Indications
Jirakadyarishta (also spelled Jirakaddarista) is a classical Ayurvedic liquid made by slowly fermenting cumin seed (jiraka) with other herbs and jaggery or sugar. It is traditionally used for indigestion, loss of appetite, wind and bloating, loose stools and diarrhoea, and as a digestive and general tonic for women after childbirth. Scientific evidence for these uses is limited.
How It Works
Cumin and the other spices contain aromatic oils that are thought to stimulate the flow of digestive juices, relax the muscles of the gut and help release trapped wind. The fermentation process extracts the active plant substances and naturally produces a small amount of alcohol, which acts as a preservative. How well it works in people has not been properly studied.
Dosage and Administration
Take as directed on the label or by a registered Ayurvedic practitioner, usually after meals and often mixed with an equal amount of water. Shake the bottle before use. Do not take more than the recommended amount. Give it to children only if the label gives a children’s dose or a practitioner advises it.
Interactions
Because this preparation contains naturally formed alcohol, avoid taking it with Metronidazole, Tinidazole or other medicines that react with alcohol, and use caution with sedatives and sleeping tablets. The sugar content may affect blood sugar control in people taking diabetes medicines. Tell your doctor or pharmacist about all medicines and herbal products you use.
Contraindications
- Allergy to cumin or any ingredient listed on the pack
- People who must avoid all alcohol, such as those with alcohol dependence or serious liver disease
- Poorly controlled diabetes, unless a doctor advises it
- Pregnancy, unless a practitioner advises it
Side Effects
At the label dose side effects are uncommon. Some people may have heartburn, a feeling of heat in the stomach or allergic reactions.
Get urgent medical help if you notice swelling of the face, lips or throat, difficulty breathing, a widespread rash, vomiting blood, black stools, severe stomach pain, or diarrhoea with blood or signs of dehydration such as very little urine, dry mouth and dizziness.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Because it contains a small amount of alcohol, avoid it during pregnancy unless a qualified practitioner advises it. It is traditionally used after childbirth, but breastfeeding mothers should ask a doctor first, as small amounts of alcohol can pass into breast milk.
Precautions and Warnings
For diarrhoea, especially in children, the most important treatment is oral rehydration salts and plenty of fluids; see a doctor if diarrhoea is severe, bloody or lasts more than two days. Ongoing indigestion, weight loss or black stools need a doctor’s check. Do not drive or operate machinery if you feel drowsy.
Overdose
Taking a large amount may cause stomach upset and effects of alcohol such as drowsiness. If someone has taken much more than the recommended amount, or a child has swallowed a large amount, contact a doctor or go to the nearest hospital and take the bottle with you.
Therapeutic Class
Ayurvedic herbal preparation (digestive and carminative).
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.