difference between asava and arishta: which should I choose for my digestive issues? - #2202

Alright, let's dive into this. You're spot on—both asava and arishta are fermented, but they do have their differences. In Ayurveda, these are classical liquid preparations that help enhance digestion by balancing your digestive fire or agni. But how they're prepared and used can vary. Asavas are made by fermenting herbal decoctions with raw sugar, while arishtas undergo fermentation after boiling the herbs in water. Both use natural fermentation, giving them that alcohol content you're concerned about. And here's the thing—arishtas tend to have slightly higher alcohol content because they're boiled before fermentation. So, if you're avoiding alcohol for health reasons, an asava might be a tad gentler. For indigestion, though, it's not just about which to pick. It's key to know what's causing your symptoms. You mentioned bloating, gas, and some acidity, which to me suggests a possible Kapha and Vata imbalance affecting your digestion. In this case, something like Dashamoolarishta might be helpful for Vata issues, or Kumaryasava, which is good for Kapha and also acidity-related troubles. But more than Asava vs Arishta, emphasizing on your everyday eating habits might just make the most difference. Warm, cooked foods can really aid digestion, avoiding cold drinks, and having ginger tea could add value too. Also, try eating earlier in the evening, letting your digestive fire work while it's the strongest. Sometimes, it's not the medicine but the routine that does the trick. But do check in with your practitioner again—it’s good you're consulting them. Both asava and arishta can aid digestion, yet having a personalized approach accounting for your body constitution (prakriti) is the real game-changer.