Nutritional Analysis of DrakshadiGhritafor Management of Karshya

Jagriti Chandrakar¹, Neeraj Agrawal¹, Lowkesh Chandravanshi¹, Satyawati Rathia¹, Sukhdev Chandel¹, Nagendra Singh Chauhan²

¹Department of Kaumarabhritya, Shri Narayan Prasad Awasthi Government Ayurved College Raipur (C.G.), India.

² Drugs Testing Laboratory, Avam Anusandhan Kendra, Raipur (C.G.), India.

Abstract

India has initiated numerous national schemes to eliminate undernutrition. The schemes have helped in the reduction of malnutrition, but undernutrition has not been eliminated completely. Karshya is a condition of low weight for age. We can relate Karshya to undernutrition. Ayurveda addresses Karshya in a holistic manner, focusing on the rejuvenation of digestive fire, body tissue building as well as overall enhanced vitality. As per Vangsen Samhita, DrakshadiGhrita has been described as Balmansa-vriddhikar, indicating that it increases body mass and strength. Aim: To examine the nutritional contents of DrakshadiGhrita and evaluate its therapeutic potential for the treatment of Karshya. Material and Method: Draksha, Go-ghrita, Go-dugdha, Yastimadhu, Mishri, and Pippali are all constituents of Drakshadighrita. The herbs were collected, identified and authenticated. Result: The nutraceutical worth of DrakshadiGhrita test results was achieved through laboratory analysis and proved to contain a lot of energy and fat. Conclusion: DrakshadiGhrita is a good source of energy because it is rich in fat and is suitable for filling energy deficits in Karshya. Nutritional evaluation of such formulations is essential to comprehend their utility in the management of undernutrition from the perspective of both Ayurveda and contemporary nutrition. Ghrita enhances the bioavailability of phytochemicals, leading to enhanced absorption and efficacy, combining traditional insight with contemporary nutritional wisdom.

Keywords: Draksha, Ghrita,Karshya,Go-dugdha, Yastimadhu, andPippali

1.Introduction

India has embarked on several national initiatives for the resolution of undernutrition (Hussain Dilwar et al., 2025). National programs for children are aimed at ensuring their full development, with a strong emphasis on health, nutrition, protection and education. (J. Suresh Kumar et al., 2024). These programs are designed to address the essentials of children, especially those between their early childhood stage (0-6 years) and their school-going age (6-14 years). Although many national programs like POSHAN Abhiyaan, ICDS, PM POSHAN, and Anaemia Mukt Bharat are presently operational in India. Still, millions of children remain undernourished(Narayan Jitendra et al., 2024).

The National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5),India (2019-21), contains information on a range of nutrition-related topics. The prevalence of stunting among children under five was 35.5%, wasting was 19.3%, and underweight was 32.1% (NFHS-5 Phase-II 2019-2020). Undernutrition in children is primarily due to inadequate intake of nutrients and frequent infections (Katona Peter et al., 2008). Poverty, unavailability of nutritious food, inadequate maternal health and nutrition, unsafe water for drinking, poor sanitation, and limited access to healthcare are all key determinants of undernutrition (Mehta Asha Kapur et al., 2018). These factors often co-exist and contribute to an interplay of disease and undernutrition that prevents child growth and development. (Mehta Asha Kapur et al., 2018). There is a need for proper nutrition in order to maintain good health, support physical and mental growth, and avoid disease (Singh Chander et al., 2024).

DrakshadiGhrita is an old Ayurvedic medicated ghee preparation specifically employed in the treatment of Kshatksheena (severly emaciated) (Tripathi Pandit Harihar Prasad (2016).Karshya is a disorder that is defined as loss of body weight, low energy, and decrease in physical strength (Tripathi Pandit Harihar Prasad (2016). The current research seeks to critically examine the medicinal traits of the formulation using its primary components, Draksha (Vitis vinifera) and Ghrita (ghee). The foundation of this writing is Ghrita, a rich source of essential fatty acids famous for its SamskarasyaAnuvartana (ability to carry and enhance the activity of herbs), tissue-rejuvenating (Rasayana) properties, and aid in supporting digestion and absorption (Manjunath et al., 2024).Draksha significantly adds to the constitution by providing natural sugars, polyphenols, antioxidants, and minerals, hence being a vital contributor to increasing energy levels, immunity, and facilitating tissue regeneration (Tiwari Mamta et al., 2014). The nutritional composition includes a complete analysis of macronutrients (i.e., carbohydrates, proteins, and fats), energy value, and certain micronutrients that aid in nutrition properties. The purpose of this study to establish DrakshadiGhrita as a clinically tested formulation for the treatment ofKarshya.

Rasa Panchaka(Sharma P.V. 2001)

·        Rasa - Madhur.

·        Guna - Guru, Snigdha, Mridu

·        Virya- Shita

·        Vipaka– Madhur

·        Karma-Brimhana, Balya,Urakshatahara, Kshayahara,Snehana

2. Material And Method:

2. 1. Ingredients of DrakshadiGhrita

Table 1. Ingredients of DrakshadiGhrita

 From these six ingredients, we obtained 40 kg of DrakshadiGhrita. The method of preparing DrakshadiGhrita Formulation is displayed in Figures 1 and figure no. 2.

2.2. Procurement of Drugs:

These drugs were purchased fromGupta's Ayurvedic Raw Drug Pharmacy from local market in Raipur (C.G.), and pippali was purchased from K.L.E. Ayurved Pharmacy Karnataka.

2.3. Authentication of Raw Drugs:

The procured drug was identified and authenticated at Shri B.M.K. Ayurveda Mahavidyalaya Karnataka, a KLE Academy of Higher Education and Research Deemed-to-be-University constituent unit, Central Research Facility Drug Authentication Report,outward:-BMK/CRF/2024-25, CRF Code: - CRF/Auth/86/2024, CRF/Auth/87/2024, CRF/Auth/126/2024 India.

 2.4. Methods of preparation ofDrakshadiGhrita(Tripathi Pandit Harihar Prasad 2016)  

Figure 2:  Showing Method of DrakshadiGhritaPreparation

3. Method Of Preparation:

Ghrita, Draksha, and YavakutaYastimadhu were initially taken in a vessel and soaked in four times their quantity of water overnight.

 Next, the soaking mixture was taken to Paka (decoction preparation) over medium heat (Madhyam-agni) until the volume was reduced to one-fourth of the original quantity.

 After cooling, the leftover liquid was filtered, and the Kwatha (decoction) was stored in a clean vessel.Draksha, Yastimadhu and Pippaliwere processed into YavakutaChurna (coarse powder) and then mixed with water to produce a Kalka (paste).

 Murchhita Goghrita was gently warmed in a wide-mouthed vessel over medium heat. The prepared Kalka was carefully incorporated into the warm Ghrita with continuous stirring.

 Once the Kalka was uniformly blended into the Ghrita, the previously prepared Kwatha was slowly added to this mixture to complete the process.

 150 liters of milk were added to the mixture, and the final Paka (cooking) was carried out over a moderate flame until the classical signs of Ghritapaka Lakshana appeared.

 TheGhrita was immediately filtered into a clean vessel. Once the filtered Ghritahad cooled to room temperature, an appropriate quantity of Khand (unrefined sugar) was added and thoroughly mixed. Thus, by following the standardized Ayurvedicprocedures described above, DrakshadiGhrita was successfully prepared.

The prepared DrakshadiGhritawas then sent to Equinox Laboratory, R65, TTC, Rubale, Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra, for nutraceutical estimation.

 4. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

4.1. Nutraceutical value of DrakshadiGhrita

The term "nutraceutical value" refers to the health benefits and therapeutic properties of certain foods, ingredients, or dietary supplements that go beyond basic nutrition. It combines the concepts of "nutrition" meaning a food or food component that provides medical or health benefits, including the prevention and treatment of disease(Thakur Ashish et al., 2022). Nutraceutical valueof Drakshadighrita test result obtained fromEquinox Laboratory, R65, TTC, Rubale, Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra and it’s shown in table no.2 and table no.3.

Table No.2: Showing table of Nutraceutical value

*Percentage contribution to Recommended Dietary Allowance calculated on basis of 2000kcal energy

1 Serve =100g

 Table No.3:Ingredient-wise Nutritional Role Summary

 The high nutritional value observed in DrakshadiGhrita is primarily attributed to its rich and synergistic composition of ingredients. Each component plays a specific role in contributing to the overall energy, fat content, and therapeutic benefits of the formulation.

1. Energy (896.67 Kcal/100 g – 44.83% RDA)

The major contributor to the high energy content is Goghrita (cow’s ghee). Ghee is a calorie-dense lipid base, which supplies concentrated energy with very little volume, making it ideal for managing Karshya. Milk also contributes to caloric content, although to a lesser degree, due to the evaporation of water during preparation. Draksha, being rich in natural sugars like glucose and fructose, also supports energy release, especially in children with poor appetite(Yeola Kamal Aet al., 2023).

2. Total Fat (99.63 g/100 g – 148.7% RDA)

The formulation's fat content is almost entirely derived from Goghrita, which is rich in saturated fats (72.43 g/100 g) and monounsaturated fats (MUFA – 24.88 g/100 g). Fats are crucial for cell membrane integrity, energy storage, and insulation in the body(Sharma Paras et al., 2023).Though PUFAs (2.32 g/100 g) are present in smaller amounts, they contribute to anti-inflammatory properties. Although the herbal ingredients do not contribute significantly to the fat content, their efficacy is enhanced by the lipid-soluble absorption facilitated by ghee.

3. Carbohydrates and Sugars (<0.1 g and <2.0 g/100 g)

Minimal carbohydrate content is observed in the final formulation due to the exhaustive cooking process, during which most water-soluble carbohydrates from Draksha (grapes) and Yastimadhu (licorice) may undergo hydrolysis or evaporation. However, Draksha initially contributes natural sugars such as glucose and fructose, and Khand (unrefined sugar) is added at the end, enhancing palatability and mild sweetness, which is especially beneficial for pediatric use.

4. Protein (<0.1 g/100 g)

The protein content is negligible in the final product because most of the protein from milk is either denatured or lost during filtration. This confirms that the formulation is not a protein supplement and therefore should be paired with protein-rich foods in the diet.

5. Cholesterol (<0.1 mg/100 g)

Although cow’s ghee and milk naturally contain cholesterol, the level of cholesterol in the final product is surprisingly low, possibly due to high-temperature processing and subsequent filtration. This finding supports its safe and cautious administration in children or patients at cardiovascular risk.

6. Minerals: Calcium, Iron, Potassium, Sodium (All <2 mg/100 g)

Milk is the only ingredient naturally rich in calcium and potassium, but due to prolonged boiling and filtration, their levels are significantly reduced. Drakshais traditionally known to contain trace elements like iron, which is slightly reflected in the analysis (0.12 mg/100 g). Sodiumcon tent is low (2.06 mg/100g), making the formulation safe for children and those on low-sodium diets.

7. Trans Fat (<0.10 g/100 g)

The trans-fat content is negligible, which is expected as traditional ghee preparation avoids hydrogenation processes. This makes DrakshadiGhrita a safer fatsource compared to commercial or processed fats.

The nutritional profile of DrakshadiGhrita suggests it is highly beneficial for children suffering from low body weight or undernutrition (Karshya). According to the analysis, 100 grams of DrakshadiGhrita provides 896.67 kilocalories, which accounts for nearly 45% of the total daily energy requirement for an average person. For children who are weak, thin, or have reduced appetite, this high energy content can help support weight gain, improve stamina, and fulfill daily energy needs more effectively, even in smaller food volumes.

The formulation contains a very high amount of healthy fats—about 99.63 grams per 100 grams—which are essential for growth, brain development, and absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (like A, D, E, and K). Especially in children, fats are crucial to support rapid developmental needs, and DrakshadiGhrita offers this in a concentrated form. The presence of monounsaturated (MUFA) and polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) contributes to overall cellular health, while the saturated fats, though high (72.43 g/100 g), provide long-lasting energy which is beneficial in cases of undernutrition.

The protein and carbohydrate content in DrakshadiGhrita is very low (<0.1 g/100 g), which indicating that the formulation is not intended to serve as a sole source of nutrition, but rather a supplement to enhance energy and nourishment alongside a balanced diet. Added sugars are minimal (<1 g/100 g), making it safe for children with sugar sensitivity or those at risk of metabolic disorders.Importantly, the cholesterol and trans fats are negligible, making it safer for prolonged use in growing children when administered in appropriate doses.

DrakshadiGhrita is a nutrient-dense Ayurvedic formulation suitable as a supportive dietary supplement in children with low body weight. Its high-calorie and high-fat composition makes it an effective agent for improving weight, energy, and overall vitality, especially when used under medical or Ayurvedic supervision alongside a nutritious diet.However, modern nutritional databases and reference values (e.g., RDA, NRVs) do not account for Ayurvedic ingredients such asDraksha, Yastimadhu, or Pippali in ghee form.This limits the ability to compare or contextualize the formulation’s nutritional value within conventional nutritional frameworks.

 5. Conclusion:

The nutritional analysis of DrakshadiGhrita confirms that it is a high-calorie, high-fatformulation with minimal sugar and protein, making it ideal for children suffering from undernutrition (Karshya). The synergistic blend of ghee, milk, and herbs makes it a powerful nourishing agent, especially when administered alongside a balanced diet under Ayurvedic supervision.When given in appropriate doses under clinical guidance,DrakshadiGhrita can serve as an effective management of Karshya, combining both nutritional and therapeutic benefits as outlined in classical texts and confirmed through modern analysis. Further research into how nutrients and bioactive compound inDrakshadiGhrita are absorbed, metabolized, and utilized in the body could enhance its scientific understanding and global acceptance.