E-ISSN:2456-3110

Review Article

Rasāyāushadhī

Journal of Ayurveda and Integrated Medical Sciences

2025 Volume 10 Number 3 MARCH
Publisherwww.maharshicharaka.in

Clinical Evidence of Rasāyāushadhī

Bayal MS1*, Zala UU2, Paneliya AM3
DOI:10.21760/jaims.10.3.27

1* Maninder Singh Bayal, Post Graduate Scholar, Department of Rasashastra Evum Bhaishajya Kalpana, JS Ayurveda Mahavidyalaya, Nadiad, Gujarat, India.

2 Upendra U Zala, Professor and HOD, Department of Rasashastra Evum Bhaishajya Kalpana, JS Ayurveda Mahavidyalaya, Nadiad, Gujarat, India.

3 Ankitkumar M Paneliya, Professor and Pharmacy Superintendent, Department of Rasashastra Evum Bhaishajya Kalpana, JS Ayurveda Mahavidyalaya, Nadiad, Gujarat, India.

Rasāyāushdhī, or rejuvenating Ayurvedic drugs, form a cornerstone of Ayurvedic medicine, aimed at enhancing vitality, longevity, and overall health. These formulations consist of natural herbs, minerals, and metals known for their therapeutic properties.[1] The clinical evidence supporting the efficacy of Rasāyāushdhī has gained attention in recent years, with studies highlighting their potential benefits in immunomodulation, antioxidant effects, cognitive enhancement, anti-aging, and chronic disease management.[2] Key ingredients such as Amalaki, Ashwagandha, Brahmi, and Guduchi have shown promise in clinical trials for improving immune function, reducing oxidative stress, and promoting mental health. Additionally, Rasāyāushdhī formulations have been observed to support detoxification and metabolic health, particularly in conditions like diabetes. Despite the growing evidence, challenges such as variability in formulations, quality control, and the need for large-scale trials remain. This review underscores the need for continued scientific exploration to validate the traditional use of Rasāyāushdhī and integrate these therapies into modern healthcare practices.

Keywords: Rasayana, Rejuvenation, Longevity, Anti-aging, Immunity booster, Ayurvedic therapy, Adaptogenic herbs

Corresponding Author How to Cite this Article To Browse
Maninder Singh Bayal, Post Graduate Scholar, Department of Rasashastra Evum Bhaishajya Kalpana, JS Ayurveda Mahavidyalaya, Nadiad, Gujarat, India.
Email: 		Bayal MS, Zala UU, Paneliya AM, Clinical Evidence of Rasāyāushadhī. J Ayu Int Med Sci. 2025;10(3):174-177.
Available From
https://jaims.in/jaims/article/view/4095/

Manuscript Received Review Round 1 Review Round 2 Review Round 3 Accepted
2025-02-10 2025-02-20 2025-03-03 2025-03-13 2025-03-26
Conflict of Interest Funding Ethical Approval Plagiarism X-checker Note
None Nil Not required 11.49

© 2025 by Bayal MS, Zala UU, Paneliya AM and Published by Maharshi Charaka Ayurveda Organization. This is an Open Access article licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ unported [CC BY 4.0].

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Maninder SB et al. Clinical Evidence of Rasāyāushadhī

Introduction

Ayurveda, one of the oldest systems of medicine, has been practiced for over 5,000 years and is based on the belief that health and wellness depend on a delicate balance between the mind, body, and spirit. Among the various therapeutic modalities within Ayurveda, Rasāyāushadhī (or Rasāyana drugs) are considered particularly important for rejuvenation, longevity, and the maintenance of health. These substances are believed to have a potent effect on the body, mind, and soul, contributing to the prevention of disease, the enhancement of vitality, and the restoration of balance within the individual.[3]

The clinical evidence supporting the use of Rasāyāushdhī in contemporary healthcare is increasingly being explored, as more scientific studies and clinical trials are conducted to evaluate the efficacy and safety of these Ayurvedic formulations. This article seeks to examine the clinical evidence for Rasāyāushadhī, focusing on the therapeutic outcomes and the modern relevance of Ayurvedic compilation of Rasāyana drugs.[4]

Rasāyana in Ayurvedic Medicine

In Ayurveda, the term Rasāyana refers to the rejuvenation of both the physical and mental aspects of health. The word Rasa implies the essence or nutrient fluid of the body, while Ayana refers to the path or direction. Together, Rasāyana signifies a process of nourishing and rejuvenating the body’s tissues, organs, and mental faculties.[5]

According to Ayurvedic texts, Rasāyana therapies are primarily used for:

  • Enhancing immunity and vitality
  • Improving physical strength and mental acuity
  • Slowing down the aging process
  • Treating chronic diseases
  • Detoxifying the body
  • Restoring balance in the body’s energies (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha)

Common ingredients in Rasāyana drugs include herbs like Amalaki (Indian gooseberry), Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri), Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus), and Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia),

often combined with minerals or metals such as gold, silver, and copper in specialized formulations like Rasa Shastra.[6]

Clinical Evidence Supporting Rasāyāushdhī

1. Immunomodulation and Antioxidant Effects

Several clinical studies have demonstrated the immune-boosting properties of Rasāyāushdhī. Herbs like Amalaki (Amla) and Ashwagandha have been shown to possess potent antioxidant and immunomodulatory effects. These herbs help in neutralizing oxidative stress, a factor known to contribute to aging and various diseases.

  • Amalaki, for instance, has been found to possess high levels of Vitamin C and polyphenolic compounds that enhance the body’s antioxidant capacity. Clinical studies have shown that Amalaki improves immune function and helps in managing chronic conditions like diabetes and cardiovascular diseases.
  • Ashwagandha, widely recognized for its adaptogenic properties, has demonstrated significant potential in reducing stress, improving cognitive function, and enhancing physical endurance. Several clinical trials have shown improvements in serum cortisol levels and subjective stress levels, supporting its use as a Rasāyāushadhī.[7]

2. Cognitive Enhancement and Mental Health

Another key area where Rasāyāushdhī has shown clinical benefit is in cognitive enhancement. Ayurvedic herbs like Brahmi and Shankhapushpi are frequently used to improve mental clarity, memory, and overall cognitive function.

  • Brahmi has been studied for its effects on memory retention and cognitive enhancement. A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial found that participants who took Brahmi extract showed significant improvements in cognitive performance, including memory, concentration, and processing speed.[8]
  • Additionally, Ashwagandha and Brahmi have been investigated for their role in alleviating anxiety and depression. Research has shown that both herbs can help reduce the symptoms of anxiety, improve mood, and reduce cortisol levels, promoting mental wellness.

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3. Anti-Aging and Longevity

One of the most prominent claims of Rasāyana therapies in Ayurveda is their ability to slow down the aging process. Rasāyana herbs are thought to maintain youthful vigor and vitality by nourishing the body's tissues (Dhatus) and promoting cellular rejuvenation.[9]

Clinical studies on herbs like Ashwagandha, Brahmi, and Guduchi have highlighted their potential in slowing the aging process through their antioxidant properties. For example:

  • Ashwagandha has been found to reduce age-related cellular damage by preventing oxidative stress and promoting the regeneration of cells, particularly in the brain and muscles.
  • Guduchi is renowned for its ability to enhance detoxification, improve liver health, and reduce inflammatory markers, all of which contribute to healthy aging and longevity.

4. Anti-Inflammatory and Anti-Diabetic Effects

Many Rasāyāushdhī formulations also demonstrate powerful anti-inflammatory & anti-diabetic properties, making them suitable for treatment of chronic infla. conditions & metabolic disorders.

  • Guduchi, in particular, has been the subject of clinical studies showing its ability to modulate the immune response, reducing inflammation and promoting insulin sensitivity. Clinical trials have also demonstrated its role in lowering blood sugar levels in individuals with type 2 diabetes.

5. Detoxification and General Health Benefits

Clinical research supports the Ayurvedic claim that Rasāyāushdhī drugs can help detoxify the body and improve overall health. Ingredients such as Triphala (a combination of three fruits: Amalaki, Haritaki, and Bibhitaki) have been shown to promote digestive health, improve bowel regularity, and act as natural detoxifying agents.

  • Triphala has been clinically proven to enhance gut microbiota, promoting healthy digestion and immunity. Furthermore, its ability to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation has been linked to its therapeutic potential in conditions like irritable bowel syndrome and other gastrointestinal disorders.

Challenges and Limitations in Clinical Research

While there is growing evidence supporting the clinical benefits of Rasāyāushdhī, challenges remain in validating these traditional Ayurvedic formulations through modern scientific methodologies. Some of the challenges include:

  • Variability in Formulations: Traditional Ayurvedic formulations may vary widely in their composition, preparation, and dosages. This variability makes it difficult to standardize clinical trials and determine precise dosages for consistent results.
  • Quality Control: Ensuring the quality and safety of Ayurvedic drugs, particularly those containing metals or minerals (in Rasa Shastra), is a significant concern. Quality control mechanisms must be established to prevent contamination or adulteration.
  • Limited Large-Scale Trials: Although there is increasing interest in the clinical investigation of Ayurvedic herbs, large-scale, well-controlled trials remain limited. Many studies involve small sample sizes or lack rigorous methodology, which hinders the broader acceptance of Rasāyāushdhī in conventional medical practice.

Conclusion

The clinical evidence supporting the use of Rasāyāushdhī in Ayurvedic medicine is promising, with research demonstrating their potential to enhance immunity, reduce oxidative stress, promote mental wellness, and slow the aging process. However, further research, including large-scale clinical trials and standardization of formulations, is necessary to validate and fully integrate these therapies into modern healthcare. By bridging the gap between ancient Ayurvedic knowledge and contemporary clinical research, Rasāyāushdhī could play an important role in modern integrative medicine, offering patients a holistic approach to health and well-being.

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