Arishta

Arishta (definition by Bhavprakash samhita)

• The formulations which are prepared with the use of pakvaushadha siddha; earlier prepared (cooked) medications like herbal infusions or decoctions

Arishta (Fermented decoction)

• The crude drugs mentioned in the formula (patha), are coarsely powdered and decoction (Kashaya) is prepared, filtered and transferred to wooden vats.

• Sugar, honey or jiggery is added to it, dissolved and boiled.

• Dravyas, other finely powdered ingredients and Dhataki pushpa (Woodfordica fruticose) are added to it to trigger the fermentation process.

• The container is covered with the lid and edges are sealed with clay smeared cloth, wrapped in seven consecutive layers. Normally the vessels used for processing of arishta are placed in cellar(basement) of a specific period in order to facilitate sadhana (fermentation) process.

• The contents are examined for completion of sadhana process and arishta is filtered and bottled.

• Filtered arishta should be clear and without any froth (foam) at the top.

• It should not become sour on standing.

• It has characteristic, aromatic and alcoholic odour. • Examples: Ashokarishta, Kutarishta, Dashmularishta, Vidangarista, Arjunarishta, Ashwagandharishta