Indications
Jeerakadyarishta is a classical Ayurvedic liquid tonic made mainly from cumin (jeeraka) with other herbs and spices, fermented with jaggery or sugar. It is traditionally used as a carminative and digestive for indigestion, wind, bloating, loss of appetite and loose stools, including diarrhoea linked with irritable bowel. In Ayurvedic tradition it is also given to women after childbirth to support digestion and recovery. Scientific evidence for these uses is limited.
How It Works
Cumin and the other aromatic herbs contain volatile oils that are thought to stimulate digestive juices, relax the gut muscle so that gas can pass (a carminative effect) and have mild antimicrobial activity. The fermentation process extracts these compounds and produces a small amount of natural alcohol, which acts as a preservative.
Dosage and Administration
Take by mouth as directed on the label or by a registered Ayurvedic practitioner, usually mixed with an equal amount of water after meals. Measure each dose with the cup provided. Do not exceed the stated amount. It is not recommended for children unless a practitioner advises it.
Interactions
Because it contains natural alcohol, it should not be taken with Metronidazole, Tinidazole or Disulfiram, and it may add to the drowsiness caused by sedatives, sleeping tablets and some antihistamines. The sugar content can affect blood sugar control in people taking diabetes medicines. Tell your doctor about all medicines and herbal products you use.
Contraindications
- Allergy to cumin or other ingredients.
- People who must avoid alcohol, including those with alcohol dependence or liver disease.
- Pregnancy and children.
- Poorly controlled diabetes, unless a doctor agrees.
Side Effects
It is generally well tolerated. Heartburn, stomach upset or allergic reactions may occur occasionally.
Get urgent medical help if there is swelling of the face or throat, or difficulty breathing. Also see a doctor promptly for diarrhoea with blood, high fever, signs of dehydration (very little urine, dizziness, dry mouth), severe tummy pain, or diarrhoea lasting more than 3 days.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Do not use during pregnancy because of its alcohol content. It is traditionally given after childbirth, but as it contains alcohol and sugar, breastfeeding mothers should ask a doctor before using it and should not take more than directed.
Precautions and Warnings
Check the label for the alcohol content. People with diabetes should take the sugar into account. Ongoing diarrhoea or digestive problems, weight loss or blood in the stool need a doctor’s assessment. For loose stools, drink plenty of fluids or oral rehydration solution.
Overdose
Large amounts may cause drowsiness or effects of alcohol, stomach upset and, in people with diabetes, high blood sugar. Seek medical advice and take the bottle with you.
Therapeutic Class
Ayurvedic herbal preparation (arishta, carminative and digestive)
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children. Keep the bottle tightly closed.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.