Chyawanprash: The Nutritional Value and Uses of Indian Jam

Chyawanprash is an Indian compound of Ayurvedic medicine. We'll tell you the scientific evidence behind this mixture with more than 40 ingredients.

Written and verified by the nutritionist Maria Patricia Pinero Corredor.

Last update: 12 October, 2022

Chyawanprash is a kind of jam with origins in India, which has many myths that surround it. One legend even claims that Chyawana, a Hindu man, managed to maintain good health for many years thanks to this elixir.

However, there’s not much information about the veracity of the story. What is known are its benefits from a scientific perspective.

They call it the “elixir of youth.” It has a dark color, thick texture, and sweet taste with a touch of acid. More than 40 plants are used for its preparation, including fruits and spices.

The nutritional value of chyawanprash

The nutritional value of chyawanprash lies in several factors that we’ll tell you more about below. First of all, it’s important to highlight that its low cholesterol and fat content and its high content of vitamin C and saponins.

In fact, 100 grams of this jam contain:

• Calories: 35
• Fat: 7 g
• Sodium: 5 mg
• Total carbohydrates: 7.5 g
• Fiber: 500 mg
• Total sugars: 3.5 g
• Vitamin C: 3.4 mg
• Total flavonoids: 20 mg
• Alkaloids: 80 mg
• Piperine: 4,2 mg
• Phenolic compound: 235 mg

The base ingredients of this herbal mixture are compounds such as the following:

• Honey
• Sugar syrup
• Sesame oil
• Bamboo manna
• Clarified butter
• Indian gooseberry pulp

Although more than 40 compounds are used to make this jam, it’s these that are in the highest proportion in the mixture. In 10 grams of chyawanprash there is 206 mg of sugar syrup, 706 mg of honey, 5880 mg of sugar, 206 mg of sesame oil, and 206 mg of butter, for example.

The health benefits of chyawanprash

Chyawanprash is rich in antioxidants and saponins, providing it with certain benefits. Among them, the main recognized benefit is that it can help boost immunity. In a study, more than 40 ingredients were analyzed with their respective active elements. Thus, it’s known that some compounds have anti-ulcer, bronchodilator, anti-allergic, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antimicrobial, antioxidant, and antipyretic effects

It also has components with diuretic, hepatoprotective, immunomodulatory, and neuroprotective functions. Each ingredient in this preparation has a reason for being there.

The oldest known recipe for chyawanprash is from the Charaka Samhita, an ancient text of traditional Ayurvedic medicine. The writing dates back to the 2nd century.

However, despite the original indications of the recipe, variations over the years and misuse by pharmaceutical companies have led to significant changes. There are even some plants that are part of the formula and are in danger of extinction.

It improves physical performance

In ancient times, it was believed that this jam was able to improve intellect, memory, immunity, physical endurance, and the functioning of the senses. Current science proved that it is indeed capable of improving physical performance. In a book, it’s revealed that the synergy between its components makes it an interesting tonic that’s capable of boosting vitality.

It helps with digestive functioning

Among many of the benefits attributed to chyawanprash, one is its possible help with digestion. According to one article, some herbs it contains improve digestion and fat metabolism. In addition, it favors the assimilation and passage of the active ingredients of nutrients through the cell wall.

It strengthens the respiratory system

In a controlled trial with 90 patients with pulmonary tuberculosis who were administered 10 grams of chyawasprash two times a day, it was detected that it increased the bioactivity of anti-tuberculosis drugs. In addition, hemoglobin levels improved.

It has an antioxidant effect

Antioxidants are compounds capable of fighting free radicals. Compounds such as flavonoids, vitamin C, carotenoids, phenolics, and tannins are the most recognized antioxidants by science. So, chyawanprash is an interesting cocktail in this sense.

In a comparative study between different commercial brands of chyawanprash, it was found that, although the formula may vary, it retains an antioxidant effect on cells, preventing aging and long-term disease.

Another study comparing different brands found potent free radical scavenging. To a large extent, the antioxidant effect is attributed to ascorbic acid or vitamin C.

However, it’s not only vitamin C that has this effect. In another study, which lasted six months and involved children aged 5 to 12, scientists credited tannins, polyphenols, and flavonoids with improving the immune system.

It may be cardiotonic

It may have cardiotonic effects because it lowers blood fats and balances metabolic disturbances, according to an animal study. However, it’s still a territory that needs more scientific studies on humans.

It improves the reproductive system

Although the existence of aphrodisiac foods has been much debated, it’s known that chyawanprash enhances the male reproductive system, as it improves the quality of seminal fluid. A systematic study of one of the compounds in the herbal mixture found that it increased sperm concentration and improved sperm motility.

It may have a radioprotective effect

Chyawanprash was found in studies to have anti-radiation effects. Mice were given a lethal dose of radiation and then given the compound. There were a large number of survivors. However, this is an animal experiment only, so the benefits can’t be extended to humans.

The uses of chyawanprash

Chyawanprash has a large number of uses in Hindu culture. However, despite this, careful use under medical supervision is recommended. In 2005, the Canadian government banned its commercialization, arguing that it may contain high levels of lead and mercury.

So, although it’s a popular product in India, the recommendation is to inquire about local regulations. In any case, it’s always best to consult a specialist to establish safety and dosage.