A review of pharmacodynamic and pharmacological potentials of Ksheerabala Taila used in Nanathmaja Vata Vyadi

Abstract

Ksheerabala Taila (KbT) is one of the most widely used formulations in the management of Vata Vyadhi, including Pakshagata, Gridhrasi, Sandhigata Vata, Kampa Vata, and Ardita. It is administered in various therapeutic modalities such as Snehana, Shiro Pichu, Shirodhara, Matra Vasti, Shiro Vasti, and Nasya. The preparation methods and therapeutic indications are described in the Sahasrayogam Thaila Prakaranaya. It is prepared by processing Bala (Sida cordifoilia), cow's milk (Ksheera) and sesame oil (Tila Taila). This review aims to explore its pharmacodynamic and pharmacological potentials based on classical knowledge. A literature survey was conducted using Ayurvedic texts such as Sahasrayogam, Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, Bhavaprakasha and modern databases such as ResearchGate, Google Scholar. Bala has Vedanastapana and Shothahara properties. Tila Taila possesses Snehana, Vedanastapana, Sandhaniya, Vrana Shodana, Vrana Ropana and Keshya properties. Cow's milk exhibits Snehana, Sandhaniya, Ropana and Bala wardhana qualities. KbT predominantly exhibits Madhura Rasa (100 %), Guru and Snigdha Guna (33.3 %), Picchila guna (22.2 %), Shita Virya (66.6 %), Ushna Virya (33.3 %), Madhura Vipaka (100 %) properties. These combined qualities contribute to its Vata pacifying action and the combination of these three ingredients makes KbT to pacify all eighty Nanatmaja Vata Vyadhi. Pharmacologically, Bala shows analgesic, antiinflammatory, and neuro protective effects. Tila Taila contains antioxidants and essential fatty acids aiding tissue repair. Ksheera provides proteins, calcium, and growth factors. Further scientific evaluation and clinical trials are needed to validate its efficacy, standardize its preparation, and ensure its safety in therapeutic practice.