RASAYANA: BREAKING THE GROUNDS OF IMMUNOMODULATION IN SPORTS

*Vd. Komal R. Gaikwad and Vd. Nitesh R. Joshi

ABSTRACT

Introduction: Sports being played for pleasure and relaxation, competition, maitainence and improvement of fitness and health. Sports participation not only needs physical strength but also mental stability to focus on the game, to deal with the pressure and to absorb the failure. It also carries a risk of injuries which may in some cases lead to permanent disability aiding to economic burden and also an increased dropout rate which may be career ending. Here, Ayurveda’s Rasayana (Rejuvination therapy) comes into limelight. Practices which help to nourish and enhance the Rasa Raktadi Sapta Dhatus (all tissues) is considered as Rasayana. Rasayana promotes longetivity (Dirgha ayu), bestows memory (Smriti), intelligence (Medha), freedom from disease by providing strength (Arogya), youth (Taruna), lustre of skin (Prabha), complexion (Varna), vocal enhancement (Swara), optimum potentiality of body and sense organs (Deha Indriya Bala Param). Rasayana drugs have antioxidant activity, anti-microbial, good nutritional value, enhance physical immunity and psychological resistance. Hence Rasayana can be used in sports to obtain strength, immunity, vitality, will power and determination. It will also prevent wear and tear of tissues thereby preventing sports injuries. Material and Methods: References from various classical literature were collected systematically with respect to Rasayana and its mode of action. Evidence based research studies were also reviewed for sports performance and probable injuries. Results: Rasayana in sportsmen can be helpful in replenishment of all Dhatus to optimum health thereby enhancing sports performance as well as preventing sports injury. Conclusion: The physical and mental stamina of sportsmen indicate perfect health with the help of balance condition of Tridosha and Saptadhatu which can be achieved by Rasayana right from the birth or training programme. It increases immunity (Ojas), strength (Bala), digestive power (Agni), useful in maintaining Satva quality of mind.

Keywords: Here, Ayurveda’s Rasayana (Rejuvination therapy) comes into limelight.