Abstract

Suhas S. Pakhare* and Rudresh G. Karhe

ABSTRACT

Laghu Sootashekhara Rasa is an important Ayurvedic medicine widely employed in the management of diseases like Amla Pitta, Agnimandya, Atisara, Gulma, Kasa, Grahani and Shirshool. Classical literature refers to four various preparations under the name Sootashekhara Rasa, as well as a variant known as Laghu Sootashekhara Rasa. The Laghu Sootashekhara Rasa consists of many compounds of mineral, vegetable and animal origin. Tikta, Kashaya and Madhura rasas dominate most of the ingredients of Laghu Sootashekhara Rasa, which are reputed to calm Pitta and Kapha doshas. Madhura rasa neutralizes the pungency of aggravated Pitta, gives a calming effect, increases strength and balances Vata doshas and eliminates burning sensations. The Vata pacifying effects relieves Shirshool and Madhura rasas pacify symptoms of pain and inflammation associated with Shirshool. Laghu Sootashekhara Rasa provides Snigdha nature and cooling potency thus helps to calm down aggravated Dosha. This article explores Ayurvedic properties of Laghu Sutshekar Ras and its clinical role in Shirshool.