Abstract

GERONTOLOGICAL AND GERIATRIC RELEVANCE OF RASAUSHADHIS: AN AYURVEDIC REVIEW

Dr. Devraj J. Saroj* and Dr. Amit Mishra

ABSTRACT

Background: Ageing (Jara) is a natural and inevitable process characterized by progressive decline in physiological and cognitive functions. Modern science addresses this through Gerontology (the broad study of the aging process) and Geriatrics (health care and treatment of diseases in older adults). Ayurveda, through its branch of Rasayana, provides comprehensive strategies to delay senescence and manage chronic disorders. Among these, Rasaushadhis—herbo-mineral formulations—hold a unique place due to their potent Rasayana properties, rapid bioavailability, and systemic actions. Aim: To review the gerontological and geriatric relevance of Rasaushadhis in Ayurveda and correlate their classical descriptions with modern pharmacological insights. Materials and Methods: A systematic review of classical Ayurvedic texts, Rasashastra compendia, and modern scientific literature was conducted. References to Rasaushadhis with Rasayana, Medhya, Balya, or Ojaskara properties were compiled and critically analyzed. PubMed, Scopus, AYUSH Research Portal, and Google Scholar were searched for experimental and clinical studies on selected formulations. Results: Classical Ayurvedic texts describe decade-wise decline of sharira bala (strength), medha (intellect), varna (complexion), drishti (vision), shukra (fertility), and smriti (memory), which corresponds with modern gerontological findings. Rasaushadhis like Suvarna Bhasma, Abhraka Bhasma, Makardhwaja, Vasant Kusumakar Rasa, Gandhaka Rasayana, and Bruhat Vata Chintamani Rasa were found to play a dual role—preventive (delaying ageing, sustaining vitality, preserving cognition) and curative (managing chronic diseases such as diabetes, arthritis, neurodegeneration, frailty). Modern studies confirm their antioxidant, immunomodulatory, and neuroprotective activities, often attributed to nano-sized particle structure and Yogavahi properties. Conclusion: Rasaushadhis embody the Ayurvedic principle of Swasthasya Swasthya Rakshana (maintenance of health) and Aturasya Vikara Prashamana (management of disease), thus bridging preventive gerontology and therapeutic geriatrics. With proper standardization and validation, they can serve as effective tools for promoting healthy and graceful ageing in contemporary healthcare.

Keywords: Ayurveda; Rasaushadhi; Rasayana; Gerontology; Geriatrics; Ageing.