Ayurveda, one of the most ancient medical sciences which deals with every aspect of life, aims to promote health among humankind by bringing cures for diseases into the light. Rasayana counts among the most effective branches of Ayurveda which is being practised since time immemorial. Defined as the most systematic and scientific medical discipline of Ayurveda, Rasayana medicines have been highly appreciated for imparting superior Rasas and Dhatus to the body and nurturing the efficiency of the health of the human body.
Rasayana is the Rejuvenation branch of Ayurvedic medicine. Rasayana treatments were traditionally utilized after a period where the body was warn-down or depleted. People in remission from illness or after completing a full 28-day Pancha Karma detoxification therapy would then undergo Rasayana treatments. Rasayana therapies are also used to remedy old age, before the term ‘anti-ageing’, there was Rasayana.
Rasayana word comprises two parts, that is, ‘Rasa’ and ‘Ayana’. The meaning of Rasa is nutrient fluid, while ‘Ayana’ means a way. Thus, Ayurveda Rasayana’s defence mechanism stresses upon making the inner body powerful and prohibits the bacteria to invade.
Ayurveda teaches that anything that supports and nourishes the blood, (known as ‘RASA” the root of Rasayana) and supports the tissues and immune system would be called Rasayana therapy. Herbs, tonics, specific diets and even specific physical and mental practices which promote vitality and longevity by delaying the ageing process and preventing disease are also called Rasayana.
The ideology behind Rasayana treatments still works, our physiology hasn’t changed. The Rasayana herbs, tonics and practices are still here and still work the same way in the body. The foundation and science of body rejuvenation are still the same. It’s just us that have changed.
Rasayana Herbs-
Rasayana herbs strengthen the resistance of the body and protect it from infection-causing diseases.
Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera),Amla (Emblica officinalis), Shilajeet (Black bitumen or Mineral pitch),
Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia),
Haritaki (Terminalia chebula),
Suvarn Bhasm (herbal excipients) etc.
Some major Psychomodular Rasayana which are extensively used in mental disorders are as follows-
Shankhapushpi (Convolvulus Plenricaulis),
Mulethi (Glycirrhiza glabra),
Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia),
Mandookparni (Bacopa Monieri)
classical Rasayana is practised after a DETOX because the clean body is more receptive, and a clean slate that you build a strong foundation upon.
