Panchgavya: Immune-enhancing and Therapeutic Perspectives

Abstract

According to ancient Indian scriptures, all the creatures are made by five elements viz., the Earth, Water, Fire, Air and Space, together known as Panchabhootas, and a disbalance among these results in disease. Cow-derived products have been described in the Vedas and other ancient religious literature. Modern research has proved them to be rich source of essential elements, minerals, vitamins and hormones. Panchgavya comprises of five substances from cow-cow's urine, milk, ghee, curd and dung. Panchgavya Therapy (Cowpathy) is an alternate prophylactic and therapeutic modality for sound livestock and poultry health along with human health. Use of Panchgavya is gaining popularity these days. Some of the potent applications of panchgavya elements, including antimicrobial, immune booster, antidiabetics, anticancer, antiviral, antibacterial, antifungal, anticonvulsant, aphrodisiac property, blood purifier, suitable medium to deliver medicines, have attracted both medical and veterinary professionals. Some Panchgavya products are now-a-days commercially available. Cow urine concoction is believed to have anticonvulsant and hypoglycaemic effects; and is also useful for treating liver disorders and fever; inflammations and anaemia. Cow milk is a healthy food and is effective in curing fever and pain; tumours; diabetes; kidney disorders and weaknesses. It is also used as a medium to administer medicine. Milk has also got fungicidal properties, when used with leaves of medicinal herbs which possess aphrodisiac property. Milk fat has anticancer properties. Curd (dahi) is a blood purifier useful in treating blood-related problems, piles and gastro-intestinal disorders. Cow ghee has immunostimulatory properties. Cow dung has the ability to kill germs of malaria and tuberculosis. It also has antifungal properties. The usefulness of these valuable products needs to be explored to their full potential particularly in veterinary science and animal health. This article highlights salient biomedical applications and other beneficial usages of panchgavya components for safeguarding health of both animals and humans.