Vajikara (Aphrodisiac) Potential of herbal drugs described in Vaidyajivana – A Review

Abstract

Ayurveda has bestowed positive and comprehensive healthcare to mankind since very early times. Several classical litterateurs were created since ancient times, these all are available as a source of knowledge of Ayurveda in the present scenario. Among that classical works of literature, Lolimbariija's 'Vaidyajivana' is a significant work from both a medical and literary aspect. Because of his fundamentalism, brevity, and precision in medical therapy as well as poetic merit, he has placed a higher value on uncomplicated treatments. Vajikarana is often mentioned with synonyms like Vrishya and sukrala and is defined as a procedure or drug which enhances the vigor and vitality of males. Sushruta has given the comprehensive definition by quoting 'Vajikaran tantra' as the science which deals with the treatment or management of Alpa (less), Dusta (diseased), Kshina (less potent), Vishuska (dry) Retas (semen), and also increase pleasure during sex. Vaidyajivana has documented easily accessible and very effective formulations for various ailments. In the 5th chapter of Vaidyajivana, various Vajikara herbs are mentioned for the treatment of male sexual disorders, which are easily available and very practical. Therefore, the need of the hour is critically reviewing these Vajikara herbal drugs which act on recent aphrodisiac and seminal parameters for validating and improving practice.