Intoxicating (madakari)

Madakari are substances that induce intoxication by disturbing the clarity of the mind and impairing the normal functioning of manas (mind) and prana. They typically possess madhura or amla rasa, guru (heavy) and snigdha (unctuous) guna, and often ushna virya (heating) which together dull mental sharpness and cloud perception, ultimately increasing tamas (dulling the mind).

The most common example is alcohol, including traditional preparations such as madya, which can create euphoria, disorientation, or lethargy depending on dose and constitution. Other madakari substances may include certain fermented products or naturally intoxicating plant derivatives that alter consciousness and disrupt mental balance such as cannabis (Cannabis sativa).