Ayurvedic

Preparations:
Bhasma, Avaleha,
Asava, and Arishta
Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of medicine, utilizes a variety of
specialized preparations to address various health concerns. Among
these are bhasma, avaleha, asava, and arishta - each with its own unique
method of preparation and evaluation. In this comprehensive guide, we
will explore the intricate processes behind these Ayurvedic formulations
and the principles governing their assessment.

by CHETANA BALSARAF
Bhasma: Preparation and
Evaluation
1 Purification
The journey of creating a bhasma begins with the meticulous purification of
the raw material, often a metal or mineral. This stage involves a series of
specialized techniques, such as shodana (detoxification) and maarana
(incineration), to remove impurities and enhance the therapeutic properties
of the substance.

2 Calcination
The purified material is then subjected to a process of calcination, known as
marana, which transforms the substance into a fine, ash-like powder. This
intense heating process alters the chemical composition of the raw material,
making it more bioavailable and suitable for therapeutic use.

3 Evaluation
The final bhasma is evaluated through a series of rigorous tests, both
physical and analytical, to ensure its purity, potency, and safety. This
includes examining the color, texture, and particle size, as well as
conducting chemical analyses to verify the absence of harmful
contaminants.
Avaleha: Preparation and Evaluation
Formulation
Avaleha is a semi-solid
Ayurvedic preparation that
combines various herbs,
minerals, and other natural
ingredients into a confection-
like consistency. The specific
ingredients and their
proportions are carefully
selected to target specific
health concerns and to
enhance the overall
therapeutic efficacy of the
formula.
Processing
The preparation of avaleha
involves a multi-step process
that includes decoction,
reduction, and the addition of
various sweetening agents,
such as jaggery or honey. This
intricate process ensures the
optimal extraction and
preservation of the active
compounds from the raw
materials.
Evaluation
Avaleha is evaluated based on
its sensory properties, such as
color, aroma, taste, and
consistency, as well as its
adherence to traditional
Ayurvedic guidelines.
Analytical tests may also be
conducted to verify the
presence of key
phytochemicals and to ensure
the absence of contaminants.
Asava and Arishta: Preparation and
Evaluation
1 2 3

Fermentation Maturation Evaluation

Asava and arishta are
Ayurvedic fermented
preparations that utilize the
natural process of
fermentation to extract and
concentrate the therapeutic
compounds from various
herbs and other natural
ingredients. This
fermentation step is crucial in
enhancing the bioavailability
and potency of the final
product.
The fermented liquid is then
allowed to mature over an
extended period, during
which time the chemical
composition and therapeutic
properties of the preparation
continue to evolve. This
maturation process is closely
monitored to ensure the
optimal development of the
desired qualities.
Asava and arishta are
evaluated based on their
sensory properties, such as
color, aroma, and taste, as
well as their adherence to
traditional Ayurvedic
guidelines. Analytical tests
may also be conducted to
verify the presence of key
bioactive compounds and to
ensure the absence of any
microbial contamination.