Kamsaharitaki Avaleha – A critical review

Kamsaharitaki Avaleha (KHA), a polyherbal formulation, has been indicated in the management of various diseases such as Shotha (Inflammation), Shwasa (Dyspnea/Asthma), Jwara (Fever), Arochaka (Tastelessness), etc. It is described first time by Acharya Charaka in his classic Charaka Samhita. In certain classical texts, the formulation is also described as Dashamoola Haritaki (DH), whereas a few has mentioned both, as two different formulations. The same formulation is also termed as Haritkyadi Leha (HL) by some other seers. Objective: The present study was undertaken to understand whether all the three variants of the formulation are similar or different based on its composition, quantity of ingredients, dose, adjuvants, and indications. Data Source: All classical texts of Ayurveda and published research work related to the formulation were referred to review this article. Review Methods: A thorough and comprehensive review of KHA, Dashamoola Haritaki, and Haritkyadi Leha from different Ayurvedic classical texts and published research materials (printed and online) have been done. Results and Conclusion: KHA for the first time is described by Acharya Charaka. The same formulation with three different names has been found, the only difference is that quantity of Prakshepa is mentioned by some while not by others.