Makardhwaj Ras - Medical Properties, Indications, Dosage & More

Reference : AFI PART 1/15:2 Section 15 (Kupipakva Rasayana/2) Bhaishajya Ratnavali, Vajikaranadhikar, Shlokas 237–238

Abstract

In today’s modern era, where physical exhaustion, stress, poor lifestyle habits, and age-related decline have led to a rise in sexual debility, infertility, and premature aging, the need for holistic aphrodisiac solutions is more relevant than ever. The reproductive strength, vitality, and hormonal balance are crucial components of overall well-being, yet they are often compromised due to sedentary living, anxiety, and nutritional deficiencies. Ayurveda, the ancient Indian science of life, offers safe, time-tested Vajikarana (aphrodisiac) remedies to restore vigor and reproductive health naturally. Makardhwaj Ras is celebrated for its potent rejuvenating and aphrodisiac properties. It is prepared with purified gold, mercury, sulphur, and natural adjuvants like Aloe vera and red cotton flower. It works at a deep cellular level to enhance Shukra Dhatu (reproductive tissue), promote Ojas (vital essence), and improve both mental and physical endurance. It is widely recognized for restoring sexual vitality, combating premature aging, and building immunity. Makardhwaj Ras continues to serve as a powerful Rasayana for those seeking sustainable health and rejuvenation. Let’s explore this formulation in detail!

Introduction

Makardhwaj Ras, also known as Makara Dhvaja, is an ancient herbo-mineral formulation formulated by Rasavaidyas for the enhancement of overall strength, stamina, reproductive power, and resistance against diseases. "Makara" refers to the mythical aquatic creature denoting vitality and invincibility, and "Dhvaja" implies the flag or symbol — thus, Makara Dhvaja signifies the peak of physical vigor and spiritual vitality. It's careful alchemical preparation using Suvarna (Gold), Parada (Mercury), and Gandhaka (Sulphur) in a unique Kajjali (black mercurial sulphide compound) form processed with Aloe vera and cotton flower makes it distinct from other Rasayanas.

Classical Indication

• Vajikaran (Aphrodisiac)

Ingredients

• Suvarna Shuddha (Purified Gold) – 12 g
• Parada Shuddha (Purified Mercury) – 96 g
• Gandhaka Shuddha (Purified Sulphur) – 288 g
• Rakta Karpasa Kusuma (Red Cotton Flower) – Gossypium arboreum Q.S. (for trituration)
• Kumari Swarasa (Aloe vera juice) – Aloe barbadensis Q.S. (for trituration)

Product Description

1. Suvarna Shuddha (Purified Gold – Aurum)

Suvarna, or purified gold, is one of Ayurveda’s most revered Rasayana dravyas. It has Madhura-Tikta Rasa (sweet-bitter taste), Laghu (light), Snigdha (unctuous) Guna, Sheeta Veerya (cold potency), and Madhura Vipaka (sweet post-digestive effect). It balances all three doshas but especially supports Pitta-related disorders when properly purified. In Makardhwaj Ras, Suvarna Bhasma (Gold clax) plays a central role as an Ojas-vardhaka (vital essence enhancer), Vajikarana (aphrodisiac), and Rasayana (rejuvenator). It improves Shukra Dhatu (reproductive tissue), enhances immunity, boosts memory, and promotes longevity. It works synergistically with other ingredients to promote deep tissue nourishment, improve strength, and restore vitality lost due to aging or chronic weakness. Its unique regenerative properties make it essential in managing sexual debility, general debility, premature aging, and stress-related exhaustion.

2. Parada Shuddha (Purified Mercury)

Parada, or detoxified mercury, is called the soul of Rasashastra (Ayurvedic text dealing with mercurial and mineral preparations) in Ayurveda. It has Teekshna (sharp), Sara (mobile), and Sukshma (subtle) Guna with Ushna Veerya (hot potency). It acts as a Yogavahi – a substance that carries the properties of other herbs deep into the dhatus (tissues). In Makardhwaj Ras, Parada (purified mercury) is combined with Gandhaka (Purified Sulphur) to create Kajjali, a black mercurial sulphide compound that is easily absorbed. It stimulates the body's Agni (metabolic fire), revitalizes depleted energy, and restores sexual vigor. As an aphrodisiac, Parada enhances libido, erection strength, and stamina, and improves hormonal regulation. Its Yogavahi property ensures the efficient delivery of gold and other ingredients into minute srotas (channels), making the formulation potent even in low doses.

3. Gandhaka Shuddha (Purified Sulphur)

Gandhaka is a key mineral in Rasashastra (Ayurvedic text dealing with mercurial and mineral preparations), valued for its Rasayana (rejuvenator) and Vrishya (aphrodisiac) properties. It has Katu-Tikta Rasa (pungent-bitter taste), Snigdha and Sara Guna (unctuous and mobile), Ushna Veerya (hot potency), and Katu Vipaka. It pacifies Vata and Kapha doshas. In Makardhwaj Ras, purified sulphur is added during Kajjali formation (a black mercurial sulphide compound). It supports Shukra Vardhana (semen enhancement), detoxifies the system, improves digestion, and enhances strength. Gandhaka also aids in removing chronic skin issues, acts as a rejuvenator, and promotes lustrous skin and complexion. It is essential in supporting hormonal health, improving reproductive capacity, and reducing fatigue. Its presence ensures better assimilation of the gold and mercury components and amplifies the Vajikarana (aphrodisiac) potential of the formulation.

4. Rakta Karpasa Kusuma (Red Cotton Flower – Gossypium arboreum)

Rakta Karpasa is the flower of red cotton and is known for its Balya (strength-promoting), Shukra Vardhak (semen enhancing), and Rakta Prasadana (blood-purifying) qualities. It has Kashaya-Madhura Rasa (astringent-sweet taste), Sheeta Veerya (cool potency), and is primarily Kapha-Pitta pacifying. In Makardhwaj Ras, Red Cotton Flower is used as a mardana dravya (grinding medium) during trituration. Its gentle cooling and tonifying effects balance the intense heating effects of mercury and sulphur. It rejuvenates reproductive tissues, supports sperm production, and strengthens the male reproductive system. Its inclusion supports long-term semen health and provides a softening, nourishing effect to otherwise strong mineral ingredients. It is when combined with Aloe vera Juice that, supports both fertility and vitality.

5. Kumari Swarasa (Aloe vera Juice – Aloe barbadensis)

Kumari or Aloe vera is one of the most potent Rasayana (rejuvenating) herbs in Ayurveda. It has Tikta-Kashaya Rasa (bitter-astringent taste), Sheeta Veerya (cold potency), and acts as a Pittashamaka (Pitta pacifier) and Virechak (mild purgative). It is known to regulate menses, improve liver function, and enhance reproductive health. In Makardhwaj Ras, Kumari Swarasa (Aloe vera Juice) is added during the grinding process. It improves absorption, reduces inflammation, and supports Shukra Dhatu (semen) health. Its mucilaginous nature balances the intensity of other ingredients while enhancing Agni and detoxifying the gut and liver. It helps remove excess heat, supports proper bowel movements, and balances metabolic energy. Its Rasayana and Vajikarana (rejuvenating and aphrodisiac) effects become amplified when used with rejuvenating herbs and minerals, especially in formulations aimed at restoring reproductive power and general strength.

Method Of Preparation

• Purified mercury (Shuddha Parada) is placed in a Khalva Yantra (mortar and pestle) and triturated.
• Purified gold (Suvarna Patra) is gradually dissolved in mercury by continuous trituration.
• Purified sulphur (Shuddha Gandhaka) is added slowly to form a homogenous kajjali (black mercurial sulphide compound).
• This kajjali is further processed using the fresh juice (Swarasa) of Rakta Karpasa Kusuma (cotton flowers) and Kumari (aloe vera) until it attains proper fineness.
• The mass is dried, sealed in a Kachkupi (sealed earthen pot), and then subjected to heating in a Valuka Yantra for calcination.
• Then tablets of 125 mg are made and shade dried.

Dosage

• 125 mg once or twice daily with suitable Anupaan (adjuvant) as per disease condition.

Anupaan (Co-Administration Medium)

• Betel leaf juice (Tambool patra swarasa) – for Vajikarana (aphrodisiac) use
• Cow milk – for Rasayana and anti-aging purposes
• Honey – for general rejuvenation and immunity

Medicinal Properties (As Per Anupaan)

• In Cardiac Weakness (Hrid Daurbalya) – With milk: strengthens the heart, improves Ojas (vitality).
• In Premature Aging (Jarā) – With honey: revitalizes cells and delays tissue degeneration.
• In Chronic Fever (Jwara) – With betel leaf: restores strength post-febrile weakness.
• In Weak Digestion (Agnimandya) – With honey and ginger juice: stimulates digestive fire.
• In Hair Greying (Valipalita) – With milk and amla: nourishes dhatus and delays signs of aging.

Therapeutic Indications

• Cardiac debility (Hrid Daurbalya)
• Chronic fevers with fatigue (Jwara)
• Premature graying of hair (Valipalita)
• General fatigue and weakness
• Aphrodisiac use (Vajikarana)
• Senile weakness (Jara)
• Low digestive fire (Agnimandya)
• General fatigue and weakness (Hrid Daurbalya, Jwara)
• Rejuvenative use (Rasayana)

Impact On Doshas

• Tridosha Shamak (balances the three doshas), especially beneficial in Vata-Pitta disorders.
• Strengthens Agni (digestive fire) without aggravating Pitta when used with proper Anupaan.

Conclusion

Makardhwaj Ras is a highly potent classical Ayurvedic formulation known for its deep Rasayana and Vajikarana effects. It is carefully prepared through the alchemical Kajjali (black mercurial sulphide compound) process; it nourishes tissues, revitalizes cellular energy, and uplifts mental and physical stamina. Whether used for heart weakness, sexual debility, post-fever recovery, or premature aging, it offers broad-spectrum rejuvenation. This formulation, when administered with appropriate Anupaan (milk, honey, betel leaf), aligns with specific conditions to provide targeted benefits.