Asokarishtam is a self-generated alcoholic preparation. The formulation is explained in the textbook ‘Bhaishajyaratnavali’.

Major ingredients of Ashokarishtam

Asoka (Saraca asoca)

The plant shows analgesic, anthelminthic, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antiulcer properties. In addition, the plant offers anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antispasmodic effects. The drug is an excellent uterine tonic. 

Ajaji (Nigella sativa)

The plant shows antibacterial, antifungal, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory activities. In addition, the plant shows analgesic, immunomodulatory, gastroprotective, and anti-asthmatic effects.

Musta (Cyperus rotundus)

Studies reveal that Musta shows antiandrogenic, antibacterial, and hepatoprotective effects. In addition, the plant shows cardioprotective, antioxidant, and anticonvulsant effects.

Shunti (Zingiber officinale )

The plant shows antiarthritic, anti-inflammatory, and anti-diabetic properties. In addition, the plant offers antibacterial, antifungal, anticancer properties also.

Daruharidra (Berberis aristata)

It is an excellent anti-inflammatory drug. It is suitable for the skin.

Utpalam (Nymphea stellata)

The plant shows antidiabetic, antihepatotoxic, analgesic, and anti-inflammatory activities.

Amrasthi (Mangifera indica)

The plant shows antispasmodic, anti-diarrhoeal, antidiabetic, antiallergic properties. Amrasthi is anti-inflammatory too.

Jeerakam (Cuminum cyminum)

Cumin shows antimicrobial, insecticidal, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antioxidant, bronchodilator properties. 

Triphala

Triphala contains fruits of three plants Hareethaki (Terminalia chebula), Vibheethaki (Terminalia bellirica), and Amalaki (Emblica officinalis).

Triphala shows laxative, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, antibacterial, antimutagenic properties.

Vasa (Adathoda vasica)

The plant shows antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antitussive and bronchodilator, antiulcer activity. In addition, it also indicates antidiabetic, antioxidant, antiallergic, and hepatoprotective activities.

Chandana (Santalum album)

Chandana shows antiallergic, antiviral, antibacterial, antifungal properties. In addition, the plant offers antioxidants, blood purifiers, analgesics, an antipyretic effect also. It has a cooling effect too.

To this, Dhathaki (Woodfordia fruticosa) and Guda (jaggery) are added. 

Benefits of Asokarishtam

Uterine tonic

Asokarishtam corrects the hormonal imbalance and strengthens the uterus. It is a powerful uterine tonic. 

Asokarishtam and menstrual pain

Asokarishtam regulates the menstrual cycle. Asokarishtam is effective in the treatment of dysmenorrhea (painful periods). It helps to reduce muscle cramps and abdominal pain occurring at the time of menstruation. The formulation shows a mild analgesic effect. It also reduces premenstrual symptoms like nausea, vomiting, headache, etc. It promotes uterine function and strengthens the uterus. Asokarishtam is an excellent antispasmodic drug.

Asokarishtam and irregular periods

Asokarishtam helps regulate the female hormones and thus corrects the irregular periods. Therefore, the formulation is beneficial in the treatment of PCOS. 

Asokarishtam and heavy bleeding

It also addresses heavy uterine bleeding. In addition, the Asokarishtam formulation is beneficial in the treatment of endometriosis, dysfunctional uterine bleeding.

Vaginal discharge (leucorrhoea)

It is also effective in the treatment of abnormal vaginal discharges.

Bone health

Asokarishtam lowers the risk of osteoporosis and improves bone health as it is a rich source of minerals.

Energy booster

Asokarishtam contains many herbs that are antioxidants. Thus it promotes health and overall stamina in women.

Piles

Asokarishtam is beneficial in the treatment of bleeding piles. Intake of Asokarishtam helps to reduce bleeding. It also reduces the burning sensation and discomfort occurring in the anus.

Digestive problems

In addition, it is effective in regulating digestion. Intake of Asokarishtam improves appetite.

Dose

• One should take medicine only under medical supervision.
• Commonly 15-30 ml once or twice daily after food or as advised by the physician.

Contraindications

• Pregnant women
• Type2 diabetes mellitus

Side effects

• A high dose may cause acidity

Duration

• As directed by the physician

What are hormones?

Hormones are chemicals produced by glands in the endocrine system. 

What are the functions of hormones?

Hormones travel through the bloodstream to the tissues and organs. These hormones coordinate your body functions like growth and development, emotions, mood, sexual function, and sleep.

Symptoms of hormonal imbalance include

1) PCOS (Poly Cystic Ovarian Syndrome)

PCOS is a hormonal disorder. It is more common among women of reproductive age. 

Symptoms of PCOS include the following

• Irregular periods 
• Excessive facial hair/ body hair
• Infertility
• Thinning of hair
• Weight gain
• Dark patches over the skin

2) Loss of sexual desire

A decrease in the estrogen level leads to loss of sexual desire in women. In addition, hormonal imbalance may lead to vaginal dryness.

3) Weight gain

Low levels of thyroid hormones, PCOS, and other hormonal imbalances can cause unexplained weight gain.

4) Lack of sleep

Hormonal imbalance leads to a lack of sleep. Insomnia is mainly due to the imbalance of progesterone.

5) Bloating

Changes in hormones can affect your digestion and cause bloating and abdominal gas formation.

6) Mood swings

Mood swings occur as a result of hormonal changes. Mood swings happen mainly during the time of menstruation and menopause.

7) Menopause

Menopause is a natural process. It represents the end of menstruation. 

Common signs include

• Irregular periods
• Hot flushes
• Night sweat
• Mood swings
• Vaginal dryness
• Loss of sexual desire

8) Fatigue                                                            

9) Dry skin or skin rashes

10) Irritability

11) Increased sweating

12) Brittle or weak bones

To buy Ashokarishtam from Sitaram Ayurveda: