Garlic (Rasona / Lashuna)
Rasona
A heating, penetrating rasayana said to possess five of the six tastes, lacking only sour. Prized for vata disorders, joint pain, heart health and cholesterol, but aggravates pitta.
reduces Vataincreases Pittareduces Kapha
Ayurvedic properties
- Rasa (taste): pungent (with sweet, salty, bitter, astringent)
- Virya (energy): heating
- Vipaka (post-digestive): pungent
- Guna (qualities): heavy, unctuous, sharp
Traditionally used for
- joint and vata pain
- high cholesterol
- weak digestion
- respiratory congestion
Contraindications & cautions
- bleeding disorders
- pitta excess
- before surgery
Possible interactions
- anticoagulants
- antiplatelet drugs
- some antiretrovirals
Evidence notes
Well studied; supports modest lipid and blood-pressure benefits, with antiplatelet activity of clinical relevance.
Regulatory notes
Common food and supplement; caution around surgery and blood thinners.
Classical sources
- Bhavaprakasha — Nighantu — Haritakyadi varga
Educational information about Ayurveda — not a medical diagnosis or treatment. Consult a qualified professional before starting any herb, supplement, or therapy.