Arghyasta (Aragvadha)

About

Arghyasta, scientifically known as Coffea arabica, is an Ayurvedic herb traditionally valued for its potential health benefits. Modern research is exploring its effects on cognitive function, metabolic health, and antioxidant properties.

Properties

Central nervous system stimulation (caffeine), Antioxidant activity (chlorogenic acids, polyphenols), Modulation of glucose absorption (chlorogenic acids), Increased Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (WCFC)

Dosage

Roasted Bean Brew: 1–2 teaspoons (5–10 g) of ground beans per 150 mL of water. Leaf Tea: Lightly roast 10 g of fresh leaves and steep for 5–7 minutes. Standardized Extract Capsules: 200–400 mg dry extract (equivalent to 60–120 mg caffeine). Decaf Powder: 1–2 g daily. Green Coffee Extract: Up to 1000 mg daily has been used safely for up to 12 weeks. Svetol (a specific green coffee extract) has been used at doses up to 200 mg five times daily for up to 12 weeks.

Classical attributes

• Rasa: Kashaya (Astringent), Tikta (Bitter)
• Virya: ["Ushna (Heating)"]
• Vipaka: ["Katu (Pungent)"]

Benefits

• Deepana (Appetizer)
• Pachana (Digestive)
• Medhya (Nootropic)
• Shothahara (Anti-inflammatory)

Traditional uses

• Kapha disorders
• Pitta disorders
• Digestive weakness
• Cognitive impairment
• Inflammation

Dosha effects

• vata: balancing
• kapha: decreasing
• pitta: decreasing

Preparation methods

• Roasted Bean Brew: Heat filtered water to 90°C to 96°C. For a pour-over, place a filter in the dripper, add ground coffee, and slowly pour hot water over the grounds in a circular motion. For a French press, add coffee grounds to the carafe, pour hot water over them, stir, and let steep for 4 minutes before pressing the plunger down.
• Leaf Tea: Lightly roasting fresh leaves before steeping them in hot water creates a gentler brew.
• Cold Brew: Ground beans are steeped in cold water for 12–16 hours, resulting in a less acidic and easily digestible beverage.
• Arabic Coffee: Preparation involves boiling water, adding coffee and cardamom, reducing heat, and filtering the mixture after boiling for about 15 minutes. Variations include adding saffron, rose water, or spices.
• Ayurvedic Coffee Elixir: A blend of almonds, cardamom, ginger, vanilla powder, sea salt, plant milk, espresso coffee, filtered water, and maple syrup.

Contraindications

• It's crucial to exercise caution and consult a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner before use.
• Pregnant and breastfeeding women should limit their intake to less than 100 mg of caffeine per day or consider caffeine-free alternatives. Caffeine can imbalance Vata.
• It is best to avoid giving stimulants to children.
• High doses of caffeine (>200 mg per serving) can cause insomnia and jitteriness and may aggravate anxiety or panic disorders.
• The high acidity of coffee can irritate the gastric mucosa. People with ulcers or GERD should choose low-acid preparations.
• It can cause temporary tachycardia or elevated blood pressure, so caution is advised for individuals with uncontrolled hypertension.
• Excessive intake (more than 6 cups a day) might impair calcium absorption over time, which is important to consider for those with osteoporosis risk.
• In rare cases, it may exacerbate psychosis.
• It can interact unpredictably with MAO inhibitors, beta-blockers, and thyroid medications. Consult a doctor if you are on these medications.
• The caffeine in green coffee might worsen anxiety, bleeding disorders, and diarrhea. People with diabetes and epilepsy should use caffeine with caution.

Side effects

• Insomnia and Jitteriness
• Gastrointestinal Upset
• Cardiovascular Effects
• Bone Mineral Impact
• Anxiety and Agitation
• Digestive Issues
• Headache

Interactions

• Stimulant Drugs
• Antidepressants
• MAO Inhibitors
• Medications that slow blood clotting
• Other Herbs
• Aspirin and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
• Alcohol
• Nicotine

Active compounds

• Caffeine
• Chlorogenic Acids (CGAs)
• Trigonelline
• Polyphenols

Clinical evidence

Meta-analyses of up to 10 RCTs and databases tracking 17+ RCTs show Coffea arabica and its extracts can improve cognitive functions, potentially reduce metabolic syndrome markers, and offer cardiovascular benefits. Evidence also suggests positive effects on the gut microbiome and antioxidant activity. A Phase II clinical trial is underway for insomnia.

Ayurvedic karmas

• Deepana (Appetizer)
• Pachana (Digestive)
• Medhya (Nootropic)
• Shothahara (Anti-inflammatory)

Classical clinical indications

• Kapha disorders
• Pitta disorders
• Digestive weakness
• Cognitive impairment
• Inflammation

Frequently asked questions