Prakaradi yogas as rasayana and its immunomodulatory properties
Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: Prakaradi yogas as rasayana and its immunomodulatory properties
The WJPR includes peer-reviewed publications such as scientific research papers, reports, review articles, company news, thesis reports and case studies in areas of Biology, Pharmaceutical industries and Chemical technology while incorporating ancient fields of knowledge such combining Ayurveda with scientific data.
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Karuna S. Ratnaparkhi and Rutuja S. Kale
World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research:
(An ISO 9001:2015 Certified International Journal)
Full text available for: Prakaradi yogas as rasayana and its immunomodulatory properties
Source type: An International Peer Reviewed Journal for Pharmaceutical and Medical and Scientific Research
Doi: 10.20959/wjpr20229-24753
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
The practice of Ayurveda emphasizes not only the treatment of diseases but primarily the maintenance and enhancement of health. A significant component of Ayurveda is the concept of "Rasayana," which refers to therapies and substances believed to augment the body’s resistance against diseases and promote longevity. Within this framework, specific formulations known as "Prakaradi Yogas" are highlighted for their immunomodulatory properties, particularly in pediatric care. This article sheds light on the role of these traditional formulations, as well as their integration into health practices for children from birth through early childhood.
Immunomodulatory Properties of Prakaradi Yogas
Prakaradi Yogas are a set of immunomodulatory measures discussed in the Ayurvedic text "Arogya Raksha Kalpadruma." This book outlines specific herbal formulations prescribed at various stages of a child's growth, particularly during the first twelve years of life. These herbal remedies are believed to influence immune responses by enhancing the body's resistance against pathogens through immunostimulant, immunoadjuvant, and immunosuppressant activities. The formulations include a variety of herbs, each formulated to support a child’s development and health, ultimately aiming to minimize susceptibility to diseases commonly affecting children.
Role of Rasayana in Health Maintenance
Rasayana in Ayurveda encapsulates a holistic approach to health that includes the use of herbs, dietary practices, and lifestyle adjustments to enhance bodily tissues and systems. These substances are crucial in maintaining homeostasis and preventing age-related deterioration by replenishing organ functions and improving the resilience of the immune system. The article suggests that starting Rasayana therapy from birth should be integrated meticulously into routine health strategies, underscoring the importance of early life interventions in promoting long-term health outcomes.
Practical Applications of Ayurvedic Formulations
The article provides specific age-wise guidelines for the administration of various herbal formulations, demonstrating how traditional practices can be effectively utilized in modern healthcare. For instance, it suggests particular herb combinations for infants and young children, tailored to the child’s developmental stages to fortify their immune systems. Each recommended preparation is demonstrated to address specific health concerns while enhancing general well-being. The consistent administration of these formulations is said to promote not just immediate health but also long-term immunity as the child grows.
Conclusion
The findings presented in the article advocate for the traditional Ayurvedic practices surrounding Prakaradi Yogas and Rasayana as preventive health measures from infancy. By emphasizing the importance of immunomodulatory properties in these herbal formulations, the article reinforces the need for a shift in contemporary health care practices towards more integrative and preventive approaches. The insights gained from the use of these traditional practices signal the potential benefits of incorporating Ayurveda into modern immunization schedules, thereby aiming for a healthier future for the next generations.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is Rasayana and its significance in Ayurveda?
Rasayana refers to drugs that enhance body resistance and are essential in Ayurveda for promoting longevity, improving health, and retarding the aging process. They consist of specialized herbs and formulations used across different age groups.
How do Prakaradi Yogas work in immunomodulation?
Prakaradi Yogas are Ayurvedic formulations designed to improve immune response. They act through immunostimulant, immunoadjuvant, and immunosuppressant activities, effectively maintaining health and reducing susceptibility to diseases from infancy to childhood.
What age-specific therapies does Arogya Raksha Kalpadruma recommend?
The Arogya Raksha Kalpadruma recommends various Prakaradi Yogas for immunomodulatory measures, specifically tailored for newborns to children up to twelve years. Each month introduces different herbal preparations to enhance health and prevent diseases.
What kind of diseases can Rasayana help prevent?
Rasayana therapies are believed to prevent various age-related health issues and illnesses, helping maintain physical balance and effectively combatting diseases by enhancing the immune system from early childhood.
What are the primary herbs used in Prakaradi Yogas?
Key herbs include Dhatri (Emblica officinalis), Musta (Cyperus rotundus), Vacha (Acorus calamus), and Bilva (Aegle marmelos), among others, each possessing unique benefits that support immunity and overall health.
What is the long-term goal of using Rasayana therapy?
The long-term goal of Rasayana therapy is to cultivate a disease-free body from birth, promoting overall longevity, and enhancing the quality of life through preventive health measures throughout childhood.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Prakaradi yogas as rasayana and its immunomodulatory properties”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.
1) Musta (Mushta):
Musta, or Cyperus rotundus, is a significant herb in Ayurveda known for its immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. It plays a crucial role in various formulations aimed at enhancing health and preventing diseases, particularly in children and those with weakened immunity. Its incorporation is essential for therapeutic practices.
2) Rasayana (Rasa-ayana):
Rasayana refers to a branch of Ayurvedic medicine focused on rejuvenation and enhancing vitality. It involves the use of specific herbs and lifestyle practices aimed at promoting longevity and overall health. The principles of Rasayana therapy are applied from infancy, enhancing the body’s resistance against diseases through natural means.
4) Dhatri (Dhatr):
Dhatri, also known as Emblica officinalis or Amla, is among the key ingredients in Ayurvedic formulations. Recognized for its high vitamin C content, it provides antioxidant benefits, supports immune function, and aids in digestion. It's crucial for pediatric formulations aimed at disease prevention from infancy.
5) Disease:
Diseases in Ayurvedic practice are viewed through the lens of doshic imbalances. Ayurvedic treatments focus on restoring harmony in the body's systems through lifestyle modifications and the use of herbal formulations, emphasizing a preventative approach that fosters holistic health.
6) Yoga:
In Ayurvedic terms, Yoga refers to a set of practices designed to increase physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. The integration of yoga principles into health regimens aligns with the holistic approach of Ayurveda, allowing for a balanced lifestyle that supports immune health and overall wellness.
7) Drug:
Drugs in Ayurveda encompass natural substances used for their therapeutic effects. They can be derived from plants, minerals, or animal sources, and aim to restore health and balance. The careful selection and combination of these drugs form the foundation of Ayurvedic pharmacotherapy.
8) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is a traditional Indian system of medicine focusing on holistic health, emphasizing balance in body, mind, and spirit. It uses natural herbs, dietary practices, and lifestyle modifications to promote health and prevent diseases, embodying the principles of Rasayana for lifelong wellness and vitality.
9) Pippali (Pippalin):
Pippali, or Piper longum, is an important Ayurvedic herb known for its role as a potent immunomodulator. It has properties that enhance digestion, respiratory health, and immunity, being frequently included in formulations aimed at improving overall health and preventing diseases.
10) Vyosha (Vyosa):
Vyosha, a herbal preparation, is referenced in Ayurvedic formulations as an important ingredient contributing to health and immunity. It often consists of several beneficial herbs that enhance body functions and support resistance against diseases, particularly suitable for children.
11) Honey:
Honey is recognized in Ayurveda for its healing properties. It is often used as an adjuvant in herbal preparations to enhance absorption and provide nutritional benefits. Its natural sweetness offsets bitterness in herbs, making medicines more palatable, especially in pediatric formulations.
12) Birth:
In Ayurveda, the period around birth is critical for health and well-being. Traditional practices prescribe specific formulations like Rasayana therapy for newborns to strengthen their immunity, ensuring better health outcomes as they grow. This preventative approach is foundational in Ayurvedic pediatric care.
13) Ghi (Ghee):
Ghee, or clarified butter, holds a sacred place in Ayurveda for its nourishing and therapeutic properties. It is used as a base in many formulations due to its ability to enhance digestion and absorption of herbal medicines, thereby strengthening immunity and promoting health in children and adults.
14) Vidanga (Vidamga):
Vidanga, or Embelica ribes, is an Ayurvedic herb known for its digestive and antimicrobial properties. It is often used in preparations aimed at improving immunity and overall health. Its inclusion in formulations for children supports their gut health and boosts their natural defenses.
15) Prakara:
Prakara refers to a set of guidelines or measures in Ayurveda aimed at promoting health and preventing diseases. It includes traditional practices, herbal therapies, and dietary regulations tailored to individual needs, particularly in pediatric care for fostering health from infancy.
16) Ghrita (Ghrta):
Ghrita, synonymous with medicinal ghee, is highly valued in Ayurveda for its health benefits. It is often used as a vehicle for administering herbs, improving their effectiveness and providing nourishment to the body, especially in promoting immune function among growing children.
17) Jiraka:
Jiraka, or Cumin (Cuminum cyminum), is an essential spice in Ayurveda known for its digestive and carminative properties. It helps in maintaining gastric health and is often included in formulations for children to support digestion and boost overall immunity.
18) Dadima:
Dadima, known as Punica granatum or pomegranate, is recognized in Ayurveda for its numerous health benefits. It has immunomodulatory properties and is used to enhance vitality and protect against illnesses, making it an important component in many Ayurvedic formulations.
19) Sugar:
In Ayurveda, sugar is utilized for its energy-giving properties and to improve the palatability of herbal formulations. The moderate use of natural sugars enhances digestive processes and is especially beneficial in making remedies more tolerable for children.
20) Cyperus rotundus:
Cyperus rotundus, known as Musta in Ayurveda, is valued for its immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant effects. It is often incorporated into formulations for treating various ailments and enhancing health, making it a staple in Ayurvedic medicine, particularly in pediatric care.
21) Activity:
In the context of Ayurveda, activity refers to the physiological and pharmacological effects of herbal medicines. Each herb has specific actions on the body, such as immunomodulatory or anti-inflammatory properties, contributing to the overall effectiveness of traditional formulations.
22) Amalaki:
Amalaki, or Emblica officinalis, serves as a cornerstone of Ayurvedic medicine. Renowned for its high vitamin C content and antioxidant properties, it strengthens the immune system, promotes health and longevity, and is integral in sustaining well-being, particularly in children's health.
23) Kutaja (Kuta-ja):
Kutaja, or Holarrhena antidysenterica, is acknowledged for its medicinal properties in Ayurveda. It is often included in formulations aimed at treating gastrointestinal disorders and enhancing digestive health. Its role is vital in supporting children's health by regulating digestive functions.
24) Patha:
Patha refers to the Ayurvedic herb known for its detoxifying and rejuvenating effects. It is frequently used in formulations to balance the doshas and enhance overall vitality, contributing to the health of individuals, particularly in supportive pediatric care.
25) Bilva (Vilva):
Bilva, or Aegle marmelos, is an important herb in Ayurveda known for its antimicrobial and immunomodulatory properties. It is often used in dietary preparations to support digestive health and enhance resistance to infections, particularly significant in formulations for children.
26) Milk:
In Ayurveda, milk is considered a vital food for its nourishing properties. It is used in various formulations to enhance taste and efficacy. Milk provides essential nutrients and supports growth and immunity, particularly in developing infants and children.
27) Emblica officinalis:
Emblica officinalis, or Amla, is a revered herb in Ayurveda, celebrated for its antioxidant and immune-enhancing properties. Its role extends to numerous formulations aimed at promoting health and longevity, making it essential in pediatric healthcare for disease prevention.
28) Kalpadruma (Kalpa-druma):
Kalpadruma, as referenced in Ayurveda, pertains to the comprehensive knowledge surrounding herbal formulations that aim to promote well-being. It encompasses the principles and practices detailed in ancient texts, guiding practitioners in the effective use of Ayurvedic medicines.
29) Medicine:
Medicines in Ayurveda encompass a wide array of natural herbs, minerals, and animal products, utilized for their healing properties. The comprehensive approach emphasizes prevention and holistic treatment designed to achieve a balanced state of health and well-being.
30) Trikatu (Tri-katu):
Trikatu is a traditional Ayurvedic formulation consisting of three spices: black pepper, long pepper, and ginger. It is known for its digestive and energizing properties, promoting metabolic processes, and is often used in health formulations to enhance immunity and vitality.
31) Brahmi:
Brahmi, or Bacopa monnieri, is an integral herb in Ayurveda known for its cognitive-enhancing properties. It supports mental well-being and is often used in formulations to improve memory and focus, making it crucial for children’s developmental health.
32) Sariva (Shariva):
Sariva, or Hemidesmus indicus, is celebrated in Ayurveda for its cooling and detoxifying properties. It is included in various formulations aimed at purifying blood and enhancing overall health, especially vital in pediatric care to facilitate growth and development.
33) Raksha (Raksa):
Raksha in Ayurveda embodies the concept of protection, particularly in health. It refers to practices and formulations aimed at safeguarding the body’s natural defenses against diseases and vulnerabilities, especially significant in the context of childhood health and immunization.
34) Arogya:
Arogya translates to health in Ayurveda, representing a state of balance within the body, mind, and spirit. The focus is on maintaining wellness through natural means, prevention of diseases, and the judicious use of Rasayana therapies to promote longevity.
35) Powder:
Powdered forms of herbs are common in Ayurvedic medicine as they enhance the potency and efficacy of formulations. They are combined with liquids or food for easy consumption, especially in pediatric practices where palatability is essential for adherence and therapeutic success.
36) Mastu (Mashtu):
Mastu, or buttermilk, holds significance in Ayurvedic dietary regimes for its digestibility and nutritional benefits. It is prominent in formulations aimed at improving gut health and is often used as a carrier for other herbal substances, particularly for children.
37) Wall:
The term
38) might refer to a component in Ayurvedic context tied to growth, barriers to health, or protective measures implemented through herbal formulations. Its application is primarily to emphasize the significance of safeguarding health through Ayurvedic practices and education, especially in pediatrics in nurturing resilient children during the maturation process.:
Glycyrrhiza glabra
39) Goat milk:
Goat milk is valued in Ayurvedic practices for its nourishing properties and ease of digestion. It is rich in essential nutrients and is used in various formulations aimed at promoting health, particularly in children with specific dietary or health needs.
40) Punica granatum:
Punica granatum, or pomegranate, holds importance in Ayurveda for its rich antioxidant and immunomodulatory properties. It supports cardiovascular health and enhances overall immunity, thereby making it valuable in health formulations, especially for vulnerable populations, including children.
41) Acorus calamus:
Acorus calamus, known as Vacha, is utilized in Ayurvedic practices for its anti-inflammatory effects and cognitive benefits. It is often included in formulations aimed at improving digestion and mental performance, essential for supporting the health of infants during development.
42) Saindhava (Saimdhava):
Saindhava, or rock salt, is utilized in Ayurveda for its therapeutic qualities, playing a vital role in maintaining electrolyte balance. It enhances the taste of herbal formulations while supporting digestion and overall vitality, making it commonly included in dietary practices.
43) Tripadika (Tri-padika):
Tripadika is referenced in Ayurvedic texts as a crucial component, contributing to digestive health and immunity. Often used in formulations aimed at enhancing children's health, it supports the balance of doshas and promotes overall wellness.
44) Bhunimba (Bhu-nimba):
Bhunimba, or Andrographis paniculata, is recognized for its immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory qualities in Ayurvedic applications. It plays a therapeutic role in enhancing immunity and managing respiratory conditions, vital for the overall health of children and adults.
45) Dhanyaka:
Dhanyaka, or coriander (Coriandrum sativum), is deemed significant in Ayurvedic medicine due to its digestive and detoxifying properties. It aids in balancing doshas and is frequently incorporated in formulations to enhance digestive health and support overall wellness.
46) Trayanti (Trayamti):
Trayanti is acknowledged in Ayurvedic texts for its application in detoxification and nourishment. Herbs comprising Trayanti are valuable for promoting digestive health and immunity, often featured in pediatric herbal formulations to foster growth and resilience.
47) Abhaya:
Abhaya, or Terminalia chebula, is essential in Ayurveda for promoting digestive health and overall well-being. Its laxative properties assist in detoxification, making it vital in formulations aimed at maintaining gut health and enhancing immunity in children.
48) Dosha (Dosa):
Doshas represent the body’s fundamental energies in Ayurveda, encompassing Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. Understanding dosha imbalances is key to restoring health and preventing diseases, as herbal formulations are tailored to achieve balance and harmony within the body.
49) Kapha:
Kapha is one of the three doshas in Ayurveda, embodying earth and water elements. It governs structure, stability, and lubrication in the body. In context, imbalances can lead to excess weight and respiratory conditions, necessitating balancing practices through diet and herbs.
50) Hingu (Himgu):
Hingu, or Ferula asafoetida, is commonly used in Ayurvedic cooking and medicine for its digestive and carminative properties. It helps alleviate bloating and supports gut health, making it significant in formulations focused on improving digestive efficiency, especially in children.
51) Agni:
Agni, or digestive fire, is a core concept in Ayurveda, representing the body’s metabolic processes. A balanced Agni is essential for health as it ensures proper digestion and nutrient absorption. Its regulation is vital through dietary choices and herbal remedies.
52) Vata:
Vata represents one of the primary doshas in Ayurveda, associated with movement and communication in the body. Imbalances can lead to conditions such as anxiety and digestive issues, necessitating targeted therapies to restore balance and support overall health.
53) Tinospora cordifolia:
Tinospora cordifolia, known as Guduchi in Ayurveda, is recognized for its immune-boosting properties. It is often incorporated into formulations aimed at enhancing resistance against infections, making it invaluable in both preventive and therapeutic applications, particularly in children's health.
54) Terminalia chebula:
Terminalia chebula, known as Haritaki, is celebrated in Ayurveda for its cleansing and revitalizing properties. It supports digestive health and aids in the detoxification process, making it an essential herb used in various formulations to maintain health and prevent diseases.
55) Piper longum:
Piper longum, or long pepper, is utilized in Ayurvedic formulations for its properties to enhance digestion and promote respiratory health. It is valued for its effectiveness in boosting nutrient absorption, making it crucial in formulations aimed at improving children's immunity.
56) Plumbago zeylanica:
Plumbago zeylanica, known as Chitrak, is incorporated into Ayurvedic practices for its digestive stimulant properties. It supports gastrointestinal health and is often used in formulations designed to enhance appetite and metabolic functions, particularly beneficial for children.
57) Aegle marmelos:
Aegle marmelos, commonly known as Bael, is cherished for its medicinal properties in Ayurveda. It is used for its digestive and immunomodulatory benefits, supporting the gastrointestinal tract and overall health, especially in formulations targeted at disease prevention.
58) Mashaparni (Masaparni, Masha-parni):
Mashaparni, also known as Teramnus labialis, is recognized in Ayurveda for its rejuvenating and immunomodulatory effects. It supports vitality and is often included in formulations aimed at enhancing health and longevity, crucial for developing children.
59) Punarnava (Punar-nava):
Punarnava, or Boerhavia diffusa, is revered in Ayurveda for its revitalizing and diuretic properties. It plays a role in enhancing kidney health and detoxification, making it valuable in formulations aimed at supporting overall health and immunity, especially in children.
60) Granthika (Gramthika):
Granthika, or a type of herb, is utilized in Ayurveda for its potential benefits in promoting respiratory health and digestion. It is often included in formulations to support overall health and enhance immune responses, particularly in pediatric care.
61) Amshumati (Amsumati):
Amshumati, or Desmodium gangeticum, is known for its health-supporting properties in Ayurveda. It is used in formulations aimed at enhancing vitality and reducing ailments, particularly relevant for children's health in promoting growth and resistance against diseases.
62) Katphala:
Katphala, known in Ayurveda for its therapeutic properties, is associated with promoting digestive health and overall vitality. It is often included in herbal formulations that target common ailments and enhance the body's resistance to diseases.
63) Sanskrit:
Sanskrit, the ancient language of India, is foundational in Ayurveda. Most classical texts and knowledge systems, including those describing herbs and treatments, are written in Sanskrit. Understanding this language is essential for comprehending traditional Ayurvedic wisdom.
64) Draksha (Draksa):
Draksha, or raisins (Vitis vinifera), play a significant role in Ayurvedic medicine for their nutritional benefits and gentle laxative properties. They are often used in formulations to support digestion, enhance energy levels, and improve overall vitality.
65) Shunthi (Sunthi, Sumthi, Shumthi):
Sunthi, or dried ginger, is valued in Ayurveda for its warming and digestive properties. It is commonly used to facilitate digestion and relieve discomfort, showcasing the multi-faceted roles of herbs in traditional medicine.
66) Dipyaka:
Dipyaka refers to a category of herbs in Ayurveda known for their role in stimulating digestion and enhancing metabolism. Their inclusion in formulations supports healthy digestive functions, essential for overall wellness and disease prevention.
67) Yashti (Yasti):
Yashti, or Glycyrrhiza glabra, is a key herb valued for its soothing and anti-inflammatory effects in Ayurveda. It is often used in respiratory formulations and is known for its ability to enhance immunity and support digestive health.
68) Palasha (Palasa, Pala-asha):
Palasha, or Butea monosperma, is esteemed for its healing properties in Ayurveda. It plays a role in enhancing overall health and is often included in various formulations aimed at disease prevention.
69) Cancer:
Cancer is addressed in Ayurveda through a holistic approach focusing on prevention and maintaining balance within the body. Awareness of herbal formulations and dietary practices plays a crucial role in reducing risk factors and promoting wellness.
70) Pitta:
Pitta, one of the three doshas in Ayurveda, represents the qualities of transformation and metabolism. An imbalance can lead to health issues like inflammation and acidity. Ayurveda emphasizes balancing Pitta through proper diet and herbal remedies tailored to individual needs.
71) Madhu:
Madhu, or honey, is highly regarded in Ayurveda for its health benefits and therapeutic effects. It is frequently used to enhance the taste of herbal remedies, facilitating better compliance and providing natural sweetness, which enhances overall health.
72) Patra:
Patra, widely referring to leaves or foliage in Ayurveda, represents a critical component in many formulations. Various therapeutic leaves provide essential nutrients and aid in healing, commonly used in both dietary preparations and medicinal applications.
73) Water:
Water is essential in Ayurveda for maintaining hydration and supporting overall bodily functions. It is also significant in the preparation of herbal formulations and plays a vital role in detoxification and nutritional balance, especially in health protocols.
74) Arka:
Arka, or Calotropis gigantea, is valued in Ayurveda for its medicinal properties, particularly for respiratory health and detoxification. It is integrated into various formulations to support immunity and enhance overall health, particularly relevant in pediatrics.
75) Tvak:
Tvak refers to the bark or skin of plants in Ayurvedic terms, often incorporated into herbal formulations. It is used for its therapeutic properties in digestion and skin health, signifying its importance in holistic healing practices.
[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 186]