A Narrative Review on Therapeutic Potential and Efficacy of Medhya Rasayana
Journal name: Ayushdhara
Original article title: A Narrative Review on Therapeutic Potential and Efficacy of Medhya Rasayana
AYUSHDHARA is an international peer-reviewed journal. It focuses on research in Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, Homeopathy, Allopathy, and Pharmaceutical Sciences.
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Neha Mehra
PG Scholar, Department of Dravyaguna, Rishikul Campus, U.A.U. Dehradun, India
Shailendra Pradhan
Assistant Professor, Department of Dravyaguna, Rishikul Campus, U.A.U. Dehradun, India
D.C. Singh
H.O.D., Department of Dravyaguna, Rishikul Campus, U.A.U. Dehradun, India
Ayushdhara:
(A peer-reviewed, bi-monthly open-access journal)
Full text available for: A Narrative Review on Therapeutic Potential and Efficacy of Medhya Rasayana
Year: 2023 | Doi: 10.47070/ayushdhara.v10iSuppl3.1269
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA 4.0
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
The article provides a narrative review on the therapeutic potential and efficacy of Medhya Rasayana, a category of rejuvenating therapies outlined in Ayurveda. With mental health now recognized as a global concern, the need for holistic approaches to mental well-being is increasingly evident. Medhya Rasayana aims to stabilize the cognitive functions known as Dhi (grasping), Dhriti (retention), and Smriti (recollection) by utilizing various medicinal plants that exhibit nootropic effects. The review incorporates information from traditional Ayurvedic texts, online academic sources, and highlights the pharmacological properties of selected herbs.
The Role of Medhya Rasayana in Cognitive Health
Medhya Rasayana is a specialized Ayurvedic treatment aimed at enhancing cognitive functions and mental clarity. The term "Medhya" refers to intelligence and memory, while "Rasayana" signifies rejuvenation therapy. Key herbs such as Mandukaparni (Centella asiatica), Yashtimadhu (Glycyrrhiza glabra), Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia), and Sankhpushpi (Convolvulus pluricaulis) are identified for their potential to improve neurophysiological processes. These herbs contribute to enhanced oxygenation and nutrient supply to the brain, along with increasing neurotransmitter levels, thereby supporting overall cognitive functions and potentially delaying cognitive decline.
Pharmacological Benefits of Medhya Rasayana
Research indicates that Medhya Rasayana has a profound impact on neuroprotection and neuron health through various pharmacological actions. The article outlines specific bioactive compounds found in the featured herbs that contribute to their therapeutic effects. For instance, Mandukaparni increases GABA levels, promoting neuroprotection, while Yashtimadhu enhances glucose availability, fostering better brain activity. Furthermore, Guduchi and Sankhpushpi have shown neuroprotective effects as well. These actions collectively help in reducing oxidative stress and inflammation within the brain, thereby aiding cognitive enhancement.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Medhya Rasayana serves as a promising avenue within Ayurvedic medicine for improving cognitive health and overall well-being. The blend of traditional knowledge with modern pharmacological insights showcases its potential in alleviating cognitive disorders and enhancing mental acuity. Further studies are necessary to validate its efficacy and optimize its use in clinical practices, potentially integrating these herbal supplements into broader therapeutic protocols for neurological health.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is the purpose of Medhya Rasayana in Ayurveda?
Medhya Rasayana aims to rejuvenate brain functions, enhancing Dhi, Dhriti, and Smriti. It helps improve memory, intelligence, cognitive ability, and overall neuroprotection through various herbal ingredients known for their antioxidant and adaptogenic properties.
Which medicinal plants are commonly used in Medhya Rasayana?
Common plants include Mandukaparni (Centella asiatica), Yashtimadhu (Glycyrrhiza glabra), Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia), and Sankhpushpi (Convolvulus pluricaulis). These plants have been traditionally recognized for their efficacy in enhancing cognitive functions and overall brain health.
What are the main pharmacological actions of Medhya Rasayana herbs?
Medhya Rasayana herbs exhibit neuroprotective effects, increase neurotransmitter levels, reduce brain inflammation, and enhance cerebral blood circulation. They also improve memory retention and cognitive abilities by counteracting oxidative stress and supporting neural regeneration.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “A Narrative Review on Therapeutic Potential and Efficacy of Medhya Rasayana�. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.
1) Rasayana (Rasa-ayana):
Rasayana refers to rejuvenation therapy in Ayurveda. It rejuvenates body functions at a molecular level, retards brain aging, helps in regeneration of neural tissues and has anti-stress, adaptogenic and memory enhancing effects.
2) Medhya:
Medhya describes a type of Rasayana specific to brain tissues, improving cognitive functions such as intelligence (medha), memory (smriti), and retention (dhriti). Examples of Medhya Rasayana include the herbs Mandukaparni, Yasthi Madhu, Guduchi, and Shankhapushpi.
3) Drug:
Drugs in the context of Medhya Rasayana include herbal medications that act to improve memory, reduce stress, enhance cognitive functions, and protect brain health. Examples mentioned include Mandukaparni, Yasthi Madhu, Guduchi, and Shankhapushpi.
4) Mandukaparni (Manduka-parni, Mamdukaparni):
Mandukaparni, also known by its Latin name Centella asiatica, is a herb used in Medhya Rasayana. It is described as having properties such as being Tikta (bitter), Laghu (light), Sheeta (cool), and Madhura (sweet), contributing to improved cognitive functions.
5) Madhura:
Madhura, meaning sweet, is one of the taste properties (Rasa) found in certain Medhya Rasayana like Yasthi Madhu. It is associated with nourishing and rejuvenating qualities, beneficial for brain and body health.
6) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is a traditional system of medicine from India that includes various treatments and therapies. It focuses on balancing the body's physical, mental, and spiritual health using concepts like Rasayana and Medhya for holistic healing.
7) Pharmacological:
Pharmacological actions in the context of Medhya Rasayana refer to the effects herbs have on the brain and body, such as antioxidant properties, neuroprotection, and enhancement of cognitive functions, memory, and overall brain health.
8) Samhita:
[see source text or glossary: Samhita]
9) Snigdha:
Snigdha means 'unctuous' or 'oily' and refers to the quality of certain Medhya Rasayana herbs like Yasthi Madhu. It helps in nourishing the body and mind, contributing to cognitive improvement and overall health.
10) Tikta:
Tikta, meaning 'bitter', is one of the taste properties (Rasa) seen in Medhya Rasayana herbs like Mandukaparni and Sankhpushpi. It is understood to improve cognitive functions and promote brain health.
11) Rasa (Rasha):
Rasa refers to taste or flavor in Ayurveda, and it also implies nutritional essence. Medhya Rasayana drugs use specific Rasas such as Tikta (bitter) and Madhura (sweet) that are beneficial for cognitive health and brain function.
12) Tinospora cordifolia:
Tinospora cordifolia, also known as Guduchi, is a key herb in Medhya Rasayana. It has neuroprotective effects and helps in cognitive improvement, with properties like being Tikta (bitter) and Ushna (hot).
13) Glycyrrhiza glabra:
Glycyrrhiza glabra, commonly known as Yasthi Madhu, is used in Medhya Rasayana. It enhances brain glucose bioavailability and improves brain activity, with properties like being Madhura (sweet) and Sheeta (cool).
14) Shankhapushpi (Sankhapuspi, Samkhapuspi):
Shankhapushpi, known scientifically as Convolvulus pluricaulis, is a Medhya Rasayana herb. It enhances cognitive function and memory, with properties like being Tikta (bitter) and Sheeta (cool).
15) Yashtimadhu (Yastimadhu, Yashti-madhu):
Yashtimadhu, also known as Glycyrrhiza glabra, enhances glucose bioavailability in the brain, improving brain activity and cognitive functions with its sweet, cooling properties.
16) Shailendra (Sailendra, Shaila-indra, Shailemdra):
[see source text or glossary: Shailendra]
17) Knowledge:
Knowledge in the context of Medhya Rasayana refers to gaining, retaining, and recalling information. Herbs like Mandukaparni and Yasthi Madhu improve memory (Smriti), intelligence (Medha), and retention power (Dhriti).
18) Nighantu (Nighamtu):
[see source text or glossary: Nighantu]
19) Indriya (Imdriya):
[see source text or glossary: Indriya]
20) Pradhan:
[see source text or glossary: Pradhan]
21) Disease:
Disease in Ayurveda is seen as an imbalance in the body and mind. Medhya Rasayana herbs help prevent and treat mental and cognitive disorders, contributing to overall mental health and stability.
22) Smriti (Smrti):
Smriti refers to the power of recollection or memory. Medhya Rasayana herbs like Mandukaparni and Shankhapushpi improve Smriti, helping in better recall and cognitive functions.
23) Dhriti (Dhrti):
Dhriti means retention or the power to hold information. Medhya Rasayana herbs work to enhance this cognitive function, aiding in better memory retention and stability of the mind.
24) Vipaka:
Vipaka is the post-digestive metabolic effect a substance has, and in Medhya Rasayana, Madhura Vipaka helps in nourishing the brain and improving cognitive functions.
25) Thomas:
[see source text or glossary: Thomas]
26) Yashthi (Yasthi):
[see source text or glossary: Yasthi]
27) Pitta:
Pitta is one of the three doshas in Ayurveda responsible for metabolism and transformation. Drugs with Ushana Veerya stimulate Saadhak Pitta, contributing to improved Medhya or cognitive functions.
28) Madhu:
[see source text or glossary: Madhu]
29) Guru:
Guru means heavy, and it is one of the properties of Medhya Rasayana herbs like Yasthi Madhu. These herbs provide substantial nourishment and stabilize cognitive functions.
30) Vayu:
Vayu refers to air or ether element and is related to movement within the body. Medhya Rasayana herbs act on Prana Vayu and Udana Vayu to improve brain functions and cognitive stability.
31) Mental health:
Mental health is a major focus of Medhya Rasayana in Ayurveda, addressing global concerns by improving cognitive functions, reducing stress, enhancing memory, and stabilizing the mind.
32) Avalambakakapha (Avalambaka-kapha):
Avalambaka Kapha is a subtype of Kapha dosha, located in the chest and supporting heart and lung functions. It also plays a role in cognitive stability enhanced by Medhya Rasayana herbs.
33) Sadhakapitta (Sadhaka-pitta):
Sadhaka Pitta helps in processing thoughts and emotions, and its stimulation through certain Medhya Rasayana herbs can enhance cognitive functions like intelligence, memory, and retention.
34) Inflammation:
Inflammation is a condition addressed by Medhya Rasayana herbs, which have anti-inflammatory properties to protect the brain and improve cognitive functions by reducing neural inflammation.
35) Kandodbhava (Kanda-udbhava):
[see source text or glossary: Kandodbhava]
36) Chinnaruha:
[see source text or glossary: Chinnaruha]
37) Udanavayu (Udana-vayu):
Udana Vayu is responsible for speech, effort, and memory. Medhya Rasayana herbs act on Udana Vayu to improve cognitive functions such as intelligence and retention.
38) Avalambaka:
[see source text or glossary: Avalambaka]
39) Dravyaguna (Dravya-guna):
[see source text or glossary: Dravyaguna]
40) Mahaushadhi (Mahausadhi, Maha-aushadhi, Mahshadhi, Mahsadhi, Maha-oshadhi):
[see source text or glossary: Mahausadhi]
41) Vatsadani:
[see source text or glossary: Vatsadani]
42) Katurasa (Katu-rasa):
Katu Rasa means 'pungent taste', and is considered less important in Medhya actions. Medhya Rasayana typically avoids Katu Rasa to prevent unnecessary stimulation and focus on nourishing the brain.
43) Picchila:
Picchila, meaning 'slimy' or 'sticky', refers to one of the properties of Medhya Rasayana herbs like Sankhpushpi. This quality helps in stabilizing and nourishing cognitive functions and the brain.
44) Prabhava:
Prabhava means specific action or unique effect. In Medhya Rasayana, herbs act through their Prabhava to enhance memory, cognitive functions, and overall brain health.
45) Supushpi (Supuspi):
[see source text or glossary: Supushpi]
46) Chedana:
[see source text or glossary: Chedana]
47) Manduki (Mamduki):
[see source text or glossary: Manduki]
48) Vishaya (Visaya):
[see source text or glossary: Vishaya]
49) Sadhaka:
[see source text or glossary: Sadhaka]
50) Tarpaka:
Tarpaka is a subtype of Kapha dosha, located in the head, providing nourishment and lubrication to the brain and sensory organs. It contributes to Medhya actions when stimulated by Rasayana herbs.
51) Madhuka:
[see source text or glossary: Madhuka]
52) Kashaya (Kasaya):
Kashaya, meaning 'astringent', is a taste property found in some Medhya Rasayana herbs like Guduchi. It helps in cognitive functions and brain nourishment.
53) Mandali (Mandalin, Mamdali):
[see source text or glossary: Mandali]
54) Ushana (Usana):
Ushana, meaning 'hot', refers to the potency or energy level of certain Medhya Rasayana herbs. Ushana Veerya drugs stimulate cognitive functions by influencing Saadhak Pitta and enhancing brain activities.
55) Lavana:
[see source text or glossary: Lavana]
56) Family:
[see source text or glossary: Family]
57) Bitter:
[see source text or glossary: Bitter]
58) Kapha:
Kapha is one of the three doshas responsible for structure, stability, and lubrication in the body. Medhya Rasayana herbs like Avalambaka Kapha contribute to cognitive stability and brain health.
59) Karma (Karman):
Karma in Ayurveda refers to the action or effect of a substance. Medhya Rasayana herbs have specific Karmas, such as enhancing memory, cognitive functions, and neuroprotection.
60) Divya:
[see source text or glossary: Divya]
61) Medha (Medhas):
Medha in Ayurveda refers to intelligence or cognitive power. Medhya Rasayana herbs enhance Medha, leading to improved cognitive functions, better memory, and greater retention of information.
62) Laghu:
Laghu means 'light', and it is a property of certain Medhya Rasayana herbs like Mandukaparni. This quality helps in easy digestion and assimilation, enhancing cognitive functions without burdening the body.
63) Udana:
Udana Vayu, responsible for speech, memory, and effort, is a focus in Medhya Rasayana therapy. Herbs acting on Udana Vayu improve cognitive functions such as memory retention and intelligence.
64) Ushna (Usna):
Ushna refers to the heating potency of certain Medhya Rasayana herbs. This quality stimulates Saadhak Pitta, which is crucial for enhancing cognitive functions and mental clarity.
65) Dhatu:
[see source text or glossary: Dhatu]
66) Campu:
[see source text or glossary: Campu]
67) Amrita (Amrta):
Amrta is another name for Guduchi, a key herb in Medhya Rasayana. It has multiple beneficial properties including being a Rasayana, which improves cognitive functions and brain health.
68) India:
India is the origin of Ayurveda, the traditional medicine system that includes Medhya Rasayana. It has a rich history of using herbal remedies for improving mental and cognitive health.
69) Ayus (Ayush):
Ayush stands for Ayurvedic, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy systems of medicine in India, which support holistic health approaches including Rasayana and Medhya therapies for mental well-being.
70) Blood:
[see source text or glossary: Blood]
71) Agni:
[see source text or glossary: Agni]
72) Katu:
Katu Rasa means 'pungent taste', and such tastes are considered less essential in Medhya Rasayana. The focus is primarily on herbs that nourish cognitive functions without excessive stimulation.
73) Amla:
[see source text or glossary: Amla]
74) Atman (Atma):
[see source text or glossary: Atma]
75) Guna:
[see source text or glossary: Guna]
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