Gostani (Gostani (Mridvika, Harahura))
Gostani, derived from Vitis vinifera, is a revered Ayurvedic herb known for its aphrodisiac properties and its ability to balance Kapha and Pitta doshas. It is also valued for its potential cognitive and cardiovascular benefits, as supported by modern research.
Botanical name: Vitis vinifera. Also known as: Draksha, Mrdvika, Swaduphala, Madhurasa, Gostani, Madhuyoni, Guda, Vrashya, Krishna, Priyala, Tapasapriya, Charuphala, Harahura, Kashmeerika, Karamardika, Angoor, Dakh, Munakka, Grapes, Wine Grape, European Grape, Dry grapes, Raisins, Draksha, Manukka, Drakh, Darakh, Maneka, Drakshai, KottaiDrakshai, Diratchai, Draksha, Draksa, Draksha, Drakshi, Ona Drakshi, Munaca.
Properties
Antioxidant activity, Anti-inflammatory activity, Cardioprotective effects, Improved blood vessel function
Dosage
The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India recommends 5-10 g of dried mature fruits. Classical texts praise fresh grape juice mixed with ginger decoction. Draksha powder can be taken in doses of 5g daily. In children, dosages are comparatively less than adults due to factors like underdeveloped tissues and weaker digestive fire.
Classical attributes
- Rasa: Madhura (Sweet)
- Virya: ["Shita (Cooling)"]
- Vipaka: ["Madhura (Sweet)"]
Benefits
- Vrishya (Aphrodisiac)
- Balya (Tonic)
- Pittashamaka (Pitta pacifier)
- Kaphahara (Kapha reducer)
Traditional uses
- Weakness
- Reproductive disorders
- Burning sensations
Dosha effects
- vata: balancing
- kapha: decreasing
- pitta: balancing
Preparation methods
- Fresh: Grapes can be consumed fresh. Fresh grape juice can be mixed with ginger decoction.
- Dried (Raisins): Draksha is often used in its dried form (raisins). Dried grapes can be soaked in water overnight and consumed the next morning.
- Powder: Draksha powder can be ingested.
- Juice: Grape juice is a common preparation.
- Wine: Grapes are used in wine production.
- Other: Grapes can be processed into jam, jelly, grape seed extract, and vinegar. They are also used in various Ayurvedic formulations like Arishtas (alcohol-based tonics).
- Grape-seed oil: Can be used to eliminate symptoms of dry mouth.
Contraindications
- Sweet grape varieties might elevate glucose levels in susceptible individuals. Diabetics should use dried raisins with caution, monitor blood sugar levels, reduce the dose to 3-6g, and consult their practitioner.
- Some individuals may experience histamine responses like hives or nasal congestion due to sensitivity to grape proteins.
- Excessive grape intake (above 100 ml juice daily) could lead to diarrhea or loose stools.
- Resveratrol, a compound found in grapes, may potentiate anticoagulants like warfarin, increasing the risk of bleeding.
- Ayurveda advises against consuming grapes with milk, especially sour varieties.
- Check with an Ayurvedic doctor before using Draksha if you have kidney issues.
- Unripe grapes may worsen bleeding disorders.
- Avoid unripe and overripe fruits.
- Draksha arishta contains a mild amount of alcohol (2–5%), it should be avoided by those who completely abstain from alcohol.
- Pregnant women should consult their Ayurvedic doctor before using Draksha juice, although it's generally considered safe in moderation.
Side effects
- Grapes are generally considered safe, but it is best consumed in moderation, especially in cases of diabetes and Kapha imbalance.
- Unripe and overripe fruits should be avoided.
- Charaka advises against combining grapes with milk because the sourness of grapes can curdle the milk, making it difficult to digest.
- Some experts warn that certain Ayurvedic medicine preparations can contain toxic levels of heavy metals.
Interactions
- Grapes may interact with blood thinners and blood pressure medicines.
- Due to potential increased potassium loss, use with thiazide and loop diuretics should be monitored.
- Arishtas and Asavas (alcohol-based formulations) may interact with aspirin and NSAIDs, increasing the risk of gastric mucosal damage and bleeding. They may also cause a disulfiram-like reaction with certain medications like metronidazole and sulfonylureas.
- Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional or Ayurvedic practitioner before taking Gostani, especially if you are taking other medications or have underlying health conditions.
- Simultaneous use of herbs and medications may magnify or counteract the effects of medications.
Clinical evidence
Meta-analyses of up to 5 RCTs and databases tracking 10+ RCTs show that Vitis vinifera, particularly Cognigrape®, may improve cognitive function, cardiovascular health, and support in managing type 2 diabetes. Studies indicate benefits for cognitive performance, blood pressure reduction, and symptom relief in chronic venous insufficiency.
Ayurvedic karmas
- Vrishya (Aphrodisiac)
- Balya (Tonic)
- Pittashamaka (Pitta pacifier)
- Kaphahara (Kapha reducer)
Classical clinical indications
- Weakness
- Reproductive disorders
- Burning sensations