Concept of Rasayana for a Better Health - A Review

Abstract

Rasayana, or rejuvenation therapy, is one of the eight main branches of Ayurveda and is recommended to increase Ojas (life force) after detoxification programmes. The Rasayana drugs and formulations provides longevity, memory, intelligence, freedom from diseases, youthful age, excellence of luster, complexion and voice, optimum strength of physique and sense organs, respectability and brilliance. It is good for all age groups for the elderly, pregnant women, children. Rasayana therapy prevents the effects of early ageing on both, and increases the body’s resistance to disease. Tonic food and herbs that nurture Ojas tend to be heavy and nourishing, and can be hard to digest, so that the state of Agni (digestive fire) needs to be considered first. Rasayana therapy is particulary good for Vata types during the autumn, to give them weight and strength and help them endure the long, cold winter. It is contraindicated in any condition associated with Ama (toxins), for obese people, and during colds and flu, congestive disorders, fevers, infectious diseases and allergies. For 5,000 years or so, the wisdom of Ayurveda has provided guidelines for slowing down the ageing process (Jara) by increasing Ojas. Modern scientific evaluation of Rasayana plants and other treatments used in Ayurveda have borne out the fact that rejuvenative tonics have the ability to protect the body against the ravages of age and the damaging effects of the environment in which we live, by enhancing the body’s ability to fight off disease-carrying organisms through non-specifically activating the immune system. Use of rejuvenative foods, oils, herbs and behavioral rejuvenation is very important in making a life longer, disease free and happy.