The Benefits of Ayurvedic Medicine: Agastya Rasayanam

Agastya Rasayanam, also known as Agastya Haritaki (Hareetaki) Vasasyana, is an Ayurvedic medicine famously used to treat asthma and other chronic respiratory conditions. Agastya Rasayanam, which is comprised of multiple Ayurvedic herbs – including Shati and Bala, is also useful as a rejuvenative. In fact, the word Rasayana means “rejuvenation” or “augmentation of rasa”.

What rasa is and does

Rasa is the vital fluid produced in the body by the digestion of food. Rasa is said to nourish the body, heightens one's immunity and prolong life. In Ayurveda (the science of life), excessive work, intense stress, overindulging habits, and sensory overload cause a gradual depletion of our rasa, which is often the root cause of disease. If not addressed, rasa depletion may result in lowered vitality, lowered immunity, and chronic health issues.

Conditions improved by Agastya Rasayanam

Agastya Rasayanam generally improves respiratory strength and is useful for both acute and chronic respiratory conditions, particularly asthma. It is also recommended for chronic asthma, bronchitis, insomnia, and coughs.

Dosage for respiratory conditions: 1-2 teaspoons, once or twice a day, either before or after a meal. Should be taken with warm water or as directed by an Ayurvedic physician. Dosage recommendations for insomnia and coughs, not resulting from respiratory conditions, may vary. Seek the advice of an Ayurvedic professional for dosage advice on those conditions.

Side effects of the Agastya Rasayanam

Agastya Rasayanam has no known side effects, however, a high dose has been known to cause loose stools as it contains Haritaki (Terminalia Chebula), a digestive aid, liver stimulant, stomachic, gastrointestinal prokinetic agent and mild laxative. As with any herbal concoction, one should start at the lowest possible dosage and slowly – over a week or two – increase to the optimal dosage, to ensure that their body accepts the medicine and that there is no allergic reaction.

If you suffer from asthma, bronchitis, or another respiratory condition, Agastya Rasayanam may be the treatment for you, particularly if you are also struggling with sleeplessness and mild constipation. And provided you exercise common sense and do not exceed the recommended daily dosage listed above, or that recommended by their Ayurvedic physician, Agastya Rasayanam is perfectly safe and side-effect free.