Health & Medical Diseases & Conditions

Anti-ageing & Rejuvenation through Ayurveda

The  Sapthadhathus of human body viz:  Rasa,  Raktha, Mamsa, Medas,  Asthi, Majja  and Sukla get weakened due to our body's prolonged structural changes, as we age. Maharishi Chyavana first propounded the idea of anti-aging therapy. When the Maharshi was bogged down by old age, and low energy levels, and married a young lady, he started taking chyavanaprasha, an astonishing tonic and anti-aging medicine [rasayana]. He soon found himself on the road to complete recovery. Not only that. The rasayana also helped him to rediscover his youthful vitality and vigour.

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), Bhalltaka (Semicarpus anacordium), Amla (Phyllantus emblica), Pippali (Piper longum), Guggul (Commiphora mukul), Giloya (Tinospora cordifolia) and Ghrta Kumari (Aloe vera barbedensis) are popular Ayurvedic herbs; Gold Bhasma, Lauha Bhasma, Vanga Bhasma, Naga Bhasma and Hartal are used by Ayurvedic practitioners for this purpose.

Amla - the master ingredient of Chyavanaprasha, is most popular  anti-aging due to its  Vata & Pitta balancing effects.  Amla is useful in the treatment of dementia, or loss of memory — medha kshaya — which afflicts the elderly in all climates. It also protect the eyes from premature cataract and improve vision. When taken with honey, it makes a refreshing combination, and improves energy levels in all age groups.  Amla is rich in tannins which retards the oxidation of Vitamin C.  Pectin present in it has well-known results in decreasing cholesterol. It inhibits platelets agglutination. Its hematinic and lipalytic function [1-4] helps in countering diseases like scurvy and jaundice and tumors. It regulates digestion and controls over secretions of acids causing hyperacidity.  Due to its sheet virya potency Amla has proven its effectiveness in liver related disorders, premature graying, hair loss, encourages hair and nail growth, improves eyesight, cleanses mouth, nourishes the teeth and bones. A very good intestine and colon cleaner due to it action which promotes peristaltic movement of our gastro intestinal tract. Amla has powerful action on increased glucose level in blood therefore helps in normalizing blood sugar level due to presence of katu, tikta and kashaya rasa and also because it helps in protein synthesis therefore helps in synthesis of insulin, a protein required for balancing glucose levels in blood stream. Being a powerful antioxidant [4],  Amla  is considered as one of the best hypotensive  food supplement.  Long term administration of Amla gives lasting relief  in ulcers, inflammations, constipation, diarrhoea, hyperacidity and hypertension. Due to presence of kashaya rasa Amla is said to enhance RBC production.  Amla is also known for its cosmetic values as it helps in hair growth and reduces pigmentation on skin.  Amla thus rejuvenate our whole body system and helps us in regaining the lost energies and enthusiasm in life. It delays aging of our cells and therefore prevents early signs of aging.

Ashwagandha Withania somnifera is wonderful anti-ageing  ayurvedic herb that is widely used for stress, stamina and brain functions. It contains Withanolide which is anti-inflammatory; induces significant regeneration of axons, dendrites, pre-synapses and post-synapses in the neurons.suppresses free radical generation;  It also ameliorates neuronal dysfunction. [5-7]

Shilajit is another most effective anti-ageing resource. In Sanskrit shilajit means ruler of mountains and suppressor of weakness, so as the name suggest it performs similar action i.e. it helps in subduing weakness and makes our body rule over all the diseases. Modern sciences regard it as a powerful antioxidant, which helps in delaying preoxidation process of cells therefore helpful in supporting our body for longitivity.  Its properties like laghu (light) and ruksh (dry) helps and its ushna (hot) virya potency, presence of katu, tikta and kashaya rasa makes it work as a powerful antioxidant and a good health supplement.  Chemically it is bundle of  fulvic acid and several minerals. Shilajit act as anti oxidant, and reduces the production of free radicals important for anti-ageing treatment. Moreover due to ushna virya potency, shilajit is helpful in suppressing vata dosha, a  master dosha very much responsible in causing early aging changes and loss of energies in body. Shilajit prevents wrinkles and loosening of skin thus helps in retarding early age changes in the body.

Rasayana is a speciality Ayurvedic Program and has indoor & outdoor modules — kutipravesika and vatatapika. The first ascribes itself to confining the patient in specially developed Ayurvedic home.  During the treatment, the patient is evaluated and given suitable rasayana, in order to restore natural health and freedom from illness. In the vatatapika form of treatment, the patient can take suitable rasayana without rigid restrictions and limitations.

The most effective rasayana kalp is prepared from Bhallataka (Semicarpus anacardium]. After proper purification, a decoction is prepared from the nut with a specific quantity of ghee and milk and kept in an air-tight container for 7-8 days. This wonderful anti-ageing formula is called Amrita Bhallathaka Grta.  A combination of  Shilajeet, Punarnava, Ashwagandha and Giloya can hit the anti-ageing and  neutraceutical market because it is backed by modern Phytotherapeutic research. In addition, rasayana preparations such as Shankupushpi, Brahmi & Mandukaparni have also been found to be equally effective. When mixed with honey, these rasayana supplements promote sleep naturally and improve memory. [15-21]

But Rasayana can not work appropriately without body purification and detoxification. Hence Panch Karma procedures are necessary.  Ayurvedic abhayanga [massage] using medicated til oil is best way to slow down the ageing process. Other Panch Karma procedures such as Nasyam,  Ashthapana Vasti and Shirovasti are also useful as rejuvenation and anti-ageing Ayurvedic treatment. Last, but not the least. Ayurveda believes that adherence to truth and discipline, or following a life free from resentment, anger, or hatred, and excessive ostentation, are absolutely essential for optimal health, longevity, and also to feel and look young !


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