Ashta Choornam: Uses, Benefits and Side Effects By Dr. Rajeev Singh
By Dr Rajeev Singh +2 more
Medically reviewed by Dr Rajeev Singh
Last updated: Apr 23, 2024Click to rate this article!
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By Dr Rajeev Singh +2 more
Medically reviewed by Dr Rajeev Singh
Last updated: Apr 23, 2024Table of Contents
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), 80% of the people in developing countries like India use traditional medicines for their healthcare needs. These traditional medicines are primarily plant medicines. Due to the growing awareness of natural products, their demand has recently increased in both developing and developed countries. This is because of the availability of affordable plant-based medicine, along with the fact that they have very few side effects and are often non-narcotic.
Among various plant-based medicines, choorna has gained a lot of popularity in recent times. Choornas are a mixture of powdered plants that have several properties. Ashta choornam or choorna is one of the types of choorna. It is a polyherbal formulation made out of eight ingredients. Formulations that include several medicinal herbs to increase their therapeutic effect are called polyherbal formulations.1
Let us see the eight ingredients that make ashta choornam and what their amazing benefits are!
| Herbs | Quantity |
| Carum coptycum | 125 g |
| Cuminum cymium | 125 g |
| Ferula asafetida | 125 g |
| Nigella sativa | 125 g |
| Piper longum | 125 g |
| Piper nigrum | 125 g |
| Zingiber officianale | 125 g |
| Rock salt | 125 g |
Table 1: Nutritional components of ashta choornam
To prepare ashta choornam, all the materials are dried, powdered and filtered. These powdered ingredients are then equally weighed (125g each) and mixed properly. This preparation is often consumed with ghee, honey, hot water or buttermilk.1
Ashta choornam contains bioactive compounds like Piper longum, Cuminum cyminum, Ferula asafetida, Nigella sativa, Piper nigrum, Carum coptycum and Zingiber officinale which possess various medicinal properties and health benefits.1
Based on my experience, I have observed that the Ayurvedic formulation known as Ashta churna may have potential benefits for those troubled with peptic ulcer disease. Ashta churna is commonly used by Ayurvedic physicians and it is believed to have positive results in managing this condition.
Dr. Siddharth Gupta, MD
The properties of ashta choornam are discussed below:
Ashta choorna has many health benefits. The potential uses of ashta choornam are described as follows:
Digestive disorders like indigestion, gastritis and acidity have become prevalent today. A study was done by Simon et al. in 2019 on the chemical and physical properties of ashta choornam. The study showed that ashta choornam might relieve flatulence and may have digestive and antacid properties. However, additional research is required to comprehend the pharmacological profile of ashta choornam completely. One must consult an ayurvedic doctor before self-medicating or replacing any medication.1
Anthelmintic property is the property of a medicament to destroy parasitic worms. A study done by Simon et al. in 2019 showed that ashta choornam might be used as an anthelminthic in children. However, further research and studies are required to prove the efficacy of ashta choornam as an anthelminthic agent. It is advised to consult an ayurvedic doctor before taking ashta choornam.1
A recent study was done by Deepthi et al. in 2021, where the patient was administered ashta choornam along with other ayurvedic medicines for the management of grey hair. The study results concluded possible re-pigmentation of greying hair. Ashta choornam, along with other ayurvedic medicine, may be used for the natural re-pigmentation of grey hair. However, these studies are done in a small population, and further information is required to check the efficacy of ashta choornam. It is essential to consult a doctor before replacing ashta choornam with any type of medicine.3
Cerebellar atrophy is a condition in which the nerve cells in the cerebellum are damaged or degenerate. Cerebellum is responsible for the coordination of movements in our body along with daily activities like walking, speech and muscle movements. Rajalekshmi et al. in 2023, conducted a study on the ayurvedic management of cerebellar atrophy. The results showed that ashta choornam, along with other ayurvedic medicines, could be used to minimize the symptoms of cerebellar atrophy. However, this study was conducted in a small sample size, and further evidence is required to prove its efficacy in managing the symptoms of cerebellar atrophy. Therefore, please see your doctor for better health outcomes. 4
PCOS, or polycystic ovarian syndrome, is a disorder in women that is often related to secondary infertility. A study done by Rineesha et al. in 2021 showed that the administration of ashta choornam with other medicines may have helped women give birth to healthy children. However, it is vital to carry out more studies to demonstrate the impact of ashta choornam on PCOS and infertility. Consider talking to a professional or a doctor before substituting ashta choornam for any medications.5
Tripathy et al. in 2016, carried out a study on the non-invasive management of recurrent shoulder dislocation. The study showed that the administration of ashta choornam, along with various ayurvedic medicines, improved joint stability and range of movement in the patients. Although ashta choornam may be used for potentially enhancing joint stability and movement, further research is needed to prove its activity. It is recommended to consult an ayurvedic doctor before self-medicating or replacing any medication.6
Anorexia is an eating disorder. It is often characterized by restriction in food leading to low body weight and a fear of weight gain. A study done by Simon et al. in 2019 showed that ashta choornam could be potentially used in the management of anorexia. Although ashta choornam may have potential use in the management of anorexia but further studies have to be done for its safe consumption. It is advised to talk to a doctor before taking any ayurvedic or herbal medication.1
Even though many studies show the benefits of Ashta Choornam for different conditions, these studies are insufficient, and there is a need for further research to establish the true extent of the benefits of Ashta Choornam on our health.
Ashta choornam is an oral dosage form available as ashta choornam powder or ashta choornam syrup. It is to be consumed in the amount of 1-5 g as directed by your doctor.1
You should consult a qualified doctor before taking any ayurvedic supplements. It is advised not to discontinue or replace an ongoing treatment of modern medicine with an ayurvedic/herbal preparation without consulting a qualified doctor.
Based on my experience, I have observed that Ashta churna, an Ayurvedic formulation, may have potential benefits for geriatric disorders and enhancing the overall quality of life. It is believed to work by promoting balance and harmony in the body, supporting healthy ageing, and addressing specific age-related concerns. Incorporating Ashta churna into your healthcare regimen may help improve your well-being and enhance your daily functioning as you age.
Dr. Rajeev Singh, BAMS
Some side effects of ashta choornam are:
Ashta choornam is quite safe to consume in small doses. Consuming in any drug in excess quantity is not recommended. Consult your ayurvedic doctor or healthcare provider before taking ashta choornam. If any reaction is observed while taking ashta choornam alone or in combination with other drugs, discontinue immediately and seek medical help.
Taking ashta choornam in small doses may be safe. However, the following precautions should be taken:
Following are the drug interactions associated with ashta choornam:
Further studies on how ashta choornam acts, along with other drugs, need to be carried out. Always consult your doctor before taking ashta choornam along with other prescription or non-prescription drugs.
Yes, ashta choornam can be consumed in case of parasitic worms or stomach worms. However, consult a doctor instead of self-medicating.
It is recommended to consume ashta choornam about 1-5 g or as directed by our clinician.
Ashta choornam may be potentially used for digestive issues like constipation. However, there are no proven studies that suggest the use of ashta choornam for constipation.
Ashta choornam has a variety of health benefits. It can be potentially used for managing digestive disorders, graying hair and worms. It may also be used in managing PCOS and cerebellar atrophy.
Yes, ashta choornam can be administered along with honey.
Disclaimer: The information included on this site is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional. Because of unique individual needs, the reader should consult their physician to determine the appropriateness of the information for the reader’s situation.
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