# Ashwagandharishta

> Ashwagandharishta is a classical Ayurvedic fermented arishta or asava. Listed in the Ayurvedic Formulary of India (AFI). Bhavaprakasha (circa 16th century CE) and Sharangadhara Samhita. Described as a Rasayana (rejuvenator) specifically for improving Virya (vital strength) and fertility.

## Key facts

- **Pharmacopoeia status:** Listed in the Ayurvedic Formulary of India (AFI). Referenced in Bhavaprakasha and Sharangadhara Samhita. Ashwagandha root monograph in Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India. HPLC-standardized formulations available.

## Names and identification

| Language | Name |
|----------|------|
| English | Ashwagandharishta |

## Where is it described in the classical texts?

Bhavaprakasha (circa 16th century CE) and Sharangadhara Samhita. Described as a [Rasayana](/reference/rasayana/) (rejuvenator) specifically for improving Virya (vital strength) and fertility.

## How does it work?

- [Adaptogenic](/reference/adaptogenic/) action through modulation of HPA axis and cortisol reduction ([Ashwagandha](/herb/ashwagandha/) [withanolides](/glossary/compounds-t-z/#withanolides))
- BDNF boosting enhances synaptic plasticity, neuroprotection, and antidepressant effects
- [Immunomodulatory](/reference/immunomodulatory/) action enhances both innate and adaptive immunity for faster convalescence
- Rejuvenative (Rasayana) action through combined [antioxidant](/reference/antioxidant/), anti-inflammatory, and anabolic properties

## Which traditional uses are supported by research?

- Stress and anxiety relief - validated by cortisol reduction in placebo-controlled study
- Chronic fatigue and debility - supported by RCT showing fatigue severity improvement
- Convalescence after febrile illness - corroborated by dengue recovery study
- Vitality and reproductive health - traditional Rasayana use supported by adaptogenic and anabolic mechanisms

## What do recent clinical trials show?



*3 further claims previously listed here could not be traced to a published paper and have been removed. Classical formulations are researched largely in journals that PubMed does not index, so an absence here reflects the reach of the index rather than the state of the evidence.*

## Recent safety updates

- Contains 5-10% self-generated alcohol from fermentation. Contraindicated in pregnancy and during lactation. [Ashwagandha](/herb/ashwagandha/) may alter thyroid hormone levels; monitor in thyroid patients.
- May potentiate sedative and [anxiolytic](/reference/anxiolytic/) medications. Overdosage can cause gastric irritation, nausea, or diarrhea. Use under physician supervision in autoimmune conditions.

## What is it made of?

### Mineral/Elemental Profile

- **Primary component:** Mineral-derived preparation
- **Note:** Composition varies by specific preparation method

**Analytical Methods:** XRD, ICP-OES, SEM-EDS

## Dosage forms and preparation

**Dosage Forms:** Arishta (fermented decoction), Capsules (modern), Syrup (modern)

**Standard Dosage:** 15-30 mL twice daily after meals with equal water, as per AFI Part I

**Bioavailability:** Fermentation enhances extraction and bioavailability of withanolides (particularly withanolide A and withaferin A). Alcohol medium improves lipophilic withanolide absorption. Honey addition (pre-fermentation) provides additional enzymatic bioconversion of [glycosides](/glossary/compounds-g-l/#glycosides).

**Optimal Timing:** After meals, twice daily, preferably after lunch and dinner. Best results with long-term use (3-6 months).

**Shelf Life:** 10 years from date of manufacture as per ASU guidelines for Arishta preparations

**Storage:** Store in well-closed amber glass or HDPE containers in a cool, dry place. Protect from direct sunlight. Temperature not exceeding 30°C.

**Marker Compounds:** Withanolide A, Withaferin A, [Withanone](/glossary/compounds-t-z/#withanone), Withanoside IV, 12-Deoxywithastramonolide

**Quality Parameters:** pH (3.0-4.5), specific gravity (1.02-1.06), self-generated alcohol (5-12%), total solids, total sugar, withanolide A content by HPLC, withaferin A content, total acidity, microbial limits, heavy metals, absence of methanol

**Vehicle (Anupana):** Equal quantity of warm water

### Synergistic Combinations

- [Balarishta](/formulation/balarishta/)
- [Ashwagandha](/herb/ashwagandha/) Churna
- [Shatavari](/herb/shatavari/) Churna
- [Brahmi](/herb/brahmi/) Vati
- [Chyawanprash](/formulation/chyawanprash/)

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Canonical version of this page: https://nighantu.ageayurveda.com/formulation/ashwagandharishta/

## Sources

- Amidha Ayurveda Herb Database (700+ herbs, CC-BY-4.0)
- Web research (clinical trials, WHO monographs, safety databases)
- Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India
- Classical Ayurvedic texts (Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, Bhavaprakasha Nighantu)

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.