Bala for Asthma: Does It Work?
Does Bala (Sida cordifolia, Country Mallow) help with asthma? Yes, and it occupies a distinctive niche in classical Ayurvedic respiratory pharmacology. Bala is the lead strength-giver of the materia medica, its very name means "that which gives strength", and the root is documented in The Yoga of Herbs with asthma listed among its primary indications. Where most asthma herbs work by clearing Kapha or breaking spasm, Bala addresses the underlying weakness that leaves the lungs vulnerable in the first place.
The root contains small amounts of ephedrine (roughly 0.085 percent), the same alkaloid family that the related herb Ephedra uses for its bronchodilator action. This places Bala in a small set of Ayurvedic herbs with a documented direct bronchodilator constituent, alongside Vasa's vasicine. Classical texts use this property indirectly: Sharangadhara Samhita, Madhyama Khanda 8 places Bala alongside Pushkaramoola, Kapikacchu, Bharangi, and Shankhapushpi inside the great Avalehakalpana (electuary) for respiratory and nervous debility, and Charaka Samhita, Chikitsa Sthana 18 includes Bala in the major cough-treatment decoction with Dashamoola, Apamarga, and Pushkaramoola.
The Ayurvedic logic is precise. Bala has a sweet taste (Madhura Rasa), cold potency (Sheeta Virya), sweet post-digestive effect, and a tridoshic-balancing dosha effect (VPK=). This is unusual for a respiratory herb, most respiratory herbs are heating and pungent. Bala's cold-sweet-nourishing profile makes it the right choice for Vata-Kapha asthma where dryness, spasm, weakness, and post-attack exhaustion dominate, the picture in adults with chronic asthma who have lost weight, sleep poorly, or whose attacks leave them drained for days. It is documented as Balya (strength-giving), Ojovardhaka (increases Ojas), Vatahara, Hridya (cardiotonic), and Rasayana, the combination needed for chronic asthma management where you want to rebuild the patient, not just clear the wheeze.
How Bala Helps with Asthma
Bala acts on asthma through three convergent mechanisms, and the combination is what makes it different from every other herb in the asthma toolkit.
1. Direct bronchodilator action through ephedrine alkaloids
Bala root contains small amounts of ephedrine (roughly 0.085 percent by weight). Ephedrine is a recognised beta-2 adrenergic agonist, the same pharmacological class as salbutamol and albuterol, and acts directly to relax bronchial smooth muscle. In Bala, the ephedrine content is low enough that the herb is safe at traditional doses but high enough to contribute a measurable bronchodilator effect over a sustained course, this is the same mechanism that classical Chinese medicine harnesses in the related herb Ephedra (Ma Huang) for asthma.
2. Vatahara and antispasmodic, calming the bronchospasm
Bhavaprakash Nighantu documents Bala as Vatahara (alleviates Vata). In Tamaka Shwasa, it is Vata's reversed upward movement in the chest that converts simple Kapha congestion into the spasmodic, panic-laden, dry-wheeze attack characteristic of Vata-Kapha asthma. Bala's sweet, cooling, demulcent quality directly opposes this Vata excess. The sweet rasa and cold virya soften dryness in the airways; the demulcent action coats and protects the bronchial mucosa; the cardiotonic effect (Hridya) steadies the panicked sympathetic response that often accompanies adult asthma attacks.
3. Rasayana to pranavaha srotas, rebuilding respiratory strength
This is Bala's signature. Chronic asthma is not just a wheeze problem, it is a tissue-strength problem. Years of bronchospasm, mucus, and breathing against resistance leave the respiratory channels (pranavaha srotas) depleted and the chest muscles weak. Bala is classified as Balya (strength-giving), Ojovardhaka (increases Ojas), and Rasayana (rejuvenative). It works on all seven tissue elements, with particular affinity for marrow and nerve tissue, and the documented systems include the respiratory tract. Used over months, Bala rebuilds the structural resilience of the lungs in a way that clearing herbs alone cannot deliver.
How this fits the asthma protocol
Bala is not the first herb for an acute attack, that role belongs to a bronchodilator (Vasa) or a Kapha-clearer (Pippali). Bala is the long-term rebuilder. Classical formulas use this combination intentionally: Charaka Samhita, Chikitsa Sthana 18 places Bala inside the Dashamoola plus Pippalimoola plus Pushkaramoola decoction for chronic cough, and Sharangadhara Samhita, Madhyama Khanda 8 includes Bala in respiratory electuaries alongside Pushkaramoola. The dosha-balancing tridoshic action (VPK=) means Bala can be added to any pattern without aggravating the others, a rare property in the respiratory toolkit.
The Kapha caveat
At excess dose, Bala's sweet-cooling quality can increase Kapha and Ama. For pure Kapha asthma with abundant white mucus, Bala is best paired with warming carriers (ginger, Pippali) or used at the lower end of the dose range. For Vata-Kapha asthma, the dryness-correcting effect outweighs this caution.
How to Use Bala for Asthma
Bala is a long-game herb for asthma. Expect to use it for 8 to 16 weeks before judging effect, and use it inside a wider Kapha-clearing protocol rather than as a standalone. The root is the medicinal part; whole plant decoctions are weaker.
Best form for asthma: Root decoction or milk decoction
The classical preparations for respiratory and nervous use are the root decoction (Kvatha) and the milk decoction (Ksheerapaka). The milk decoction is particularly suited to Vata-Kapha asthma with dryness, weakness, and post-attack exhaustion, the unctuous milk balances Bala's mild astringency and amplifies its Rasayana action on lung tissue.
Dosage
| Form | Daily Dose | Timing | Anupana |
|---|---|---|---|
| Root powder (Bala Churna) | 250 mg to 1 g, twice daily | Morning and evening | Warm water, or warm milk |
| Root decoction (Kvatha) | 1 to 2 tola (10 to 24 g of root), twice daily as decoction | Before meals | Taken straight, lukewarm |
| Milk decoction (Ksheerapaka) | 1 tsp Bala powder simmered in 1 cup milk + quarter cup water | Evening, before bed | Sweetened lightly with sugar or jaggery |
| Bala Taila (external) | 2 to 3 tbsp warm oil massaged into chest and upper back | Before bath, daily | External; follow with warm shower |
The classical milk decoction (best for chronic asthma rebuild)
Take one teaspoon of Bala root powder, one cup of whole milk, and quarter cup of water. Simmer on low heat until the water has evaporated and only milk remains, about 10 to 12 minutes. Strain. Add a small pinch of cardamom and sweeten lightly. Drink warm, in the evening, daily for 8 to 12 weeks. This is the classical Ksheerapaka format The Yoga of Herbs and The Ayurveda Encyclopedia both describe for Bala, and it is the preparation that most directly delivers the Rasayana effect to pranavaha srotas.
Anupana by pattern
- Vata-Kapha asthma (dry, spasmodic, post-attack exhaustion): milk decoction at bedtime. The sweet-cool-unctuous combination targets dryness while feeding lung tissue.
- Mild Kapha asthma (with cold extremities, weak digestion): Bala root powder with a pinch of dry ginger and warm water; the ginger counters Bala's cooling tendency and stops it from increasing chest mucus.
- External support: Bala Taila massaged warm into the chest and upper back at bedtime is the classical adjunct for spasmodic, Vata-Kapha asthma, particularly during winter and early spring flare seasons.
Duration expectations
Bala is a tissue rebuilder, not a quick-relief herb. Expect noticeable steadiness in breathing and reduced post-attack fatigue within 3 to 4 weeks, with measurable reduction in attack frequency over 8 to 16 weeks of consistent daily use. Take it in courses of 12 weeks, then pause 2 to 4 weeks before resuming.
Safety
Bala is not a casual daily tonic. It contains ephedrine alkaloids, which are unsuitable for people with uncontrolled hypertension, severe heart disease, anxiety disorders with palpitations, hyperthyroidism, BPH (urinary retention), pregnancy, or active anticholinergic medication. Source matters, choose a clearly labelled Sida cordifolia root preparation from a reputable Ayurvedic pharmacy. Discuss with your physician if you are on any cardiac, blood-pressure, or thyroid medication. At excess dose, Bala can increase Kapha and Ama, stay within the documented dose range.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does Bala take to work for asthma?
Bala is a tissue rebuilder, not a fast-acting bronchodilator. Most users notice steadier breathing, less post-attack exhaustion, and improved exercise tolerance within 3 to 4 weeks. Measurable reduction in attack frequency typically takes 8 to 16 weeks of consistent daily root powder or milk decoction. If you need quick wheeze relief, pair Bala with Pippali or Pushkaramoola for short-term action while Bala rebuilds underneath.
Can I take Bala with my inhaler or asthma medications?
Use caution, and discuss with your physician first. Bala contains small amounts of ephedrine, which acts on the same beta-2 adrenergic receptors as salbutamol and albuterol. At the traditional dose this is rarely clinically significant, but for people on high-dose bronchodilators, MAO inhibitors, decongestants, or stimulants, the combination can raise heart rate or blood pressure. Bala is contraindicated in uncontrolled hypertension, severe heart disease, hyperthyroidism, and anxiety disorders with palpitations. Do not stop or reduce any prescribed asthma medication without medical guidance.
What is the best form of Bala for asthma?
For chronic Vata-Kapha asthma, the milk decoction (Ksheerapaka) with Bala root powder is the most direct classical form, the sweet-cool-unctuous combination delivers the Rasayana effect to lung tissue while balancing dryness. For mild cases or Kapha-leaning asthma, plain root powder (250 mg to 1 g twice daily) with warm water and a pinch of ginger is simpler. For the spasmodic-pain component, Bala Taila massaged into the chest and upper back at bedtime is the classical external adjunct.
Bala vs Pippali for asthma, which one should I use?
They cover different roles and are often combined. Pippali is the most cited single herb for asthma in classical texts and acts as a Rasayana for the respiratory channels, directly clearing Kapha and building lung tissue strength. Bala adds two things Pippali does not: a small amount of ephedrine for direct bronchodilator support, and a powerful general Balya (strength-giving) action that addresses the depletion and weakness that chronic asthma creates. For pure Kapha asthma with abundant mucus, lead with Pippali plus honey. For Vata-Kapha asthma with dryness, spasm, and post-attack exhaustion, lead with Bala milk decoction. Classical formulas like Bharangyadi Lehya combine both.
Is Bala safe for long-term daily use in asthma?
At classical doses (250 mg to 1 g root powder twice daily), yes, with the appropriate cautions. Bala has a 2000-year classical safety record and is used in chronic conditions including paediatrics and postpartum care. The ephedrine alkaloid content makes it inappropriate for people with uncontrolled hypertension, severe heart disease, hyperthyroidism, BPH, pregnancy, or anxiety disorders with palpitations. Take Bala in 12-week courses with 2 to 4 week breaks rather than continuously, and source from a reputable Ayurvedic pharmacy with clearly labelled Sida cordifolia root.
Recommended: Start Bala for Asthma
If you want to start using Bala for asthma today, here is the most direct starting point: one teaspoon of Bala root powder simmered in one cup of whole milk and quarter cup of water until only milk remains, taken warm before bed, daily for 8 to 12 weeks. This is the classical Ksheerapaka preparation that delivers Bala's Rasayana action to the lungs and nerve tissue while balancing the dryness of Vata-Kapha asthma.
Best form: Sida cordifolia root powder. The root contains the ephedrine alkaloids and the bulk of the strength-giving compounds; whole-plant preparations are weaker. Choose a clearly labelled Ayurvedic pharmacy source.
Kitchen version: One teaspoon Bala root powder, one cup whole milk, quarter cup water. Simmer on low heat 10 to 12 minutes until the water has evaporated. Strain. Add a pinch of cardamom and a small amount of jaggery or sugar to taste. Drink warm at bedtime.
Dosha fork:
- Vata-Kapha asthma (dry, spasmodic, post-attack exhaustion, weight loss): Bala milk decoction at bedtime, plus Bala Taila chest massage before bath.
- Mild Kapha asthma (cold extremities, weak digestion): Bala root powder (500 mg twice daily) with a pinch of dry ginger in warm water. The ginger counters Bala's cooling so it does not increase chest mucus.
Find Bala on Amazon ↗ Find Bala Taila ↗
Safety note: Bala contains ephedrine alkaloids. Avoid in uncontrolled hypertension, severe heart disease, hyperthyroidism, BPH, anxiety with palpitations, and pregnancy. Discuss with your physician if you are on cardiac, blood-pressure, or thyroid medication, or high-dose bronchodilators. Bala is a chronic-management herb; it is not an emergency bronchodilator, keep your rescue inhaler accessible.
Safety & Precautions
Bala has a strong classical safety record when used in traditional preparations at traditional doses. Classical texts have used it for over two thousand years, including in paediatrics and postpartum care. However, Bala is not a casual daily tonic like Turmeric or Amla, it contains ephedrine (roughly 0.085% of the root by weight) and related alkaloids that make informed sourcing and dosing essential.
The Ephedrine Issue (Critical for US Readers)
In 2004 the US FDA banned ephedra (Ephedra sinica) as a dietary ingredient after deaths linked to high-dose weight-loss supplements. Bala is a different plant, but it contains the same alkaloid family at much lower concentrations. Bala products sold as dietary supplements in the US therefore occupy a grey area, some companies sell it, others have reformulated without it.
Bala remains legal and widely used in India, the UK, Europe, and most other countries. The risk profile at classical doses (3-6 g churna or 30-60 ml decoction) is low, but stacked with other stimulants it rises sharply.
WADA-Banned for Competitive Athletes
Ephedrine is on the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) prohibited list in competition. If you compete in any tested sport, Olympic, NCAA, professional, or amateur with drug testing, do not use Bala. Even small doses can produce a positive test for ephedrine.
Cardiovascular Cautions
Do not use Bala if you have:
- Hypertension, Bala can raise blood pressure
- Heart arrhythmia, ephedrine is arrhythmogenic
- Known coronary artery disease or prior heart attack
- Hyperthyroidism, additive sympathomimetic effect
- Glaucoma, alkaloids can raise intraocular pressure
Drug Interactions
- MAO inhibitors (phenelzine, tranylcypromine): Risk of hypertensive crisis. Absolute contraindication.
- Decongestants (pseudoephedrine, phenylephrine): Additive stimulant effect, arrhythmia risk.
- Stimulants (caffeine in large amounts, amphetamines, Adderall): Avoid stacking.
- Beta-blockers: Bala's sympathomimetic effect opposes beta-blocker action.
- Corticosteroids: Altered clearance reported with long-term combination.
Other Contraindications
Classical texts note that Bala is not appropriate when there is high Ama (undigested toxins, thick white tongue coating, heaviness, loss of appetite) or high Kapha in the chest (thick phlegm, wet cough). In these states, its anabolic nature adds to the problem. Clear the Kapha first, then tonify.
Pregnancy and Concentrated Extracts
Classical Ayurveda uses Bala during pregnancy (to support foetal growth) and postpartum (for maternal strength). However, these are traditional decoctions and medicated ghee, not concentrated ephedrine-standardised extracts. Modern Bala extracts should be avoided during pregnancy; use traditional preparations only and under qualified supervision.
Signs of Over-Dose
Jitteriness, palpitations, elevated pulse, insomnia, or a rise in blood pressure mean the dose is too high. Stop, hydrate, and do not resume without a practitioner. These signs almost never appear at classical doses but can appear with concentrated extracts or when stacked with stimulants.
Other Herbs for Asthma
See all herbs for asthma on the Asthma page.
▶ Classical Text References (5 sources)
Kaya Chikitsa – General medicine Bala Chikitsa – Paediatrics Graha Chikitsa – Psychiatry Urdhvanga Chikitsa – Diseases and treatment of Ear, Nose, Throat, Eyes and Head (neck and above region) Shalya Chikitsa – Surgery Damshrta Chikitsa – Toxicology Jara Chikitsa – Geriatrics Vrushya Chikitsa – Aphrodisiac therapy These are the eight branches of Ayurveda.
— Astanga Hridaya, Chapter 1: Ayushkameeya Adhyaya
Variation in strength as per season शीते अ यं, व ृि त घम अ पं बलं , म यं तु शेषयो: । śīte agryaṃ, vṛṣti gharme alpaṃ balaṃ, madhyaṃ tu śeṣayo: | Winter – Hemantha and Shishira – mid November – mid March – Highest strength Summer and rainy seasons – mid May – mid September – Lowest strength Spring and Autumn – Medium strength.
— Astanga Hridaya, Chapter 3: Ritucharya adhyaya Seasonal
(Provided cow is perfectly healthy without any infection) Dadhi (curds benefits/soured milk/coagulated milk) अ लपाकरसं ा ह गु णं द ध वातिजत ् २९ मेदः शु बल ले म प तर ताि नशोफकृत ् रो च णु श तम चौ शीतके वषम वरे ३० पीनसे मू कृ े च, ं तु हणीगदे नैवा याि न श नैवो णं वस तो ण शर सु न ३१ नामु गसूपं ना ौ ं त नाघ ृत सतोपलम ् न चानामलकं ना प न यं णो म थम यथा ३२ वरास ृि प तवीसपकु ठपा डु म दम ् Curd has Amla rasa – sour taste Amla paka – undergoes sour taste conversion after digestion Grahi - abs
— Astanga Hridaya, Chapter 5: Drava Vigyaniya Drinkables
Navanita (Butter):नवनीतं नवं व ृ यं शीतं वणबलाि नकृत ् ३५ स ा ह वाता पतास ृ ीरो वं तु स याश दतकासिजत ् ा ह र त प ता रोगिजत ् ३६ Fresh Navanita (butter) is Vrushya – aphrodisiac, Sheeta – coolant Varna, bala, agnikrut – improves skin complexion, strength and digestion strength.
— Astanga Hridaya, Chapter 5: Drava Vigyaniya Drinkables
126 जा भवं गु स व टि भ शीतलं भ ृशवातलम ् ा ह मू शकृ तोरक यं कफ प तिजत ् Jambava (Jamun fruit) is not easily digestible, stays long inside the stomach, cold in potency, causes aggravation of vata especially, absorbs moisture from urine and faeces, bad for throat and mitigates kapha and pitta 127 वात प ता कृ बालं , ब ाि थकफ प तकृत ् गुवा ं वातिज प वं वा व लं कफशु कृत ् Bala amra (tender unripe mango) increases Vata, Rakta (blood) and pitta; when its seed is fully formed, it increases Kaph
— Astanga Hridaya, Chapter 6: Annaswaroopa Food
The above two – laghu and mahat panchamoola constitute Dashamoola बलापन ु नवैर डशप ू पण वयेन तु म यमं कफवात नं ना त प तकरं सरम ् Bala, punarnava, eranda, surpaparni dvaya (masaparni and mundgaparni) together from the madhyama pancamula.
— Astanga Hridaya, Chapter 6: Annaswaroopa Food
Madhura Gana – group of sweet substances: घ ृत हे म गुडा ोडमोचचोचप षकम ् अभी वीरा पनस राजादनबला यम ् मेदे चत ः प ण योजीव ती जीवक ऋषभौ मधूकं मधुकं ब बी वदार ीर शु ला त ग ु ा ीर ीरे ुगो ुर ौ ावणीयुगम ् ी र यौ का मर सहे ा ा दमधुरो गणः Ghrita (ghee, butter fat), Hema (gold), Guda (molasses), Akshoda, Mocha, Chocha, Parushaka, Abhiru, Vira, Panasa, Rajadana, the three Bala (Bala, Atibala and Nagabala), The two Medas – Meda and Mahameda, The four Parni – Shalaparni, Prishnaparni, Mudgaparni, Ma
— Astanga Hridaya, Chapter 10: Rasabhediyam Tastes, Their
Kashaya Varga (Gana) – group of astringents: वगःकषायः प या ं शर षः ख दरो मधु कद बोद ु बरं मु ता वाला जनगै रकम ् बालं क प थं खजूरं वसप ो पला द च Group of astringents consists of Pathya – Chebuic Myrobalan (fruit rind) – Terminalia chebula, Aksha – Terminalia bellirica, Shireesa, Khadira – Black catechu (heart wood extract) – Acacia catechu, Madhu (honey), Kadamba, Udumbara, Mukta (Pearls), Pravala (Coral), Anjana – Aqueous extract of Berberis aristata (antimony), Gairika – Purified Red Ochre, B
— Astanga Hridaya, Chapter 10: Rasabhediyam Tastes, Their
Effects of increased Doshas – Vriddha Dosha Karma:Effects of increased Vata – वृ तु कु ते अ नलः का यका बल न े ि यउ नका म वक पाना शकृ हान ् य ंश लाप मद नताः Vata, when increased produces Karshya – emaciation, Karshnya – black discoloration, Ushnakamitva – desire for hot things, Kampa – tremors Anaha – bloating, fullness, distention of the abdomen, Shakrut Graha – constipation, Bala bhramsha – loss of strength, Nidra bhramsha – loss of sleep Indriya bhramsha – loss of sensory functions, Pral
— Astanga Hridaya, Chapter 11: Tridosha - Knowledge
4 Udana Vata – उरः वा थानमद ु ान य नासाना भगलां चरे त ् व ृि त य नोजाबलवण म ृ त यः The chest is the seat of Udana, it moves in the nose, umbilicus and throat; its functions are initiation of speech (vak), effort (Prayatna), enthusiasm (Urja), strength (bala) , color, complexion (varna) and memory (smruti) 5 Vyana Vata – यानो दि थतः कृ नदे हचार महाजवः ग यप ेपणो ेप नमेषो मे णा दकाः ायः सवाः या ति मन ् तब ाः शर रणाम ् Vyana is located in the heart, moves all over the body in great sp
— Astanga Hridaya, Chapter 12: Doshabhediya Dosha Types,
65-66 Factors to observe in patient द ू यं दे शं बलं कालं अनलं स वं सा कृ त ं वयः यं तथा आहारं अव था च प ृथि वधाः ६७ सू म सू माः समी यैषां दोष औषध न पणे यो वतते च क सायां न स खल त जातु चत ् ६८ The physician should minutely examine and determine, Dushya – the Dhatus and Malas involved in a diseases Desha – the area of the body where disease is manifested, the living place of the patient Bala – strength of the patient Kala- season, how old is the disease, age of the person etc.
— Astanga Hridaya, Chapter 12: Doshabhediya Dosha Types,
Garbhini – pregnant Sutika –the women who has delivered, Bala – children, Vruddha – the aged and Greeshme – in the month of summer, even the other people, who are not indicated above should be given Nourishing therapy.
— Astanga Hridaya, Chapter 14: Dvividha Upakramaneeya
Snehyah – persons suitable for oleation :वे य संशो यम य ी यायामास त च तकाः व ृ बाला बलकृशा ाः ीणा रे तसः ५ वातात य द त मरदा ण तबो धनः ने याः People who require Snehana therapy are Svedya, Samshodhya – Those who are to be administered sudation and purification therapies, Madya Stree, Vyayama asakta – who indulge more in wine, women and exercise; Chintaka – who think too much, Vruddha – the aged, Bala – the children, Abala – the debilitated, Krusha – the emaciated, fatigue; Ruksha – who are
— Astanga Hridaya, Chapter 16: Snehavidhi oleation therapy
शीलनीयः सदा च सा बालव ृ ा वभार ी यायामास त च तकैः वातभ नाबला पाि ननप ृ े वरसुखा म भः दोष नो न पर हारो ब यः ु टमलः सुखः It should be used always for Bala – children, Vriddha – the aged, Adhva, Bhara, Stri, Vyayama – who are habituated to long walking, carrying heavy weight, sexual activity and exercise Chinta – who think too much, who are suffering from- diseases of vata, fractures, debility, poor who are digestive activity, for kings, wealthy persons and persons who live happily.
— Astanga Hridaya, Chapter 19: Vasti Vidhi Enema
Similar is the case of Anuvasana – fat enema and Matra basti – fat enema with very little oil 34-36 Anu taila जीव तीजलदे वदा जलद व से यगोपी हमं दाव व मधुक लवागु वर पु ा व ब वो पलम ् धाव यौ सरु भं ि थरे कृ महरं प ं ु ट रे णक ु ां कि ज कं कमला वलां शतगुणे द ये अ भ स वाथयेत ् ३७ तैला सं दशगण ु ं प रशो य तेन तैलं पचेत ् स ललेन दशैव वारान ् पाके पे चदशमे सममाजद ु धं न यं महागुणमुश यणुतैलमेतत ् ३८ Jivanti, Jala, Devadaru, Jalada, Twak, Sevya, Gopi (sariva), Hima, Darvi twak, Madhuka, Plava, A
— Astanga Hridaya, Chapter 20: Nasya Vidhi Nasal
Source: Astanga Hridaya, Ch. 1, Ch. 3, Ch. 5, Ch. 5, Ch. 6, Ch. 6, Ch. 10, Ch. 10, Ch. 11, Ch. 12, Ch. 12, Ch. 14, Ch. 16, Ch. 19, Ch. 20
Kaya Chikitsa – General medicine Bala Chikitsa – Paediatrics Graha Chikitsa – Psychiatry Urdhvanga Chikitsa – Diseases and treatment of Ear, Nose, Throat, Eyes and Head (neck and above region) Shalya Chikitsa – Surgery Damshrta Chikitsa – Toxicology Jara Chikitsa – Geriatrics Vrushya Chikitsa – Aphrodisiac therapy These are the eight branches of Ayurveda.
— Astanga Hridaya Sutrasthan, Ayushkameeya Adhyaya
Variation in strength as per season शीते अ यं, व ृि त घम अ पं बलं , म यं तु शेषयो: । śīte agryaṃ, vṛṣti gharme alpaṃ balaṃ, madhyaṃ tu śeṣayo: | Winter – Hemantha and Shishira – mid November – mid March – Highest strength Summer and rainy seasons – mid May – mid September – Lowest strength Spring and Autumn – Medium strength.
— Astanga Hridaya Sutrasthan, Ritucharya adhyaya Seasonal
(Provided cow is perfectly healthy without any infection) Dadhi (curds benefits/soured milk/coagulated milk) अ लपाकरसं ा ह गु णं द ध वातिजत ् २९ मेदः शु बल ले म प तर ताि नशोफकृत ् रो च णु श तम चौ शीतके वषम वरे ३० पीनसे मू कृ े च, ं तु हणीगदे नैवा याि न श नैवो णं वस तो ण शर सु न ३१ नामु गसूपं ना ौ ं त नाघ ृत सतोपलम ् न चानामलकं ना प न यं णो म थम यथा ३२ वरास ृि प तवीसपकु ठपा डु म दम ् Curd has Amla rasa – sour taste Amla paka – undergoes sour taste conversion after digestion Grahi - abs
— Astanga Hridaya Sutrasthan, Drava Vigyaniya Drinkables
Navanita (Butter):नवनीतं नवं व ृ यं शीतं वणबलाि नकृत ् ३५ स ा ह वाता पतास ृ ीरो वं तु स याश दतकासिजत ् ा ह र त प ता रोगिजत ् ३६ Fresh Navanita (butter) is Vrushya – aphrodisiac, Sheeta – coolant Varna, bala, agnikrut – improves skin complexion, strength and digestion strength.
— Astanga Hridaya Sutrasthan, Drava Vigyaniya Drinkables
126 जा भवं गु स व टि भ शीतलं भ ृशवातलम ् ा ह मू शकृ तोरक यं कफ प तिजत ् Jambava (Jamun fruit) is not easily digestible, stays long inside the stomach, cold in potency, causes aggravation of vata especially, absorbs moisture from urine and faeces, bad for throat and mitigates kapha and pitta 127 वात प ता कृ बालं , ब ाि थकफ प तकृत ् गुवा ं वातिज प वं वा व लं कफशु कृत ् Bala amra (tender unripe mango) increases Vata, Rakta (blood) and pitta;
— Astanga Hridaya Sutrasthan, Annaswaroopa Food
Source: Astanga Hridaya Sutrasthan, Ayushkameeya Adhyaya; Ritucharya adhyaya Seasonal; Drava Vigyaniya Drinkables; Annaswaroopa Food
Food quantity depends on digestive strength (agni bala).
— Charaka Samhita, Sutra Sthana — Fundamental Principles, Chapter 5: Proper Food Quantity & Daily Regimen (Matrashiteeya Adhyaya / मात्राशितीय अध्याय)
Preventive principle — mental strength (sattva bala) as disease immunity.
— Charaka Samhita, Chikitsa Sthana — Therapeutic Principles, Chapter 9: Insanity and Psychosis Treatment (Unmada Chikitsa / उन्मादचिकित्सा)
One pala of each of shvadamshtra, ushira, manjishtha, bala, kashmarya, katrna, the root of darbha, prithak parni, palasha, rishabhaka, and sthira should be made to decoction.
— Charaka Samhita, Chikitsa Sthana — Therapeutic Principles, Chapter 11: Chest Injury and Emaciation Treatment (Kshatakshina Chikitsa / क्षतक्षीणचिकित्सा)
Bala, vidari, hrasva panchamula (shalaparni, prsniparni, brihati, kantakari and gokshura), punarnava, and the sungas (terminal buds) of five kshirivrikshas (nyagrodha, udumbara, asvattha, madhuka and plaksha)- one pala of each of these drugs should be made to a decoction.
— Charaka Samhita, Chikitsa Sthana — Therapeutic Principles, Chapter 11: Chest Injury and Emaciation Treatment (Kshatakshina Chikitsa / क्षतक्षीणचिकित्सा)
Oil is prepared successively with each of the kshara of agnimantha (Clerodendrum phlomidis), shyonaka (Oroxylum indicum), palasha (Butea monosperma), stalk of tila (Sesamum indicum), bala (Sida cordifolia), kadali (Musa paradisiaca) and apamarga (Achyranthes aspera).
— Charaka Samhita, Chikitsa Sthana — Therapeutic Principles, Chapter 13: Abdominal Diseases Treatment (Udara Chikitsa / उदरचिकित्सा)
Source: Charaka Samhita, Sutra Sthana — Fundamental Principles, Chapter 5: Proper Food Quantity & Daily Regimen (Matrashiteeya Adhyaya / मात्राशितीय अध्याय); Chikitsa Sthana — Therapeutic Principles, Chapter 9: Insanity and Psychosis Treatment (Unmada Chikitsa / उन्मादचिकित्सा); Chikitsa Sthana — Therapeutic Principles, Chapter 11: Chest Injury and Emaciation Treatment (Kshatakshina Chikitsa / क्षतक्षीणचिकित्सा); Chikitsa Sthana — Therapeutic Principles, Chapter 13: Abdominal Diseases Treatment (Udara Chikitsa / उदरचिकित्सा)
The dose should be determined after considering the season (Kala), digestive fire (Agni), age (Vaya), strength (Bala), constitution (Prakriti), Doshas, and region (Desha).
— Sharangadhara Samhita, Purva Khanda, Chapter 1: Paribhashakathana (Definitions)
That which is born is called a Bala (child).
— Sharangadhara Samhita, Purva Khanda, Chapter 6: Aharadigatikathanam (Description of Food Processes etc.)
Bala-roga (pediatric diseases) number twenty-two.
— Sharangadhara Samhita, Purva Khanda, Chapter 7: Rogagananam (Enumeration of Diseases)
Bala-graha (spirit-seizures of children) are described as twelve by the great sages: Skanda-graha, Vishakha, Shvagraha (dog-spirit), and Pitrugraha (ancestral spirit).
— Sharangadhara Samhita, Purva Khanda, Chapter 7: Rogagananam (Enumeration of Diseases)
However, the dose should be adjusted after assessing the strength (Bala) of the patient.
— Sharangadhara Samhita, Madhyama Khanda, Chapter 7: Vatakakalpana (Tablet Preparations)
Source: Sharangadhara Samhita, Purva Khanda, Chapter 1: Paribhashakathana (Definitions); Purva Khanda, Chapter 6: Aharadigatikathanam (Description of Food Processes etc.); Purva Khanda, Chapter 7: Rogagananam (Enumeration of Diseases); Madhyama Khanda, Chapter 7: Vatakakalpana (Tablet Preparations)
Strength (bala), complexion (varna), and vital essence (ojas) depend on the six tastes (rasa).
— Sushruta Samhita, Sutra Sthana, Chapter 1: Vedotpatti Adhyaya - Origin of Ayurveda
A physician should accept as a student one who is from the Brahmana, Kshatriya, or Vaishya lineage, of good ancestry, possessing good character (shila), cleanliness (shaucha), proper conduct (achara), humility (vinaya), strength (shakti), vigor (bala), intellect (medha), steadfastness (dhriti), memory (smriti), understanding (mati), and practical wisdom (pratipatti).
— Sushruta Samhita, Sutra Sthana, Chapter 2: Shishyopanayaniya Adhyaya - Initiation of the Student
When consumed, they promote life (prana), longevity (ayus), strength (bala), virility (virya), and vital essence (ojas).
— Sushruta Samhita, Sutra Sthana, Chapter 6: Ritucharya Adhyaya - Seasonal Regimen
Accessory instruments (upa-yantra) include: ropes (rajju), braided cords (venika), bandage cloths (patta), leather (charma), bark (valkala), creepers (lata), cloth wraps (vastra), stones (ashma), hands (pani), feet (pada), fingers (anguli), tongue (jihva), teeth (danta), nails (nakha), mouth (mukha), hair (bala), horse-tail hair, branches (shakha), suction devices, magnets (ayaskanta), caustics (kshara), fire (agni), and medicines (bheshaja) (15).
— Sushruta Samhita, Sutra Sthana, Chapter 7: Yantra Vidhi Adhyaya - Blunt Instruments
Nagara (ginger) kept in ghee with saindhava (rock salt) for a month — this is used as ashchyotana (eye drops) and anjana, combined with bala (Sida).
— Sushruta Samhita, Uttara Tantra, Chapter 12: Raktabhishyanda Pratishedha Adhyaya (Chapter on Treatment of Blood-type Conjunctivitis)
Source: Sushruta Samhita, Sutra Sthana, Chapter 1: Vedotpatti Adhyaya - Origin of Ayurveda; Sutra Sthana, Chapter 2: Shishyopanayaniya Adhyaya - Initiation of the Student; Sutra Sthana, Chapter 6: Ritucharya Adhyaya - Seasonal Regimen; Sutra Sthana, Chapter 7: Yantra Vidhi Adhyaya - Blunt Instruments; Uttara Tantra, Chapter 12: Raktabhishyanda Pratishedha Adhyaya (Chapter on Treatment of Blood-type Conjunctivitis)
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.