Definition of Lehya (Avaleha)
Lehya (also called avaleha or confection) is a semi-solid preparation made by boiling the decoction of herbs with a sweet base (jaggery, sugar, honey) until it achieves a thick, paste-like consistency.
Preparation Steps
Herbal Decoction
Herbs are boiled in water to obtain a concentrated extract (similar to Kashaya).
Addition of Sweetening and Binding Agents
Jaggery, sugar, or honey is added to the decoction, and the mixture is cooked further. Ghee or oil may sometimes be added to enhance palatability and medicinal properties.
Concentration
The mixture is heated till it attains a particular thickness or consistency (when a drop placed in water forms a soft ball, for instance).
Cooling and Addition of Final Ingredients
After partial cooling, volatile or heat-sensitive substances (e.g., aromatic herbs, spices) may be added.
Shaping/Packaging
The semisolid mass can be stored in wide-mouthed containers.
Standardization
Consistency (determined by water content).
Microbial Limits: Must be free of pathogenic organisms, given higher moisture than powders.
Assay of Key Constituents: Ensures therapeutic potency.
