Abstract

DAHA SAMAKA DRAVYAS IN AYURVEDA: A REVIEW OF THERAPEUTIC AGENTS FOR BURNING SENSATION

*Dr. Tanvi Sood, Dr. Deeksha Sharma, Dr. Udit Verma, Dr. Chandni Gupta

Abstract

Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of medicine, emphasizes balance among the three Doshas—Vata, Pitta, and Kapha—for maintaining health. Pitta, being associated with heat and metabolism, when aggravated, leads to various disorders, among which Daha (burning sensation) is prominent. Daha is classified as a Pittaja Nanatmaja Vyadhi, yet it can also occur as a symptom in multiple Pitta-related disorders such as Amlapitta (acid reflux), Mutrakrichra (urinary disorders), Twak Vikara (skin diseases), Jwara (fever), and Vrana (wounds). This literary review focuses on the classical Ayurvedic herbs known as Daha Śāmaka Dravyas—substances that alleviate burning sensations. These herbs are primarily found in Ayurvedic texts within various Ganas (herbal groups), characterized by specific properties such as Tikta (bitter), Kashaya (astringent), and Madhura (sweet) Rasa, Sheeta Veerya (cooling potency), Katu and Madhura Vipaka (post-digestive effect), and Guna like Laghu (light) and Ruksha (dry). These pharmacological properties are central to their Pitta-pacifying actions. Through analysis of classical sources such as Charaka Samhita, the study identifies and categorizes several herbs traditionally employed to manage Daha. It further highlights the therapeutic roles these herbs play in disease-specific contexts, providing insight into their practical application. The consistent classical emphasis on Sheeta Veerya and Tikta Rasa in Daha Shamaka Dravyas underlines the Ayurvedic approach to cooling and balancing aggravated Pitta. This understanding forms a basis for rational therapeutic usage of these herbs in contemporary practice, especially in managing conditions with dominant Pitta symptoms.

Keywords: Nana- Atamaja Roga, Daha, Daha- Prashamana, Herbs.