Ekal Churna/Single Powder (एकल चूर्ण)

A Hypothetical Evolution of Churna from Forest to Formula: 

In the early evolution of human civilization, long before the formalization of Ayurveda, humans began to observe nature and discovered that certain plants could heal wounds, reduce fever, or stimulate appetite. Through careful observation of animals and trial-and-error, early humans identified herbs that soothed pain, revived energy, or cured infections. Initially, they consumed herbs raw or applied them as freshly ground pastes (kalka), which were effective but perishable. Over time, they learned to extract juices (swarasa) and decoctions (kashaya) by crushing or boiling herbs—enhancing therapeutic potency. However, a key turning point came when they realized that drying herbs not only preserved their properties but also extended their usability across seasons. A dried Haritaki fruit retained its laxative effect months later, which led to experimentation with shade-drying and stone-pounding of herbs into powder (churna). This transformation from fresh paste to dry powder was not merely a technological shift but a strategic innovation for improving shelf life, portability, and dosage control. It allowed medicine to evolve from an immediate, perishable remedy to a storable, standardized therapeutic form—laying the foundation for Ayurvedic pharmacy and the enduring relevance of Churna Kalpana, one of the most ancient yet practical forms of herbal medicine. 

Definition: 

अत्यन्तशुष्कं यद् द्रव्यं सुपिष्टं वस्त्रगालितं। 

तत्स्याच्चुर्ण रजः क्षोदस्तन्मात्र कर्षसंमिता।। शारंगधर संहिता - ६/१ 

A substance that is thoroughly dried, finely pounded, and filtered through a cloth is known as Churna. Its fine particles should be uniform and measure up to one karsha (approximately 12 grams) in the prescribed dose. 

Single Powder (एकल चूर्ण) refers to a finely sieved powder prepared from one individual herb or mineral ingredient, used either alone or as a base for compound formulations in Ayurvedic therapeutics. 

It is the simplest dosage form in Ayurveda, representing the single-drug utility philosophy, and is often preferred for its flexibility in administration and ease of formulation.

Qualities of a Good Churna:

• Finely powdered but not excessively fine or coarse
• Free from foreign matter, dust, and contamination
• Retains the natural color, taste, and aroma of the herb
• Uniform particle size

General Mode of Administration:

Taken with honey, warm water, ghee, milk, or buttermilk, depending on disease and dosha for internal use. Different powders are also used for external application for different purposes.

Typical adult dose: 1–3 grams for internal use. Taken before or after food as prescribed.

General Guidelines for Ayurvedic Practitioners on the Use of Single Herb Powders (Ekal Churna)

Single powders, or Ekal Churna, are one of the most ancient and fundamental dosage forms in Ayurveda. When used wisely, they offer flexible, cost-effective, and powerful therapeutic benefits. However, they must be used judiciously, following classical principles, individualized assessment, and proper formulation knowledge.

• Analyze the Rasa (taste), Guna (qualities), Virya (potency), Vipaka (post-digestive effect), and Karma (action) of the herb.
• Assess its effect on Vata, Pitta, and Kapha doshas.
• Select herbs that balance the aggravated dosha(s) without disturbing the others.
• Be cautious of herbs with multiple interpretations or different properties in different references.
• Tailor the use of the single churna based on: Prakriti (constitution), Vikriti (current imbalance), Avastha (stage of disease), Agni (digestive power), Srotasa (affected bodily channels).
• The Anupana (carrier substance) plays a crucial role in directing the herb to the proper site and enhancing its absorption. like for Vata - Warm ghee, warm water, for Pitta - Milk, ghee, sugar and for Kapha - Honey, hot water.
• Time of administration should also follow the dosha pattern or disease condition (e.g., early morning for constipation, after meals for digestive aid).
• Most single churnas are given in 1–3 grams twice a day unless stated otherwise in the classical reference. Monitor the patient for tolerance, effectiveness, or any aggravation. Avoid long-term use without breaks unless it’s a Rasayana or approved long-duration therapy.
• Use churnas from authenticated, GMP-certified sources or prepare from genuine, properly identified raw material.
• Store in airtight, moisture-proof containers in a dry, cool place.
• Discard if there’s discolouration, odour change, or visible contamination.
• Avoid using churnas with incompatible foods or herbs that may result in harmful interactions or reduced efficacy.
• Be particularly cautious with churnas that are Ushna (hot) in nature when used in Pitta prakriti, & Tikshna (sharp) when there's ulceration or weak digestion.
• Instruct clearly on how and when to take the powder, how to mix it with Anupana, and what diet/lifestyle to follow during treatment.
• Ensure they understand not to exceed the dose or self-medicate beyond your advice.
• Track the patient’s response over time, including relief of symptoms, changes in Agni, bowel movement, sleep, etc. If using as supportive therapy, document integration with other classical or proprietary formulations.

Disclaimer:

This guideline is based on Ayurvedic classical principles and intended for educational use. Practitioners should use their clinical judgment, patient assessment, and individualized protocol before prescribing ekal churnas in actual clinical settings.