Auṣadha-sevana-kāla: Mapping Therapeutic Effects to Dosage Protocols Mainly Emphasizing Śārṅgadhara-saṃhitā

Introduction: In Āyurveda, the therapeutic success of a medicine depends not only on its formulation and ingredients but also on the precise time of administration, known as Auṣadha-sevana-kāla. This concept reflects a holistic view where the timing of intake is aligned with doṣa predominance, digestive capacity (agni), disease state (vikṛti), and natural biological rhythms (dinacaryā and ṛtucaryā). Beyond these factors, Āyurveda gives distinctive importance to dosage form and the intended therapeutic action in deciding the ideal kāla. Methods: Classical Āyurvedic texts, authoritative commentaries, and contemporary interpretations were reviewed to compile references related to Auṣadha-sevana-kāla. Emphasis was placed on how different dosage forms—such as decoctions, powders, ghee preparations, and pills—are recommended at specific timings for curative, preventive, or rejuvenative purposes. Results: The review revealed that decoctions are best administered on an empty stomach for rapid absorption, whereas medicated ghee (ghṛta) is advised post-meal to ensure tissue nourishment and doṣa pacification. Purificatory formulations (śodhana preparations) are timed according to phases of doṣic activity to enhance elimination, while rasāyana (rejuvenative) preparations are optimally consumed at dawn to maximize restorative impact. Thus, kāla is directly linked with the pharmacodynamics of the formulation and its therapeutic intent. Discussion: Understanding the interplay of kāla, dosage form, and therapeutic goal highlights Āyurveda’s integrative and personalized approach. Incorporating these principles into practice can significantly enhance drug efficacy and patient outcomes, offering valuable insights even for contemporary health care. Keywords: Auṣadha-sevana-kāla, Āyurveda, Doṣa, Agni, Vikṛti, Dinacaryā, Ṛtucaryā, Kāla, Therapeutic Action