ṣaṭprakāra Grahaṇī)`: The six types of Malabsorption Syndrome, a complex digestive disorder.
रक्तातिसार `(Raktātisāra)`: A type of dysentery where there is a discharge of blood.
Scope of Application (Modern & Integrated Clinical Correlation)
This formulation is primarily indicated for acute gastrointestinal conditions characterized by hypermotility and fluid loss.
Gastrointestinal Disorders: Acute infectious diarrhea, bacillary dysentery, gastroenteritis, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) with diarrhea-predominance, and conditions involving intestinal hyperperistalsis.
Infectious Diseases: Diarrhea associated with fevers, such as in enteric fever or other systemic infections.
Dosha Karma: `Tridoṣa Śamana` (Pacifies all three Doshas), with a predominant effect of `Kapha Śamana` (specifically pacifies Kapha Dosha).
Dhātu Karma: `Vīryakṛt` (Strengthens the vital energy or potency of the bodily tissues).
Agni Karma: `Pācana` (Digests toxins), `Dīpana` (Kindles the digestive fire).
Srotas Karma: Primarily acts on the `Anna Vaha Srotas` (Channels carrying food) and `Purīṣa Vaha Srotas` (Channels carrying feces).
Roga Karma: `Jwaraghna` (Anti-pyretic), `Atisāraghna` (Arrests diarrhea/dysentery), `Kṛmighna` (Anti-helminthic).
Lakṣaṇika Karma: `Picchāsrāva Hara` (Arrests mucous discharge), `Śūla Hara` (Alleviates colicky pain), `Rucya` (Appetizer).
Attribute (Guṇa) Property
Rasa (Taste) Predominantly `Tikta` (Bitter), `Kaṣāya` (Astringent), `Kaṭu` (Pungent)
Guṇa (Quality) `Laghu` (Light), `Rūkṣa` (Dry), `Sūkṣma` (Subtle/Penetrating)
Vīrya (Potency) `Uṣṇa` (Heating) [Note: This is inferred from the ingredients' properties, though the source text indicates uncertainty]
Vipāka (Post-Digestive Effect) `Katu` (Pungent)
Modern Correlate Actions: The formulation exhibits anti-diarrheal, anti-spasmodic, astringent, and anti-microbial actions. It is noted to reduce intestinal hyperperistalsis and promote fluid reabsorption from the gastrointestinal tract.
ASOKA Pharmaceuticals (As per the reference in Bhaishajya Ratnavali).
Important Clinical Note:
Dosage: The classical dose is 2 Guñjā mātrā (approx. 125-250 mg). The practical dose is 1-2 tablets twice daily, strictly under medical supervision.
Contraindications & Precautions: Due to the presence of `Ahiphena` (processed opium) and `Hiṅgula`, this is a potent formulation. Overdose can cause `Vātaprakopa` (aggravation of Vāta Dosha) and other serious side effects. It is less effective in conditions predominantly caused by Pitta or Rakta (blood) vitiation. Its use must be restricted to qualified Ayurvedic practitioners.