Arushkara (Arushka, Ashkara, Agnika, Bhallataka)

About

Semecarpus anacardium, known as Arushkara in Ayurveda, is a medicinal plant traditionally used for various ailments, including arthritis and skin disorders. It requires careful purification due to its semi-poisonous nature.

Properties

Anti-inflammatory activity, Antioxidant activity, Antimicrobial activity, Anticancer activity, Antidiabetic activity, Anti-hyperlipidemic activity, Wound healing, Neuroprotective

Dosage

The therapeutic dosage is between 1-3 Gunja/Ratti, equivalent to 1.2g of the drug in Ksheerapaka form. In a graduated way, the dose can range from 300 to 9000mg.

Classical attributes

• Rasa: Pungent, Astringent
• Virya: ["Hot"]
• Vipaka: ["Pungent"]

Benefits

• Digestive
• Anti-inflammatory
• Skin healing

Traditional uses

• Arthritis
• Skin diseases
• Tumors

Dosha effects

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

Preparation methods

• Purification (Shodhana): Ripe seeds are taken and put in water. The seeds that sink are used for purification, and the rest are discarded. The seeds are cut into two parts and kept immersed in dry brick powder for some time. The brick powder absorbs the pungent oil, reducing its pungency and making it usable for medicinal purposes. Soaking the nuts overnight in milk is another purification method.
• Traditional Ayurvedic Preparation: Bhallataka is administered after the patient's body has been smeared with cooling, unctuous, and sweet herbs. In the beginning, 10 fruits of Bhallataka should be well boiled in 8 parts of water until 1/8th of the water remains. It is then filtered, added with milk, and given to the patient after their mouth has been smeared with ghee. The number of fruits can be increased by one each day until it reaches thirty, and then decreased by one fruit per day until it returns to the original number of ten.
• Extraction Method: A traditional heating method can be used for extraction without solvents.

Contraindications

• Pregnancy
• Lactation
• Children
• Hypersensitivity/Allergy
• Pitta Aggravation
• Bleeding Disorders
• Diarrhea
• Nephritis

Side effects

• Arushkara can cause swelling, rashes, and itching, so direct skin contact should be avoided.
• Its hot potency means it should not be used in extremely hot weather.
• Overdose may be fatal within 12 to 24 hours.
• It should be avoided during pregnancy, lactation, and in small children because it may induce abortion.

Interactions

• The use of Arushkara should be restricted in the summer season.
• During Arushkara treatment, it is recommended to avoid exposure to the sun, heat, and excessive sex.
• Avoid salt and spices during the treatment.

Active compounds

• Biflavonoids
• Phenolic compounds
• Bhilawanols
• Anacardic acid
• Minerals
• Vitamins
• Amino acids
• Alkaloids
• Saponins
• Tannins
• Steroids
• Glycosides

Clinical evidence

One clinical study with 266 patients reported no toxicity. Animal studies have shown anti-inflammatory, analgesic, anti-diabetic, anti-tumor, and anti-microbial activities. Clinical trials are needed to validate its efficacy and safety.

Ayurvedic karmas

• Digestive
• Anti-inflammatory
• Skin healing

Classical clinical indications

• Arthritis
• Skin diseases
• Tumors

Frequently asked questions