Lavanais one of the six rasas (Shadrasa): Madhura, Amla, Lavana, Katu, Tikta, Kashaya. Mahabhuta composition: Jala + Agni
Guna (Qualities)
Snigdha (unctuous)
drava (liquid)
sara (flowing)
Virya and Vipaka
Virya: Ushna (hot) produces heat in the body Vipaka: Madhura (sweet) helps in nourishment in tissue building
Dosha Effect
Decreases Vata Increases Pitta and Kapha in excess
Actions (Karma)
Pachana - helps in digestion , Shodhana - cleansing and reduces swelling Deepana - appetizer and kindles digestive fire Saraka - promotes movement , Mild laxative Stimulates salivation and gastric secretion Vatahara - pacifies vata
Benefits in Moderation Improves taste and appetite Aids digestion and absorption Relieves stiffness and constipation Nourishes the body and helps maintain fluid balance and electrolyte balance
Effects of Excess Use
Increases Pitta and Kapha: causes thirst, burning sensation, skin disorders, bleeding disorders, hypertension Premature graying of hair, hair fall, wrinkles Weakens the senses and reduces strength Causes swelling (Shotha) and skin eruptions water retention - oedema
Examples (Dravyas)
Saindhava lavana (rock salt: best, being less harmful), Sauvarchala, Bida, Audbhida, Samudra lavana Saindhava is considered Vrishya and good for the eyes, unlike other salts.
