Introduction:
The eightfold Ayurveda (Astanga Ayurveda) refers to eight branches of Ayurveda. These branches cover various aspects of health and wellness, each focusing on specific areas of treatment. Rasayana (Rejuvenation Therapy) is the branch that focuses on rejuvenation, youthfulness, longevity and immune system.
Rasayana aims to enhance the quality of life by providing good health, memory and intellect. It also helps in delaying aging process. It is answer to new age problems and to the metabolic disorder.Rasayan drugs are special herbs or treatments in Ayurveda that help improve overall health. They work by strengthening the body’s tissues (Rasas and Dhatus) and boosting the body’s natural defenses. Rasayanas enhance general well-being, support the proper functioning of all the major organs, and slow down the signs of early aging. They work by balancing two opposite processes: growth (building up) and atrophy (breaking down). Aging is a natural process that involves changes in the structure and function of the body over time.
Historical background of Rasayana:
Ayurveda is world’s oldest healing science originated in India 5000 years ago. we can read about Rasayan in many of the Ayurvedic texts.
Ayurvedic texts like Charak samhita Chikitshkasthan chapter 1, Sushruta samhita uttarsthan chapter 27,28,29,30 and Astanga Hirdhya uttarsthan chapter 39 has explained Rasayana therapy elaborately.
Rasayana is not just treatment it also has a holistic approach to health. practitioners believed that Rasayana enhances “Ojas” the vital energy needed for immunity and vitality.
Modern science has started research to validate the health benefits of traditional Rasayana formulations and herbs.
Today, Rasayana is recognised worldwide which shows people have started building interest in ayurveda and it’s holistic approach.
Importance of Rasayana in Ayurveda:
Main objective of Ayurveda is to preserve the health of person rather than treating the ill person.
Since medical science has come into existence it’s popularity is increasing for treating emergencies and giving relief to patients with instant advanced investigating tools . Though recovery rate and speed has increased but still rate of illness has not decreased. Diseases are increasing day by day,the different side effects of drugs used for the first disease sometimes can lead to a new symptoms. Unhealthy eating habits and sedentary lifestyle has risen metabolic syndrome .
As a health care provider it is the responsibility to make people look back into ancient science which not only treats disease but uproots the causes by holistic approach. Thus primary objective of Ayurveda is to preserve the health of person and help in preventing diseases.
Types of Rasayana:
There are several types of Rasayana, categorized based on their methods, ingredients, and effects. Here are the main types:
Classification of Rasayana
- Based on How It’s Given or Used:
- Kutipraveshika Rasayana (indoor management): This involves undergoing rejuvenation therapy in a specially constructed cottage (Kuti), designed to isolate the patient from external environmental influences, ensuring maximum effectiveness of the treatment.
- Vatatapika Rasayana(outdoor management): The person can continue their normal daily activities while taking Rasayana therapy.It is less restrictive.
- Droni Praveshika Rasayana: A unique method where the person drinks a large amount of special herbal juice and lies in a wooden box for six months. It’s said to make an old person young again, but there’s no evidence of this being done recently.
- 2.Based on Purpose:
- Kamya Rasayana: Boosts overall health, energy, immunity, and general well-being. It has three types:
- Pranakamya: Enhances vitality and lifespan.
- Medhakamya: Improves intelligence.
- Srikamya: Improves complexion.
- Example Bhram Rasayan, sankhpushi , Mandukparni , Bhrami .
- Naimittik Rasayana: Used for a short time to treat specific diseases. These are specific rejuvenation therapies used to address particular diseases or health conditions, targeting the root causes and restoring balance in the body. Example khadira rasayan, Amruta Rasayan, Triphala Rasayan.
- Aajasrika Rasayana: Regular use of food for nourishing the body.This focuses on dietary guidelines and the use of specific foods and nutrients that have rejuvenating properties, promoting health . Example Ghee,milk to overcome the daily wear and tear of body
- Based on How It Works:
- Samsodhan Rasayana
- Samashaman Rasayana
- Aachara Rasayana: Focuses on proper behavior and conduct in society.This focuses on the ethical and moral conduct of an individual, emphasizing good behavior, positive thinking, and adherence to ethical principles as a means of achieving rejuvenation and longevity like control over anger,fear,grief , anxiety. Speaking truth, polite words, meditation, positive affirmations. It is said even if a person does not uses herbs for Rasayan and he follows ethics he is equally capable to get all the benefits of rasayan.
- Rasayan as per the single herbs that can be used daily in differemt forms:
Guduchi (giloy), Amalaki , Sankhpushpi((Convolvulus microphyllus)), Mandookparni(Centella asiatica),Haritki (Terminalia chebula) .
8. Vihara Rasayana: This involves lifestyle practices, including exercise, sleep, and daily routines that contribute to rejuvenation and overall well-being.
Organ-Specific Rasayana for Different Body Systems
- Brain:
- Single Herbs: Brahmi, Mandookaparni, Guduchi, Yashtimadhu, Shankapushpi
- Formulas: Kushmanda Rasayana, Medhya Rasayana
- Heart:
- Single Herbs: Arjuna, Shalaparni, Pushkaramoola, Guggulu
- Formulas: Arjuna Ksheerapaka, Chandraprabhavati
- Lungs:
- Single Herbs: Bharangi, Vasa, Rasona
- Formulas: Agastya Rasayana, Chyavanprash
- Liver and Spleen:
- Single Herbs: Katuki, Pippali, Bhringaraja
- Formulas: Loha Rasayana
- Skin:
- Single Herbs: Tuvaraka, Chandana, Haridra, Manjistha
- Formulas: Gandhaka Rasayana, Triphala Rasayana
- Eyes:
- Single Herbs: Amalaki, Yashtimadhu, Triphala
- Formulas: Triphala Ghrita, Jeevantyadi Ghrita, Amalaki Rasayana
- Ears:
- Single Herb: Sariva
- Formulas: Karna Purana with Sarshapa and Tila Taila
- Nose:
- Formulas: Anu Taila, Pratimarsha Nasya
- Female Reproductive System:
- Single Herbs: Shatavari, Ashoka, Kumari
- Formulas: Phala Ghrita
- Male Reproductive System:
- Single Herbs: Ashwagandha, Kapikacchu, Gokshura
- Formulas: Ashwagandha Rasayana
- Digestive System (GIT):
- Single Herbs: Pippali, Haritaki
- Formulas: Pippali Vardhamana Rasayana, Bhallataka Rasayana
- Urinary System:
- Single Herbs: Gokshura, Punarnava
- Formulas: Chandraprabha Vati
- Nervous System:
- Single Herbs: Rasona, Guggulu, Bala, Nagabala
- Formulas: Bruhat Vata Chintamani
- Endocrine System:
- Single Herbs: Shilajit, Amalaki, Haridra, Guggulu, Haritaki
- Formulas: Shilajatu Rasayana
Key ingredient in Rasayana:
Haridra (Turmeric), Amalaki (Amla), Lasun (Garlic), pipali (Pipper longum) , Guduchi (Giloy), Gokshura(Gokharu) etc Some herbal formulations are also used like Chyawanprash , Triphala churna, pippali Rasayan, Agasthya Rasayan, Haritki Rasayan.
Health Benefits:
It’s increases digestive fire ,restores balance of Doshas(basic elements), increases strength of the body and sense organs, prevents diseases, provides good health, maintains youthfulness. Regular use provides excellent lust and good complexion, increases memory and intellect. It is also helpful in fast recovery and maintaining stability in some of the diseases like diabetes, Liver disorder, heart and kidney disorder.Thus helps in longevity and developing immunity.
How does Rasayana work in the body:
Nourishment of Dhatu : According to Ayurveda Rasayan strengthens and Nourishes the seven dhatus Rasa (plasma), Rakta(blood) , Masa (muscle tissue), Medha(fat tissue) ,Asti (bone tissue), Majja(marrow and nerves) , Sukra(reproductive tissue).Thus improved nourishment enhances overall health, vitality and longevity.
Enhances Ojas: “Ojas ” is the essence of vitality and immunity. It increases if dhatus (tissues) are nourished properly. It will help in preventing diseases.
Balances Doshas: Rasayan helps to maintain balance in three doshas(vata, pitta, Kapha) which are fundamental bioenergetic forces in Ayurveda. If doshas are balanced good physical, mental and emotional health is achieved.
Anti-inflammatory Effect: Many Rasayan herbs have Anti-inflammatory properties which help to reduce chronic inflammation linked to disorders like arthritis and heart disease.
Improves Digestive fire: Rasayan formulations helps to increase digestive fire which is responsible for digestion, metabolism and assimilation of nutrients.Thus prevents accumulation of toxins.
Cognition function: They have neuroprotective properties, promote brain health and improve cognitive functions. Balances hormones: Rasayan helps to balance hormones, support endocrine health.It is helpful in thyroid dysfunction and reproductive health problems.
Detoxification: Along with herbs that promote Rasayan, therapeutic cleansing is also part of Rasayan. Herbs used in rasayana aids detoxification by eliminating toxins and waste products. Regular detoxification contributes to overall health and vitality . For maximum benefit of Rasayan it is advisable to first go for sansodhan (therapeutic cleansing) like oleation (snehnan), (swedhana) sudation, (Vaman) therapeutic vomiting , (virechan) therapeutic cleansing, (Basti) Enema therapy .
Mechanism of Action according to Modern Science :
Increases the adaptogenic effect: It increases body to fight the physical, chemical and biological stress. It builds up a barrier between the internal and external factors that contribute to various diseases.
Antioxidant: Rasayana drugs act as antioxidants, which help protect the body from damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals are harmful molecules that can damage cells by altering their chemical structure. Antioxidants like vitamin C, vitamin E, and beta-carotene neutralize these free radicals and prevent damage. Antioxidants are essential for heart health as they help prevent the formation of plaques that lead to heart disease. They also play a role in preventing diabetes, with studies showing that a diet rich in antioxidants, especially vitamin E, can lower the risk of type II diabetes. Antioxidants also help slow down aging and may reduce the risk of cancer and eye diseases.
Many Ayurvedic herbs, like Aamalaki and Ashwagandha, are rich in antioxidants. Aamalaki, for example, contains vitamin C, carotene, and riboflavin, which help protect cells from oxidative damage.
Increases immunity: Rasayan increases production and activity of WBC and enhances the body’s ability to fight infections. Thus rasayan Nourishes and maintains the cells life. Encourages the growth of new cells prevents recurrent infection. Eliminates the toxins and maintains balance between body and mind. Pippali Rasayana was tested on 41 patients with Giardiasis, a stomach infection. It significantly reduced symptoms, cleared parasites from stools, increased hemoglobin levels, and decreased eosinophil count without any side effects. It is believed to work by killing the parasites and boosting the immune system. Ayurvedic herbs like Turmeric, Aamalaki, Bhumyamalaki, and Katuki may help fight cancer by strengthening the immune system and reducing the side effects of radiation and chemotherapy. These herbs have been found to prevent certain types of cancer, like skin and liver cancer. Rasayana treatments also support bone marrow health and are beneficial for patients undergoing cancer treatment.
Anti aging: Aging is the natural process of getting older, leading to changes in the body over time. By the age of 50-60, people start noticing these changes, like weaker muscles, reduced vision, memory issues, and slower movement. The body’s balance and immune system also weaken, making it easier to get infections, digestive problems, or even cancer. One cause of aging is damage from free radicals, which are harmful molecules that can damage cells, especially through a process called lipid peroxidation. This contributes to aging. Some Rasayana herbs, like Ashwagandha, help prevent this damage by stopping the harmful effects of free radicals. They act as antioxidants, which slow down the aging process.
Achar Rasayana promotes a stress-free life through good behavior and habits, which contributes to longevity. Certain herbs also play a key role in reducing stress.
Medhya Herbs in Ayurveda, like Ashwagandha, Brahmi, Shankapushpi, Jatamamsi, and Guduchi, improve intelligence and mental health. These herbs are also considered Rasayanas, which rejuvenate and restore the body. They help treat mental and emotional disorders by calming the mind, reducing anxiety, and promoting tranquility.
Shankhapushpi is known for improving intellect and reducing stress. It is used in various Ayurvedic formulations and is safe even in high doses. In a study on 89 school children, it was shown to boost mental sharpness.
Ashwagandha and Shatavari have been used to boost general immunity in children. In a study on 50 preschool children, these herbs improved immunity, increased hemoglobin, and reduced unexplained fevers.
Modern Science & Researches:
Action of some of the herbs on immune system is proven by researchers like on Amalki , Garlic ,Madhuyasti (mulethi) Guduchi, Ashwagandha.Example:
Detoxification and free radical removing effect of Triphala.
Helps in cognition function – Brahmi.
Reduces oxidative damage,protect cell – Ashwagandha
Dosage and consumption tips:
1. Always consult an Ayurvedic health care provider before starting Rasayan.Take appropriate dosage and formulation required.
2. Dosage can vary according to age, health condition and formulation of rasayan used.
3. Rasayan is recommended mostly to be taken on empty stomach, usually in morning to get maximum effect. Then wait for 2 hours until you feel hungry.
4. Some rasayan are recommended before meals while some after meals.
5. Rasayan comes in various forms like powder, tablets, decoction,awleha. You can have it with warm water or milk or honey.
6. For best results Rasayan should be consumed regularly and consistently. Make it part of daily routine for atleast three months to see the results.
7. Benefits of Rasayan can be increased if balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables is taken. Try to eat warm, freshly prepared home made food. Hydration should be maintained.
8. Avoid processed food items, incompatible food, excessive sugar and alcohol as they reduce the effect of Rasayan.
9. Practice healthy lifestyle such as regular excercise, adequate sleep, meditation and yoga to enhance the benefits of Rasayan therapy.
10. Regularly monitor health checkup.
11. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should consult their health care provider before starting Rasayan.As some herbs and formulations are not advisable.
By following these tips you can take maximum benefit of Rasayan and prevent the side effects which can other -wise be seen.
Rasayana, by definition, enhances memory, intellect, longevity, and youthfulness while also promoting health and preventing illness. Research shows that Rasayana herbs boost the immune system and help prevent and treat diseases in both healthy and sick individuals.
Modern studies have confirmed that Rasayana herbs work as antioxidants, immune boosters, stress relievers, and protectors of tissues. They also help in regenerating cells, fighting bacteria, and improving heart health. Understanding these effects helps in better using Rasayana for health benefits, especially in strengthening the immune system.
Sources: – Neurocognitive Effect of Nootropic Drug Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri) in Alzheimer’s Disease