Fasting, or “Upvaas”, has been practiced in India for centuries as a way to purify the body, mind, and spirit. While fasting offers several health benefits—like detoxification, improved metabolism, and spiritual focus—it can also lead to fatigue, weakness, and loss of energy, especially when done for extended periods or without proper nourishment. One powerful Ayurvedic herb that can help maintain energy, balance, and well-being during fasting is Arjun Chaal (Terminalia arjuna).
Traditionally known for supporting heart health, Arjun Chaal is also an excellent herbal adaptogen that sustains stamina, circulation, and energy during times of stress—including fasting. In this article, Dirghaanshi explores how you can effectively use Arjun Chaal during fasting to stay energized, focused, and balanced, all while enhancing your detox journey naturally.
Long Description
🌿 What is Arjun Chaal?
Arjun Chaal is the bark of the Terminalia arjuna tree, used for over 2,500 years in Ayurvedic medicine. It is classified as a “Hridaya Rasayana”—a rejuvenator for the heart and blood system. Beyond its cardiovascular benefits, Arjun Chaal provides gentle energy support, antioxidant protection, and liver detox support, making it an ideal fasting companion.
📜 Ayurvedic Properties of Arjun Chaal
Rasa (Taste): Kashaya (astringent)
Guna (Quality): Laghu (light), Ruksha (dry)
Virya (Potency): Sheeta (cooling)
Vipaka (Post-digestive effect): Katu (pungent)
Tridoshic: Mainly balances Pitta and Kapha; may aggravate Vata if taken in excess
These qualities make Arjun Chaal suitable for cooling the body, reducing fatigue, and maintaining heart and muscle strength, especially in hot weather or during fasting rituals like Ekadashi, Navratri, or intermittent fasting (IF).
🧘♀️ Why Use Arjun Chaal During Fasting?
✅ 1. Boosts Energy and Stamina
Fasting can deplete glycogen stores, leading to tiredness and dizziness. Arjun Chaal provides natural adaptogenic energy, stabilizing your circulation and keeping energy levels steady.
✅ 2. Supports Heart and Blood Flow
When food intake is restricted, the heart can be strained due to changes in blood pressure or electrolytes. Arjun Chaal strengthens heart muscles and improves blood flow, reducing lightheadedness or weakness.
✅ 3. Balances Blood Sugar Levels
Fluctuations in blood sugar during fasting can cause irritability, headaches, or fatigue. Arjun Chaal helps regulate glucose metabolism, reducing the impact of these energy dips.
✅ 4. Acts as a Detoxifying Agent
Fasting already supports natural detox, and Arjun Chaal enhances it by aiding liver and kidney function, improving toxin elimination.
✅ 5. Reduces Hunger Pangs and Cravings
Its astringent and grounding nature helps reduce excessive appetite and mental restlessness—making it easier to stick to your fasting goals.
✅ 6. Improves Mental Clarity
Arjun Chaal’s antioxidant action supports cognitive function and mood balance, helping you stay sharp and focused even with an empty stomach.
🥣 Best Ways to Take Arjun Chaal During Fasting
- Arjun Chaal Herbal Tea (Kashayam)
Ingredients:
1 tsp Arjun Chaal powder or 1 tbsp crushed bark
2 cups of water
Preparation:
Boil until reduced to 1 cup.
Strain and drink warm on an empty stomach or mid-morning.
When to take: Morning during fasting
Benefits: Maintains energy, boosts circulation, supports detox
- Arjun Chaal Infused Water
Method:
Soak a small piece of Arjun bark in a clay or copper vessel overnight.
Drink the water in the morning.
Benefits: Gentle support for energy and digestion
- Arjun Chaal Powder with Honey (if allowed in your fast)
How to use:
Mix ¼ tsp Arjun powder with 1 tsp raw honey.
Take it before or during your fast.
Note: Use only in fasts that permit honey (e.g., spiritual fasts with lenient rules)
- Arjun Chaal Capsules or Tablets
If you prefer convenience:
Dosage: 250–500 mg, once or twice a day
With: Lukewarm water or herbal tea
Ideal for: Urban lifestyle fasting (intermittent fasting, Navratri, etc.)
🕉️ Ayurvedic Fasting Tip with Arjun Chaal
Combine Arjun Chaal with cooling herbs like:
Shatavari – For hormonal balance and hydration
Guduchi – For immune support
Tulsi – For clarity and immunity
This blend helps nourish tissues and reduces Vata aggravation caused by long fasting hours.
⚠️ Precautions During Fasting
Avoid Arjun Chaal if you’re fasting for more than 24 hours and feel too weak—add a few soaked raisins or coconut water.
Don’t overboil the bark; it can become overly astringent.
Avoid if you’re on heart medications or blood thinners without medical advice.
If you have low blood pressure, monitor your vitals regularly.
🧪 What Science Says About Arjun Chaal for Energy and Vitality
A study in the Indian Journal of Physiology and Pharmacology found Arjun bark improved exercise tolerance and oxygen utilization, essential during low-calorie states like fasting.
Another 2021 study in Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine showed its adaptogenic effect reduced fatigue and enhanced physical performance.
Its antioxidant compounds such as gallic acid and ellagic acid improve mitochondrial function, essential for cellular energy.
🥗 Complementing Arjun Chaal with Light Fasting Foods (If Allowed)
If your fast allows food, you can combine Arjun Chaal with:
Sabudana (tapioca)
Fruits like banana or apple
Dry fruits like dates, almonds (soaked)
Coconut water or lemon water
These combinations ensure steady energy while enhancing Arjun Chaal’s absorption.
🌅 Suggested Fasting Routine with Arjun Chaal
Time Activity
6:00 am Wake up and drink Arjun infused water
7:30 am Do gentle yoga or pranayama
8:30 am Drink warm Arjun Chaal herbal tea
11:00 am Optional fruit or coconut water if allowed
1:00 pm Rest or meditation (avoid heavy activity)
4:00 pm Arjun Chaal capsule + warm water
6:00 pm Break fast with light food (if required)
