Varanadi is not a single plant. It is a Gana, one of the classical groups in which Ayurveda organises its materia medica, and it takes its name from Varana, Crataeva nurvala, the tree that stands first in the list. Understanding what a Gana is explains what a preparation called Varanadi Ghritham refers to.

What a Gana is

The classical texts group herbs into sets and give each set a name, usually that of its first member with the suffix adi, meaning "and the rest". A formulation that carries the group's name is understood to draw on that group. This is why so many classical preparations share a stem: the name points to a documented list rather than to one ingredient.

Varana, the tree that names the group

Crataeva nurvala is a tree of the Indian subcontinent, recorded in the classical literature under the name Varana. Its bark is the part the texts name. As the first member of the group it gives the set its label, and the label then travels to the preparations built on it.

What the Art of Vedas jar is

Varanadi Ghritham is the simplest preparation in our range: Shatavari and Haritaki in a pure ghee base, and nothing else. It is a simple ghee prepared in this tradition rather than a reconstruction of a classical group formula, and the label is the authoritative ingredient list. Where a classical source cannot be verified for a specific formulation, we do not claim one.

Groups you will meet elsewhere on this site

  • Dashamula, the ten roots, which appears across the Thailams.
  • Triphala, the three fruits, which names both a powder and two of the ghees.
  • Panchatikta, the five bitters, which stands behind Gulgulu Thikthakam Ghritham.

The range comparison places each preparation in the family.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the suffix adi mean?

"And the rest". Varanadi means Varana and the others, that is, the group headed by Varana.

Does Varanadi Ghritham contain Varana?

The Art of Vedas jar contains Shatavari and Haritaki in a ghee base; the label is the authoritative list. The name refers to the classical group, not to the contents of this jar.

Why are classical groups named this way?

Because the name is a pointer to a documented list of herbs, which made formulas easier to transmit accurately.

This article is for educational purposes and describes the classical Ayurvedic record. The products mentioned are food supplements, not a substitute for a varied, balanced diet, and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Take classical ghee preparations under the guidance of a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner.