| Title | क्वाथ (Herbal Concoctions)Rare Kvātha Herbal Concoctions |
|---|---|
| Description | कषाय (Kashāya), meaning herbal concoctions or decoctions [1], served as crucial organic additives in traditional Indic construction, particularly during the medieval period under dynasties like the Chera and Chola. These औषधीय क्वाथ (medicinal decoctions) were incorporated into lime mortar (चूना) and plaster mixes to enhance their physical and chemical properties. Sourced from regional forests across Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh, specific वनस्पतिक क्वाथ (plant decoctions) varied, often including neem (Azadirachta indica) for its insecticidal properties, turmeric (Curcuma longa) for its antimicrobial effects, and aloe vera (Aloe barbadensis miller) for binding. The addition of कषाय improved the workability, water resistance, and overall durability of the mortar. Chemically, the organic compounds within the Kashāya reacted with the lime (calcium hydroxide), creating a more robust matrix. In heritage conservation, understanding the original Kashāya composition is vital for selecting compatible consolidation agents and repair mortars. Analyzing residual organic matter helps replicate traditional recipes for authentic restoration of heritage sites. |
| Also Known As | Herbal Concoctions Kvātha Herbal Decoction Herbal Extract Medicinal Infusion Kashaya कषाय औषधीय क्वाथ वनस्पतिक क्वाथ काढ़ा कषायम (Tamil) కషాయం (Telugu) ಕಷಾಯ (Kannada) കഷായം (Malayalam) |
| Tags | Kashaya Herbal Decoction Lime Mortar Durability Insect Repellent Water Resistance Traditional Construction Ayurveda |
| Material ID | INHFMAT-506543230-20-11-25-KC |
| URI | https://www.inheritage.foundation/aat/material/herbal-concoctions |
| API Endpoint | https://www.inheritage.foundation/api/v1/aat/materials/herbal-concoctions |
| Total Sites | 1 |
| Primary Sites | 1 |
| Created | November 20, 2025 |
| Last Updated | November 28, 2025 |
| Types | Additive Organic Binder |
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| Regions | Kerala Tamil Nadu Karnataka Andhra Pradesh |
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| Time Periods | Medieval Period |
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| Dynasties | Chera Chola |
| Sources | Traditional Medicine Practitioners Ayurvedic Texts Local Herbalists |
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| Properties | Improves Lime Mortar Durability Enhances Water Resistance Insect Repellent Antimicrobial Biocide |
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| Uses | Lime Mortar Additive Plaster Additive Wood Surface Treatment Consolidation Agent |
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| Materials | Lime Mortar Surkhi (Brick Dust) Wood Lime Plaster |
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| Styles | Kerala Architecture Dravidian Architecture |
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| Categories | Temple Residential |
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| Notes |
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| Title | Type | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Ancient Science of Life | Journal Article | Ayurvedic materials |
| Site Name | Status | Usage | Confidence |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vadakkunnathan Temple Thrissur | Primary | 100% |