ITS UTILITY AND IMPORTANCE IN RASA SHASTRA

1. क्षार वर्ग
DR.MEENU SWAMINATH
IST YEAR PG RASA SHASTRA&BHAISHAJYA KALPANA
B M KANKANAVADI AYURVEDA MAHAVIDYALAYA
BELGAUM

2. CONTENTS
◦ Introduction
◦ Definition
◦ Reference
◦ Bheda according to different yoni
◦ General properties
◦ Ksharaa gunas
◦ General method of preparation
◦ Kshara paka pareeksha
◦ Explanation of different kshara
◦ Modern concept of kshara
◦ Analytical test
◦ Kshara therapeutic usage
◦ Different forms of kshara
◦ Kshara usage in rasa shastra
◦ Loha vada
◦ Articles
◦ Ekamoolika prayoga
◦ Discussion
◦ Conclusion
7/25/2021 KSHARA VARGAM, DR.MEENU SWAMINATH 2

3. INTRODUCTION
SHABDA KALPA
DHRUMA
चर-To move
AMARAKOSHA
काचा-to fasten/shine
चार-ash
उत्पत्ती
DERIVATION: तत्र क्षरणात् क्षणनाद्वा क्षारः। (Su.Su ११/४)
7/25/2021 KSHARA VARGAM, DR.MEENU SWAMINATH 3
DEFINITION : छित्त्वाऽऽ शयात् क्षारः क्षरत्वात् क्षारयत्यधः।(Ch.Chi ५/५८)
DERIVATION:क्षरछत इछत क्षारः। (sa.ka.dr)

4. DEFINITION
Sabda kalpa druma explains that it is derived from the root char,which means to move
In Amara kosha ,kshara is used in sense of kacha.the kacha the root word meaning to fasten or to shine .in
that kshara also means ash.
Acharya sushruta has defined the drug which has the characteristics of kshana or ksharana literally means
which destroys fleshy mass either healthy or unhealthy.
Acharya charaka says kshara is one which scrapes abnormal tissues from its location and destroys it after
dissolving it,because or if its corrosive nature
Acharya sushruta considered it as superior in shastra and anu sastras because of its
incising,excising&scraping actions &Tridosha hara property
7/25/2021 KSHARA VARGAM, DR.MEENU SWAMINATH 4

5. 7/25/2021 KSHARA VARGAM, DR.MEENU SWAMINATH 5
REFERENCE
Sabda kalpa kruma Bhava prakasha Arka prakasha
Amara kosha/pk/manushya
varga/65-66
Yogaratnakara Bhaishajya ratnavali
Sushruta sutra-11/4 Rajanigantu Ayurveda sara sangraha
Charaka chikitsa-5/58 Rasendra purana Sahasra yoga
Astanga hrdaya Rasarnava Siddha yoga sangraha
Sarangdhara Samhita
madyama-11
Kaiyadeva nigantu Chakradatta-arsho chikitsa
Rasa tharangini-14 Rasa chandramshu Rasa jala nidhi
Rasa ratna sammuchaya Dhanvantari nigantu Rasa prakasha sudhakara
A.F.I Rasa mitra

6. REFERENCE
Acharya Charak has mentioned two types of Kshara preparation and has also mentioned the use of Kshara according to disease.
Acharya Charak has mentioned 18 parts of plants which can be used for medicinal purpose and Kshara is one among them.
Acharya Chakrapani has described the method of preparation of Kshara.
 Acharya Yadavji have described separate chapter of Kshara Kalpana
Acharya Sushruta has narrated Kshara in scope of Shalya Tantra (surgical branch) due to actions like Chedana (excision), Bhedana
(incision), Lekhana (scrapping) etc. (Su. Su.11/5)
Dalhana the commentator of Sushruta Samhita explained the use of Kshara in Ashmari (calculi), Switra (leucoderma),
Gulma(tumor), Mutraghat (dysuria), and Visha (poison) etc.
In AstangaHridya the Pratisaraniya Kshara is indicated to be used in,Switra (leucoderma), Kustha (skin disorders),
Bhagandara(fistula),), Granthi (carbuncles), etc. and Paniya Kshara in Arsha(piles), Bhagandara, Ashmari, Gulma, Udarorga
(abdominaldisorders) etc. Kshara also incorporated in the preparation of Kasisadi Taila and medicated ghee for the treatment of
Arsha.
In Sharangadhara Samhita quality measures of Kshara is mentioned various methods and utensils are described for the preparation
of Kshara
7/25/2021 KSHARA VARGAM, DR.MEENU SWAMINATH 6

7. REFERENCE
.
In the chapter of Arsha Chikitsa Chakradatta has also described method of preparation of Kshara Sutra and its
application.Ksharodaka (alkaline water) containing Patala (Stereospermumsuaveolens), Yava Kshara (Salts of potassium),
Paribhadra(Erythrina indica), Tila (Sesamum indicum) along with powderof Dalchini (Cinnamomum zeylanicum), Ela
(Elettariacardamomum), Kalimircha (Piper nigrum) are mentioned for the treatment of Mutraghta. Kshara are also indicated
along withVataghna (subsiding disorders of Vata) drugs in the treatment ofAshmari.
 In Yoga Ratnakara various method of preparation of Kshara along with the powder of Piper longum(Pippali) mixed with
Kshara is used in the preparation of Pleehodara (splenomegaly).
In Rasa Tarangani detail description of Apamarga (Achyranthus aspera) Kshara, Arka(Calotropis giganta) Kshara, Tila Kshara,
Snuhi Kshara, Palasha Kshara (Butea monosperma), Chincha (Tamarindus indica)Kshara are mentioned.
In Ayurvedic Formulary of India a separate chapter/ monograph on Lavana- Kshara has been included. In this formulary
Kshara is defined as an alkaline substance.
In Drugs & Cosmetic Rule 1945, the list of machinery, equipment and minimum manufacturing premise required for the
manufacturer of Kshara are described.
7/25/2021 KSHARA VARGAM, DR.MEENU SWAMINATH 7

8. UTPATTI BHEDA
• Naisargika-Surya,tankana
• Kritrima-sodium borate
khanija
• Sankha Sukti
• Varatika pravala
pranija
• Sarjika Yava Snuhi Palasha
• Apamarga Tila Chincha Arka
vanspathya
7/25/2021 KSHARA VARGAM, DR.MEENU SWAMINATH 8

9. PRAYOGA BHEDENA
• Internal use
• ksharodaka
Paniya kshara
• External use
Pratisaraneeya
kshara
mrdu
madyama
tiksna
7/25/2021 KSHARA VARGAM, DR.MEENU SWAMINATH 9

10. SANKYA BHEDA
Kshara dvaya
Kshara trika
Kshara panchaka
Kshara shastaka
Kshara saptaka
Ksharastaka(asta kshara varga)
Kshara dasaka
7/25/2021 KSHARA VARGAM, DR.MEENU SWAMINATH 10

11. KSHARA DVAYA
Rasa tharangini 2/6 Bhava prakasha Yogaratnakara(1/1028) Raja nigantu
Sarji Sarjika Svarjika Svarjika
yava yavasuka yavasuka yava
7/25/2021 KSHARA VARGAM, DR.MEENU SWAMINATH 11

12. KSHARA TRAYA
Rasa ratna
sammuchaya
Rasa tharangini
2/6/rasendra
purana
Bhava prakasha Rasarnava/raja
nigantu/kaiyadev
a nigantu
Yava kshara yava Sarjika sarjikshara
Svarjika kshara swarji Yavasuka Yava
Tankana kshara tankana tankana tankana
7/25/2021 KSHARA VARGAM, DR.MEENU SWAMINATH 12

13. KSHARA PANCHAKA
Rasa ratna
sammuchaya/
yoga ratnakara
Rasa
tharangini 2/7
Rasa
chandramshu(
purva-638)
Kaiyadeva
nigantu
Rasa mitra-7 Sushruta
sutra(36/322)
palasha kimsuka palasha Palasha Palasha usakshara
mushkaka muska tankana apamarga Muska/padala tankana
yava yava yava Yava Yava yava
suvarchika swarji swarjika Svarjika Suvarchika svarjika
tila tila tila tila tilanala pakima
7/25/2021 KSHARA VARGAM, DR.MEENU SWAMINATH 13

14. KSHARA SHASTAKA KSHARA SAPTAKA
Dhanvanthari niganthu
Tila
Palasha
Vacha
Apamarga
Kutaja
mustaka
Arka prakasha(3/15)
Swarji
Yava
Tankana
Suvarchika
Palasha
gaurya
mustaka
7/25/2021 KSHARA VARGAM, DR.MEENU SWAMINATH 14

15. KSHARASTAKA
Rasa
tarangini(2
/8)
Bhava
prakasha
Dhanvanthari
niganthu(Mis
hrakadi
varga)
Yoga
ratnakara(1
/1027)
Bhaishajy
a
ratnavali(4
/42)
rasarnava
Snuhi Vajri/snuhi tankana Tankana tankana kadali
Palasha Palasha palasha Palasha palasha palasha
sikhari/apa
marga
Sikhari/apa
marga
apamarga Apamarga Apamarga apamarga
Chincha Chincha mushkaka Mushkaka muska chincha
Arka Arka arka Arka arka sigru
Tila Tilanala tila Tila tila tila
swarjika Svarjika sarjika Svarjika svarji mochaka
yava yava yava yava yava adraka
7/25/2021 KSHARA VARGAM, DR.MEENU SWAMINATH 15

16. KSHARA DASAKAM
Raja nigantu Rasa hrdaya tantra
Shigru shigru
Mulaka Mulaka
Palasha palasha
nimba kadali
chitraka tila
adraka adraka
chukrika/chincha chincha
Ikshu aswattha
Apamarga apamarga
mochaka mochaka
7/25/2021 KSHARA VARGAM, DR.MEENU SWAMINATH 16

17. 7/25/2021 KSHARA VARGAM, DR.MEENU SWAMINATH 17
GENERAL PROPERTIES OF KSHARA(R.T)
Rasa-katu
Guna-soumya,tiksna,agneya
Veerya-ushna
Varna-sukla
Doshagna-thridoshahara
Saveeryata avadhi-5 years
Anupana-madhu,jala as kshara is mutrala,dahakaraka,lekhana
Matra-2-4 ratti(250mg-1000mg)
Karma-Dahana, pachana, darana,
vilayana, shodana, ropana, shoshana.
Agnibhuta (fire elements) hence having
Teekshna property. Tejobhuta (agni
element) property predominantly hence it
is
having the property of corrosiveness
It consists of Sparsh Guna (consistency
property)due to its
predominance of Vayubhuta (wind
elements) and hence gives
quick action.

18. 7/25/2021 KSHARA VARGAM, DR.MEENU SWAMINATH 18
◦ Tiksna Virya & Ushna guna
◦ They can readily burn soft tissue so used in daha karma
◦ Judicious internal administration cures gulmam,arshas,grahani,mutrakrcchra,mutrashmari
◦ They have good krimigna guna
◦ They are good appetizers and digestives
◦ They cures visarpa roga
◦ They keeps wound clean and hastens process of healing
◦ Kshara are good diuretics as they encourage the function of kidney.
◦ if it is used in excess, it can result in impotency

19. KSHARA GUNA
7/25/2021 KSHARA VARGAM, DR.MEENU SWAMINATH 19
Sr no Rasa tarangini(14/62-63) charaka
samhita(27/366)
sushruta samhita (su.st11/16) Astanga hrdaya (su.st 24)
proper improper
proper improper
1 Tiksna Tiksna Nati-tiksna Atimrduta Nati-tiksna Atimrduta
2 mahosna Ushna Nati-mrdu Atiushnata Nati-mrdu Atiushnata
3 visarpana Laghu Nati -shuklata Atishweta Sita Atishweta
4 krimigna Ruksha Slaksna Atitiksnata Nati-ruksha Atitiksnata
5 pachana Kledi Picchila Atipicchila Picchila Atipicchila
6 Darana Dahana Abhisyandi Ativisarpita Avisyandi Ativisarpita
7 Shodhana Darana sheekrakarita Atisandrata Sukhanirvapya Atisandrata
8 Dahaka Lekhana Shiva Apakvata Sighra agni Apakvata
9 Mutrala Dipana shikari Heenadravyata slaksna Heenadravy
ata
10 ropana chedana - Atitanu sukhanirvapya
11 - - - - alparaktata

20. GENERAL METHOD OF PREPARATION ACC TO R.T
-t o
7/25/2021 KSHARA VARGAM, DR.MEENU SWAMINATH 20
SHOSHANA
Panchangas of
selected plant
collected and dried
under hot sun
AGNI
Dried plants cut
into small pieces
and burnt into ash
in wide mouthed
bigger vessel
&allowed to cool
STHAPANA
Ash measured and
mixed with 4 parts
of water in big
vessel,macerated
and kept
undisturbed
overnight
GALANA
Next day it is
decanted and
filtrered in triple
folded cloth
AGNI
Filtrate is boiled in
open large vessel
with constant
stirring and dried
into dry powder
form
ON THE BASIS OF SEASON OF PREPARATION:
1) Uttama (best) – Prepared in Greeshma
(summer season)
2) Madhyam (better) – Prepared in Sharad
(autumn season)
3) Adhama (bad) – Prepared in Varsha
(rainy season)

21. 7/25/2021 KSHARA VARGAM, DR.MEENU SWAMINATH 21
Sushruta
samhita
• 1:6
• Kept for over night
• 21 times
Yadav ji
trikamji
• 1:6
• Kept for overnight
• 21 times
Ayurveda
sara sangraha
• 1:8
• 2 to 3 days
• Filter with 4 fold cloth
• 7 times filtration
Saranghara
samhita
• 1:4
• Kept for over night
Ayurveda
prakasha
• 1:4
• Kept for over night
Rasa
tharangini
• 1:4
• Kept one over night
• Filter in 3 fold cloth
Various
opinion
of
prepara
tion

22. KSHARODAKA r.t 14
◦ The clear supernatant liquid decanted after galana is called ksharodaka
◦ Ksharodaka used for therapeutic purpose and also used for preparation of mridu,madhyama and Tiksna
kshara
◦ MRIDU KSHARA-Ksharodaka alone subjected to boiling and dry powder obtained
◦ MADYAMA KSHARA-Ksharodaka+(fine powder burned lime stone+sankha+sukti)-boiled & evaporated
and dry powder obtained(each added drug should 1/10th part of total drug ash)
◦ TIKSNA KSHARA-Ksharodaka+(fine powder burned lime stone+sankha+sukti)+fine
powder(danti+dravanti+chitraka+langali+putika+hingu)+pravala+vida+sauvarchala lavana-mixture boiled&
evaporated –fine dry powder obtained
◦ Mineral drug should be heated red hot and dip in1/3rd part of ksharodaka several times until attains fine
powder form.This mixture grounded well to fine kalka form and put into larger part of ksharodaka
7/25/2021 KSHARA VARGAM, DR.MEENU SWAMINATH 22

23. KSHARA PAKA PAREEKSHA
◦ Chakradatta-arsho chikitsa prakaranam
7/25/2021 KSHARA VARGAM, DR.MEENU SWAMINATH 23
If kshara burns the
eranda nala in 100 matra
kala
If burns before counting
100 matra kala
Doesnot show any burn
inspite of counting 100
matra kala
tiksna atitiksna mrdu
characters
Produce
different
tastes when
tasted
By touch
sheeta guna
hygroscopic

24. 7/25/2021 KSHARA VARGAM, DR.MEENU SWAMINATH 24
APAMARGA KSHARA

25. 7/25/2021 KSHARA VARGAM, DR.MEENU SWAMINATH 25
• Sarji kshara Yava kshara Tankana kshara Surya kshara
synonyms Svarjika,svarji,svarja,svarj
aka,svarji kshara,svarjika
kshara,sarji,sarjika,suvarc
hika,suvarchi,suvarcho,su
khojika,kapota,sukhavarc
ha,sukharjika,ruchaka,sa
uvarchala
Yavakshara,yavapatya,yavaja,ya
vasukaja,yavya,yavagraja,yavah
va,yavanalaja,yavasuka,yavasuk
o,sukaja,yavasukaja,yavya,paky
a
Tankana,tankanam,tanka,tanga,tangan
a,dravaka,tankana kshara,ranga-
kshara,ranga,rangada,loha-
shodana,swarna-
shodana,soubhagya,sitakshara,sweta-
kshara,tankaka,kshararaja
Soraka,sora,saiveha,soraka,sur
yakshara,vahnikshara
Chemical
name
Sodium bicarbonate
NaHCO3
Potassium carbonate
K2CO3
BORAX
Na2B4O710H2O
Sodium tetra borate decahydrate
Potassium nitrate (salt peter)
KNO3
PHYSICAL
PROPERTI
ES
Nature-amorphous
Colour-white
Taste-saline&burning
Solubility-completely
soluble in water
Nature-amorphous
Colour-white
Taste-acridly saline&cooling
Solubility-completely soluble
in water(insoluble in alcohol)
Nature-crystalline lumps
Colour-white
Taste-sweetish alkaline
Solubility-easily soluble in water
Nature-crystalline
pellets/powder
Colour-white to dirty grey
Taste-saline pungent
&cooling
Solubility-moderately soluble
in water,but its solubility
increases with temperature

26. 7/25/2021 KSHARA VARGAM, DR.MEENU SWAMINATH 26
Sarji kshara Yava kshara Tankana kshara Surya kshara
Method of
preparation
r.t
Panchangas of Ustrapriya(ksudra
duralabha)
(Chenopodiaceae,salicorniaceae,salsolace
ae)
collected and dried
↓
Burned to bhasma
↓
Mix with asta guna jala,macerated well
and kept overnight
↓
Next day filtered for 7 times
↓
Filtrate is kept in tivra agni and dried
↓
Himakundendu sankasa sarji
kshara(fine white powder)
Panchanga of yava collected
↓
Dried under hot sun
↓
Burned to bhasma
↓
Mix with asta guna jala and kept for
overnight
↓
Next day filtered for 7 times
↓
Filtrate is kept in tivra agni and dried
↓
Pandura prabha yava kshara
NIRMALIKARANA
1 part tankana+24 part water
↓
Solution filtered
↓
Heated filtrate in tivra agni till
neeram parishoshayet
↓
Stopped when swalpa neeramsha
sheshe
↓
dried in sun& nirmala tankana
obtained
SHODANA
5 pala tankana take in wide mouth
iron vessel ↓
Given agni with darvi prachalayan
↓
Supuspita nasta neera suddha
tankana
NIRMALIKARANA
1 part soraka+24 part water
↓
Solution filtered
↓
Heated filtrate in tivra agni till
neeram parishoshayet
↓
Stopped when swalpa
neeramsha sheshe
↓
dried in sun& vimala churna
sankasa soraka obtained
SHODANA
Asuddha soraka churna
↓
Bhavana in khalva yantra with
ela toya for 3 times
Later dried
↓
Suchurnita soraka choorna
Acc to rasamrita(8/27)
Panduram,siktakaram,karp
uradyam,shilajatu

27. 7/25/2021 KSHARA VARGAM, DR.MEENU SWAMINATH
27
Sarji kshara Yava kshara Tankana kshara Surya kshara
rasa Katu katu Katu Katu,lavana
guna Ushna,tiksna,laghu,ruksha Laghu,snigha,sara Ushna,ruksha,tiksna Tiksna,sara
virya Ushna ushna Ushna Ushna
dosh
agha
na
Vatahara,kaphanashaka Kapha-vata nashana Kapha vishleshaka,vatanashaka vata-kapha nashaka
karm
a
Kledana,pachana,deepana,che
dana,krimigna
Deepana,pachana,mutrala,hridya,s
weda pravartaka
Saraka,deepana,hridya,balya,pittak
rut
Deepana
dose 3 ratti-12 ratti(375mg-1.5gm) 3 ratti-10 ratti(375mg-1.25gm) 3 ratti-10 ratti(375mg_1.25gm) 2 ratti-10 ratti(250 mg to
1.25gm)
anup
ana
Jala,madhu,vasa svarasa,guda Jala,madhu,vasa svarasa,guda Jala,madhu,vasa svarasa,guda Gokshura
kashaya,mishreya,arka,sharkara
,nimbu varasa

28. 7/25/2021 KSHARA VARGAM, DR.MEENU SWAMINATH 28
Sarji kshara Yava kshara Tankana kshara Surya kshara
Therape
utic use
Shvas,Kasa,gulma,adhmana
,udara,vibandha,arshas,plih
a,vrana
Hridroga,pandu,grahani,pliha
roga,galaroga,kasa,arshas,viba
ndha,gulma,udara
,amashoola,ashmari,mutrakrcc
hra,vishadosha,anaha,adhman
a,kantha
roga,amlapitta,aupasargika
prameha,phala shotha,sweda
pravartaka,mutrala
Svasa,kasa,visha
nashaka,adhmana,stripushpa
janana,mutrakrcchra,vrana,moodhaga
rbha
Vidaghajeerna,ashmari,adhman
a,mutrakrcchra,agnimandya,pan
du,kamala,prameha
yogas Chandra prabha vati
Chitrakadi gulika
vajra kshara
Samudradi choorna
Chandraprabha vati(r.ra.su)
Samudradi choorna
Kantakari ghrta
Chitakadi gutika
Vajra kshara
Sankha vati(r.r.s)
Shadpala ghrta
Kshara tamra rasa
Tribuvanakeerti rasa
Swarnasutasekhara rasa
Svasakutara rasa
Mrtunjaya rasa
Ananthabhairava rasa
Amrutharnava rasa
Ardhanarishwara rasa
Trilokyachintamani rasa
Sarvanga sundara rasa
Pratapalangeswara rasa
Lokanatha rasa(b.r)
Kanakasundara rasa
Vishweta parpati
Nayanamritanjana
sphatikadi churna

29. 7/25/2021 KSHARA VARGAM, DR.MEENU SWAMINATH 29
Drug
j.l.n shastry
Botanical
name
rasa guna Virya vipaka karma
Apamarga Achyranthus
aspera
Tikta,katu Tiksna,sara ushna katu Kapha vata hara
Palasha Butea
monosperma
Tikta,kashaya,katu Laghu,snigha ushna katu Vata kapha hara
arshogna
Tila Sesamum indicum Madhura,kashaya,
tikta,katu
Guru,snigha,tiksn
a
ushna katu Vata hara
Snuhi Euphorbia
nerifolia
Katu Laghu,tiksna,snig
ha
ushna katu Kapha vata hara
Mulaka Raphenus sativus Katu Laghu,tiksna ushna katu Tridosha hara
Arka Calotropis
gigantea
Katu,tikta Laghu,ruksha,tiks
na
ushna katu Vata hara
Vacha Acorus calamus Katu,tikta Laghu,tiksna ushna katu Kapha-vata hara
Chitraka Plumbago
zeylanica
katu Laghu,ruksha,tiks
hna
ushna katu Vata-kapha hara
Mustaka Cyperus rotundus Tikta,katu,kashaya Laghu,ruksha sheeta katu Kapha-pitta

30. 7/25/2021 KSHARA VARGAM, DR.MEENU SWAMINATH 30
drug Botanical name rasa guna Virya vipaka Karma
Kutaja Holarrhena
antidysenterica
Tikta,kashaya Laghu,ruksha sheeta katu Kapha vata hara
Kadali Musa paradisiaca Madhura,kashaya guru sheeta Madhura vata pitta
shamaka,kapha
vardhaka
Chincha Tamarindus indica Madhura ,amla Guru,ruksha ushna amla Kapha vata
hara,deepana
Sigru Moringa olifera Katu,tikta Laghu,ruksha,tiksna ushna katu Kapha vata shamana
Adraka Zingiber officinale katu Guru,ruksha,tiksna ushna madhura Kapha hara
Aswattha Ficus religiosa Kashaya,madhura Guru,ruksha sheeta katu Kapha pitta
shamaka
Ikshu Saccharum
officinarum
madhura Guru,snigha sheeta madhura Vata pitta shamaka
Nimba Azadirachta indica Tikta kashaya Laghu,ruksha sheeta katu Pitta kapha hara
Mulaka Raphanus sativus Katu,tikta laghu ushna katu Tridosha hara
Padala Stereospermum
suaveolens
Tikta,kashaya Laghu,ruksha anushna katu Thridosha hara

31. 7/25/2021 KSHARA VARGAM, DR.MEENU SWAMINATH 31
Plant origin synonyms guna Amayika prayoga
Apamarga
kshara
Mayura,kharamanjarika,
kini
tiksna Svasa,gulma,sula,badhirya,lingarshas,switra,mutrakrcchra,mutrash
mari,pliha
Arka kshara Ravi,bhaskara,kharjughna,
mitra
tiksna good deepana pachana
gulma,pliha,ajeerna,svasa,kasa,yakrt vrddhi
Tila kshara Tilabhuti,homadhanyabhuti
pavitraksaraka
tiksna Mutraghata,mutra sarkara,pliha,vrana darana,vrkka shula,gulma
Snuhi kshara Snuhiikshara,snuk,vajra,
sehunda
tiksna Udara,gulma,jalodara,visuchika,ajeerna,udarasula,svasa,sotha,pliha
,agnimandya,yakrit roga
Palasa kshara Kimsuka,parna,triparna tiksna Gulma,pliha,yakrit vrddhi,mutrakrcchra,mutrashmari
Cincha
kshara
Amlika,cincika,cincika,amlii
ka,chinchabhuti
,chinchikabhasita,cincabhas
ma,tindibhasita
tiksna Agnimandya,gulma,udarasula,mutrakrcchra,mutrashmari,visuchika
,grahani,admana,udara sula,parinama sula,atisara

32. Modern concept
◦ Kshara are alkaline substances, which are of two kinds viz. NATURAL AND ARTIFICIAL.
◦ Natural are minerals and contains calcium, potassium, and sodium in different combinations.
◦ Artificial are those prepared by the ashes of certain plants like Yava, Apamarga etc.
◦ Both these kinds are caustic alkalis possessing the property of destroying the tissues by penetrating deep into
them.The advantage of this property is utilized in the treatment of abnormal growth of the tissues like
tumor, pile, masses of wounds. It destroys extra growth.
◦ An Alkali is a substance that has a high pH and tends to neutralise acids.. Generally calcium or limestone or
organic materials having calcium is utilized for the preparation of Kshara
◦ Herbal ashes generally contain sodium, potassium, carbonate, calcium oxide, magnesium and silica.
7/25/2021 KSHARA VARGAM, DR.MEENU SWAMINATH 32

33. 7/25/2021 KSHARA VARGAM, DR.MEENU SWAMINATH 33
On heating Carbonate decomposes into calcium oxide(CaO) (quick lime)&carbon dioxide(CO2) which escape
into air.
Panchanga ashes contain potassium & sodium carbonate (K2CO3 and Na2CO3)
Lime stones &sea shells contain calcium carbonate (CaCO3)
Calcium oxide reacts with water vigorously & gives calcium hydroxide(CaOH)(slaked lime), which is lime
water indeed
Calcium hydroxide reacts with Potassium/Sodium carbonate and gives rise to Calcium carbonate which
comes down as precipitate.
Potassiumhydroxide (KOH) remains in solution which may be concentrated by boiling to different extents.
CaCo3 → CaO + CO2↑
1. CaO + H2O→Ca (OH) 2
2. K2CO3 + Ca( OH)2→2KOH + CaCO3

34. 7/25/2021 KSHARA VARGAM, DR.MEENU SWAMINATH 34
Kshara is prepared by dissolving this ash in water and after filtering dried by the heat, in this process, an
insoluble substance like silica is being separated by the filtration and soluble substances like potassium
and sodium remain in the solution.
In this process when so many substances come in contact of each other, some of them get
decomposed and some new substances are being formed.
For example the Ksharana strength is more dependent on the preparation of hydroxides than that of
the carbonates. It means Kshara having more hydroxides are having more Ksharanam Shakti, hence it
is comparatively more ‘Tikshna’ so used externally only(pratisaraniya)
Kshaodaka (alkaline water) contains Sodium and Potassium hydroxides in traces hence prescribed
internally and can be said as ‘Paniya Kshara’.
Proportion of hydroxides can be increased in the Ksharas by the addition of lime stone, conch shell, etc.,
which are known to be having Calcium. These are added by heating and dissolving in the water, by which
chemical reaction is set up in the Kshara, the outcome of which is the transformation of some of them into
carbonates.

35. 7/25/2021 KSHARA VARGAM, DR.MEENU SWAMINATH 35
ANALYTICAL TEST
ORGANO LEPTIC
CHARACTER
Colour,taste,odour,appearance
PHYSICO CHEMICAL
TEST
Determination of ph,total ash
value,loss of drying,specific
gravity,refractive index
QUALITATIVE &
QUANTITATIVE TEST
Determination of
sodium,potassium
ion,carbonate&bicarbonate,
alkalinity
CHROMATOGRAPHIC
STUDY

36. 7/25/2021 KSHARA VARGAM, DR.MEENU SWAMINATH 36
KSHARA THERAPEUTIC UTILITY
TANKANA KSHARA
1.Physico-Chemical Standardization of Tankana
(Borax): An ayurvedic Mineral Drug
2.Tankana (Borax): It’s Therapeutic Value in
Gynecology
Tankana is also named as Kshararaja means it is corrosive in nature but not a strong
corrosive. Purified Tankan/Sodium Borate is known as a best bleaching agent &
anti-septic which helps in the removal of media for growth of pathogens.
Tankanakshara is commonly used kshara formulation to treat shula(pain),
anaha(flatulence), adhmana(general tympanitis), mutrakruccha(difficulty in
micturition), kanthavikara(diseases of throat) and amlapitta(acid-peptic disorder)
Shuddha tankana has great therapeutic/medicinal value as a potent expectorant,
anti-inflammatory, digestive, diuretic, antimicrobial , bone growth and maintenance
and is considered as an antidote for Aconite
SURYA KSHARA
1.Adopting innovative method and comparative
evaluation of swetha parpati mentioned in ayurvedic
literature
Vidagdhaajeerna (indigestion), Asmari (urinary calculi), Mutrakrichra
(urinary diseases), Agnimandya (loss of appetite), Panduroga (iron
deficiency anaemia), Prameha (urinary disorders/diabetis mellitus)
K+ ion which acts as an alkalinizer is the drug used in all conditions of
dysurea. Urinary tract alkalinizer; produces an alkaline load that increases
urinary pH and raises urinary citrate by augmenting citrate clearance
without measurably altering ultra filterable serum citrate; produces urine
that is less conducive to crystallization of stone-forming salts.

37. 7/25/2021 KSHARA VARGAM, DR.MEENU SWAMINATH 37
KSHARA THERAPEUTIC UTILITY
SARJIKA KSHARA
1.STUDY ON EFFECT OF AMALAKI CHURNA AND
SARJIKA KSHARA IN AMLAPITTA
It having Dipana,Pachana,anulomana properties
Mainly in sula,vibanda,admana,arshas
It is an alkaline neutalises the acid HCl and forms salt and
water.NaHCO3+HCL=NaCL+H2O+CO2
So it is used in the case of metabolic acidosis,gastric hypera
acidity,as an alkalinazation agent in urine,in
hyperkalemia,management of over dose of drugs including
tricyclic antidepressant and aspirin
So it can be specifically used in the case of amlapitta and its
management
YAVA KSHARA
1.TO EVALUATE THE POTENTIAL OF YAVA
PANEEYA KSHARA (ALKALI PREPARATION OF
BARLEY) ON NEPHROLITHIASIS – A PILOT
STUDY
Amlapitta, Aśmari, Mūtrakŗccra, Udaraśūla, Gulma, Arśas
It helps to neutralize the acidic media and prevents stone
formation. As the Yava Kshara is alkaline in nature which
changes the pH of the urine, this helps in preventing the
hyper-concentration of the urine.(vatika ashmari)

38. 7/25/2021 KSHARA VARGAM, DR.MEENU SWAMINATH 38
KSHARA THERAPEUTIC UTILITY
SNUHI KSHARA
1.PHARMACEUTICAL STANDARDIZATION OF
SNUHI (EUPHORBIA
NERIIFOLIA LINN.) KSHARA
Ajirna (indigestion), Jalodara (ascites), Yakrutdosa (hepatic
disorder)
sodium, chloride
and potassium ions are the main
component while carbohydrate, protein,
alkaloid, saponin, fixed oil and natural
steroid are primary constituents of Snuhi
Kshara
KADALI KSHARA
1.EFFECT OF KADALI KSHARA SUTRA IN THE
MANAGEMENT OF BHAGANDARA (FISTULA-IN-
ANO)
2.A COMPARATIVE CLINICAL TRIAL
OF CHINCHA KSHARA AND KADALI
KSHARA ON AMLAPITTA
Gulma (abdominal lump), Plihodara (spleenomegaly), Jirna
jwara (cronic fever), Sopha (inflamation)
Kadali has Madhura rasa, Guru and Snigdha guna, Sheeta
veerya, Madhura vipaka and Pitta-vatahara properties.

39. 7/25/2021 KSHARA VARGAM, DR.MEENU SWAMINATH 39
◦ .
KSHARA THERAPEUTIC UTILITY
APAMARGA KSHARA
1.PHARMACOGNOSTICAL STUDIES OF
APAMARGA (ACHYRANTHESASPERA LINN.)
AND IT’S TIKSHNA KSHARA
Chronic asthma ,Deafness, Flatulness,Polyp ,Vitiligo , Renal
calculus ,Enlarged mass ,Spleenomegaly.,piles
vomiting, bronchitis, heart diseases, piles, dysentery, blood
diseases
as laxative, tonic
MULAKA KSHARA
1.PHARMACEUTICAL STANDARDIZATION OF
MULAKA KSHARA: AN AYURVEDIC
PREPARATION
Mutrakrchra, Mutrashmari, Gulma
It is composed of Sodium, Potassium, Chloride, Sulphate,
Carbonate, Bicarbonate, Calcium and Magnesium
The Carbonate of potash is pungent, soft and light, it helps
discharge of urine. It is recommended for Intestinal
obstruction (Anaha), Anaemia, Asthma and Enlargement of
spleen. Its internal administration is said to dissolve urinary
calculi

40. 7/25/2021 KSHARA VARGAM, DR.MEENU SWAMINATH 40
KSHARA THERAPEUTIC UTILITY
ARKA KSHARA
1.CHEMICAL ANALYSIS OF ARKA KSHARA: A
HERBAL PREPARATION
Arka Kshara are potassium compounds like K2CO3 and K2SO4 and
the pH of it is 10.56 which shows its alkaline nature. When they
come in contact of water they may produce CO3 – and OH - .The
strong alkaline nature of the water soluble salts is due to presence of
potassium salts (CO3, OH)
antacid, digestive, carminative, krimighna (anti helminthic), medoghna
(lipolytic), used in cases of Ashmari (Urolithiasis), show styptic
activity, used for scrapping of unhealthy tissues in cases of chronic
ulcers by its medical debriding nature.
VASA KSHARA
1.PHARMACEUTICAL AND
PHYSICOCHEMICAL
STUDY OF VASA AND PALASHA KSHARA
Swasa, Kasa, Gulma, Udararoga, Switra,
Pharmacological activities of Vasa antispasmodic, hypotensive,
bronchodilator, respiratory stimulents, hypoglycemic, uterine
stimulant, antiviral, anti-insect, expectorant, antiseptic, antibacterial.
Vasa Kshara showed the presence of sodium, potassium, chloride,
carbonate ions, phosphate ions

41. 7/25/2021 KSHARA VARGAM, DR.MEENU SWAMINATH 41
KSHARA THERAPEUTIC UTILITY
TILA KSHARA
1.TILANALA KSHARA IN THE MANAGEMENT OF
BENIGN PROSTATIC
HYPERPLASIA (BPH) – A CASE STUDY
2.PHYSICAL AND PHYTO-CHEMICAL
EVALUATION OF STEM OF SESAMUM INDICUM
LINN (TILA NALA).
high content of potassium, thereby they act as diuretics, hence
relieves the obstruction present in
BPH.
Percentage of sodium, potassium and total alkalis present in
Tilanala Kshara are 2.68%, 29.43% and 34.12%
PALASHA KSHARA
1.PHARMACEUTICAL AND PHYSICOCHEMICAL
STUDY OF VASA AND PALASHA KSHARA
Palash Kshara, a reputed preparation of Ayurveda, valued for
the treatment of anthelmintic ,antiimplantation, antiovulatory,
abortificient, antigout, antiestrigenic, spasmogenic, antifungal,
antispasmodic, hypotensive, astringent, alterative, aphrodisiac,
antiasthmatic, and bactericidal.
Palasha kshara showed the presence of sodium, potassium,
chloride, and carbonate ions.

42. 7/25/2021 KSHARA VARGAM, DR.MEENU SWAMINATH 42
KSHARA THERAPEUTIC UTILITY
CHINCHA KSHARA
1.PRELIMINARY PHYSICO-CHEMICAL
PROFILE OF CHINCHA KSHARA
Agnimandya(poor digestive power), Shula (abdominal pain),
Gulma (abdominal lump), Mutrakrucchra(dysuria), and Ashmari
(renal calculi)
Chincha kshara is highly alkaline in nature with the pH more than
10. It is an inorganic compund containing more of
oxygen,sodium, magnesium and chorine with the lesser
amount of silicon, sulphur, potassium and calcium

43. KSHARA USAGE IN RASA SHASTRA
In Rasa Shastra (Ayurvedic Pharmaceutics) the Kshara plays its own role in different pharmaceutical
procedures such as Shodhana, Jarana, Marana etc.
Because of its alkalinity in nature, these substance help in the corrosion of unwanted material from the
desired product.
Kshara are known for their cleansing property. Hence, borax grouped under Sodhaniya Gana (drugs grouped
under purifiers) and is useful in preparation of metal extracts (Sattva), etc.
 In 8thcentury,Rasendra Mangala has described a general method for the purification of all Rasa drugs as to
triturate the drugs with Kshara (alkali), Sneha (fatty), Amla (acidic) media.
In Rasendra Mangala, there is use of Kshara for Rodhana,Murchana, Dipana, Niyamana, Utthapana
Samskara, which is intended to increase the potency of mercury.
Borax is also used in certain methods of purification of mercury explained in Rasa Tarangini.
7/25/2021 KSHARA VARGAM, DR.MEENU SWAMINATH 43

44. 7/25/2021 KSHARA VARGAM, DR.MEENU SWAMINATH 44
 KSHARAS ARE INCLUDED IN DIFFERENT VARGAS:
a. Ksharas are separately grouped in one Varga called kshara varga, which includes – Sarja kshara, yava kshara,
Tankana kshara and Surya kshara
b. Kshara is important drug in Dravaka gana and Mitrapanchaka. (Metal liquefying drugs)
c. Vida varga includes kshara
 KSHARA AS REAGENT FOR BHASMA TESTING
Apunarbhava is one of the important test for Bhasma of metallic origin in which prepared Bhasma is tested by
incinerating with Mitrapanchaka (five drugs-accumulators helpful to check the free metals, if present in prepared
Bhasma) and ensure that Bhasma does not come back to its original state (metallic form).Tankana, is one of the
important ingredient in Mitrapanchaka.
 KSHARA USED FOR THE PREPARATION OF LAVANA
Souvarchala lavana artificially prepared by mixing equal quantities of Sarjika Kshara and saindava lavana.

45. 7/25/2021 KSHARA VARGAM, DR.MEENU SWAMINATH 45
POTENTIAL OF KSHARA AS ANTIDOTE
Particularly, borax is known as an antidote for aconite (Vatsanabha) poison. Due to this antidotal
effect, Ayurveda Prakasa advocated triturating aconite with equal quantity of borax and it can be
used in all conditions without any risk of aconite complications. Yoga Ratnakara advised to mix
equal quantity of borax and double quantity of Piper nigrum to nullify any untoward effects of
aconite. It is also interesting to note that majority of aconite containing formulations contains borax
also as an ingredient in it like Agnitundi vati, Ananda Bhairava Rasa.As per Ayurveda Prakasa, for
subsiding the toxicity effects Kankustha (Mysore gambose tree– Garcinia morella), decoction of root of
Babbula (Acacia nilotica), Jiraka (Cuminnm cyminum)and purified borax are advised to be taken
internally as suggested by the same text. Rasa Tarangini suggested various antidotes for untoward
effects caused by administration of improperly prepared mercurial preparations .
KSHARA IN JARANA
◦ In the pharmaceutical process of metallic Bhasma formation(especially for Puti Louha- group of
metals having low meltingpoint viz. Vanga- Tin, Naag- Lead, Yashad- Zinc), Jarana(roasting)is
one of the intermediate process where Shodhita dhatu (purified metal) roasted with alkaline herbs
in which herbal drug get completely burned and Kshara of that herb help in the process of
Jarana.Jarana may be compared with “polling”process in which refining of crude metal is done
from its own oxide as impurity. It is a redox reaction with reduction being the dominant one.

46. 7/25/2021 KSHARA VARGAM, DR.MEENU SWAMINATH 46
 PARADA SAMANYA SHODANA:
During samanya shodana (General purification) of parada, parada is triturated with Nagavalli patra
rasa (Betel leaf), Ardraka rasa(Wet ginger) and Kshara traya (Sarja kshara, yavakshara and tankana
kshara) for 3 days.
 PARADA SAMSKARA
In Deepana samskara of Parada, Tankana kshara is used.
 PARADA KSHARA BHANDA:
In Kshara bhanda of Parada, kshara dravyas are used
 RASOUSHADHI NIRMANARTHA
Ksharas are used in the preparation of Rasoushadhies (compound formulations) for example Shudda
Tankana is used in the preparation of following Rasayogas – Anandabhairava Rasa, Mrutyunjaya
Rasa, Tribhuvana Keerthi Rasa, etc and even kshara parpati

47. KSHARA USAGE IN RASA SHASTRA
Kshara used Pharmaceutical process
Kshara Shodana of shilajatu R.R.S 2/116 Shodana of pravala R.R.S4/57-58
Parada samanya shodana R.T 5/34 Parada kshara bhanda R.R.S 11/70
Rasaushadi nirmanartha
Yava kshara Shodana of rajavarta R.R.S 4/7-8 Satva patana of kanshi R.R.S 3/63
Satva patana of kasisa R.R.S3/53
Tankana Shodana of haratala R.R.S 3/70-73 Satvapatana of gairika R.R.S 4/12
Shodhana of tamra,kantaloha A.P Satvapatana of makshika R.M 2/28
Marana of vajra R.N.V 6/85-86 Satvapatana of manahshila R.Cu 11/68
Marana of tuttha R.Cu 10/76 Satva patana of vaikranta R.R.S 2/68
Marana of abhraka R.R.S 2/19 Satvapatana of abhraka R.R.S2/28
Shodana of sasyaka R.R.S 2/124 Shodana of gouripashana R.T 11/137
Marana of visha A.P 6/60 Parada samskara R.H.T 2/11
7/25/2021 KSHARA VARGAM, DR.MEENU SWAMINATH 47

48. DIFFERENT FORMS OF KSHARA
In Ayurveda formulary of india
Apamarga kshara(su.su.11/11)
Kadali kshara(su.su11/11)
Kalyana kshara(a.h.chi.8/140-141)
Panaviraladi kshara(sahasra yoga)
Palasha kshara(su.su.11/11)
Mulaka kshara(su.ut.42/41)
Yava kshara(su ut 42/40-41)
Vajraka kshara(bhai.rat gulmadhikara63-65)
Vasa kshara(su.su 11/11)
7/25/2021 KSHARA VARGAM, DR.MEENU SWAMINATH 48
Kshara gutika
Kshara ghrta
Apamarga kshara taila
Kshira shatpala ghrta-yava kshara(a.h.chi 5/22-23)
Avitoladi bhasma(kshara)-sahasra yoga
Vajra kshara(b.r.gulmadikara-63)
Panaviraladi bhasma(ksara)-sahasrayoga
Kshara parpati (siddha yoga sangraha)
Kshara vasthi(chakradatta-nirudhadikara)
Kshara sutra(chakra datta)
Kshara varti-research work

49. LOHA VADA
rasa prakasha sudhakara 11/42-44,45-49,123-125)
7/25/2021 KSHARA VARGAM, DR.MEENU SWAMINATH 49
Prepare a musa
with an alloy
made of seven
metals,put
kshara bhasma
in it first and
kadali kshara
and apamarga
kshara in it
keep parada in
between and
put kshara
again on
parada
prepare
another musha
and keep one
musha inside
another,close
and seal
carefully in an
earthern pot
apply heat with
cow dung
powder
parada
converts into
solid state
and becomes
white like
vanga
it may stand to
hammering
and could be
melted easily
and quickly.
Prepare a
half tolaka
size
mudrika
with
inferior
quality gold
makshika,rasaka,tutth
aka,gairika,navasadar
a,surakshara,hingula
&tankana-bhavana
with
kasamardapusparasa,
streedugha
apply the
paste over
mudrika
take
suryakshara,dar
ada,tankana,and
saindava 1 part
each and istika
churna 2 parts
and mix well
mudrika
applied with
powder
kept in
sthali yantra
and heat for
3 yamas-
allow to
cool-on
rubbing the
mudrika
gold
colour
increase
and shine

50. 7/25/2021 KSHARA VARGAM, DR.MEENU SWAMINATH 50
rasa prakasha sudhakara
4 part svarjika kshara
4 yava kshara
4 tankana kshara
2 svetabhrak
2 manashila
_bhavana & mix with
kakamachi rasa
tapta pittala patra
immersed in this for 21
times-it will turns to rajata
tulya
mix the patra +sama
bhaga rajata+11 parts
mrdu vanga
SUDDHA RAJATA
OBTAINED
rasa jala nidhi(8)
Take equal parts of
parada,gandhaka,tamra,makshika,rasaka,
hingula,svarna-gairika,navasara,sura
kshara&manahshila- grinded well in
mortar
put these in
vajra musha
put rasaka
powder half
to above
mixture and
again closed
and given
musha for 4
ghatika
1 tolaka gold.

51. EKAMULIKA PRAYOGA
Role of Kshara (Alkalis) in the Ayurvedic Therapeutics as per Astanga
Hrudayam
◦ There are 39 different Kshara plants found in A.H
◦ 25 contexts where Kshara is used as an independent medicine.
◦ Among the formulations of Kshara, 5 compound Kshara formulations, 3 kshara predominant
formulations along with other 12 Churna (powders), 3 Vati (tablets), 24 ghrita (medicated ghee),
3 lehya (medicated candies) used in various ailments like cough,asthma, abdominal tumors,
irritable bowel syndrome, anaemia, goiter, diabetes mellitus, epilepsy, hernia,skin diseases,
certain diseases of ear, nose, oral cavity; pterigium and obesity etc.
7/25/2021 KSHARA VARGAM, DR.MEENU SWAMINATH 51

52. ARTICLES IN KSHARA
1.Review article :pharmaceutical utility of kshara in rasa shastra
2.A review on concept of kshara in Ayurveda
3.A critical review on historical aspect of kshara
4.Standardisation of method of preparation of apamarga kshara
5.Review on ksharastaka
6.Critical appraisal of kshara Kalpana
7.A critical study of ksharasutra preparation standardization and new developments
8.A ayurvedic Drugs in the Management of Hirsutism (Avanchita Roma) – A Review
9.Critical Review on Ksharaplota and its Therapeutic Aspects
7/25/2021 KSHARA VARGAM, DR.MEENU SWAMINATH 52

53. DISCUSSION
◦ A wide range of reference are there in classics
◦ Both internal &external administration
◦ Herbs used for extraction mostly are tikta-katu rasa pradhana,ushna virya,katu vipaka,vata-kapha hara
◦ Tiksnata of kshara can be maintained by adding suitable prativapa dravyas.
◦ Various method of preparations has been explained in different classical reference.
7/25/2021 KSHARA VARGAM, DR.MEENU SWAMINATH 53

54. CONCLUSION
◦ Wide range of usage can be done
◦ Restricted usage due to improper knowledge.
◦ Standardisation of preparation have to be done.
◦ Do more research and studies of kshara kalpana both pharmaceutically& therapeutically
7/25/2021 KSHARA VARGAM, DR.MEENU SWAMINATH 54

55. 7/25/2021 KSHARA VARGAM, DR.MEENU SWAMINATH 55