Assessment Parameters for Lajjalu Varti in Bleeding Hemorrhoids

Why Lajjalu (Mimosa pudica)?

Parameters You Can Use (Categorized)

A. PRIMARY OUTCOME PARAMETER (Most Important)

B. SUBJECTIVE PARAMETERS (Symptom-based)

C. OBJECTIVE/CLINICAL PARAMETERS

• Grade I: Only bleeding, no prolapse
• Grade II: Prolapse on straining, spontaneously reduces
• Grade III: Prolapse on straining, requires manual reduction
• Grade IV: Irreducible prolapse

D. LABORATORY PARAMETERS

E. COMPOSITE SCORE (Recommended)

F. QUALITY OF LIFE (Optional but adds value)

• Symptom load
• Functional status
• Disease-specific worries
• General well-being

G. AYURVEDIC PRAKRITI / DOSHA ASSESSMENT

Suggested Assessment Schedule

Research Articles to Refer (Directly Relevant to Your Topic)

1. Directly Comparable Varti (Suppository) Studies

Biswas N, Jaiswal R. "Comparative evaluation of the efficacy of Hydrocortisone suppository and Durvadi Gudavarti in Raktarsha - A randomized controlled clinical trial." International Journal of Ayurvedic Medicine, 16(2):398-410, 2025.

• Parameters used: size of pile mass (primary), bleeding PR (secondary), assessed on days 5, 10, 15
• Durvadi Gudavarti was 34% more efficacious in pile mass reduction and 32% more efficacious in bleeding reduction than hydrocortisone
• Read abstract here

Krishna et al. "A Controlled Clinical Study of Haridradi Guda Varti (Anal Suppository) on Internal Haemorrhoids." World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research, 5(12), 2016.

• Parameters: PR bleeding, itching, pile mass size
• Scoring: 3 criteria scored pre/post with Wilcoxon signed rank test
• Haridradi Gudavarti was superior (p<0.0001 for all three parameters)

Published in JAIMS - "A comparative clinical study for haemostatic action of Lajjalu Lepa and Darvi Lepa in Raktarsha"

• Parameters: bleeding, degree of piles, number of pile masses
• Lajjalu group: 69.7% relief in bleeding, 41.4% relief in degree of piles, 36.7% relief in pile mass number
• Download PDF

2. Ayurvedic Clinical Trials on Raktarsha (for Parameter Reference)

PMC3296339 - Ayu journal, 32(2):192

• Parameters: hemorrhage PR, pain on defecation, constipation, protrusion, mucus discharge, itching, anemia
• Lab: Hb%, TLC, DLC, ESR, BT, CT, blood sugar, lipid profile, urine examination
• 4-grade scoring per criterion; 6-month follow-up
• Read full article

PMCID PMC4719482, J Ayurveda Integr Med

• Composite score 0-25 using: tenesmus (VAS), bleeding, pruritus, mucus, stool consistency, stool frequency, proctitis, anal sphincter spasm, ease of reduction, degree of hemorrhoids
• Read full article

3. Modern Allopathy Outcome Tools

Rørvik HD et al. Diseases of the Colon and Rectum, 62(3), 2019. [PMID 30451751]

• 5 patient-reported domains: pain, itching, bleeding, soiling, prolapse - each on 7-point Likert
• Validated, reliable, responsive tool you can incorporate
• Excellent for justifying your parameter choice in the introduction/methodology

PMID 34840045 - Asian J Surg

• Parameters: postoperative pain (VAS), bleeding, wound healing, complication rate

Practical Recommendation for Your Study Design

1. Degree/Grade of hemorrhoid on proctoscopy
2. Size of pile mass (mm)
3. Pain on defecation (VAS 0-10)
4. Itching (0-3)
5. Mucus discharge (0-1)
6. Constipation/stool consistency
7. Hemoglobin level (pre vs post)
8. Composite symptom score (sum of all above)
9. Overall clinical response: Cured / Marked improvement / Moderate improvement / No change

Lajjalu (Mimosa pudica) - Drug Part, Phytochemistry & Varti Formulation for Bleeding Hemorrhoids

1. Which Part of Lajjalu is Used?

Classical Ayurvedic Reference (Drug Part)

• Root is the most pharmacologically validated part for hemostasis and wound healing
• Kokane DD et al. (PMID 19397984) specifically studied roots of Mimosa pudica for wound healing - methanolic and aqueous root extracts showed significant wound healing activity (p<0.001 at 2% w/w). The total aqueous extract had 17% w/w phenols (vs 11% in methanolic) - relevant for choosing your extraction solvent
• Ethnobotanical records from Orissa confirm: "Paste of root fried in castor oil is applied on deep cut wounds to stop bleeding and for healing" (PMC3459453)
• Records from Madhya Pradesh: "Leaves and roots are used for piles and fistula" (PMC3459453)

2. Phytochemical Constituents - Hydrophilic vs. Hydrophobic Classification

Hydrophilic Constituents (Water-soluble)

Lipophilic/Hydrophobic Constituents (Fat-soluble)

3. Varti Base - Hydrophilic vs. Hydrophobic: What to Choose?

Hydrophobic (Oleaginous/Fat) Base - e.g., Cocoa Butter (Theobroma oil)

• Melts at body temperature (33-36°C), releases drug slowly by melting
• Best suited for: Lipophilic constituents (sterols, terpenoids, nor-epinephrine, fatty acids)
• Classical Ayurvedic parallel: Sneha Dravyas - Ghrita (ghee), Taila (oil) are hydrophobic bases used in classical Varti formulations
• Example from literature: The JAHM 2026 case report (Kalal et al.) prepared Lajjalu Suppository in 1:1 ratio with Cocoa Butter - pH: 5.9 - used for 2nd degree hemorrhoids. Result: complete regression of pile mass in 15 days, no adverse effects
• Pro: Good tissue contact time, prolonged drug release, lubricates anal canal (reduces pain)
• Con: Does not mix with rectal mucus; only releases hydrophobic compounds efficiently

Hydrophilic (Water-miscible) Base - e.g., PEG, Glycerol-gelatin

• Dissolves in rectal secretions, releases drug quickly
• Best suited for: Tannins, phenols, flavonoids (the main hemostatic and astringent compounds)
• Pro: Better release of water-soluble astringents (tannins) which are primarily responsible for Raktastambhana
• Con: May cause local irritation; shorter residence time

Recommendation for Lajjalu Varti in Raktarsha:

Best option: Hydrophilic emulsifying base OR Ksheera Paka base - which creates an emulsion that carries both hydrophilic tannins AND hydrophobic sterols/terpenoids together.

4. Ksheera Paka - Why It is Particularly Relevant

• Milk is an amphiphilic medium - it contains both aqueous phase (extracts hydrophilic tannins, flavonoids, phenols) and fat phase (carries lipophilic sterols, terpenoids)
• In Ksheera Paka, the drug is boiled in 4 parts milk + 1 part water + 1 part drug until water evaporates, yielding a milk-drug concentrate that contains BOTH hydrophilic and lipophilic constituents
• The casein micelles in milk act as emulsifying agents - they help uniform distribution of both tannins and sterols into the final preparation
• This makes Ksheera Paka pharmacologically superior to either a pure aqueous or pure oleaginous base for Lajjalu
• Reference in classical texts: Charaka Samhita Chikitsa Sthana 14 describes Ksheera Paka preparations for Arsha management. Sushruta Samhita Chikitsa Sthana mentions milk-based local preparations

5. Summary Table - Drug Part, Constituent & Base Relationship

6. Textbooks to Refer

Ayurvedic Classical Texts

1. Charaka Samhita - Chikitsa Sthana, Chapter 14 (Arshas Chikitsa) - Guda Varti described with Sneha base
2. Sushruta Samhita - Chikitsa Sthana, Chapter 6 (Arshas Chikitsa) - 4 treatment modalities for Arsha
3. Ashtanga Hridayam - Uttara Sthana - Arsha Nidana & Chikitsa
4. Bhavaprakasha Nighantu - Vatadi Varga / Guduchyadi Varga - Lajjalu properties: Kashaya Rasa, Laghu Guna, Raktastambhaka karma

Pharmacognosy / Dravyaguna

1. Dravyaguna Vijnana - Prof. P.V. Sharma (Vol. 2) - Detailed Lajjalu monograph, parts used, Guna-Karma, Sanskrit verses
2. Krishnamurthy's Indian Materia Medica / API (Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India) Part I, Vol. 5 - Official monograph for Lajjalu (Mimosa pudica)

Modern Pharmacognosy/Pharmaceutics

1. Kokane DD et al., J Ethnopharmacol, 2009 (PMID 19397984) - Root wound healing study (methanolic vs aqueous extract)
2. PMC3459453 - "Mimosa pudica L. (Laajvanti): An overview" - Comprehensive phytochemistry reference Read here
3. Gandhi MY et al., Chem Biodivers, 2023 (PMID 37728228) - HPLC quantification of catechin, epicatechin, chlorogenic acid in leaves

7. The Most Directly Relevant Published Article for Your Study

Kalal L et al. (2026) - "Novel Use of Lajjalu Suppository as a part of Multi-Interventional Ayurveda Approach in the Management of Abhyantara Arshas (2nd Degree Internal Hemorrhoids) - A case report." Journal of Ayurveda and Holistic Medicine (JAHM), 14(1), 2026.

• Drug part used: Whole Lajjalu plant (processed)
• Base used: Cocoa Butter (1:1 ratio) - hydrophobic base
• pH of final product: 5.9 (close to rectal pH of 6.8-7.2 - good compatibility)
• Result: Complete regression of 2nd degree pile mass in 15 days
• Access here

All Preparation Methods (Kalpanas) for Lajjalu Varti - Simple Explanation

Every herb has two types of active compounds inside it:

• Water-loving (Hydrophilic) ones - like tannins, flavonoids, phenols - that dissolve only in water
• Oil-loving (Hydrophobic/Lipophilic) ones - like sterols, terpenoids, fatty acids - that dissolve only in fat/oil

The method of preparation (Kalpana) you choose decides which of these compounds you pull out of Lajjalu into your medicine.

Simple rule: Water-based preparations pull out hydrophilic compounds. Oil/fat-based preparations pull out hydrophobic compounds. The best preparations pull out BOTH.

1. Swarasa (Fresh Juice) - 100% Hydrophilic

• All water-soluble tannins (the main bleeding-stopper)
• Phenolic acids
• Mimosine (alkaloid)
• Flavonoids (partly)
• Nor-epinephrine (fresh tissue only - this is a natural vasoconstrictor - contracts blood vessels and stops bleeding!)

2. Kalka (Fresh Paste) - Mostly Hydrophilic, some Hydrophobic

• Everything from Swarasa PLUS
• Some fiber, cell wall material
• Partially releases sterols and terpenoids (since cell walls are broken)

3. Kwatha/Kashaya (Decoction) - Hydrophilic

• Maximum tannins (most important for Raktastambhana)
• All phenols
• Flavonoids
• Glycosides
• Saponins

1. As a liquid component in Taila/Ghrita Kalpana - the Kashaya is added to oil/ghee and heated together (this is how Sneha Kalpana works - described below)
2. As a component in Lepa/external application alongside the varti treatment

4. Hima (Cold Infusion) - Gentle Hydrophilic

• Volatile compounds that would be destroyed by heat
• Nor-epinephrine (heat-sensitive! Preserved here but destroyed in Kwatha)
• Gentle flavonoids
• Some tannins (less than Kwatha)

5. Phanta (Hot Infusion) - Hydrophilic, Moderate

6. Sneha Kalpana - Taila Paka (Medicated Oil) - Hydrophobic + Bridge

• Kalka (paste of Lajjalu) = 1 part
• Kashaya (decoction of Lajjalu or supporting herbs) = 4 parts
• Taila (sesame oil or any base oil) = 4 parts

• β-Sitosterol, sterols (fully extracted)
• Terpenoids, triterpenes
• Fatty acids
• Some tannins and phenols (transferred during the aqueous phase before evaporation)

• It melts and flows at body temperature
• Lubricates the anal canal (reduces pain during defecation)
• Provides prolonged contact time
• Oil itself has Vata-shamana property (reduces pain and spasm)

7. Sneha Kalpana - Ghrita Paka (Medicated Ghee) - Hydrophobic + Amphiphilic

• Ghee contains short-chain fatty acids that have better mucosal absorption
• Ghee has natural emulsifying properties (due to milk solids traces) so it carries BOTH fat-soluble AND some water-soluble compounds
• Ghee has its own Chakshushya (tissue nourishing), Vrana ropana (wound healing) properties
• Modern science: Short-chain fatty acids in ghee (butyrate!) are known to heal colonic and rectal mucosa - directly relevant to hemorrhoids!

• Nourishes the rectal mucosa
• Promotes healing of the hemorrhoidal tissue (not just stops bleeding)
• Has mild laxative action (softens stool passage)

8. Ksheera Paka (Milk Decoction) - True Amphiphilic ⭐ Best of Both Worlds

• Drug (Lajjalu) + Water (1 part each) + Milk (4 parts or 8 parts)
• Boil on low flame until water evaporates, only medicated milk remains

• The water phase of milk pulls out tannins, phenols, flavonoids (hydrophilic)
• The fat phase of milk pulls out sterols, terpenoids (hydrophobic)
• The casein protein in milk acts as a natural emulsifier that holds both together and prevents separation

• Complete profile: Tannins + Phenols + Flavonoids (hemostatic) AND β-Sitosterol + Terpenoids (anti-inflammatory) + Fatty acids (emollient)

• A semi-solid base directly
• Or evaporated further to get a thick paste that is shaped into Varti

• Milk's pH (~6.4-6.8) is close to rectal pH - less irritation
• Casein forms a natural film over hemorrhoidal mucosa - sustained release
• Milk proteins have mild demulcent action - soothing to inflamed tissue

9. Wax/Cocoa Butter Base (Modern Oleaginous Suppository) - Hydrophobic

10. Leha/Avaleha Style Semi-solid Base - Amphiphilic

Quick Comparison Table (Super Simple)

For Your Research - Which Kalpana Should You Choose?

1. Lajjalu's main Raktastambhana action = tannins = needs hydrophilic extraction = Ksheera Paka's water phase handles this
2. Lajjalu's Shothahara + Vrana Ropana = sterols, terpenoids = needs hydrophobic extraction = Ksheera Paka's fat phase handles this
3. The final varti needs solid form = Cocoa Butter or Ghrita gives shape and body temperature melting
4. This is already supported by the JAHM 2026 published case report (Lajjalu + Cocoa Butter, 1:1)

• Sharangadhara Samhita (Madhyama Khanda) - Panchavidha Kashaya + Sneha Kalpana described in detail
• Charaka Samhita Chikitsa Sthana 14 - Arsha chikitsa, Varti references
• Bhaishajya Ratnavali - pharmaceutical preparations
• Ashtanga Hridayam Kalpa Sthana - dosage forms
• Textbook of Bhaishajya Kalpana by Dr. K.M. Nadkarni - modern Ayurvedic pharmaceutics reference

Where to Refer Ksheera Paka in Classical Texts - Complete Reference Guide

The Short Answer First

The primary and most-cited reference for Ksheera Paka method is: Sharangadhara Samhita, Madhyama Khanda, Chapter 2, Verse 161 (Sharangadhara Samhita / Madhyama Khanda 2/161)

All Classical Text References - One by One (Simple Explanation)

1. Sharangadhara Samhita - Madhyama Khanda 2/161

"Kshiram ashtagunam dravyat ksheraneerascha chaturgunam | Ksheravashesha tat pitam shulamamobhavam jayet ||" (Sharangadhara Samhita, Madhyama Khanda 2/161)

• Take 1 part drug (Lajjalu mula/churna)
• Add 8 parts milk (Go-dugdha = cow's milk)
• Add 32 parts water (4 times the milk = 4 × 8 = 32)
• Heat on Manda agni (low flame)
• Keep heating until only the 8 parts of milk remains (water all evaporates) = "Ksheeravashesha"
• Filter and use

2. Charaka Samhita - Chikitsa Sthana 5/94

3. Ashtanga Hridayam - Sutrasthana 6/21-22-24

"Alpabhishyandi Gokshiram snigdham guru rasayanam | Raktapittaharam sheetam madhuram rasapakayoh ||" (Ashtanga Hridayam Sutrasthana 6/21-22)

• Snigdha (unctuous/oily) - carries lipophilic compounds
• Sheeta (cooling) - pacifies Pitta, reduces bleeding
• Madhura (sweet rasa + vipaka) - Vata and Pitta shamana
• Raktapittahara - specifically stops bleeding (Rakta = blood, Pitta = the dosha governing bleeding)

4. Sushruta Samhita - Sutrasthana 45/50-51

"Gavyam dugdham vishesha madhuram rasapakayoh | Doshadhatumalastroto kinchitkledakaram guru | Sheetalam stanyakrit snigdham vatapittasranashanam ||" (Sushruta Samhita Sutrasthana 45/50-51)

5. Dravyaguna Vijnana (Yadavji Trikamji Acharya) - 2/36-37

"Kshiram tithigunam dravyat ksheeraneerasam matam | Ksheeravashesham tat pitam ksheerapake tvayam vidhih ||" (Dravyaguna Vijnana 2/36-37)

6. Bhavaprakasha + Chakradutta

Complete Reference Table (Copy-Paste Ready for Your Dissertation)

For Your Methodology Section - How to Write It

"Lajjalu Varti was prepared using Ksheerapaka method as described in Sharangadhara Samhita, Madhyama Khanda 2/161. Lajjalu Mula Churna (1 part), Go-dugdha/cow's milk (8 parts) and water (32 parts) were taken in a stainless steel vessel and subjected to Manda agni (low heat). The mixture was continuously stirred and heated until Ksheeravashesha was obtained (reduction to the initial quantity of milk = 8 parts). The preparation was filtered and used as the liquid phase for Varti formulation combined with Cocoa butter (1:1) as per Kalal et al. (JAHM, 2026)."

Sharangadhara Samhita - translated by Prof. K.M. Murthy (Chaukhamba Orientalia, Varanasi) - the Madhyama Khanda Chapter 1 and 2 cover ALL Kashaya Kalpanas including Ksheerapaka with full commentary. This is the #1 book for your Bhaishajya Kalpana justification.

How to Use Lajjalu Drug in Ksheera Paka - Step by Step

First - What Form of Lajjalu Do You Use?

• Fine powder (sukshma churna) clogs the milk, is hard to filter, and releases too fast - you lose control
• Fresh Kalka (paste) can be used but is harder to standardize for research
• Coarse powder (bharad churna / jada churna) - when you grind the dried Lajjalu Mula and pass it through a sieve of mesh size 40 (not too fine, not too coarse) - this is the ideal form for Ksheerapaka

The Step-by-Step Method (As per Sharangadhara Samhita Madhyama Khanda 2/161)

POORVA KARMA (Preparation Before Starting)

• Collect fresh roots of Mimosa pudica
• Wash thoroughly with water to remove mud
• Drug authentication: Compare with API (Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India) standards for Lajjalu
• Dry in shade (not direct sunlight - direct sun degrades heat-sensitive phenolic compounds)
• Do NOT dry in hot oven above 50°C - tannins degrade at high temperatures

• Dry the roots completely (check: break a root piece - should snap cleanly, no bending)
• Grind in a grinder
• Pass through sieve No. 40 (this gives coarse powder = Bharad Churna)
• Store in an airtight container until use

So if you take 10g of Lajjalu powder = add 80ml milk + 320ml water = total liquid 400ml. Final product = 80ml medicated milk.

• Clean stainless steel vessel (not aluminum - reacts with tannins and changes color/composition)
• Gas stove with the ability to keep Manda agni (low flame)
• Measuring cylinder
• Cotton/muslin cloth for filtering
• Spoon for stirring

PRADHANA KARMA (Main Procedure)

(Note: Vriddha Vagbhata/Ashtanga Samgraha method is different - he says make Kashaya first with water, THEN add equal milk. But the standard Sharangadhara method is to add all together.)

• Tannins are heat-sensitive at very high temperatures
• Milk proteins (casein) denature and curdle on high flame - this destroys the emulsifying action of milk
• The compounds need slow diffusion from the plant cells into the milk+water medium
• Milk should never boil vigorously - only gentle simmering

• The water evaporates first (lower boiling point, lower density)
• The milk concentrate remains
• Keep watching the volume

• Volume of remaining liquid matches the original quantity of milk taken (80ml in this example)
• The liquid appears slightly thickened and creamy-white to light brown
• The drug powder settles at the bottom
• Mild aroma of the drug is detected in the milk
• No crackling/hissing sound (this would indicate remaining water - if you still hear sizzling, not done yet)

• Burn the milk (Dagdha Paka) - making it Abhishyandi (causes congestion, harmful)
• Destroy tannins and phenols
• Denature proteins completely, losing emulsifying benefit

PASCHAT KARMA (Post-preparation Work)

• Pour through a double-layered muslin cloth while still warm (hot filtering is easier)
• Press gently to squeeze out all the medicated milk from the drug residue
• The filtered liquid = your Lajjalu Ksheerapaka
• The residue (spent drug powder) is discarded

• Color: Light brownish-white (from tannins giving a slight tan to the milk)
• Consistency: Slightly thicker than plain milk
• pH: Approximately 6.0-6.8 (close to natural milk pH and rectal mucosal pH - good for local use)
• Smell: Mild earthy-herbal aroma of Lajjalu with milk

Now - How to Convert Ksheerapaka into Varti?

• Take the Ksheerapaka concentrate (thick, reduced)
• Mix with equal weight of Cocoa Butter (melted at ~35°C in a water bath)
• Stir thoroughly until uniformly mixed
• Pour into suppository molds (torpedo/bullet shape)
• Allow to cool and solidify at room temperature or refrigerate at 4-8°C
• The cocoa butter solidifies and gives the mixture the shape and body of a suppository
• Each varti typically weighs 2-3 grams (standard rectal suppository weight)

The Ksheerapaka brings the water-soluble tannins (already extracted into the milk medium) + the milk-fat-soluble sterols. The cocoa butter adds the hydrophobic carrier + body temperature-melting property. Together = the varti has all active compounds + correct physical form.

Complete Flow Chart (Simple Visual)

Lajjalu Mula (Fresh root)
         ↓
    Dry in shade
         ↓
    Coarse Powder (Bharad Churna, Sieve No. 40)
         ↓
ADD ALL TOGETHER in stainless steel vessel:
  Lajjalu Churna (1 part) + Milk (8 parts) + Water (32 parts)
         ↓
    Manda Agni (Low flame) + Continuous stirring
         ↓
    Ksheeravashesha (Reduce to milk portion only)
         ↓
    Filter through muslin cloth (while warm)
         ↓
    LAJJALU KSHEERAPAKA (liquid)
         ↓                    ↓
  Use as-is (oral/local)    Thicken/dry further
                                  ↓
                         Mix with Cocoa Butter (1:1)
                                  ↓
                         Pour in suppository mold
                                  ↓
                         Allow to solidify
                                  ↓
                         LAJJALU VARTI ✅

One Important Practical Note for Your Research

1. pH (should be 6.0-6.8)
2. Specific gravity
3. Total tannin content (by Folin-Denis method or HPLC) - this is your quality marker since tannins = main active
4. Total phenolic content (TPC by Folin-Ciocalteu method)

Go-Dugdha (Cow's Milk) - Complete Information with References

What is Go-Dugdha?

Part 1 - Ayurvedic Classical View of Go-Dugdha

1. According to Charaka Samhita

"Swadu sheeta mrudu snigdham bahalam shlaksham picchilam | Guru mandam prasannam cha Ksheeram Oja abhivardhanam ||"

• Rasayana - tissue rejuvenation (repairs hemorrhoidal tissue)
• Ojovardhanam - increases Ojas (vital essence depleted by chronic bleeding)
• Jivaniya - best among life-sustaining substances
• Balya - gives strength to weakened body from blood loss

2. According to Sushruta Samhita

"Gavyam dugdham vishesha madhuram rasapakayoh | Doshadhatumalastroto kinchitkledakaram guru | Sheetalam stanyakrit snigdham Vatapittasranashanam ||" (Sushruta Samhita, Sutrasthana 45/50-51)

• Madhura in both Rasa (taste) and Vipaka (post-digestive effect) = sweet throughout - full Pitta-pacifying effect
• Snigdha, Sheeta = unctuous, cold
• Vatapittasranashanam = destroys Vata + Pitta + Srava (abnormal discharge/bleeding)

• Alpa Abhishyandi = does NOT cause channel blockage (safe for long-term local use)
• Rasayana = tissue vitalization
• Jeevaniya = life-sustaining

3. According to Vagbhata (Ashtanga Hridayam)

"Alpabhishyandi Gokshiram snigdham guru rasayanam | Raktapittaharam sheetam madhuram rasapakayoh || Jeevaniyam tatha Vatapittahasam smritam |" (Ashtanga Hridayam, Sutrasthana 6/21-22)

• Alpabhishyandi - does not block channels (safe for diseased condition)
• Snigdham - unctuous
• Guru - heavy (nourishing)
• Rasayanam - tissue vitalizer
• Raktapittaharam - specifically stops/cures Raktapitta (bleeding disorders)
• Sheetam - cold potency
• Madhuram rasapakayoh - sweet in taste and post-digestion
• Jeevaniyam - life-sustaining
• Vatapittahasam - reduces Vata and Pitta

• Kshataksheena (tissue wasting/injury) - the damaged tissue of hemorrhoids
• Shrama (fatigue - from chronic bleeding)
• Raktapitta (hemorrhagic disorders)
• Mutrakrichra, Kasa, Shwasa - other systemic conditions

4. According to Bhavaprakasha Nighantu

"Godugdham Sheetaveryam syat guru snigdham rasayanam | Mutralam picchilam mrudu snehanam dahavishaghnam | Pavitram kapha shukralam prasannata vardhanam matam ||"

• Snehanam - lubricating (softens stool = indirect help in hemorrhoids)
• Dahaghnam - removes burning sensation (Daha is a major symptom of Raktarsha)
• Vishaghnam - antitoxic (purifies local inflammation)
• Pavitram - purifying

5. According to Raj Nighantu

• Pathya - suitable in ALL diseases (Sarvaroga in Pathya)
• Cures Raktavikara (bleeding disorders) - direct relevance to Raktarsha
• Vata-Pitta Vikara Nashaka

Part 2 - Modern Scientific Composition of Cow's Milk

Chemical Composition of Cow's Milk (100ml)

Why Each Component Matters for Your Varti:

• The hydrophilic outer shell grabs and holds the water-soluble tannins from Lajjalu
• The hydrophobic inner core grabs and holds the fat-soluble β-sitosterol and terpenoids from Lajjalu
• Both are held together in one stable emulsion - no separation

• Dissolve and carry the β-sitosterol, terpenoids, and fatty acids of Lajjalu
• When the varti melts in the rectum, these fat globules release their cargo directly into the rectal mucosa
• Fat also provides the Snigdha (unctuous) quality that lubricates the anal canal

• Butyrate is the primary fuel source for colonocytes (rectal mucosal cells)
• It promotes healing and regeneration of rectal mucosal cells
• It has strong anti-inflammatory action on the rectal mucosa
• It reduces mucosal permeability (tightens the junctions between cells - stops leakage/bleeding)

• Lactoferrin - anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, promotes tissue repair
• Beta-lactoglobulin - antioxidant activity
• Immunoglobulins (IgA, IgM) - local immunity of rectal mucosa

• Keeps stool soft
• Reduces straining during defecation
• Reduces the mechanical trauma to the pile mass with each bowel movement

• No chemical irritation when the varti dissolves in the rectum
• Drug stability is maintained (tannins are stable at slightly acidic pH)
• No burning sensation on insertion

Part 3 - Why Milk is Superior to Pure Water or Pure Oil as a Base (Summary)

Complete Classical Reference Table for Go-Dugdha

One-Line Summary for Your Dissertation Introduction

"Go-Dugdha (cow's milk) as described in Ashtanga Hridayam Sutrasthana 6/21-22 is Raktapittaharam (corrects hemorrhagic conditions), Snigdham (lubricant), Sheetam (anti-inflammatory) and Jeevaniyam (tissue vitalizer). These properties are corroborated by modern science through its casein-mediated amphiphilic drug carrier function, butyrate-induced mucosal healing, whey protein anti-inflammatory activity, and pH compatibility with rectal mucosa (6.4-6.8). Thus, Go-Dugdha as a base for Lajjalu Ksheerapaka Varti provides both pharmacological synergy and an ideal drug delivery medium for Raktarsha."

Yes! Lajjalu Ksheerapaka + Cocoa Butter + Beeswax = Your Varti

Think of It Like This First

• The wax gives it the solid shape
• The oil carries the fragrance
• The wick delivers it

• Cocoa butter = the body (melts and delivers drug)
• Beeswax = the hardener (keeps shape, prevents melting too early)
• Lajjalu Ksheerapaka = the active medicine (the drug itself)

Why You Need BOTH Cocoa Butter AND Beeswax

Problem with Cocoa Butter Alone:

• Room temperature in India in summer = 30-35°C
• So your varti will start melting on the shelf before it even reaches the patient!
• Also, if cocoa butter is overheated during preparation (above 36°C), it changes its crystal form and then melts at 25-30°C - even worse!
• A soft/melted varti = cannot be inserted properly = patient discomfort + inaccurate dosing

What Beeswax Does:

• It raises the overall melting point of the mixture just enough
• The varti stays firm at room temperature (even in Indian summer)
• But still melts properly inside the rectum at body temperature (37°C)
• Gives it hardness - so it doesn't crumble or crack
• Gives structural integrity - the varti keeps its torpedo/bullet shape during storage and insertion

The Exact Formulation

Step-by-Step Preparation of the Varti

STEP 1 - Prepare Lajjalu Ksheerapaka (already done - as explained before)

STEP 2 - Melt the Beeswax First

• Take a double boiler (or a small vessel placed in a larger vessel of hot water = water bath/Jaladhaara)
• Add beeswax first since it needs the highest temperature to melt (62-65°C)
• Melt it completely - it will become a clear yellowish liquid

• Direct flame can overheat cocoa butter and change its crystal structure (polymorphism problem)
• Water bath keeps temperature controlled at around 50-60°C - safe and even

STEP 3 - Add Cocoa Butter to the Melted Beeswax

• Once beeswax is fully melted, reduce heat to 40-45°C
• Add grated/cut pieces of cocoa butter to the melted beeswax
• Stir continuously until cocoa butter also melts and both merge into one clear oily liquid
• The mixture should look like a clear pale yellow oil at this stage

• Do NOT heat above 50°C at this stage
• Keep strictly between 40-45°C for the rest of the preparation

STEP 4 - Add Lajjalu Ksheerapaka Extract

• Now add your Lajjalu Ksheerapaka dried extract/powder to the warm cocoa butter + beeswax liquid
• Stir vigorously and continuously with a glass rod or stainless steel spatula
• Make sure the extract is uniformly dispersed throughout the melted base - no lumps, no settling
• Keep stirring for 5-10 minutes to ensure homogeneity

STEP 5 - Pour into Suppository Molds

• Suppository molds are torpedo-shaped/bullet-shaped aluminum or plastic molds
• Standard rectal suppository mold = 2 gram capacity (total weight of one varti = 2g)
• Lightly lubricate the mold with a drop of liquid paraffin or refined oil before pouring
• Pour the warm mixture slowly into the molds
• Fill slightly above the top (it will shrink a little on cooling)
• Tap the mold gently on the table to remove air bubbles

STEP 6 - Allow to Cool and Solidify

• Leave at room temperature for 30-45 minutes (do NOT refrigerate immediately)
• Why? Slow cooling = direct crystal formation = proper solid structure
• Fast cooling (putting in fridge immediately) = wrong crystal form = varti melts at lower temperature = defective product

STEP 7 - Remove from Mold and Inspect

• Once fully solidified and cooled, open the mold
• Each varti should come out as a smooth, firm, torpedo-shaped suppository
• Color: Light brownish-cream (from the Lajjalu extract + milk components)
• Appearance: Smooth surface, no cracks, no pitting, no air pockets

Evaluating Your Varti (For Your Research - Physicochemical Tests)

Why Beeswax is Also Classically Justified (Madhu Mocha Moma)

• Ropana (wound healing)
• Shopha hara (anti-inflammatory)
• Sandhaniya (tissue-joining property)

Complete Formulation Summary (For Your Dissertation)

Lajjalu Varti was prepared using Lajjalu Mula Ksheerapaka dried extract as the active drug, with Cocoa Butter (Theobroma oil) as the primary hydrophobic base and White Beeswax (Madhu Moma) as the hardening agent, by the fusion/melt method. The proportion of Drug : Cocoa Butter : Beeswax was maintained at 1:7:1 (or whatever your optimized ratio is after evaluation). The mixture was prepared in a water bath at 40-45°C, poured into 2g torpedo-shaped suppository molds, and allowed to solidify by slow cooling at room temperature, followed by storage at 4-8°C. Each varti was evaluated for appearance, weight uniformity, hardness, melting point, liquefaction time, pH, and drug content uniformity as per standard parameters.

Quick Recap - Why This 3-Component System Works

LAJJALU KSHEERAPAKA
(carries BOTH tannins + sterols - the medicine)
          +
COCOA BUTTER
(melts at 33-35°C - delivers the drug locally in rectum)
          +
BEESWAX
(raises melting point - keeps varti firm at room temp)
          =
LAJJALU VARTI ✅
• Firm at room temperature ✅
• Melts at body temperature ✅  
• Delivers both hydrophilic AND hydrophobic actives ✅
• Classically + pharmaceutically justified ✅
• pH compatible with rectum ✅
• Safe, no adverse effects ✅

How to Convert Lajjalu Ksheerapaka (Liquid) into a Usable Form for Varti

First - Understand the Problem

A warm, slightly thick, brownish-white LIQUID (medicated milk)

• When you pour liquid (Ksheerapaka) into melted fat (cocoa butter + beeswax), they don't mix - like how water and oil separate when you stop stirring
• The varti will have uneven drug distribution
• Water from the milk will make the varti soft, crumbly, and unstable
• The varti will have a very short shelf life (milk spoils)

The Simple Solution - Think of It Like Making Milk Powder

Two Methods - Choose One

Method 1 - Simple Evaporation (Easy, No Lab Equipment)

• First = thin liquid (like regular milk)
• After 10-15 minutes = slightly thicker (like condensed milk / khoya starting stage)
• After 20-30 minutes = very thick, almost like a paste (like mawa/khoya)
• After more heating = it starts to leave the sides of the vessel and becomes a soft solid mass

• Break it into small pieces
• Grind it lightly in a mortar and pestle to make a coarse powder (Ksheerapaka Ghana Churna)

Method 2 - Spray Drying (Lab Method, If Equipment Available)

• Pour the filtered Ksheerapaka liquid into the spray dryer
• Set inlet temperature ~150°C, outlet ~80°C
• The machine sprays the liquid as fine droplets into hot air
• Water evaporates instantly
• You collect a fine, dry, light cream-colored powder = Ksheerapaka Churna

• Very fine uniform powder
• Better mixing with base
• Precise weighing possible
• No degradation of active compounds (quick drying = less heat exposure)

Now Visual - Step by Step Simply

Lajjalu Ksheerapaka (80ml liquid medicated milk)
                    ↓
         Heat on LOW flame, keep stirring
                    ↓
    Liquid → Thick → Paste → Solid mass
         (like making khoya/mawa at home)
                    ↓
         Cool completely
                    ↓
         Grind in mortar & pestle
                    ↓
    KSHEERAPAKA GHANA CHURNA (dry powder) ✅
                    ↓
    Weigh your required dose (say 4g)
                    ↓
    Add to melted Cocoa Butter (14g) + Beeswax (2g) at 40-45°C
                    ↓
    Stir well until uniform
                    ↓
    Pour into torpedo molds → Cool → VARTI ✅

How Much Powder Will You Get?

• Approximately 8-12g of dried extract/Ghana remains
• This is because milk is 87% water - when water evaporates, only the solid content (proteins, fats, drug compounds) remain

One More Thing - Why Not Skip the Drying and Mix Directly?

• The concentrate is thick enough (khoya/mawa stage - most water removed)
• You mix it at a slightly higher temperature so it blends
• You accept that the varti will have a slightly shorter shelf life

• You can calculate exact drug content per varti
• Results are reproducible
• Quality control is easier
• Shelf life is longer

Bottom Line in 3 Lines

1. You make Ksheerapaka (medicated milk)
2. You evaporate all the water from it on low heat → you get a dry solid/powder (like making khoya)
3. That powder goes into your melted cocoa butter + beeswax → poured into molds → your Varti is ready