Draksha/ Angoor

Draksha, commonly known as grapes (Vitis vinifera), is one of the most ancient cultivated fruits, valued across medical traditions for its nourishing, cooling, and restorative qualities. In Ayurveda, Draksha is classified as a Rasayana — a rejuvenating substance that supports strength, immunity, and digestive wellness. Its sweet taste and cooling nature make it suitable for individuals with excess Pitta or dehydration due to illness.
In Unani medicine, grapes are considered “Murattib” (moistening) and “Mulaṭṭif” (softening), used to correct dryness, constipation, and heat disorders. Modern science supports many of these classical uses, noting the antioxidant-rich profile of grapes, especially resveratrol, which supports cardiovascular health, anti-inflammatory pathways, and cellular protection [1][2].

Morphology – Habitat and Plant Morphology

Ayurvedic Perspective:

Draksha is described as a climbing vine with woody stems, broad lobed leaves, and clusters of soft, juicy fruits. Ayurveda highlights the fruit pulp, which is naturally sweet, cooling, and hydrating — making it ideal for patients experiencing fatigue, digestive distress, or heat-related disorders.

Unani Perspective:

Unani physicians describe the grapevine as a temperate plant producing berries categorized into “Matai’’ (sweet, moistening fruits). The fresh fruit, seed, and dried fruit (munakka) are all used therapeutically.

Modern Science Perspective:

Vitis vinifera is cultivated worldwide, especially in Mediterranean and subtropical climates. The plant has tendril-bearing vines, large leaves, and berries that vary in color and phytochemical composition. Grapes contain polyphenols such as resveratrol, quercetin, catechins, and anthocyanins — compounds central to their therapeutic profile [3][4].

Source & Part Used & General Dose

• Source: Cultivated grapes (fresh or dried: raisins).
• Parts Used: Fresh fruits, dried fruits (munakka), seeds, leaves occasionally.

General Dose:

• Fresh fruit: 50–100 g
• Dried grapes (Munakka): 10–20 g
• Juice (Draksha Rasa): 20–40 ml
• Extracts: As per standardised formulations

These doses are well-tolerated in most individuals [5].

Properties of the Herb

Ayurveda:

• Rasa: Madhura (sweet)
• Guna: Snigdha (unctuous), Mridu (soft)
• Virya: Sheeta (cooling)
• Vipaka: Madhura

Dosha Effect: Pacifies Vata and Pitta

Unani:

• Mizaj: Barid & Tar (cold and moist)
• Improves digestion, quenches thirst, nourishes tissues, and helps soften stools.

Modern Science:

Rich in vitamins (A, C, K), minerals, flavonoids, phenolic acids, resveratrol, and fiber. Exhibits strong antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, cardioprotective, and hepatoprotective effects [1][3].

Benefits According to Health Concern, Usage, and Dose

1. Digestive Health

• Ayurveda: Fresh Draksha or soaked munakka soothes acidity, hyperacidity, and promotes gentle bowel movement.
• Unani: Acts as a mild laxative and appetite enhancer.
• Modern: Fiber and polyphenols support gut microbiota and reduce constipation [6].

How to Use:

• Soak 5–10 munakka overnight; consume in morning.
• Fresh grapes 50–100 g with meals.

2. Liver Health

• Ayurveda: Used in Yakrit vikara (liver disorders) due to its cooling, detoxifying nature.
• Unani: Recommended for “Suda-e-Yakrit’’ (hepatitis and inflammation).
• Modern: Grape seed extract protects liver cells from oxidative stress and toxin-induced damage [7].

3. Heart & Metabolic Health

• Ayurveda: Strengthens Rasa dhatu (plasma) and supports circulation.
• Unani: Helps normalize excessive body heat and reduces inflammation.
• Modern: Resveratrol improves endothelial function, reduces LDL oxidation, and supports glucose regulation [2].

4. Respiratory Health

• Reduces throat dryness and supports expectoration.
• Munakka is often used in warm milk for chronic cough.

5. Fatigue & Weakness

• Natural source of instant energy and hydration.
• Effective in dehydration and convalescence.

Additional Benefits

• Supports skin health due to antioxidants.
• Cooling effect useful in Pitta-dominant headaches.
• Mild diuretic effect aids detoxification.
• Helps reduce inflammation in joints.

Forms & Dosage

• Fresh Fruit: 50–100 g/day
• Munakka: 5–10 pieces/day
• Juice: 20–40 ml
• Grape Seed Extract: 150–300 mg/day
• Concoction (Draksha Kashaya): 40–60 ml

Product Formulation

• Ayurveda: Drakshasava, Draksha avaleha, Draksha choorna
• Unani: Sharbat-e-Angoor, Munakka-based laxative syrups
• Modern Herbal: Grape seed extract capsules, polyphenol-rich concentrates

Risk Factors / Precautions

• Use with caution in diabetes (due to natural sugars).
• Excess intake may worsen loose stools.
• Avoid unwashed grapes due to pesticide residues.

Side Effects

• High intake may cause bloating or diarrhea.
• Rare allergies in sensitive individuals.
• Grape seed extract may interact with blood thinners [8].

Conclusion

Draksha/Angoor is a gentle yet profoundly rejuvenating fruit across Ayurveda, Unani, and modern science. Its cooling, antioxidant-rich nature supports digestion, liver health, cardiovascular function, and overall vitality. When taken in appropriate amounts, Draksha remains one of the safest and most nourishing natural remedies.

FAQs

Q1. Can Draksha be given to children?

• Ayurveda: Yes, in small amounts; ideal for hydration and digestion.
• Unani: Safe for children as a natural laxative (munakka boiled in milk).
• Modern Science: Nutrient-rich and safe; watch for choking risk in whole grapes.

Q2. Is Draksha safe for diabetics?

• Ayurveda: Advisable in moderation; avoid excessive sweet fruits.
• Unani: Suggested in limited quantity due to sweetness.
• Modern: Low glycemic index but high sugar; portion control essential.

Q3. Can grapes improve liver health?

• Ayurveda: Yes, used in classical formulations for Pitta and liver disorders.
• Unani: Considered beneficial for liver inflammation.
• Modern: Grape seed extract shows hepatoprotective effects in studies.

Q4. Which is better — grapes or munakka?

• Ayurveda: Munakka is warmer and more nourishing; grapes are more cooling.
• Unani: Munakka preferred for constipation and chronic cough.

Bibliography 

Li X, et al. “Polyphenols in grapes and their health benefits.” Nutrients. 2016;8(7):E386.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4963874/
Comprehensive review detailing antioxidant compounds in grapes and their role in disease prevention.

Tomé-Carneiro J, et al. “Resveratrol in primary and secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease.” Ann N Y Acad Sci. 2013;1290:37–51.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3739369/
Explains cardioprotective effects of resveratrol and grape-derived polyphenols.

Georgiev V, et al. “Grape-derived polyphenols and their benefits.” Biotechnol Biotechnol Equip. 2014;28(4):581–591.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6279079/
Discusses phytochemistry and environmental factors affecting grape medicinal value.

Nassiri-Asl M, Hosseinzadeh H. “Review of resveratrol and its antioxidant properties.” J Pharm Pharmacol. 2009;61(1):41–48.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19178772/
Explores antioxidant and protective activities of resveratrol.

Kaur M, et al. “Nutritional and therapeutic properties of grapes.” J Food Sci Technol. 2020;57(4):1207–1215.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7172000/
Explores nutrient profile and therapeutic uses of grape fruit and extracts.

Uesugi D, et al. “Grape consumption and digestive health.” Nutrients. 2019;11(12):3003.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6950539/
Investigates grape fiber and polyphenols on digestive function.

Guo C, et al. “Grape seed extract prevents liver injury.” Food Chem Toxicol. 2007;45(11):2281–2290.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17693054/
Animal study showcasing hepatoprotective actions of grape seed extract.

Kim M, et al. “Grape seed extract interactions with anticoagulants.” Clin Pharmacol Ther. 2010;87(3):315–321.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20075116/
Details potential herb–drug interactions with grape seed extract.