Elephant Milk

हस्तिदुग्धम्

Elephant milk (Hasti Dugdha) is heavy, sweet, cold, and strengthening. It is considered beneficial for the eyes (Chakshushya). Due to the large size and strength of elephants, their milk is believed to impart strength. However, it is very heavy to digest and rarely used in practice. The text mentions it primarily for academic completeness. Verse 16.

What is Elephant Milk (Gaja/Hastyadi Dugdha / हस्तिदुग्ध)?

Elephant milk (Hasti Dugdha) is heavy, sweet, cold, and strengthening. It is considered beneficial for the eyes (Chakshushya). Due to the large size and strength of elephants, their milk is believed to impart strength. However, it is very heavy to digest and rarely used in practice. The text mentions it primarily for academic completeness. Verse 16.

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 13

Therapeutic Actions (Karma)

  • Balya (strengthening)
  • Chakshushya (eye-beneficial)

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 13

References in Astanga Hridaya Sutrasthan

26 ½ Hastiksheera (Elephant milk benefits) - हि त याः थैय कृत ् It is strengthening in nature.

— Astanga Hridaya Sutrasthan, Drava Vigyaniya Drinkables

Source: Astanga Hridaya Sutrasthan, Drava Vigyaniya Drinkables

Medical Disclaimer: The information on this page is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Ayurvedic treatments should be pursued under the guidance of a qualified practitioner (BAMS/MD Ayurveda). Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new treatment. Content is sourced from classical Ayurvedic texts and may not reflect the latest medical research.