Syrups, Tonics & Herbal Jams

Lehyam, and why Chyawanprash sits here

A lehyam is a herbal jam: powders and decoctions cooked into a base until the whole holds together as a paste. Chyawanprash is the famous one, and Charaka names it foremost among the rasayanas. The format exists for a plain reason — some preparations are easier to take, and to go on taking, as something sweet on a spoon.

Syrups follow the same logic in a modern form; they are Kairali's own preparations rather than classical ones. Both formats carry sugar or jaggery as part of the making rather than as an addition to it, which is worth knowing if you are watching your intake.

Three notes before buying

1. They contain sugar — Jaggery or sugar belongs to how a lehyam is made. Ask your physician if you are managing blood sugar.
2. Taken by the spoon — A teaspoon or two, generally in the morning. No preparation and no measure required.
3. Suited to a household — The formats people share, and the gentlest introduction to the tradition for someone new to it.

See also Energy & Vitality, Breathing & Immunity. Kairali has made Ayurvedic formulations in Kerala since 1908.

Always read the label and directions on the pack you receive, and speak with your physician before starting anything new — particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, managing a health condition or taking prescription medicine.