Preparation and Uses of Asava and Arishta

Asava and Arishta are traditional Ayurvedic preparations known for their therapeutic benefits. They are both fermented herbal formulations used primarily for medicinal purposes. Here’s a detailed description of their preparation, uses, and benefits:

Preparation of Asava and Arishta

1. Ingredients:
   • Herbs: Specific medicinal herbs are chosen based on their therapeutic properties.
   • Water: Used for soaking the herbs.
   • Jaggery or Sugar: Added as a fermentable source for the yeast.
   • Yeast: Natural fermentation starter.
2. Process:
   • Asava: Herbs are soaked in water, usually overnight. The infusion is then strained, and sugar or jaggery is added. It undergoes natural fermentation for a specific duration.
   • Arishta: Similar to Asava, but after straining the herbal infusion, it is heated to reduce the water content. Sugar or jaggery is then added, and fermentation occurs.
3. Fermentation: Fermentation can take several weeks to months, during which the mixture is stirred periodically to aid fermentation and prevent spoilage. The fermentation process converts sugars into alcohol and preserves the active constituents of the herbs.