Arka Ksheera
Arka Ksheera is a preparation made from plant material. Latex proteins (calotropain) are proteolytic and facilitate penetration through skin barriers. Shodhana (milk purification) process partially inactivates the most toxic cardenolides while retaining therapeutically useful compounds.
| Substance type | Preparation made from plant material, not a single plant drug |
|---|---|
| Also known as | Arka Ksheera, ArkaKsheera |
Names and identification
| Language | Name |
|---|---|
| English | Arka Ksheera |
Ayurvedic pharmacology (Dravyaguna)
| Property | Value | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Rasa (Taste) | Katu, Tikta | Primary taste |
| Guna (Quality) | Tikshna | Physical quality |
| Virya (Potency) | Ushna | Heating/Cooling effect |
| Vipaka (Post-digestive) | Katu | Post-digestive effect |
Dosage forms and preparation
Dosage Forms: Processed latex (Shodhita Ksheera), Gutika (pills prepared with Shodhita latex), Taila (oil processed with latex, external), Lepa (paste, external)
Standard Dosage: 1-3 drops Shodhita latex with appropriate anupana (INTERNAL: only under strict physician supervision); external: as needed for topical application
Optimal Timing: Strictly as per physician direction. External applications to affected area, avoiding broken skin and mucous membranes.
Storage: Shodhita latex refrigerated (2-8°C) in amber glass. Double-sealed containers. Clearly labeled: TOXIC, RESTRICTED. Store separately from food-grade materials.
Marker Compounds: Calotropin, Calactin, Calotoxin, Uscharin, Calotropagenin, Calotropain (protease)
Synergistic Combinations
- As component of Arka Taila for Vata disorders (external)
- With processed Vatsanabha in highly specialized formulations (toxic combination, expert use only)
- Traditionally combined with Nirgundi Taila in external applications for musculoskeletal complaints
Reviewed by Dr. Awadesh Pratap Singh, BAMS, on 11 October 2026. What that review covered.
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