# Dhava

> Dhava (Anogeissus latifolia) is a plant used in Ayurveda. Tannin-rich fraction has low systemic bioavailability but effective local GI action (astringent, anti-diarrheal). Ellagic acid undergoes gut microbial metabolism to urolithins. Flavonoid fraction has moderate bioavailability (15-30%).

## Key facts

- **Botanical name:** Anogeissus latifolia

## Names and identification

| Language | Name |
|----------|------|
| English | Dhava |

## Ayurvedic pharmacology (Dravyaguna)

| Property | Value | Description |
|----------|-------|-------------|
| **Rasa** (Taste) | Kashaya | Primary taste |
| **Guna** (Quality) | Laghu, Ruksha | Physical quality |
| **Virya** (Potency) | Sheeta | Heating/Cooling effect |
| **Vipaka** (Post-digestive) | Katu | Post-digestive effect |

## Dosage forms and preparation

**Dosage Forms:** Churna (powder), Kashayam (decoction), Kwath Ghana (solid extract), Tablet, Capsule

**Standard Dosage:** 3-6g bark powder twice daily; 50-100ml decoction twice daily; 500mg extract capsule twice daily

**Bioavailability:** Anogeissus latifolia (Dhava) bark contains [tannins](/reference/tannins/), [flavonoids](/reference/flavonoids/), and ellagic acid derivatives. Tannin-rich fraction has low systemic bioavailability but effective local GI action (astringent, anti-diarrheal). Ellagic acid undergoes gut microbial metabolism to urolithins. Flavonoid fraction has moderate bioavailability (15-30%). Enhancement: co-administration with lipid vehicles improves flavonoid absorption; the traditional practice of preparing Kashayam with jaggery ([Guda](/glossary/concepts-a-m/#guda)) may enhance palatability and provide matrix for improved absorption.

**Optimal Timing:** Before meals with warm water or honey for digestive conditions; after meals for diarrhea management

**Standardized Extract:** Aqueous bark extract standardized to NLT 10% total tannins (as tannic acid equivalent) and NLT 1% ellagic acid. Extract ratio 5:1 to 8:1.

**Shelf Life:** 2 years (powder); 2.5 years (tablet/capsule); 3 years (Kwath Ghana in sealed container)

**Storage:** Airtight containers below 25 deg C, protected from moisture. Tannin-rich bark powder is hygroscopic - use moisture-proof packaging with desiccant.

**Marker Compounds:** Ellagic acid, Gallic acid, 3,3'-di-O-methylellagic acid, Beta-[sitosterol](/glossary/compounds-q-t/#sitosterol), Anogeissinin, [Quercetin](/reference/quercetinquercetin/)

### Extraction Methods

- Aqueous decoction of stem bark (traditional)
- Hydroalcoholic extraction (60:40)
- Hot water extraction under reflux (80 deg C, 3 hours)
- Spray-drying for Kwath Ghana production

### Synergistic Combinations

- With Kutaja for enhanced anti-diarrheal action
- With [Dadima](/herb/dadima/) Twak for astringent synergy in dysentery
- With Musta for digestive disorder management
- With [Lodhra](/herb/lodhra/) for [hemostatic](/glossary/pharmacology/#hemostatic) and [wound-healing](/reference/wound-healing/) applications

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Canonical version of this page: https://nighantu.ageayurveda.com/herb/dhava/

## Sources

- Amidha Ayurveda Herb Database (700+ herbs, CC-BY-4.0)
- Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India

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.