Editing Gau mutra ark: Antiviral prophylactic and therapeutic


Disharee Mallick and Shailly Tomar 

Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee


Introduction: Tracing back to our roots of Hindu sacred texts, it is well described how a cow

has been seen as a goddess (गौ माता) and a sign of spirituality. There has been a long traditional

history of using Panchgavya extracts, such as milk, curd, ghee, urine, and dung for improving

human health. Gau ark (distillate from cow urine, also called Gau mutra/ गौ मू

') plays a

significant role in the context of its antiviral properties, as described in ancient Vedic texts.

These references also suggest that Gau ark not only has the potential to improve physical health,

it can also bring positive impact in enhancing mental and spiritual well-being.

Description: Gau ark, obtained by distilling cow urine, is a product of high importance

described as sacred product in excerpts of Vedic literature. It is regarded reverently and is

utilized as a medicinal remedy in Rigveda, Ayurveda, Yoga, Vedic astrology, and religious

rituals. Gau ark is a natural substance that contains various components such as minerals,

vitamins, antioxidants, and amino acids, potentially improving physical and mental health.

Gau ark - A Traditional Remedy: Cow urine distillate, or Gau ark, has been utilized for

millennia in Ayurvedic medicine due to its purported curative effects. Although in small

amounts, it is thought to contain important minerals like calcium, iron, and magnesium.

According to certain research, it might possess antioxidant qualities that could subdue

dangerous free radicals. Additionally, it may have anti-inflammatory properties that help those

with illnesses like arthritis. There are claims of antibacterial action, which prevents the growth

of specific bacteria and fungi, and immunomodulatory effects, which may improve immune

responses. It has cultural and spiritual importance in India. Gau ark is renowned for its

cognitive-improving qualities and is used as a treatment for a number of illnesses, such as

cancer, renal, and heart problems. Its ingredients contribute to its antiviral and antibacterial

qualities.

Current Research at IITR: While the antiseptic and antimicrobial properties of Gau ark have

been recognized in traditional medicine for centuries, more scientific research with

characterization is needed to fully understand its therapeutic potential. Considering the

multifaceted role of Ark distillate of indigenous cows, IIT Roorkee has been working

extensively to study the therapeutic properties of Ark distillate against emerging viral infections

such as Dengue and Chikungunya virus (CHIKV). As per the encouraging results in

experimental studies done, significant medicinal effects of Ark distillate against viruses

(CHIKV) has been observed. This research tested the antiviral efficacy of panchayat

components, specifically gau ark distillate from indigenous cows, against emerging viruses

such as Chikungunya, Dengue, and SARS-CoV-2. The project involves testing the antiviral

effects of gau ark distillate on virus infected cells in a laboratory setting using various assays

and techniques. Gau ark holds promise as a natural remedy with antiseptic and antiviral

properties. Institute has also made substantial progress in terms of repurposing Gau ark as

therapeutics and has filed a patent for demonstrating its prophylactic and therapeutic antiviral

effects. The revelation of its enormous potential necessitates the pursuit of its probable uses via

scientific research.