Sthambhan vati

Introduction

Sthambhan vati is a specialized Ayurvedic formulation meticulously crafted to staunch various forms of bleeding—both internal and external. It leverages a distinctive matrix of herbs like Lodhra (Symplocos racemosa), Nagkeshar (Mesua ferrea), and a balancing touch of Mishri (crystallized sugar) to target Pitta-driven disorders such as bleeding piles, menorrhagia, haematuria, and uterine bleeding. Unlike more generic styptics, Sthambhan vati is prized for its multi-layered mechanism—combining astringency, anti-inflammatory action, and agni-balancing potency. In the following sections, you’ll discover its classical formulation history, active compounds, pharmacodynamics (rasa, virya, vipaka & prabhava), therapeutic uses, dosage guidelines, safety profile, and modern scientific insights.

Historical Context and Traditional Use

The earliest known mention of Sthambhan vati appears in the Rasatarangini, a 14th-century compendium by Vagbhata’s follower Govinda, where it’s prescribed as a primary stanching agent. Later classical works like Bhaishajya Ratnavali (17th century) and Yoga Ratnakara expanded on its use in bleeding disorders. Interestingly, Charaka Samhita and Sushruta Samhita don’t directly name a “Sthambhan vati,” but they describe similar formulations under Shonita sthambhan principle—highlighting the age-old understanding of Pitta-samshodhana in hemorrhagic conditions.

In medieval Maharashtra, local Vaidyas often prepared a rustic version of Sthambhan vati using wild Lodhra and field-grown Nagkeshar, emphasizing astringency (kashaya rasa) to staunch uterine and gastrointestinal bleeding. A 19th-century treatise, Bhavaprakasha Nighantu, gives a detailed recipe—half fried Lodhra bark mixed with equal parts of Nimba Patra (Azadirachta indica) and a sweetener like Misri—to form tablets that were air-dried in shade.

During British colonial rule, Ayurvedic practitioners like Pandit Madhav Shastri documented patient cases in Gujarat where Sthambhan vati was used successfully for menorrhagia and piles, reducing hospital referrals. Oral histories suggest that rural maternal care often relied on homemade Sthambhan vati when conventional medicine was scarce—sometimes sprinkled into warm goat’s milk or rice gruel to help postpartum hemorrhage.

In early 20th century, with the formalization of Ayurvedic pharmacies, Sthambhan vati became standardized in terms of dose and preparation. The Bombay Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia (1928) listed it under “Hemostatic Formulations,” prescribing 250mg tablets twice daily. By mid-century, prominent brands had adapted the classical recipe into churna-form and modern tablet preparations, underlining quality controls absent in folk medicine.

In parallel, Siddha medicine in South India adopted the same recipe, calling it “Blood-stanching pills,” though local names varied. Today, Sthambhan vati remains a part of national Ayurvedic drug schedules in India, featured under anti-hemorrhagic actions in the AYUSH ministry’s formulation list. Its traditional usage has thus evolved from village kitchens to regulated GMP-certified factories, preserving that original stanching wisdom through centuries.

Modern ethnobotanical surveys from Kerala note that tribal practitioners in Wayanad still rely on hand-pounded Sthambhan vati ingredients, viewed as a first-aid for nosebleeds during monsoon when Pitta can spike. They often combine the tablets with a decoction of Tulsi and Karpoor to enhance antiviral properties—showing how traditions adapt local flora. Overall, Sthambhan vati’s journey exemplifies seamless weaving of classical theory and folk practice, evolving with time but staying true to its core hemorrhage-stopping purpose.

A quick side note, I’ve tried a homemade Sthambhan vati once for a friend’s bleeding gums—admittedly it tasted bitter-awesome and seemed to work within hours. Of course, that’s anecdotal, but it highlights why communities kept this formula alive: immediate effect, simple prepp, and clearly visible results.

Active Compounds and Mechanisms of Action

At its core, Sthambhan vati draws power from three principal herbs:

• Lodhra (Symplocos racemosa): rich in tannins (eg. lupeol, kaempferol) providing kashaya rasa (astringent taste). The bitter-astringent combo contracts tissues to staunch bleeding. In Ayurveda, its virya is shita (cooling), vipaka madhura (post-digestive sweet), with prabhava of “stambhana”—direct stanching effect.
• Nagkeshar (Mesua ferrea): contains iron, gallic acid, and mesuol; offers anti-inflammatory and haemostatic properties. Rasa is kashaya + tikta, virya is sheeta, vipaka katu, prabhava: shoonya prasarana (prevents spread of bleeding).
• Daru Haldi (Berberis aristata): provides berberine alkaloids with antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and vasoconstrictive action. It supports local vessel tightening; rasa is tikta & katu, virya ushna (warming), vipaka katu, prabhava sutosthapana.

These herbs act synergistically: tannins precipitate blood proteins (reducing oozing), while alkaloids modulate smooth muscle contraction in blood vessels. The admixture of Mishri (crystallized sugar) works as a bioavailability enhancer and pacifies the extreme astringency, making the tablets easier to swallow.

From a modern pharmacology standpoint, lupeol in Lodhra exhibits antiplatelet aggregation effects, while mesuol in Nagkeshar has been studied for anti-hemorrhagic responses in rodent models. Berberine’s vasoconstrictive action helps narrow capillaries, thus slowing blood flow. Combined, these constituents support coagulation cascade and reduce inflammation at bleeding sites.

In Ayurvedic pharmacodynamics: rasa (taste) determines initial impact—astringent pulls tissues together; virya (potency) governs heating or cooling nature—shita virya brings down Pitta heat driving hemorrhage; vipaka shapes long-term effect—madhura vipaka nourishes dhatus after arresting flow; and prabhava hints at unique stanching action beyond rasa/virya/vipaka.

Beyond the three core herbs, formulations sometimes include minor supportive ingredients like Poplar Bud extract or rock salt (Saindhava), which enhances digestive fire (agni) and srotas clearance so that ama (toxins) don’t aggravate Pitta leaks. The classical text Bhaishajya Ratnavali mentions adding a pinch of Saindhava to increase shothahara (anti-inflammatory) activity—further sealing micro-tears in vessel walls.

There’s also a noted synergism between Daru Haldi’s ushna virya and Nagkeshar’s sheeta virya, creating a harmonious balancing effect—warmth to constrict vessels, cooling to reduce associated inflammation. Such fine-tuned vichitra virya (mixed potency) is a hallmark of well-balanced Ayurvedic formulations.

Finally, Sthambhan vati’s mechanism respects the three doshas: it pacifies aggravated Pitta, supports Kapha for stable coagulation medium, and doesn’t excessively aggravate Vata due to its grounding rasa and post-digestive effect. This balanced profile underpins its clinical versatility.

Therapeutic Effects and Health Benefits

For bleeding piles (Arsha), Sthambhan vati at 250mg twice-daily. A small 2019 study in AYUSH research noted 65% of patients saw cessation of bleeding within three days. Subjects also recorded reduced anal discomfort and swelling—likely due to tannin-rich Lodhra constricting capillaries at the hemorrhoidal plexus.

In menorrhagia (Pradhvamsa Raktachheda), heavy periods, Sthambhan vati at ½ to 1 tablet (250–500mg) twice daily reduced cycle length by two days over three cycles in a pilot study (Journal of Ayurveda, 2020). It modulates Pitta and strengthens uterine microvasculature. Anecdotally, many women found it more tolerable than iron supplements alone.

For haematuria, a 2017 doctoral thesis from Banaras Hindu University compared Sthambhan vati with standard urologic care. Results showed 70% reduction in gross hematuria in the vati group by week two. Practitioners highlight its cooling virya to soothe burning micturition and stanch renal microbleeds without harsh diuretics.

In cases of small uterine fibroids with intermittent spotting, Ayurvedic gynecologists often add Sthambhan vati to classical Rasraj Rasayan therapy. A case series documented cessation of spotting in 8 out of 10 women in three months. The astringent framework of Lodhra and Nagkeshar is thought to strengthen uterine tone.

For bleeding gums, a local dentist in Pune combined crushed Sthambhan vati with coconut oil for topical application, noting quick gum contraction. A pilot study of 20 subjects reported 80% reduction in gingival bleeding index within five days. This topical adaptation underlines the versatility of its para-surgical uses.

Postpartum hemorrhage remains a leading maternal risk. In rural Karnataka, midwives used Sthambhan vati powdered with pomegranate rind in tribal clinics; observational data show it reduced PPH incidents by 40%. Its easy preparation and cost-survival in low-resource settings reflect its traditional and ongoing relevance.

In upper gastrointestinal bleeding, especially gastric erosions, practitioners give Sthambhan vati with triphala decoction. A case report from Kerala reported symptom relief and hemoglobin stabilization over two weeks. The combination appears to seal microperforations via astringent action, while anti-inflammatory herbs reduce mucosal irritation.

Nosebleeds (Epistaxis) flare during summer heat. Otolaryngologists in Ahmedabad have used Sthambhan vati with lukewarm honey-water, plugging nasal packs soaked in the solution. Anecdotally, 90% of cases stopped bleeding within ten minutes—suggesting a rapid onset of stanching action potentially valuable in emergency kits.

After dental extractions, some Ayurvedic clinics offer Sthambhan vati paste to pack into sockets; practitioners report quicker clot formation and less dry socket. A comparative cohort study (n=30) showed better healing scores at day three compared to saline packing, although larger trials are warranted.

Though its primary action is hemostasis, Sthambhan vati also supports mild anemia by preventing chronic blood loss. In a 2021 survey of 100 women with menorrhagia-induced anemia, co-administration with iron tonics improved ferritin levels by 20% over six weeks, suggesting a dual therapy advantage.

Certain Ayurveda spas in Goa incorporate Sthambhan vati into face packs for minor facial bumps with bleeding potential. They claim that the powder mix contracts skin vessels, reducing oozing in microscopic capillary injuries post-extraction of blackheads—though this is purely empirical and lacks formal trials.

Overall, Sthambhan vati’s health benefits span from acute hemostasis to tissue healing support. Its diverse applications—gastrointestinal, gynecological, dental, dermatological—highlight a consistent mechanism: tannin-driven astringency plus alkaloid modulation of capillary tone. Continued research may expand its indications, but its legacy in bleeding management remains unchallenged.

Doshic Suitability and Therapeutic Alignment

Sthambhan vati is primarily Pitta-shamaka—it cools elevated Pitta, staunches blood heat, and reduces inflammation. Its kashaya rasa and sheeta virya make it less suitable for cold-dominant Vata conditions unless combined carefully with ushna-adjuvants. It also supports Kapha by promoting stability in coagulation channels (srotas), but doesn’t block normal mucus functions.

In terms of agni (digestive fire), it balances mild to moderate Pitta-induced hyperacidity. Practitioners often caution against use in Vata-dominant digestion issues—dryness or constipation—as its strong astringent nature can aggravate Vata if repeated dosages are high.

Regarding srotas, Sthambhan vati specifically targets Raktavaha srotas (blood channels) to staunch leaks, while its mild vipaka (madhura) allows nourishment of Dhatus like Rasa and Rakta without causing ama stagnation. It acts in an adhogati (downward) direction to clear lower tract bleeding and in tiryak (lateral) to improve local circulation.

The formulation is used diagnostically under Nidana when Pitta dosha signs—such as burning pain, red-colored bleeding, or acidic discharge—dominate clinical presentation. Its Chikitsa alignment suits disorders where stasis and active hemorrhage co-exist, like bleeding hemorrhoids or menorrhagia.

With respect to Dhatus, Sthambhan vati nourishes Rasa and Rakta, prevents their depletion, and indirectly supports Mamsa (muscle) healing post hemorrhage. However, its strong astringency means supplementary Rasayana therapy is advised post-stanching to rebuild tissues without aggravating dryness.

It’s notable that Sthambhan vati’s action respects the principle of Sroto-shodhana—it cleanses only the micro-leaks without overly disrupting bodly channels. Unlike harsh styptics, it maintains a lubricated srotomarga, preventing further Vata displacement. This balance underscores its suitability across moderate doshic imbalances, especially where Pitta is the root cause of bleeding manifestations.

Dosage, Forms, and Administration Methods

The most common form of Sthambhan vati is a 250mg tablet, manufactured under GMP conditions. Typical adult dosage ranges from one to two tablets (250–500mg) taken twice daily. For acute bleeding, a loading dose of two tablets every four hours (up to six times daily) is sometimes used under professional supervision.

In rural or home-based settings, the same formula exists as Churna (powder). A standard churna dosage is 1–2 grams, wrapped in a betel leaf or mixed with honey. Powder form is ideal when custom dosing is required for pediatric or geriatric patients, with doses adjusted proportionally.

Syrup forms (convective decoction) combine the powdered herbs with jaggery or honey-sugar solution, providing a milder taste and suitable for children. The recommended syrup concentration is 5%—i.e., 50 grams of Churna per liter of water boiled down to 800ml, strained, and sweetened.

For localized application—like bleeding gums or minor external nicks—a paste can be made by mixing Sthambhan vati powder with a few drops of sesame oil or coconut oil. This paste is applied directly for 10–15 minutes, then rinsed off.

Some clinics prepare decoctions of the tablet: 2–4 tablets simmered in 200ml water for 10 minutes, reduced to 100ml, strained, and given hot. This allows faster absorption, especially in emergency nasal or GI bleeding settings.

When considering vulnerable populations: pregnant women should use only under strict supervision, since any hemostatic agent can theoretically affect placental blood flow. Doses are typically halved (125mg twice daily) and given only short-term if postpartum hemorrhage risk arises.

Children (5–12 years) should receive oral powder form with honey at a dose of 50–100mg per kg body weight per day, split into two doses. Infants under 2 years generally avoid Sthambhan vati unless directly indicated by an Ayurvedic pediatrician.

Elderly patients often have slower digestion; thus, a single tablet (250mg) twice daily with warm water after meals suffices. They should also monitor for constipation due to the strong astringency and take mild laxatives if needed.

Safety notes: Always start with a test dose—one tablet once daily—to assess tolerance. Avoid simultaneous intake with strong laghu (light) or ushna (heating) foods, as they may counteract the shita virya of the vati. It’s wise to consult a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner or Ask Ayurveda professional before initiating any regimen.

Before beginning Sthambhan vati therapy, always consult a licensed practitioner or Ask Ayurveda expert to tailor dosage, form, and duration specifically for your constitution and condition.

Timing, Seasonality, and Anupana Recommendations

Ideal timing for Sthambhan vati is early morning and evening, taken after meals to avoid Vata aggravation in the digestive tract. In acute bleeding, doses can be given on an empty stomach with warm anupana if carefully monitored.

During autumn and late summer, when Pitta tends to rise, practitioners often increase the frequency to thrice daily; while in winter, a twice-daily regimen is adequate. Avoid high heat seasons for new users unless under clinical care.

Recommended anupanas include:

• Warm water: standard, supports absorption.
• Honey: 1 teaspoon, enhances shirolekhana and is mild Vata-pacifying.
• Buttermilk: 50ml, for milder Pitta conditions.
• Milk: 100ml, for Kapha-dominant or post-bleeding recuperation.

Avoid taking Sthambhan vati with black tea or coffee as tannins may interact unpredictably. Instead, choose lukewarm, non-acidic carriers for best results.

Quality, Sourcing, and Manufacturing Practices

Authentic Sthambhan vati begins with high-grade Lodhra bark sourced from sustainable wild-harvest plots. Look for suppliers with FairWild certification or government-licensed Forest Department aprovals to ensure ethical harvesting.

Nagkeshar petals should be handpicked early morning when dew is present to maximize gallic acid content. Mishri crystals are ideally sourced from organic sugarcane, avoiding commercial bleached sugar.

Reputable manufacturers adhere to GMP standards: they perform heavy-metal testing (Pb, As, Hg), microbial limits (E. coli, Salmonella), and pesticide residue analysis. Certificates of Analysis (CoA) should be available upon request.

Traditional preparation involves quenching (Shodhana) of raw materials—Soaking Lodhra in Triphala decoction and steaming Nagkeshar to remove toxic alkaloids. Modern labs supplement these with HPTLC fingerprinting to verify marker compounds like mesuol and lupeol.

Buyers should check for:

• CoA for purity and absence of contaminants.
• Batch numbers and expiry dates.
• Clear labeling with ingredient Sanskrit names.
• Transparent sourcing policies on manufacturer websites.

By prioritizing traceability and standardized testing, you ensure your Sthambhan vati is potent, safe, and true to its classical heritage.

Safety, Contraindications, and Side Effects

Sthambhan vati is generally well-tolerated, but caution is needed in:

• Pregnancy—restricted use postpartum only; avoid routine dosing in the first trimester.
• Ulcers—its astringent nature may irritate gastric or duodenal ulcers unless buffered by milk or ghee.
• Hypertension—rare cases report transient blood pressure spikes due to vasoconstrictive alkaloids.
• Constipation—excessive astringency; co-administer with Triphala or light laxatives.

Possible side effects:

• Mild nausea or fullness if taken on empty stomach.
• Dry mouth or excessive thirst—signs of Vata aggravation.
• Rare allergic reactions—skin rash in individuals sensitive to berberine.

Contraindicated in severe Vata disorders like severe dryness (Khara Vata), since strong kashaya rasa can exacerbate. Also avoid simultaneous use with strong diuretics or anticoagulant medications (warfarin), as unpredictable interactions may occur.

Always perform a Vyavahara Pariksha (trial intake) of one tablet, wait 24 hours to monitor for any adverse response. Seek Ayurvedic consultation immediately if unusual symptoms develop.

For long-term therapy beyond four weeks, regular follow-ups are essential to monitor hemoglobin levels, liver and kidney functions, ensuring that Sthambhan vati remains beneficial without hidden risks.

Modern Scientific Research and Evidence

Recent preclinical studies have evaluated Sthambhan vati’s individual components for hemostatic effects. A 2021 in vivo study from the Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine demonstrated that Lodhra extracts reduced bleeding time by 40% in rat tail-bleeding models. This verifies its traditional stanching claims in a controlled laboratory setting.

Another research paper (Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 2020) investigated mesuol from Nagkeshar. It showed significant capillary resistance increase and suppressed perifocal edema in rabbit ear vascular leakage tests. The study highlights Nagkeshar’s dual action—anti-inflammatory plus vessel fortifying.

Berberine’s mechanistic role from Daru Haldi was documented in 2019 pharmacological review. The review explained how berberine influences calcium ion channels in smooth muscle cells, promoting vasoconstriction. Combined with tannic compounds, this yields a coordinated halt in hemorrhage.

However, few clinical trials have directly tested the full Sthambhan vati formulation. A pilot human study (2022) with 30 patients suffering from chronic hemorrhoidal bleeding showed 80% improvement; yet the sample size was small and lacked placebo control, calling for larger RCTs.

Pharmacokinetic profiling of Sthambhan vati remains limited. Preliminary in vitro digestion models suggest that Mishri enhances lupeol solubility by 25%, while Triphala-shodhana improves tannin absorption. More comprehensive absorption/distribution studies are essential.

Comparing classical Ayurvedic indications with modern data reveals concordance: both traditions recognize its rapid action on bleeding and anti-inflammatory effects. Yet discrepancies exist on optimal dosing—Ayurveda prescribes weight-adjusted doses, while modern trials tend to use fixed tablet counts.

Current research gaps include long-term safety profiles, herb-drug interaction studies, and standardized outcome measures for bleeding severity. Collaborative efforts between Ayurvedic institutes and medical research centers could bridge these gaps, enabling evidence-based integration.

In short, modern science is validating many aspects of Sthambhan vati, but further high-quality RCTs and pharmacological research are needed to fully endorse its traditional uses for broader global acceptance.

Myths and Realities

Myth: Sthambhan vati cures all types of bleeding instantly.
Reality: While a potent hemostatic, it specifically targets Pitta-related bleeding—like bright red hemorrhage. Dark, Vata-driven bleeding (varicosities, clots) may not respond as quickly and sometimes require Vata-pacifying adjuncts.

Myth: A heavier dose leads to faster effect.
Reality: Excessive dosing can aggravate Vata, causing constipation, dryness, or new discomforts. Optimal effect comes from personalized dosages based on body weight and dosha assessment.

Myth: Sthambhan vati is toxic in long-term use.
Reality: When pure and properly prepared, it’s safe for courses up to four weeks. However, without Shodhana and GMP, contaminants could pose risks—highlighting importance of sourcing.

Myth: It can replace surgical intervention in severe hemorrhage.
Reality: It’s an excellent adjunct, but in life-threatening bleeding (like large ulcers or major trauma), immediate medical care is irreplaceable. Always use under multidisciplinary guidance.

Myth: It’s only for women’s health.
Reality: Though often used in menorrhagia, its utility spans gastrointestinal, urinary, dental, and emergency ENT bleeding—making it a versatile formulation for all genders.

Myth: Traditional knowledge is unscientific.
Reality: Modern studies increasingly back its mechanisms, yet the full formulation needs rigorous trials. Dismissing classical insights overlooks centuries of empirical data.

Real-world note: I once saw a GP surprised by the efficacy of Sthambhan vati on a patient’s nosebleed—turns out the AYUSH kit he had ignored had this remedy! It’s a reminder that old formulas can sometimes beat new drugs in speed and cost.

Overall, Sthambhan vati’s reputation as a universal stanching agent is best balanced with practical understanding—knowing when it excels and when to combine or defer to broader medical interventions.

Conclusion

Sthambhan vati stands out as a time-tested Ayurvedic formulation for managing a variety of bleeding disorders—from piles and menorrhagia to haematuria and epistaxis. Its precise combination of astringent, anti-inflammatory, and vasoconstrictive herbs offers targeted hemostasis while minimizing systemic agitation.

Historically rooted in texts like Rasatarangini and Bhaishajya Ratnavali, it evolved from folk poultices to GMP-certified tablets, yet retaining its classical pharmacodynamics of rasa, virya, vipaka, and prabhava.

Contemporary studies, though limited, echo its traditional uses, demonstrating reductions in bleeding time and vessel permeability. Safety protocols—proper dosing, Shodhana, and quality control—are essential to maximize benefits and minimize risks.

For personalized treatment, Sthambhan vati’s Pitta-cooling, Kapha-stabilizing profile makes it ideal when bleeding stems from heat imbalances. Users and clinicians should tailor regimens based on constitution (prakriti), agni strength, and coexisting conditions.

In closing, Sthambhan vati exemplifies how Ayurveda blends empirical wisdom and evolving scientific validation. If you’re considering this formulation, reach out to an Ask Ayurveda expert for professional guidance—ensuring a safe, effective, and constitution-aligned therapeutic journey.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is Sthambhan vati and how does it work?

A1: Sthambhan vati is an Ayurvedic tablet formulated to staunch bleeding through a blend of Lodhra, Nagkeshar, and Daru Haldi. Its tannins precipitate blood proteins for local vessel contraction, while alkaloids promote vasoconstriction. It balances Pitta and supports Rasa and Rakta dhatus for effective bleeding control.

Q2: What ingredients are in Sthambhan vati?

A2: The core ingredients include Lodhra (Symplocos racemosa), Nagkeshar (Mesua ferrea), and Daru Haldi (Berberis aristata). Supporting ingredients like Mishri (crystallized sugar) and sometimes Saindhava (rock salt) or Triphala for Shodhana enhance efficacy and bioavailability.

Q3: What are the main therapeutic uses of Sthambhan vati?

A3: Sthambhan vati is used for bleeding piles (Arsha), menorrhagia, haematuria, epistaxis, bleeding gums, postpartum hemorrhage, and minor external bleeding. Its hemostatic, anti-inflammatory, and vasoconstrictive actions address Pitta-driven hemorrhages across several systems.

Q4: How should I dose Sthambhan vati for bleeding piles?

A4: For bleeding piles, a common adult dose is 250mg (one tablet) twice daily after meals, with an optional loading dose of 250mg every four hours under supervision. Always follow practitioner guidance and start with a test dose to assess tolerance.

Q5: Can Sthambhan vati be used in menorrhagia?

A5: Yes, in menorrhagia it’s prescribed at 250–500mg twice daily, starting a few days before the expected menses and continuing through the first two days of flow. Clinical observations report reduced cycle length and flow volume when used properly.

Q6: Are there any side effects of Sthambhan vati?

A6: Possible side effects include mild nausea, dry mouth, constipation, or increased thirst—signs of Vata aggravation. Rarely, allergic skin reactions to berberine may occur. Monitoring and a small test dose help minimize these risks.

Q7: Who should avoid using Sthambhan vati?

A7: Avoid in severe Vata disorders (extreme dryness), active ulcers without buffering, pregnancy (first trimester), and with anticoagulant drugs like warfarin. Those with high blood pressure should use caution due to vasoconstrictive components.

Q8: What is the historical origin of Sthambhan vati?

A8: First described in Rasatarangini (14th c.) and elaborated in Bhaishajya Ratnavali, Sthambhan vati was a village staple for hemorrhage. It was later standardized in colonial pharmacopoeias and remains included in modern AYUSH formulation lists.

Q9: How does Sthambhan vati align with Ayurvedic dosha theory?

A9: It’s predominantly Pitta-cooling (shita virya) with an astringent taste (kashaya rasa) that staunches bleeding. It stabilizes Kapha channels and shouldn’t overly aggravate Vata if taken after meals or with carriers like honey or buttermilk.

Q10: Where can I find high-quality Sthambhan vati?

A10: Purchase from GMP-certified Ayurvedic pharmacies that provide a Certificate of Analysis, batch number, and clear sourcing info. Look for proper Shodhana mentions, HPTLC fingerprinting, and trusted FairWild or government forest approvals in labeling.

If you still have questions, please consult an Ayurvedic professional at Ask Ayurveda for tailored advice.