KSHARAKALPANA: A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE TO KADALIKANDA KSHARA

Kashinath Hadimur, Vilas Chadchan, Sachin Bagali*, Kasturi Patil, Vidyalakshmi Pujari

Background: Ksharakalpana is one of the most ancient and unique pharmaceutical dosage forms described in Ayurveda, representing alkaline preparations derived from the ashes of medicinal herbs, animal substances, and minerals. Among the numerous plant sources cited in classical texts, Kadali (Musa paradisiaca Linn.) holds a distinctive place due to its wide therapeutic spectrum. Kadalikanda Kshara, prepared from the corms (rhizomes/pseudostem base) of the banana plant, is referenced across classical Ayurvedic texts for its efficacy in urinary disorders, digestive ailments, and dermatological conditions. Objectives: To critically review the concept of Ksharakalpana — its definition, types, properties, method of preparation, and therapeutic indications — with special emphasis on Kadalikanda Kshara as described in classical Ayurvedic literature and supported by contemporary pharmacological investigations. Methods: A comprehensive literature review was conducted by consulting authoritative classical Samhitas (Sushruta Samhita, Charaka Samhita, Ashtanga Hridayam, Sharangadhara Samhita, Rasa Tarangini), modern Ayurvedic pharmacopoeial standards, and contemporary peer-reviewed research publications available in PubMed, Google Scholar, and related databases up to 2025. Results: Ksharakalpana is broadly classified into Paneeya (internal/drinkable) and Pratisaraniya (external/applicable) types, with further sub-classifications based on potency and source material. Kadalikanda Kshara, derived from Musa paradisiaca, exhibits Ushna (hot), Tikshna (sharp), Katu (pungent), Lekhana (scraping), and Shothahara (anti-inflammatory) properties. It is indicated in Mutrashmari (urolithiasis), Udara roga, Arsha, Kushtha, and Shwasa. Physicochemical analysis reveals high alkalinity (pH 9–12), significant potassium and calcium content, and antifungal and antibacterial activity. Conclusion: Ksharakalpana remains a therapeutically potent and versatile Ayurvedic formulation. Kadalikanda Kshara warrants further standardised analytical and clinical research to validate its classical indications and to establish quality control parameters for contemporary pharmaceutical application.