Physico Chemical Analysis of Souviraka (Malt Vinegar) - An Acidic Fermentation

Sandhana Kalpana is one revolutionary innovation evolved since the Vedic period owing to its better absorption and hence faster action, increased palatability and longer shelf life. Souviraka is one important classification of Sandhana Kalpana described in various treatment modalities. Aim: Preparation and Physico chemical analysis of Souviraka (Malt vinegar). Material and Methods: A thorough review of Souviraka from Ayurvedic texts along with in-depth analysis of published literature in various Databases/Journals related to Souviraka. Result: Souviraka is an acidic fermentation which is white in colour thick liquid, sour acidic in taste, with unpleasant smell. Physico chemical study shows pH 3.43, Specific gravity 1.0336, Total soluble solids 82.40 and Refractive index of 1.3457. Chemical tests show Total acidity 1.60, Total soluble solid 9.64. Alcohol, and reducing sugars were found to be absent. Other test like Flame test was negative but Bubble test and Sink test were positive initially but later on it became negative. The Phyto-constituents evaluation shows presence of Alkaloids, Carbohydrate, Proteins but absence of Steroids, Phenols and Tannins. Conclusion: Souviraka is a highly acidic fermentative product used in Ayurvedic management in the form of ingestion, local application and as Anupana (adjuvant).