MODE OF ACTION OF RASAYANA DRAVYAS – A CRITICAL REVIEW

Dr. Deshpande Vaishali Shailesh* and Joshi Abhijit H.

ABSTRACT

Rasayana is a different category of medicines defined in Ayurveda. In the history of human race none of the health care systems except Ayurveda has mentioned this group of medicines. In general Rasayana are considered as tonics, but the comparison is not appropriate. Tonics are known to enhance body tissues, but if actions of Rasayana is considered it can be understood that Rasayana have multifaceted actions – in enhancing body tissues, in cleaning of the body systems (Srotasa), in enhancing function of digestive fire (Agni) and a separate class – Medhya Rasayana which have positive effect on cognitive capabilities. However, mode of action of Rasayana Dravyas to achieve these multiple effects need to be understood in detail. In this review article an attempt is made to find out rationale of this multifaceted Ayurvedic treatment named as Rasayana

Keywords: Ayurveda, Rasayana, Medhya Rasayana, rejuvenation.