A Review Of Rasnadasamooladi grtha: A Classical Ayurvedic Herbal Formulation With Multicentric Actions

Abstract

Background: Bhaishajya Kalpana is a distinct branch of Ayurveda devoted to the preparation of herbal and herbo-mineral formulations. Within this discipline, Ghṛita (medicated ghee) holds a vital place under Sneha Kalpana. It is regarded as the foremost among the four types of Sneha, such as Ghṛita, Taila, Vasa, and Majja. Due to its superior capacity to assimilate and preserve the therapeutic qualities of incorporated substances without altering its inherent nature. Rasnādāśamoolādi Ghṛita, a time-honoured formulation mentioned in the Bṛhattrayī (comprising Charaka Saṃhitā, Aṣṭāṅga Saṅgraha, and Aṣṭāṅga Hṛdaya), is chiefly prescribed for Kāsa (cough) and other disorders dominated by Vāta and Pitta doshas.

Objectives: To examine the Rasapañcaka (fivefold pharmacodynamic properties), phytoconstituents, pharmacological actions, and therapeutic indications of Rasnādāśamoolādi Ghṛita, and to identify its potential use in clinical conditions extending beyond the traditionally mentioned Phalaśruti (stated benefits).

Results: Rasnādāśamoolādi Ghṛita contains twenty-five herbal ingredients, along with Ajamāṃsa (goat meat), Gokṣīra (cow’s milk), and Goghṛita (cow ghee). The majority of its components possess Madhura and Tikta rasa, Guru and Snigdha guṇa, and Sheeta vīrya, which collectively render its Vāta-Pitta sāmaka in nature. The formulation has shown notable therapeutic value in diseases affecting the Urdhvajatru (head and neck region), Yoni (female reproductive system), Plīha (spleen), and Sarvāṅga (systemic or whole-body disorders).

Conclusion: Rasnādāśamoolādi Ghṛita is an important classical Ayurvedic formulation exhibiting broad therapeutic applicability. Its pharmacodynamic properties affirm its effectiveness in conditions involving Vāta-Pitta predominance. The formulation’s relevance is further supported by current scientific observations, underscoring its utility in contemporary Ayurvedic clinical practice and community health management, with potential for broader evidence-based applications beyond its classical references.