Patrangasava
Patrangasava is a classical Ayurvedic fermented arishta or asava. Listed in the Ayurvedic Formulary of India (AFI). Mentioned in Charaka Samhita (1st-2nd century CE) under Asava-Arishta category. Sushruta Samhita references it for gastrointestinal and gynecological disorders.
| Pharmacopoeia status | Listed in the Ayurvedic Formulary of India (AFI). Referenced in Charaka Samhita and Sushruta Samhita. Manufactured under Drug and Cosmetics Act, 1940. |
|---|
Names and identification
| Language | Name |
|---|---|
| English | Patrangasava |
Key Ingredients
- Patranga (Caesalpinia sappan / Sappan wood)
- Khadira (Acacia catechu)
- Vasaka (Adhatoda vasica)
- Semal flowers (Bombax ceiba)
- Bala (Sida cordifolia)
- Gurhal (Hibiscus rosa-sinensis)
- Trikatu (Pippali, Maricha, Shunthi)
- Trivrutta (Operculina turpethum)
- Devadaru (Cedrus deodara)
- Dhataki pushpa (Woodfordia fruticosa)
- Jaggery (fermentation medium)
Where is it described in the classical texts?
Brihat Trayi (the three great classics of Ayurveda). Mentioned in Charaka Samhita (1st-2nd century CE) under Asava-Arishta category. Sushruta Samhita references it for gastrointestinal and gynecological disorders.
How does it work?
- Hemostatic and astringent action of Patranga and Khadira controls heavy menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia)
- Anti-inflammatory action of Vasaka and Devadaru reduces uterine inflammation and pain
- Uterine tonic properties of Bala and Gurhal strengthen reproductive tissue and improve hormonal balance
- Antacid and digestive action addresses associated digestive complaints with less rebound acidity than conventional antacids
Which traditional uses are supported by research?
- Heavy menstrual bleeding (Raktapradar/Menorrhagia) - validated by hemostatic and astringent mechanism studies
- Leucorrhea (Shweta Pradar) - supported by uterine tonic and antimicrobial properties
- PCOS and menstrual irregularity - supported by clinical study showing improved menstrual regularity
- Endometriosis-related pain - corroborated by clinical observation of pain and inflammation reduction
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. Not recommended during pregnancy. May interact with hormonal medications and oral contraceptives.
- Generally safe at recommended dosage. Prolonged high-dose use without medical supervision not recommended. Women on anticoagulants should use cautiously due to hemostatic properties.
What is it made of?
Key Active Markers
- Derived from constituent herbs (see individual herb profiles)
- Standardized on primary bioactive markers
Analytical Methods: HPLC fingerprinting, TLC (identity), LC-MS/MS (marker quantification)
Dosage forms and preparation
Dosage Forms: Arishta/Asava (fermented liquid), Syrup (modern adaptation)
Standard Dosage: 15-30ml with equal water for bleeding disorders
Bioavailability: Self-generated alcohol enhances extraction and absorption of both water-soluble and fat-soluble compounds; fermentation produces bioactive metabolites not present in raw herbs
Optimal Timing: After meals, twice daily
Shelf Life: Indefinite per classical texts; commercially labeled 5-10 years. Improves with age.
Storage: Room temperature, tightly sealed, away from direct sunlight. Do not refrigerate.
Marker Compounds: Brazilin, Brazilein
Quality Parameters: Alcohol content 5-12% v/v, pH 3.0-4.5, specific gravity 1.01-1.08, total solids 15-25%, marker: Brazilin, Brazilein
Vehicle (Anupana): Equal quantity of water after meals
Synergistic Combinations
- Key herbs: Patranga (Caesalpinia sappan), Dhataki, other herbs; fermentation creates unique metabolite profile with enhanced therapeutic activity
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