Can I Take Ashokarishta During Periods?

Many women often look for natural remedies to ease menstrual discomfort, and Ashokarishta is a well-known Ayurvedic tonic for women’s health. But one common question that often arises is: “Can I take Ashokarishta during periods?” In this article, we will explore this in detail—covering how it works, its safety, benefits, and whether or not it’s suitable for use during menstruation.

What Is Ashokarishta?

Ashokarishta is an Ayurvedic herbal preparation mainly made from Ashoka tree bark (Saraca asoca) along with other herbs like Dhataki, Musta, Haritaki, Amalaki, and Guduchi. It is processed in jaggery and fermented to form a tonic.

It is traditionally used to support female reproductive health, regulate the menstrual cycle, and reduce pain, cramps, and hormonal imbalances.

Can I Take Ashokarishta During Periods?

The short answer: Yes, you can take Ashokarishta during periods, but with some considerations.

Why?

Ashokarishta is designed to balance female hormones, strengthen the uterus, and reduce excessive bleeding. Many Ayurvedic doctors recommend taking it during periods if you experience symptoms like:

Heavy bleeding (menorrhagia)
Severe cramps (dysmenorrhea)
Irregular cycles
Hormonal acne
General weakness during periods

However, it is not suitable for everyone, and its usage must be guided by a certified Ayurvedic doctor, especially during menstruation.

Benefits of Taking Ashokarishta During Periods

If taken correctly, Ashokarishta may offer the following benefits during periods:

1. Regulates Menstrual Flow

Ashokarishta helps in maintaining a healthy balance of hormones, which can reduce heavy bleeding or spotting between periods.

2. Reduces Menstrual Pain

Its anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic herbs help in relieving abdominal cramps and lower back pain.

3. Improves Digestion

Poor digestion during periods can make you feel bloated or fatigued. Ashokarishta supports digestive health, which in turn reduces discomfort.

4. Enhances Uterine Health

Ashoka bark tones the uterus, improves its strength, and prevents complications like fibroids or cysts.

5. Boosts Energy

Since it contains jaggery and medicinal herbs, it helps in rejuvenating energy levels which often drop during menstruation.

How to Take Ashokarishta During Periods?

Dosage:

10 to 15 ml twice daily with an equal amount of water, after meals.
Always consult your Ayurvedic doctor before starting the tonic, especially if you are currently on other medications.

Duration:

For chronic menstrual issues, you may be advised to take it for 3 to 6 months.
For temporary symptoms, your doctor may suggest a shorter course.

When Should You Avoid Ashokarishta During Periods?

While it is generally safe, there are some cases where you should avoid Ashokarishta during your periods:

If you have extremely light bleeding or amenorrhea
If you are pregnant or trying to conceive
If you are diabetic (because of jaggery content)
If you are allergic to any of the ingredients
If you have liver or kidney disorders

Ashokarishta Side Effects During Periods

In rare cases, some women might experience the following side effects when taking Ashokarishta during periods:

Mild nausea
Bloating
Loose motions
Heaviness in the stomach
Allergic reaction (rash or itching)

Always start with a small dose and observe how your body reacts. Stop immediately if any discomfort arises and consult your physician.

Can Ashokarishta Make Periods Worse?

Some people wonder if Ashokarishta might increase cramps or delay periods. Generally, it does not worsen symptoms if taken correctly. However, in some cases, such as when taken without medical supervision or when the body doesn’t need hormone balancing, it may interfere with natural processes.

So, it’s always better to take personalized advice from a certified practitioner.

Ashokarishta for Irregular Periods

Ashokarishta is especially effective for irregular cycles. Whether your periods come early, late, or are missed entirely, Ashokarishta can:

Support hormonal balance
Promote timely ovulation
Regulate the 28-day menstrual rhythm

But note: Irregular periods can also be a sign of underlying issues like PCOS, thyroid problems, or stress, so it’s essential to get a proper diagnosis.

What Do Experts Say?

Ayurvedic View:

According to Ayurveda, Ashokarishta is a “Rasayana”—a rejuvenating tonic that corrects Vata and Pitta imbalances, both of which influence menstrual health.

Ayurvedic doctors recommend Ashokarishta for:

Dysmenorrhea (painful periods)
Menorrhagia (heavy periods)
Leukorrhea (white discharge)
PCOS and hormonal acne

Modern View:

Though scientific research on Ashokarishta is limited, the herbs used in it have proven anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and hormone-modulating properties.

Should You Take Ashokarishta Only During Periods?

Not necessarily.

Ashokarishta is most effective when taken regularly for a few months, not just during periods. Daily consumption (as advised) prepares the body for a smoother menstrual cycle.

If you take it only during your period, the effects may be temporary or less noticeable.

Can Teenagers Take Ashokarishta During Periods?

Yes, teenage girls experiencing irregular periods, excessive bleeding, or severe cramps may take Ashokarishta. However, they must do so under supervision, as hormone levels during adolescence are very sensitive.

Can I Take Ashokarishta With Other Medicines?

If you’re on allopathic medicines for PCOS, thyroid, or any hormonal treatment, avoid mixing them without approval from a doctor. Some herbs may interact with conventional drugs.

Natural Alternatives to Ashokarishta During Periods

If Ashokarishta doesn’t suit you, here are a few natural alternatives:

Shatavari Syrup – For hormonal balance
Dashmoolarishta – For pain and post-delivery care
Ginger and Turmeric Tea – Natural anti-inflammatory
Aloe Vera Juice – Soothes cramps and promotes digestion
Fenugreek Seeds Water – Helps regulate flow

Final Words

So, to answer the question again: Can I take Ashokarishta during periods? Yes, you can, if you have heavy bleeding, cramps, or hormonal imbalance, and under proper guidance.

It’s a powerful Ayurvedic tonic that supports menstrual health, balances hormones, and strengthens the uterus. But like any medicine—natural or synthetic—it should be used wisely, especially during menstruation.

If you experience discomfort after taking it, or if your symptoms worsen, stop immediately and seek expert advice.