Abstract

A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW ON THE MODE OF ACTION OF ASAVA AND ARISHTA: AN ANCIENT AND CONTEMPORARY PERSPECTIVE

Dr. Bumtariya Sagarkumar Tulshibhai, Dr. Buke Mayuri Basvaraj*, Dr. K. Sreehari

ABSTRACT

Ayurveda, the traditional Indian medicinal system, has been practiced for thousands of years and continues to offer holistic approaches to health and healing. Among its classical dosage forms, Asava and Arishta are well-established liquid formulations known for their therapeutic efficacy, palatability, long shelf-life, and most importantly, minimal or no side effects. These are self-generated herbal fermentations that play a vital role in Ayurvedic pharmaceutics. Asava is typically prepared using fresh herbal juices, while Arishta is made by boiling herbs into a decoction[10] - both undergoing natural fermentation. These formulations not only preserve the active principles of herbs but also enhance bioavailability through microbial transformation and enzymatic activity. In this review, we aim to present a comprehensive understanding of the mode of action of Asava and Arishta from both Ayurvedic and modern scientific perspectives. We explore their pharmacological basis, absorption mechanisms, and therapeutic potential, thereby bridging traditional wisdom with contemporary pharmacological insights.

Keywords: Asava, Arishta, Fermentation, Bioavailability.