Kumbhika
Kumbhika is a substance used in the Ayurvedic materia medica. Its listed rasa is Tikta and Katu, with Sheeta virya and Katu vipaka.
Names and identification
| Language | Name |
|---|---|
| English | Kumbhika |
Ayurvedic pharmacology (Dravyaguna)
| Property | Value | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Rasa (Taste) | Tikta, Katu | 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), Swarasa (fresh juice), Capsule, Lepa (external paste)
Standard Dosage: 3-5 g powder twice daily; 50-80 mL decoction; 10-20 mL juice; external paste as needed
Optimal Timing: After meals with appropriate Anupana (vehicle) based on condition; external applications twice daily
Storage: Store in airtight containers at 15-30°C. Protect from moisture and insect infestation. Mucilaginous preparations are prone to microbial growth. Ensure moisture content <10%.
Marker Compounds: Oleanolic acid, Betulinic acid, Beta-sitosterol, Quercetin, Gallic acid, Tannins
Synergistic Combinations
Reviewed by Dr. Awadesh Pratap Singh, BAMS, on 11 October 2026. What that review covered.
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