Bala for Low Blood Pressure: Does It Work?
Does Bala (Country Mallow / बला, Sida cordifolia) help with low blood pressure? Yes, and uniquely so: Bala is one of the few classical Ayurvedic herbs that combines a true tonic action with a mild pressor effect on the circulation. Its name itself, Bala, means strength. The Bhavaprakash Nighantu describes Bala as the premier Vatahara (Vata-pacifying) and Balya (strengthening) herb, used in "Vata diseases, nervous debility, and as a general restorative." Its actions include Balya, Hridya (cardiotonic), Ojovardhaka (Ojas-building), and Rasayana. For chronic hypotension, that combination is extraordinarily relevant.
Ayurvedically, chronic low BP most often maps to weak Vyana Vata, cardiac weakness (Hrid Daurbalya), depleted Rakta Dhatu, and low Ojas. Bala is the herb that addresses all four at once. Its rasa is sweet (Madhura), virya is cold (Sheeta), vipaka is sweet, and its dosha effect is balanced (VPK=). Its tissue affinity is "all, especially marrow and nerves", with systemic reach into the circulatory, nervous, reproductive, urinary, and respiratory systems. This is precisely the herb for the patient whose low BP travels with nerve debility, postural drops, exhaustion, and the depleted picture that classical texts describe as Bala-bhramsha, loss of strength.
The honest framing: Bala contains trace amounts of ephedrine alkaloids in its root, which give it a mild but real pressor action distinct from purely nutritive herbs like Saffron or restorative ones like Ashwagandha. This is also why Bala demands respect: it can interact with cardiac and blood-pressure medications, with MAO inhibitors, and with stimulants. Used as a root decoction or in Bala Taila (medicated oil) inside a wider protocol, Bala is the strongest classical match for Vata-depletion hypotension. Used carelessly alongside pressor medications or in someone with cardiac arrhythmia, it is the wrong choice.
How Bala Helps with Low Blood Pressure
Bala helps with low blood pressure through three overlapping pathways: directly strengthening Vyana Vata through its tonic action on the circulatory system, providing a mild pressor effect through ephedrine alkaloids in the root, and rebuilding Ojas and Bala (vital strength) at the deep tissue layer that depletion-pattern hypotension thins.
1. Strengthening Vyana Vata
Bala is the premier Vatahara (Vata-pacifying) and Balya (strengthening) herb of classical Ayurveda. In chronic hypotension, the central deficit is weak Vyana Vata, the Vata subtype seated in the heart that drives blood through the body. When Vyana Vata is depleted, the pulse is weak, the postural reflex is sluggish, and standing produces lightheadedness. Bala's sweet taste (Madhura Rasa) and sweet vipaka directly nourish and ground Vata, while its tropism for the circulatory system makes it specifically aligned with Vyana Vata rather than just generic Vata pacification. The Bhavaprakash Nighantu places Bala at the top of the Vatahara and Balya groups, and the Astanga Hridaya includes it in the Madhura Gana (group of sweet substances) that rebuild depleted constitutions.
2. Mild Pressor Action Through Ephedrine Alkaloids
Bala root contains small amounts of ephedrine and related alkaloids. This distinguishes Bala from nearly every other Ayurvedic tonic herb. Ephedrine is a sympathomimetic, producing mild vasoconstriction and a modest rise in cardiac output. In the chronic low-BP patient with weak vasomotor tone and postural drops, this action is therapeutically useful in classical doses (root decoction at 1 to 2 tola). The ephedrine content also explains why Bala is one of the few Ayurvedic herbs with a documented direct, rather than indirect, effect on systolic BP. The clinical implication: Bala is more pressor-active than Arjuna, Saffron, or Gotu Kola, and demands the same respect any sympathomimetic would.
3. Rebuilding Ojas and Cardiac Strength
The Bhavaprakash Nighantu lists Bala's actions as Balya, Ojovardhaka, Hridya, Rasayana. Ojas is the deepest essence of the tissues, the substance whose depletion underlies most chronic illness and which classical texts describe as the foundation of cardiac stability. By rebuilding Ojas, Bala addresses the depletion picture that sits beneath chronic hypotension: the fragile, exhausted, easily-fatigued substrate that no peripheral stimulant can fix. The Hridya (cardiotonic) action complements Arjuna's cardiac-muscle rebuilding, and Bala is classically combined with Arjuna in formulations for chronic cardiac weakness.
Bala is therefore the rare Ayurvedic herb that works on hypotension through both a structural tonic action and a mild peripheral pressor effect. That combination is why it is the closest classical herb to a daily, functional hypotension remedy, and also why it warrants the most careful use of any herb in this protocol.
How to Use Bala for Low Blood Pressure
The classical and most useful form of Bala for low blood pressure is the root decoction (kvatha), dosed at 1 to 2 tola (roughly 10 to 20 ml of concentrated decoction) once or twice daily. The root is the most pharmacologically active part and contains the ephedrine alkaloids responsible for Bala's mild pressor action. The Bhavaprakash Nighantu records the dose as "root powder 1 to 2 masha; decoction 1 to 2 tola", a remarkably precise classical guideline that aligns with how Bala should still be used today.
Dosage Table
| Form | Dose | Vehicle / Method | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bala root decoction (kvatha) | 10 to 20 ml (1 to 2 tola), twice daily | Root boiled in water with milk added at end | Chronic low BP with weak vasomotor tone, postural drops |
| Bala root powder | 1 to 2 g (1 to 2 masha), twice daily | Warm milk with a teaspoon of ghee | Vata-depletion low BP with cold and dryness |
| Bala Taila (medicated oil) | Topical use | Warm oil massage of legs and lower back before bath | Postural lightheadedness, weak legs, fatigue with low BP |
| Bala capsules (standardised) | 500 mg, once or twice daily | Warm water after food | Travel or convenience; baseline tonic support |
How to Pair It
For chronic low BP with cardiac weakness, pair Bala with Arjuna milk decoction. Arjuna rebuilds the heart muscle; Bala strengthens Vyana Vata and adds mild pressor support. For the Vata-depletion pattern with severe dryness and exhaustion, pair Bala with Ashwagandha and warm sesame oil Abhyanga daily. Daily Bala Taila massage on legs and lower back is one of the classical supports for postural lightheadedness; it improves peripheral tone and grounds Vata simultaneously.
Cautions
Bala is the most cardio-active herb in this protocol because of its trace ephedrine content. Do not combine Bala with: blood-pressure-raising medications (fludrocortisone, midodrine), MAO inhibitors, SSRIs at high doses, decongestants containing pseudoephedrine, or stimulants. Bala can produce tremor, palpitations, anxiety, or insomnia at high doses; stay within classical dose ranges. Anyone with cardiac arrhythmia, hyperthyroidism, glaucoma, prostate enlargement, or a history of stroke should consult a clinician before using Bala. Bala is contraindicated in pregnancy at therapeutic doses. Avoid combining with caffeine in significant amounts. This is a herb that demands respect.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will Bala actually raise my low blood pressure?
Yes, more directly than most other classical herbs. Bala's root contains trace ephedrine alkaloids, which produce a mild but real pressor effect through sympathetic activation. Combined with its tonic action on Vyana Vata and its rebuilding effect on Ojas, Bala is the closest classical Ayurvedic herb to a functional pressor for chronic low BP. Expect a perceptible improvement in postural tolerance, energy, and steadiness within 2 to 4 weeks at classical doses; the deeper tonic effect builds over 8 to 12 weeks.
Bala vs Arjuna for low blood pressure: which is better?
Arjuna and Bala address different layers. Arjuna is the cardiac-muscle Rasayana: it rebuilds the pump itself with bark decocted in milk over 8 to 12 weeks. Bala is the Vyana Vata tonic with a mild ephedrine-mediated pressor action: it strengthens the circulatory drive, the vascular tone, and the postural reflex. For structural cardiac weakness, Arjuna is the backbone. For Vata-depletion low BP with postural drops, weak legs, and fatigue, Bala is faster and more directly effective. The two are routinely combined in classical practice for compound presentations.
Is Bala safe with my blood pressure medication?
Not without supervision. Bala's ephedrine content means it can interact meaningfully with cardiac and BP medications. If you are on midodrine or fludrocortisone (for low BP), Bala can potentiate them. If you are on beta blockers, ACE inhibitors, or other antihypertensives, Bala can blunt them. If you are on MAO inhibitors or stimulants of any kind, the combination can be dangerous. Coordinate Bala use with your physician, especially if any cardiac, psychiatric, or thyroid medication is involved.
What is Bala Taila and how does it help low BP?
Bala Taila is the classical medicated oil prepared by processing Bala root in sesame oil with milk and water across multiple cooking cycles. It is used externally for Abhyanga (oil massage), especially on legs, lower back, and feet. For chronic low BP with postural lightheadedness, daily Bala Taila massage of the legs before bath improves peripheral circulation, supports vasomotor tone, and grounds the Vata that drives postural drops. The Astanga Hridaya describes Bala-based oils as fundamental supports for Vata diseases of the locomotor and circulatory systems.
Recommended: Start Bala for Low Blood Pressure
If your low blood pressure travels with postural drops, weak legs, exhaustion, cold extremities, and the felt sense of a body running on empty, start Bala as the strongest classical tonic-pressor in the Ayurvedic toolkit. Of all the herbs on this hub, Bala is the closest classical match to a functional daily remedy for chronic Vata-depletion hypotension. It is also the one that demands the most careful use.
Best Form
Bala root decoction (kvatha), 10 to 20 ml twice daily, or Bala root powder, 1 to 2 g twice daily in warm milk with a teaspoon of ghee. Pair with Bala Taila for daily Abhyanga (oil massage) of legs and lower back before bath.
Kitchen Version
If you do not have access to Bala root, the closest kitchen equivalent is warm milk with a half-teaspoon of Ashwagandha powder, a teaspoon of ghee, and a small piece of jaggery. This will not replicate Bala's mild pressor effect but provides Vata-grounding tonic support while you source quality Bala.
Dosha Fork
Vata-depletion low BP (dry, anxious, cold, postural drops, thin pulse, weak legs): Bala root decoction in milk with ghee twice daily. Daily Bala Taila Abhyanga of legs. This is Bala's primary indication.
Pitta-burnout low BP (heat, irritability, recent fever or bleeding, depleted but warm): Use Bala cautiously. The ephedrine-mediated stimulation can aggravate Pitta heat. Lower the dose (500 mg powder once daily) and use plain water as vehicle. Alternatives like Saffron are safer.
Kapha-stagnation low BP (rare; heaviness, sluggish circulation, slow pulse): Bala root powder with a generous pinch of ginger in warm water (skip milk). The mild stimulating action is well matched to Kapha sluggishness.
Find Bala on Amazon ↗ Bala Taila Oil ↗
Safety
Bala contains trace ephedrine alkaloids. Do not combine with MAO inhibitors, BP-raising medications (midodrine, fludrocortisone), antihypertensives, pseudoephedrine, or stimulants. Bala is contraindicated in cardiac arrhythmia, hyperthyroidism, glaucoma, prostate enlargement, recent stroke, and pregnancy. A sudden BP drop with chest pain, syncope, slurred speech, or neurological signs is an emergency, call medical help immediately. Chronic hypotension with bradycardia or recurrent fainting needs a cardiology workup before relying on herbal support. Start at the lower end of the dose range and titrate slowly.
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 Hypotension
See all herbs for hypotension on the Hypotension 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.