Sukumara Kashayam
Sukumara Kashayam is a classical Ayurvedic kashaya, a water decoction. Listed in the Ayurvedic Formulary of India (AFI).
| Also known as | Sukumara Kashayam, SukumaraKashayam |
|---|---|
| Pharmacopoeia status | Listed in the Ayurvedic Formulary of India (AFI). Manufactured under Drugs 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?
- Traditionally described as having antispasmodic action on uterine and intestinal smooth muscle; used for menstrual cramps and abdominal pain
- Antioxidant activity (DPPH, FRAP, H2O2 scavenging) has been reported in lab assays
- Vata-balancing properties through Dashamoola and Ashwagandha are traditionally said to support normal peristalsis and are used in constipation
- Phytoestrogenic compounds from Shatavari and Ashwagandha support hormonal balance and reproductive health
Which traditional uses are supported by research?
These summaries come from the source notes, which do not name the studies behind them.
- Dysmenorrhea and menstrual irregularity: traditionally used for these conditions. Clinical observations have reported antispasmodic and hormonal effects.
- Constipation and digestive disorders: traditionally used for these complaints. Prokinetic action has been reported for Dashamoola and Eranda root constituents.
- Polycystic ovarian disease and uterine fibroids: traditionally used for these conditions. Clinical case studies have reported a reduction in cyst size.
- Infertility support: traditionally used to support fertility. Phytoestrogenic activity has been reported for key ingredients.
What do recent studies show?
No study for this section could be traced to a published paper. 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
Dosage forms and preparation
Dosage Forms: Kashayam (decoction), Kashayam tablet, Concentrated liquid
Standard Dosage: 15-30ml twice daily
Optimal Timing: Before meals, typically morning and evening
Storage: Fresh: refrigerate, use within 24h. Tablet/liquid: cool dry place, airtight
Marker Compounds: Ricinoleic acid, Shatavarin
Vehicle (Anupana): Warm, usually taken on empty stomach
Reviewed by Dr. Awadesh Pratap Singh, BAMS, on 11 October 2026. What that review covered.
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