Role of swasthavritta in enhancing strength via balya dravya.
Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: Role of swasthavritta in increasing physical and mental strength by strength promoting drugs (balya dravya)
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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Neeta S. Shekokar and Jayashree P. Patil
World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research:
(An ISO 9001:2015 Certified International Journal)
Full text available for: Role of swasthavritta in increasing physical and mental strength by strength promoting drugs (balya dravya)
Source type: An International Peer Reviewed Journal for Pharmaceutical and Medical and Scientific Research
Doi: 10.20959/wjpr20176-8634
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
The article evaluates the role of Swasthavritta in enhancing physical and mental strength through the use of strength-promoting drugs, termed Bala Dravya, within the framework of Ayurveda. The significance of maintaining a balanced lifestyle is emphasized, along with an understanding of the three types of Bala (strength): Sahaj, Kalaj, and Yuktikrit. These concepts are crucial for achieving optimal health, which Ayurveda advocates through a proper diet, conduct, and medicinal support.
The Concept of Bala
Bala in Ayurveda refers to physical and mental strength, integral to maintaining overall health. It encompasses three varieties: Sahaj Bala, which is the natural strength present from birth and influenced by genetic factors; Kalaj Bala, which varies with season and age; and Yuktikrit Bala, which emphasizes the importance of diet, lifestyle, and medicinal support in enhancing strength. These dimensions entwine the individual’s physical condition with environmental and dietary influences, illustrating a holistic approach to health.
The Role of Diet and Lifestyle
The article highlights the importance of diet (Ahara) and proper conduct (Vihara) in promoting Bala. A nutritious diet is pivotal for physical strength, whilst adherence to a disciplined lifestyle fosters mental fortitude. Practices outlined in Swasthavritta, such as regular massage, balanced sleep, and daily physical activity, contribute greatly to enhancing strength. These preventative measures are vital in ensuring the sustainability of an individual’s health over time.
Medication in Ayurveda
Ayurvedic texts provide numerous formulations known for their strength-enhancing properties, categorized under the principles of Rasayana and Vajikaran. While there is no specific age indicated for initiating the use of strength-promoting drugs, it is noted that fetal development shows a natural increase in Bala after six months of gestation. Thus, strength-promoting drugs can be introduced from conception, with dietary supplements recommended after meals to optimize efficiency.
Conclusion
The article concludes that Sahaj and Kalaj Bala can be improved and sustained through appropriate dietary decisions, disciplined lifestyle choices, and the consumption of strength-promoting drugs. This holistic Ayurvedic perspective advocates for the integration of traditional practices and modern validations, laying the groundwork for future clinical research, particularly regarding the effects of strength-enhancing factors during pregnancy and early childhood development.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is the significance of bala in Ayurveda?
Bala represents physical and mental strength in Ayurveda, indicating an individual's health state. It is influenced by several factors including diet, conduct, and seasonal variations.
What are the three types of bala according to Ayurveda?
The three types of bala are Sahaj (natural strength), Kalaj (age and seasonal strength), and Yuktikrit (strength derived from diet, exercise, and medicines). Each type plays a role in overall health.
What role does diet play in promoting bala?
Diet is crucial for enhancing bala. A balanced diet supports the nourishment of dhatus, leading to improved physical and mental strength as per Ayurvedic principles.
When should strength-promoting drugs be consumed?
According to Ayurveda, strength-promoting drugs can be safely consumed from conception. They are especially recommended after dinner to enhance their effectiveness.
What are some recommended practices for increasing bala?
Practices include maintaining proper diet, following a code of conduct, daily exercise, massaging the body, and consuming specific Ayurvedic medications designed to boost strength.
How can Sahaj and Kalaj bala be improved?
Sahaj and Kalaj bala can be enhanced through Yuktikrit methods like adapting dietary habits, engaging in regular physical activities, and utilizing appropriate Ayurvedic medicines to promote overall strength.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Role of swasthavritta in enhancing strength via balya dravya.”. 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) Bala:
Bala is a significant concept in Ayurveda that encompasses various forms of strength, including physical and mental capacities. It represents the ability to perform activities that require substantial effort. Ayurveda classifies bala into different categories such as Sahaj, Kalaj, and Yuktikrit, which aid in understanding the sources and factors influencing strength.
2) Drug:
In the context of Ayurveda, a drug refers to medicinal substances that promote health and strength. These can include herbal formulations, minerals, or combinations thereof that are utilized to enhance physical and mental capabilities. Ayurvedic texts detail various drugs under categories like Rasayana and Vajikaran, emphasizing their role in improving bala.
3) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is an ancient Indian system of medicine that focuses on maintaining health and wellness through a holistic approach. It emphasizes the balance of body, mind, and spirit and incorporates lifestyle guidelines (swasthavritta), dietary recommendations, and herbal treatments to promote overall strength and vitality.
4) Dosha (Dosa):
Dosha refers to the three fundamental biological energies (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha) in Ayurveda that govern physiological and psychological processes. An imbalance in doshas is believed to lead to health issues. Maintaining harmony among these doshas is crucial for overall strength (bala) and wellbeing.
5) Kapha:
Kapha is one of the three doshas in Ayurveda and embodies qualities such as stability, grounding, and nourishment. It is associated with the elements of earth (prithvi) and water (jala). Kapha influences body structure, immune function, and physical strength, contributing to a person's overall bala.
6) Balya:
Balya denotes substances or practices that enhance strength in Ayurveda. This term encompasses various Ayurvedic drugs designed specifically to improve physical and mental robustness. The consumption of balya dravya is recommended throughout an individual's life stages to foster vitality and resilience.
7) Dhatu:
Dhatus are the fundamental tissues in Ayurveda, playing a vital role in sustaining bodily functions and overall health. There are seven primary dhatus, including Rasa (plasma), Rakta (blood), and others that nourish each other and contribute to bala, influencing strength and vitality.
8) Diet:
Diet, or ahar, is an essential aspect of maintaining health in Ayurveda. It refers to the food and beverages consumed, which directly impact an individual's bala. Proper dietary practices support the nourishment of dhatus and influence overall physical and mental strength.
9) Life:
Life in Ayurveda is viewed as a dynamic balancing act between physical existence, mental stability, and spiritual fulfillment. Emphasizing a holistic lifestyle that includes diet, conduct, and medicinal practices is key to promoting vital strength (bala) and longevity.
10) Aahar:
Aahar, the Sanskrit term for food, is a critical element in Ayurveda, influencing health and strength. Ayurvedic teachings stress the importance of consuming a balanced diet that aligns with individual dosha types, seasonal changes, and personal needs to promote physical and mental bala.
11) Rasa (Rasha):
Rasa refers to the essence derived from food, which nourishes the dhatus and promotes overall health. In Ayurveda, the quality of rasa is essential for the formation of good quality dhatus, thereby influencing an individual's strength and vitality known as bala.
12) Kala:
Kala signifies the concept of time in Ayurveda. It is a crucial factor affecting health and strength, as certain practices and dietary provisions may vary depending on age, season, and time of day. Understanding kala allows for better customization of wellness strategies.
13) Jatharagni (Jathara-agni):
Jatharagni refers to the digestive fire in Ayurveda, responsible for transforming food into nourishment (rasa). A well-functioning jatharagni is essential for the effective synthesis of dhatus, thus enhancing bala. Proper digestion is central to maintaining strength and overall health.
14) Samhita:
Samhita refers to the classical texts of Ayurveda, such as Charak Samhita and Sushruta Samhita. These texts document the principles, theories, and practices of Ayurveda, providing foundational knowledge about health, disease, and the promotion of bala through dietary and lifestyle modifications.
15) Dravya:
Dravya, in Ayurveda, denotes substances, including herbs, minerals, and formulations, used for therapeutic purposes. These dravyas can exert various effects on the body, including promoting strength (bala) and treating imbalances. They are categorized based on specific properties and actions essential for health.
16) Rajas:
Rajas is one of the three gunas (qualities) in Ayurveda, symbolizing activity, passion, and movement. In the context of strength, a balanced expression of rajas is necessary for motivation and energy, contributing positively to physical and mental capabilities (bala).
17) Desha (Desa):
Desha refers to the geographical or environmental context influencing health in Ayurveda. Factors like climate, altitude, and local resources can affect an individual's wellness and strength (bala). Understanding desha is crucial for tailoring diet and lifestyle practices to enhance physical and mental well-being.
18) Birth:
Birth signifies the beginning of life and is a pivotal moment in Ayurveda. It is during gestation, particularly in the first six months, that the foundational bala of a person is established. Ayurvedic practices can be employed to support the health of both the mother and fetus.
19) Agni:
Agni, or digestive fire, is a fundamental concept in Ayurveda, representing the metabolic processes of the body. A strong agni is vital for transforming food into energy and nourishing the dhatus, thus significantly contributing to overall strength (bala) and vitality.
20) Raja:
Raja, akin to rajas, emphasizes activity, mobility, and dynamism. In Ayurveda, a balance of raja-inspired qualities can enhance mental and physical strength. Fostering positive expressions of raja through lifestyle choices contributes to overall wellness and the promotion of bala.
21) Vata:
Vata is one of the three doshas, characterized by qualities of air and ether. Vata governs movement, communication, and bodily functions. An imbalance in vata can lead to various health concerns, affecting the overall strength (bala) of an individual.
22) Vayu:
Vayu represents the element of air in Ayurveda, associated with the dosha Vata. Vayu influences bodily movements, respiration, and circulation. A balanced vayu is critical for maintaining physical strength and mental clarity, contributing positively to overall bala.
23) Jala:
Jala signifies the element of water in Ayurveda and is integral to maintaining balance and nourishment in the body. Associated with the Kapha dosha, jala supports hydration, tissue integrity, and overall vitality, thereby enhancing physical strength (bala).
24) Aha (Ahan, Ahar):
Ahar, or food, is paramount in Ayurveda for sustaining health and promoting strength. Its composition affects the body's nutrition and energy levels directly correlating with bala, influencing an individual's capacity for physical and mental activities.
25) Sushruta-samhita (Susruta-samhita):
Sushruta-samhita is one of the foundational Ayurvedic texts attributed to Sushruta, known as the father of surgery. It outlines surgical techniques, medicinal formulations, and therapeutic practices, playing a vital role in understanding the principles of bala and overall health.
26) Kaphadosha (Kaphadosa, Kapha-dosha):
Kapha-dosha embodies bodily stability and nourishment, influenced by the elements of earth and water. It governs structure, fluid balance, and immunity. A balanced kapha is vital for maintaining physical strength (bala) and stability in Ayurveda.
27) Vatadosha (Vatadosa, Vata-dosha):
Vata-dosha pertains to bodily movement and communication, showcasing qualities associated with air. Imbalances in vata can manifest as anxiety, restlessness, and weakness, impacting an individual’s strength (bala). It is essential to maintain vata's equilibrium for overall health.
28) Discussion:
Discussion in the context of Ayurveda involves analyzing and interpreting various concepts related to health, strength, and well-being. It provides insights on how different factors, including diet, lifestyle, and medications, contribute to enhancing bala and overall vitality.
29) Meditation:
Meditation is a mental practice aimed at achieving focused awareness and relaxation. In Ayurveda, regular meditation is recognized for its ability to enhance mental strength, regulate stress, and ultimately promote physical bala by fostering a balanced state of mind.
30) Rasadhatu (Rasa-dhatu):
Rasadhatu represents the fluid or plasma tissue in Ayurveda responsible for nourishing the body’s structural elements. Harmonious formation of rasadhatu is crucial for maintaining strength (bala) and health, as it supports the development of other dhatus.
31) Aushadha (Ausadha):
Aushadha refers to medicinal herbs and preparations utilized in Ayurveda for therapeutic purposes. These substances are key in promoting strength (bala) and health, with various formulations aimed at improving physical and mental capabilities.
32) Medicine:
Medicine encompasses the application of various treatments, healing practices, and therapies aimed at promoting health and treating ailments. In Ayurveda, medicine includes herbal remedies, dietary recommendations, and lifestyle modifications to enhance strength (bala) and overall wellness.
33) Pregnant:
Pregnant refers to the state of carrying a developing fetus. In Ayurveda, special emphasis is placed on the health of pregnant individuals, with practices aimed at enhancing their strength (bala) and ensuring proper nourishment for both the mother and the developing child.
34) Kshetra (Ksetra):
Kshetra pertains to the field or area of influence, particularly related to health and strength in Ayurveda. Understanding the kshetra allows for the application of specific dietary and lifestyle modifications tailored to an individual’s context, thereby impacting their bala positively.
35) Visarga:
Visarga refers to the timing or periods favorable for certain activities or treatments. In Ayurveda, understanding visarga is critical for implementing appropriate health practices that align with an individual's needs and can support the enhancement of strength (bala).
36) Prithvi (Prthvi):
Prithvi signifies the element of earth in Ayurveda and represents stability, grounding, and support. It is associated with the Kapha dosha and plays a significant role in physical strength (bala) through its nourishing qualities, contributing to overall health.
37) Gurutva:
Gurutva denotes the quality of heaviness and density associated with the earth element. In Ayurveda, it impacts bodily tissues and strength, especially within the Kapha dosha. Understanding gurutva assists in establishing stability and support in health practices.
38) Pouring:
Pouring in the context of Ayurveda often refers to the application of substances, such as medicated oils, aimed at specific body areas. This technique is utilized to enhance bala and promote strength through targeted nourishing therapies.
39) Disease:
Disease in Ayurveda represents an imbalance of doshas or tissues, leading to health disturbances. Understanding the causes and signs of disease is crucial for devising treatments aimed at restoring balance, enhancing strength (bala), and overall wellness.
40) Science (Scientific):
Science, in the context of Ayurveda, represents the systematic study of health, medicinal practices, and physiological processes. It combines empirical knowledge with traditional wisdom to explore how various elements contribute to vitality, strength (bala), and well-being.
41) Hridya (Hrdya):
Hridya refers to the text of Asthang Hrudaya in Ayurveda, offering insights into various medical practices, including those affecting strength (bala). This text integrates philosophical and practical aspects of life and health necessary for holistic well-being.
42) Shukla (Sukla):
Shukla, in connection with Ayurveda, represents the concept of purity and clarity. It is associated with certain texts and philosophies that emphasize the importance of purity in foods, lifestyle choices, and medicinal practices in promoting strength (bala) and health.
43) Shukra (Sukra):
Shukra refers to reproductive tissues or essence in Ayurveda. It is vital for vitality, strength (bala), and overall physical capability. Maintaining the health of shukra contributes to generative and reproductive capacities, thereby influencing an individual's overall physical strength.
44) Sharman (Sarma, Sarman, Sharma):
Sharma can refer to a scholar or practitioner within Ayurveda, signifying knowledge and expertise. It is commonly found in the names of authors and contributors to Ayurvedic texts, representing the efforts to document and disseminate knowledge related to health and strength (bala).
45) Animal:
Animal studies are pertinent in Ayurveda for understanding the effects of treatments and dietary interventions. Research involving animals can provide insights into strengthening factors that enhance health and bala, aiding in the development of effective medicinal practices.
46) Pitta:
Pitta is one of the three doshas in Ayurveda, characterized by metabolic functions such as digestion and transformation. An imbalance in pitta may lead to inflammation and weakness, impacting overall strength (bala). Balancing pitta is crucial for sustaining vitality and health.
47) Asthi (Ashthi):
Asthi refers to the bone tissue in Ayurveda, representing the structural element of the body. Healthy asthi is essential for physical strength (bala) and overall bodily stability, highlighting the significance of nurturing this dhatu through proper diet and lifestyle practices.
48) Yukti:
Yukti is the principle of reasoning or strategy in Ayurveda, representing the application of knowledge to achieve optimal health. Utilizing yukti to tailor dietary and lifestyle practices enhances strength (bala) and addresses individual health needs effectively.