International Journal For Multidisciplinary Research

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The Hemostatic Potential of Shonitasthapana Mahakashaya: A Scientific Appraisal Bridging Ayurvedic Principles with Modern Pharmacology

Author(s) Dr. Sandhya Maravi, Dr. Shalini Varshney
Country India
Abstract Introduction: Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of medicine, offers profound insights into health and disease. Acharya Charaka, in his seminal work, the Charaka Samhita, classified medicinal herbs into 50 groups of ten, known as Mahakashayas, based on their primary pharmacological action. The Shonitasthapana Mahakashaya is one such group, specifically designated for its hemostatic or anti-hemorrhagic properties. 'Shonita' refers to blood, and 'Sthapana' means to check or stabilize. This group of ten herbs is paramount in the management of various bleeding disorders (Raktapitta).
Objective: This article aims to provide a comprehensive review of the Shonitasthapana Mahakashaya, elucidating the classical Ayurvedic understanding and correlating it with contemporary pharmacological research. It delves into the individual properties of the ten constituent herbs, their synergistic action, and the probable mechanism by which they achieve hemostasis.
Methodology: A thorough review of classical Ayurvedic texts, including the Charaka Samhita with its commentaries, and modern scientific literature from databases like PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar was conducted. Information regarding the ethnobotanical, phytochemical, and pharmacological aspects of the ten herbs was compiled and analyzed.
Results: The Shonitasthapana Mahakashaya comprises ten herbs: Madhu (Honey), Madhuka (Glycyrrhiza glabra), Rudhira (a combination of Kumkuma - Crocus sativus or blood, Mocha rasa (Bombax ceiba), Mrittika (Mud/Clay), Lodhra (Symplocos racemosa), Gairika (Red Ochre), Priyangu (Callicarpa macrophylla), Sharkara (Sugar), and Lajja (Puffed Paddy). Analysis of these components reveals a predominance of Kashaya (astringent), Sheeta (cold), and Grahi (absorbent) properties. Phytochemical studies have confirmed the presence of tannins, flavonoids, alkaloids, saponins, and other bioactive compounds, which are known for their vasoconstrictor, anti-inflammatory, and wound-healing activities, contributing to their hemostatic effect.
Conclusion: The Shonitasthapana Mahakashaya represents a sophisticated and effective formulation for managing bleeding conditions. Its multi-pronged approach, targeting vasoconstriction, platelet aggregation, and coagulation cascade modulation, validated by modern scientific evidence, underscores the profound wisdom of Ayurvedic pharmacology. Further clinical research is warranted to fully integrate this ancient knowledge into contemporary medical practice for managing hemorrhagic disorders.
Keywords Shonitasthapana Mahakashaya, Ayurveda, Hemostasis, Rakta Stambhana, Anti-hemorrhagic, Raktapitta, Charaka Samhita, Pharmacology.
Field Medical / Pharmacy
Published In Volume 7, Issue 6, November-December 2025
Published On 2025-11-03
DOI https://doi.org/10.36948/ijfmr.2025.v07i06.57750
Short DOI https://doi.org/g99p6z

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