A review on classical Vajikarana formulations of Shweta Musali

Abstract

Vajikarana (aphrodisiac therapy) mainly deals with the promotion of sexual health, healthy progeny, and treatment of male sexual disorders such as premature ejaculation, erectile dysfunction, and infertility. The formulations described in Ayurveda generally contain ingredients of herbal, herbo-mineral, metal, or animal in origin. Musali or Shweta (White) Musali is a potent herbal drug primarily utilized for Vajikaran therapy and indicated in the management of male infertility. Until date, no published information is presented in compiled form on the classical formulations of Musali with their dose and indications. Therefore, in this study, an attempt has been made to compile different formulations of Musali indicated for Vajikarana therapy. This study aims to gather information on various formulations of Musali primarily utilized for Vajikarana therapy. Critical review of various formulations of Shweta Musali is compiled from seven Ayurvedic texts, and the therapeutic efficacy of Musali is discussed on the basis of available data. Vajikarana formulations of Musali were discovered after Samhita period. In the present review, 51 formulations of Shweta Musali are found, which are mainly indicated for Vajikarana. In the formulations of Musali, ingredients such as Godugdha (cow’s milk), Goghrita (cows clarified butter), Khanda sharkara (sugar), Madhu (honey), Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera L.), Shatavari (Asperagus racemosus Wild.), Vidarikanda (Pueraria tuberosa), Abhrak, Bhasma (calcined mica), and Rasasindoor (red oxide of mercury) augment the Vajikarana potential of Musali and also help to prevent other complications. On the basis of the reviewed research, it is concluded that Musali-containing formulations claimed significant aphrodisiac and spermatogenic properties, and present review will be helpful for research and pharmaceutical standardization purpose of Vajikarana formulations of Shweta Musali.