Introduction
Ayurveda is an old Indian restorative framework that advances all-encompassing wellbeing by cultivating adjustment among the body, intellect, and soul. It depends on characteristic strategies to avoid and treat infections. Bhaishajya (medication) is kept in the moment position among the Padchatushtya since it has an awesome part in treatment. Ayurvedic drugs are based on plants, creatures' extricates and minerals, both in single-fixing drugs and compound details. Ayurvedic compound definitions are basically partitioned into two bunches, viz. Kasthausadhi (homegrown) and(2). Rasausadhi (herbo-mineral).(1,2) In Ayurveda, there are five essential strategies (kalpanas) for the arrangement of pharmaceuticals, i.e., Swarasa (juice), Kalka (glue of herbs), Kwatha (decoction), Hima (cold mixture) and Phanta (hot mixture), known as Panchavidha Kashaya Kalpana. All kalpanas are basically based on water substance or water-dissolvable portions. Since Panchvidh kashay kalpana has a brief term of expiry. The definitions which can be protected for the long term and can be managed helpfully are specified in Samhitas as Churna, Vati, Leha, Sneha and Sandhan.3
Sneh Kalpana Sneh-Fat/Fatty Material, Kalpana – Pharmaceutical Process of Medicine. Sneh Kalpana is a pharmaceutical process in which the active ingredients of a drug are absorbed into a lipid-based medium (Sneha), allowing for both internal and external therapeutic application. In Ayurvedic pharmaceutics, four types of Sneha Dravyas (lipid-based media) are utilised: Ghrita (ghee), Taila (oil), Vasa (adipose tissue or muscle fat), and Majja (bone marrow), each selected based on the therapeutic requirements of the formulation. Among the four types of snehas, Ghrita (clarified butter) and Taila (oil) are most commonly used. Ghrita is the best among chaturvidh sneha.Consist of two words. Sneh-Fat/Fatty Material, Kalpana – Pharmaceutical Process of Medicine. Sneh Kalpana is a pharmaceutical process in which the active ingredients of a drug are absorbed into a lipid-based medium (Sneha), allowing for both internal and external therapeutic application. In Ayurvedic pharmaceutics, four types of Sneha Dravyas (lipid-based media) are utilised: Ghrita (ghee), Taila (oil), Vasa (adipose tissue or muscle fat), and Majja (bone marrow), each selected based on the therapeutic requirements of the formulation. Among the four types of snehas, Ghrita (clarified butter) and Taila (oil) are most commonly used. Ghrita is the best among chaturvidh sneha.
AIM OF SNEH KALPANA
- To extract the lipid-soluble active constituents from medicinal substances (drugs).
- To utilize the therapeutic properties of ghee (Grita) or oil (Taila) as vehicles (anupana) in the formulation.
- To improve the stability and extend the shelf life of Sneha-based preparations.
- To enhance the bioavailability and absorption of the active pharmaceutical ingredients.
- To improve the organoleptic properties of the formulation, including taste and aroma, thereby increasing patient compliance.(4,5)
General Method of Preparation of Sneh Kalpana - The process is based on the Siddha Sneha Lakshana, i.e., the characteristics of a properly prepared medicated oil or ghee. The general method involves the boiling of herbal paste (Kalka), liquid (Drava), and fat (Sneha Dravya) together until the desired characteristics are obtained.
Ingredients Required- Sneha Dravya (Fat base): Taila (e.g., Mustard oil, Sesame oil) or Ghrita (ghee or clarified butter), Kalka (Herbal paste). Finely ground paste of the prescribed herbs Drava Dravya (Liquid medium): Decoction (Kashayam), juice (Swarasa), or other liquid forms of drugs. Standard Ratio : Kalka : Sneha : Drava = 1 : 4 : 16
Preparation of Kalka: Take fresh or dried herbs and grind them with a small amount of water to make a smooth paste. Mixing: Mix the Sneha (fat), Kalka (herbal paste), and Drava (liquid) in a wide-mouthed vessel (usually made of stainless steel or copper lined with tin). Heating: Heat the mixture gently over a moderate fire. Stir continuously to prevent charring or sticking at the bottom. Maintain the temperature to avoid foaming or overheating. Observation: Continue heating until all moisture content evaporates and only the medicated fat remains. Use Siddha Lakshanas (tests for completion), such as: Absence of froth or sound (indicates water has evaporated). Kalka forms a Varti (wick) without cracking. Medicated Sneh when dropped in water should not crackle. The smell, color, and taste change appropriately. Filtration: Filter the hot oil through a muslin cloth to remove residues. Collect and store in a clean, dry, airtight glass or plastic container. The whole process of Paka should be carried out on a mild to moderate flame. Store in a cool, dry place away from sunlight.
Three Stages of Paka are specified for therapeutic purposes. a. Mrudu Paka: In this stage, the Kalka looks waxy and when rolled between fingers, it rolls like lac without sticking. The Taila obtained at this stage is used for Nasya [Nasal instillation]. b. Madhyama Paka: In this stage, the Kalka becomes harder and rolls in to Varti. It burns without crackling sounds when exposed to fire and Phena [Froth] will appear over the Taila. Taila obtained at this stage is used for P¡na [Internal administration] and Basti [Enema]. c. Khara Paka: Further heating of the Taila, leads to Khara Paka. Kalka becomes brittle when rolled in between fingers. The Taila obtained at this stage is used only for Abhyangya or Karnapurana.[External application].
The period of Paka depends upon the nature of liquid media used in the process.
Shelf life: The shelf life - date of expiry of any medicated Grita or Tail is sixteen month or it can be determined on the basis of scientific data, Ghrita 2 years Taila 3 years on basis of the nature of liquid media used in the process.
Applications of Sneh Kalpana- Internal Use (Pana) – e.g., Brahmi Ghrita, used for cognitive function. External Use (Abhyanga, Nasya, Basti,Lepa) – e.g., Mahanarayana Taila for massage, Ark Tail for dermal application or Karnapurana.(6,7,8)
Sneh Murchana - Sneh Murchana is a preliminary process done before the preparation of Sneha Kalpana (medicated oil or ghee) to purify and stabilize the Sneh base (Taila or Ghrita). The term "Murchana" means detoxification or refinement of Sneha Dravya to enhance its medicinal qualities and shelf life.
Purpose of Sneh Murchana-
- Removes impurities, bad Odor, and undesirable properties from the oil or ghee.
- Improves absorption, taste, smell, and colour.
- Prevents early rancidity or spoilage.
- Enhances the therapeutic efficacy of the Sneha.
General Ingredients for Murchana of Sneha - Based on classical texts (like Sharangadhara Samhita), the herbs commonly used for Murchana of Taila or Ghrita are:
- Haridra (Turmeric) – Anti-inflammatory, antioxidant
- Haritaki (Terminalia chebula) – Detoxifying
- Amalaki (Emblica officinalis) – Antioxidant, rejuvenating
- Bibhitaki (Terminalia bellirica)- Anti-inflammatory, Antibacterial
- Mustaka (Cyperus rotundus) – Digestive, anti-spasmodic
- Lodhra (Symplocos racemosa) – Astringent
- Manjistha (Rubia cordifolia) – Blood purifier
- Chandana (Santalum album) – Cooling, aromatic
These herbs vary slightly depending on whether Ghrita or Taila is being murchita (processed).
Procedure for Sneh Murchana- Prepare a decoction (Kashaya) using the selected Murchana herbs. Take Sneha Dravya (Oil or Ghee) in a wide vessel. Add the herbal decoction and a small amount of Kalka (paste of some herbs). Heat the mixture over a mild flame with constant stirring. Continue heating until all moisture evaporates and only the purified Sneha remains. Filter the final product and store it.
According to the Bhaishajya Ratnavali the process of Murchana (refining) of Sneha (medicated oils or ghee) involves specific proportions of Kalka (herbal paste), Sneha (oil or ghee), and Drava Dravya (liquid medium).
Proportions for Murchana of Sneha
Drava Dravya (Liquid Medium)
|
Kalka Quantity (Relative to Sneha)
|
Jala (Water)
|
1/4th
|
Kwatha (Decoction)
|
1/6th
|
Swarasa (Herbal Juice)
|
1/8th
|
Godugdha (Milk), Dadhi (Curd), Mamsarasa (Meat Juice), Takra (Buttermilk)
|
1/8th + 4 parts Jala
|
These proportions are considered to optimize the extraction and potency of the medicinal properties of the herbs used in the preparation of Sneha.
Signs of Proper Murchita Sneha – a. Clear, bright oil or ghee b. Free from froth, odor, or stickiness c. No unpleasant smell d. Longer shelf life.(9-12)
Sneh Kalpana Ark Tail For External Application :
Sneha kalpana, a classical Ayurvedic pharmaceutical procedure, has been effectively employed for centuries in the management of various neurological and dermatological disorders. This therapeutic modality involves the processing of medicinal substances into lipid-based formulations, primarily using ghee (ghrita) or oil (taila) as vehicles.
In the context of dermatological conditions, the selection of specific medicated oils is determined based on the nature, aetiology, and severity of the disease, as well as the patient's Prakriti (constitutional type) and Doshic imbalance. These medicated oils, prepared through meticulous procedures outlined in Ayurvedic texts, are known to facilitate transdermal absorption of bioactive compounds, exerting anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and immunomodulatory effects.
The targeted use of these lipid-based formulations in Sneha kalpana not only aids in restoring skin integrity and function but also contributes to systemic detoxification and the pacification of aggravated doshas, particularly pitta and vata, which are commonly implicated in skin disorders.
One of the effective formulations under the classical Ayurvedic category of Snehakalpana for topical (dermal) application is Arka Taila. This medicated oil is referenced in several authoritative Ayurvedic texts with variations in nomenclature and specific indications:
- Sharangadhara Samhita (Taila Prakarana, ) refers to the formulation as Arka Taila.
- Bharat Bhaishajya Ratnakar (Akaradi Taila Prakarana) lists a similar preparation under the name Arka Patra Rasa Tailam.
- Vangasena Samhita (Kushtha Roga Adhikara) describes the oil as Madar Taila.
- Yogaratnakara (Kushtha Chikitsa Adhyaya) also cites Arka Tailam with therapeutic applications.(13-18)
These classical texts recommend Arka Taila in the management of dermatological conditions such as Vicharchika (eczema), Pama (scabies), and Kandu (pruritus or itching). In addition, Rasaratna Samuchchaya (Karna-Nasa-Mukha Roga Chikitsa Adhyaya) prescribes Arkapatra Swarasa Siddha Taila specifically for Karna Shula (earache).
Composition and Pharmacological Basis:
The formulation of Arka Taila is notably simple yet pharmacologically potent. It comprises three primary ingredients:
- Arka Patra Swarasa (juice of Calotropis procera or C. gigantea) – the principal bioactive component, known for its anti-inflammatory, antipruritic, and antimicrobial properties.
- Haridra (Curcuma longa, turmeric) – a well-established anti-inflammatory and antioxidant agent, rich in curcuminoids, particularly curcumin.
- Sarshapa Taila (Brassica juncea, mustard oil) – used as the lipid base, it facilitates transdermal absorption and possesses rubefacient and antimicrobial activity.
The formulation process involves Swarasa Siddhi, wherein the fresh juice of Arka leaves is processed with Haridra and mustard oil through controlled heating, enhancing the bioavailability of the phytoconstituents.
The classical formulation of Arka Taila includes:
- Arka Patra Swarasa: Fresh juice extracted from the leaves of Calotropis gigantea/C. Procera (commonly known as Arka).
- Haridra Kalka: A paste made from dried turmeric (Curcuma longa).
- Sarshapa Taila: Mustard oil (Brassica nigra).
Method of Preparation of Arka Taila
The preparation process follows the classical Ayurvedic method of Sneha Paka, which involves several key steps: It is recommended to do Sarshap tail murchana before preparation of Ark tail
Ingredients for Sarshap tail (Katu Tail ) Murchana
Dravya (Drugs)
|
Latin Name
|
Part Used
|
Amalaki
|
Emblica officinalis
|
Fruit
|
Haridra
|
Curcuma longa
|
Rhizome
|
Mustaka
|
Cyperus rotundus
|
Rhizome
|
Bilva
|
Aegle marmelos
|
Fruit
|
Dadima
|
Punica Granatum
|
Bees(seeds)
|
Nag Keshar
|
Mesue ferrea
|
Puspkalika (flower)
|
Krushna Jirak
|
Nigella Sativa
|
Bees(seeds)
|
Hribera/Netra bala
|
Pavonia odiorata
|
Root
|
Nalika/Naluka
|
Nelumbo Nucifera
|
Stem
|
Bibhitaki
|
Terminalia bellirica
|
Fruit
|
Manjistha/Aruna
|
Rubia Cordifolia
|
Stem
|
The Murchana of Sarį¹£apa Taila should be performed using the Sneha Murchana process.
- Extraction of Arka Patra Swarasa:
- Fresh Arka leaves are cleaned and ground with water to extract the juice.
- The juice is filtered and collected for use in the preparation.
- Preparation of Haridra Kalka:
- Fresh Haridra Rhizome or Dried turmeric is powdered and mixed with a small amount of water to form a paste.
- Sneha Paka (Oil Preparation):
- Mustard oil is heated gently to remove any moisture content. Recomnded to take Murchit Sarshap (Mustard) oil.
- The Haridra Kalka is added to the heated oil and stirred continuously.
- Arka Patra Swarasa is gradually introduced into the mixture.
- The mixture is heated on low flame (Mandagni) until it reaches the Kharapaka stage, characterized by the oil's consistency and the absence of crackling sounds when tested.
- The preparation is then cooled and filtered to obtain the final Arka Taila.
Therapeutic Properties
Arka Taila is known for its following attributes:
- Rasa (Taste): Katu (pungent) and Tikta (bitter)
- Guna (Qualities): Ruksha (dry), Laghu (light), and Tikshna (sharp)
- Virya (Potency): Ushna (hot)
- Vipaka (Post-digestive effect): Katu (pungent)
- Dosha Effect: Balances Vata and Kapha doshas, especially at the level of the skin.
These properties make it effective in treating conditions like itching, scabies, and eczema.
Arka Taila, due to its synergistic pharmacodynamic profile, is traditionally employed for its Kusthaghna (anti-dermatotic), Kandughna (anti-pruritic), and Shothahara (anti-inflammatory) actions. Its simplicity, ease of preparation, and clinical efficacy render it a valuable therapeutic agent in the Ayurvedic management of cutaneous and ear disorders.(19-22)