Sukumara Kashayam
Sukumara Kashayam is a classical Ayurvedic kashaya, a water decoction. Listed in the Ayurvedic Formulary of India (AFI). 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.
| Also known as | Sukumara Kashayam, SukumaraKashayam |
|---|---|
| Pharmacopoeia status | Listed in the Ayurvedic Formulary of India (AFI). Manufactured under Drug and Cosmetics Act, 1940 guidelines. Referenced in Sahasrayogam, a classical Kerala pharmacopoeia. |
Names and identification
| Language | Name |
|---|---|
| English | Sukumara Kashayam |
Key Ingredients
- Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera)
- Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus)
- Eranda (Ricinus communis)
- Punarnava (Boerhavia diffusa)
- Dashamoola (group of ten roots)
- Payasya (Ipomoea digitata)
- Krishnamoola (Piper longum root)
- Sunthi (Zingiber officinale)
- Bala (Sida cordifolia)
- Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia)
Where is it described in the classical texts?
Sahasrayogam, Kashaya Yoga Prakarana; also referenced in Ashtanga Hridayam for treating indigestion, intestinal spasm, abdominal pain, hernia, and menstrual disorders.
How does it work?
- Antispasmodic action on uterine and intestinal smooth muscle reduces menstrual cramps and abdominal pain
- Potent antioxidant activity (DPPH, FRAP, H2O2 scavenging) protects cells from oxidative damage
- Vata-balancing properties through Dashamoola and Ashwagandha restore normal peristalsis and relieve constipation
- Phytoestrogenic compounds from Shatavari and Ashwagandha support hormonal balance and reproductive health
Which traditional uses are supported by research?
- Dysmenorrhea and menstrual irregularity - validated by clinical observations showing antispasmodic and hormonal effects
- Constipation and digestive disorders - supported by prokinetic action of Dashamoola and Eranda root constituents
- Polycystic ovarian disease and uterine fibroids - partially validated by clinical case studies showing cyst size reduction
- Infertility support - traditional use supported by phytoestrogenic activity of key ingredients
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
- No known side effects at recommended dosage; overdose may induce gastric irritation. Should be used under Ayurvedic physician supervision.
- In cases of shorter menstrual periods with heavy bleeding, Sukumara Kashayam may increase bleeding; contraindicated in menorrhagia without physician guidance.
- Individual sensitivities or allergies to specific herbal ingredients may exist, especially in Pitta-predominant conditions.
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: Kashayam (decoction), Kashayam tablet, Concentrated liquid
Standard Dosage: 15-30ml twice daily
Bioavailability: Aqueous decoction provides good bioavailability for water-soluble compounds; concentration step may reduce volatile components
Optimal Timing: Before meals, typically morning and evening
Shelf Life: 1 day (fresh kashayam); 2 years (kashayam tablet); 6 months (concentrated liquid with preservative)
Storage: Fresh: refrigerate, use within 24h. Tablet/liquid: cool dry place, airtight
Marker Compounds: Ricinoleic acid, Shatavarin
Quality Parameters: pH 4.0-6.5, specific gravity 1.01-1.05, total solids 2-8%, marker assay: Ricinoleic acid, Shatavarin
Vehicle (Anupana): Warm, usually taken on empty stomach
Synergistic Combinations
- Classical combination of Eranda mula, Shatavari, Triphala, Dashamoola provides synergistic therapeutic effect
Consult a qualified vaidya before acting on anything here. Ayurvedic practice is prescribed to a person, not to a condition: the same dravya is given, withheld or substituted depending on your constitution, your agni, the season and what else you are already taking. A page cannot know any of that. Self-prescribing from a reference is how the wrong preparation, the wrong dose or the wrong anupana gets used.
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