Become A Member

  1. Home
  2. Volume 1 | Issue 4 [October to December]
  3. COMPARATIVE STUDY OF SWARASA VS KWATHA PREPARATIONS: A PHARMACOLOGICAL AND CLINICAL REVIEW
Article Image
Dr. Abhay Gandhi

COMPARATIVE STUDY OF SWARASA VS KWATHA PREPARATIONS: A PHARMACOLOGICAL AND CLINICAL REVIEW

Introduction: In Ayurvedic pharmaceutics, Swarasa (fresh plant juice) and Kwatha (decoction) are two of the most fundamental dosage forms described under Panchavidha Kashaya Kalpana. Both preparations are widely used, but they differ significantly in their preparation, phytochemical composition, therapeutic action, and clinical applicability. Methods: A structured review was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and AYUSH Research Portal. Keywords included Swarasa, Kwatha, Panchavidha Kashaya Kalpana, pharmacology, Ayurveda. Classical Ayurvedic texts such as Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, and Sharangadhara Samhita were studied. Inclusion criteria encompassed studies exploring pharmacognostic, phytochemical, pharmacological, and clinical aspects of Swarasa and Kwatha. Results: Evidence indicates that Swarasa offers the most concentrated phytoconstituents, including volatile compounds and enzymes, making it suitable for acute conditions requiring fast action. Kwatha, being a water-based decoction prepared by boiling, ensures extraction of alkaloids, glycosides, tannins, and stable flavonoids, making it effective for chronic systemic disorders. Classical references highlight Swarasa as more potent but less stable, while Kwatha is widely used due to better shelf life and standardized preparation methods. Modern studies support their anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial, immunomodulatory, and adaptogenic activities, with each form exhibiting unique pharmacological strengths. Discussion: Comparative evaluation reveals that Swarasa excels in rapid therapeutic efficacy but is limited by instability and standardization challenges. Kwatha, though less concentrated, provides consistent results and greater patient compliance. Future research should focus on advanced preservation techniques, pharmacokinetic studies, and clinical trials to establish evidence-based protocols for their integration into modern pharmaceutics. Conclusion: Both Swarasa and Kwatha represent essential Ayurvedic formulations with complementary roles. A comparative understanding enhances their rational use in clinical practice and underscores their relevance in integrative medicine.

 

KEYWORDS: Ayurveda, Kwatha, Panchavidha Kashaya Kalpana, Pharmacology, Swarasa