Age Ayurveda Nighantu

Ardraka Svarasa

Ardraka Svarasa is a classical Ayurvedic svarasa, a fresh plant juice. 6-Gingerol is absorbed rapidly with peak plasma levels at 1-2 hours. Fresh juice retains volatile compounds that enhance absorption and first-pass metabolism modulation.

Key facts
Also known asArdraka Svarasa, ArdrakaSvarasa

Names and identification

LanguageName
EnglishArdraka Svarasa

Ayurvedic pharmacology (Dravyaguna)

PropertyValueDescription
Rasa (Taste)KatuPrimary taste
Guna (Quality)Laghu, TikshnaPhysical quality
Virya (Potency)UshnaHeating/Cooling effect
Vipaka (Post-digestive)MadhuraPost-digestive effect

What is it made of?

Mineral/Elemental Profile

  • Primary component: Mercury-based preparation (Parada) with herbal processing
  • Note: Restricted use — requires strict Shodhana protocols and expert supervision

Analytical Methods: AAS/ICP-MS (heavy metals), XRD, Namburi phased spot test

Dosage forms and preparation

Dosage Forms: Svarasa (fresh juice), Preserved juice (modern), Capsules with dried juice (modern)

Standard Dosage: 5-10 mL twice daily, as per AFI

Bioavailability: Svarasa (fresh juice) provides highest bioavailability of gingerols compared to dried forms. 6-Gingerol is absorbed rapidly with peak plasma levels at 1-2 hours. Fresh juice retains volatile compounds that enhance absorption and first-pass metabolism modulation.

Optimal Timing: Before meals for digestive indications; any time for respiratory conditions

Shelf Life: Same day use (fresh), 6 months (preserved with citric acid/sodium benzoate), 2 years (spray-dried powder in capsules)

Storage: Fresh: use immediately or refrigerate at 2-8°C for up to 24 hours. Preserved: amber glass bottles at room temperature. Capsules: airtight containers at room temperature.

Marker Compounds: 6-Gingerol, 8-Gingerol, 10-Gingerol, 6-Shogaol, Zingerone, Zingiberene

Quality Parameters: pH (5.0-6.5), total solids, volatile oil content, gingerol content by HPLC (NLT 1% 6-gingerol in fresh juice), total phenolics, microbial limits, heavy metals, pesticide residues, clarity

Vehicle (Anupana): Honey for respiratory conditions, warm water for digestive conditions

Synergistic Combinations

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