# Distillation Apparatus ArkaHydrosol Distiller

> Distillation Apparatus ArkaHydrosol Distiller (Sanskrit: Arka Yantra) is an instrument used in preparation and pharmaceutical equipment. A traditional distillation apparatus used for preparing Arka (hydrosol/distilled herbal water). Consists of an earthen or metal pot (Ghata) with a lid that has a collection pipe (Nala), a condenser arrangement, and a collection vessel.

## Key facts

- **Sanskrit name:** Arka Yantra
- **Ayurvedic category:** Preparation and Pharmaceutical Equipment

A traditional distillation apparatus used for preparing [Arka](/herb/arka/) (hydrosol/distilled herbal water). Consists of an earthen or metal pot (Ghata) with a lid that has a collection pipe (Nala), a condenser arrangement, and a collection vessel. Herbal material and water are placed in the lower pot and heated.

## Where is it described in the classical texts?

Sharangdhara Samhita Madhyama Khanda Chapter 9 ([Arka](/herb/arka/) Prakarana); Rasa Tarangini; Bhavaprakasha. [Arka](/herb/arka/) Kalpana is one of the unique pharmaceutical preparations of Ayurveda.

## How is it used traditionally?

Preparation of [Arka](/herb/arka/) (distilled herbal waters/hydrosols) such as [Ajwain](/herb/ajwain/) [Arka](/herb/arka/) (for digestion), Gulab [Arka](/herb/arka/) (rose water for eyes), [Pudina](/herb/pudina/) Arka (for stomach), etc. Essential oils and aromatic waters are by-products.

## Traditional materials

- Earthenware/Terracotta (Mrittika Patra) - prepared by skilled potters
- Copper vessel (Tamra Patra)
- Bamboo tube as condenser (Venu Nala)
- Mud-cloth-plaster (Mritlepana) for sealing joints

## Modern variants

- Stainless steel distillation units
- Glass distillation apparatus (Clevenger-type)
- Industrial steam distillation plants
- Electric heating distillers

## Regulatory status

- **India Cdsco:** Not classified as a medical device. Pharmaceutical manufacturing equipment regulated under AYUSH GMP.
- **Us Fda:** Subject to FDA cGMP requirements if used for manufacturing marketed products.
- **Eu Mdr:** Not classified as a medical device.

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Published by Age Ayurveda in the Nighantu. Educational reference only, not medical advice.
Incorporates material from the Amidha Ayurveda Herb Database under CC BY 4.0.