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| |title=Vajikarana Chikitsa Adhyaya | | |title=Vajikarana Chikitsa Adhyaya |
| |titlemode=append | | |titlemode=append |
− | |keywords=Vajikarana, Shukra, Vrishya, libido, sexual dysfunctions, infertility, healthy progeny,Aphrodisiac, ayurveda, charak samhita | + | |keywords=[[Vajikarana]], Shukra, Vrishya, libido, sexual dysfunctions, infertility, healthy progeny,Aphrodisiac, Ayurveda, charak samhita, Indian system of medicine, increase libido in ayurveda, sexual vigor, sexual vigour, sexual power, stamina |
| |description=Chikitsa Sthana Chapter 2. Aphrodisiac therapy, virility and treatment of sexual dysfunctions | | |description=Chikitsa Sthana Chapter 2. Aphrodisiac therapy, virility and treatment of sexual dysfunctions |
− | |image=http://www.carakasamhitaonline.com/mediawiki-1.32.1/resources/assets/ogimgs.jpg | + | |image=http://www.carakasamhitaonline.com/resources/assets/ogimgs.jpg |
| |image_alt=charak samhita | | |image_alt=charak samhita |
| |type=article | | |type=article |
| }} | | }} |
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− | <big>'''[[Chikitsa Sthana]] Chapter 2. Aphrodisiac therapy, virility and treatment of sexual dysfunctions'''</big>
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− | <big>'''Abstract'''</big>
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− | <div style="text-align:justify;">''Vajikarana'' is a branch of [[Ayurveda]] which is intended to increase virility, improve quality of germinal cells as well treatment of various sexual dysfunctions. In this chapter code of conduct related to sex, dietary regime, qualities of normal sperm, factors affecting virility, qualities of sexual partner, role of mind in infertility, aphrodisiac and therapeutic formulations etc. are described. Simple and easy to prepare formulations are described in the chapter. Though these are described for males but we can apply same principles and formulations to female also for more preponderant effect. ''Vajikarana'' is generally misinterpreted as sexology. This myth is broken in this chapter by mentioning other effects of wider applicability and can be used for improving progeny and creating better world. The chapter is restricted to principles, regime and formulations. Aetiological factors, pathology of sexual dysfunctions and other aspects are mentioned in other chapters of this text.
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− | '''Keywords''': ''Vajikarana, Shukra, Vrishya'', libido, sexual dysfunctions, infertility, healthy progeny.
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| {{Infobox | | {{Infobox |
− | |title = Vajikarana Chikitsa | + | |title = [[Vajikarana]] Chikitsa |
| |label1 = Section/Chapter | | |label1 = Section/Chapter |
| |data1 = [[Chikitsa Sthana]] Chapter 2 | | |data1 = [[Chikitsa Sthana]] Chapter 2 |
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| |label5 = Other Sections | | |label5 = Other Sections |
| |data5 = [[Sutra Sthana]], [[Nidana Sthana]], [[Vimana Sthana]], [[Sharira Sthana]], [[Indriya Sthana]], [[Kalpa Sthana]], [[Siddhi Sthana]] | | |data5 = [[Sutra Sthana]], [[Nidana Sthana]], [[Vimana Sthana]], [[Sharira Sthana]], [[Indriya Sthana]], [[Kalpa Sthana]], [[Siddhi Sthana]] |
| + | |label6 = Translator and commentator |
| + | |data6 = Godatwar P. |
| + | |label7 = Reviewer |
| + | |data7 = Dixit U., Prasad B.S. |
| + | |label8 = Editors |
| + | |data8 = Dixit U., [[Yogesh Deole|Deole Y.S.]], [[Gopal Basisht|Basisht G.]] |
| + | |label9 = Year of publication |
| + | |data9 = 2020 |
| + | |label10 = Publisher |
| + | |data10 = [[Charak Samhita Research, Training and Skill Development Centre]] |
| + | |label11 = DOI |
| + | |data11 = [https://doi.org/10.47468/CSNE.2020.e01.s06.003 10.47468/CSNE.2020.e01.s06.003] |
| + | }} |
| + | |
| + | <big>'''[[Chikitsa Sthana]] Chapter 2. Aphrodisiac therapy, virility and treatment of sexual dysfunctions'''</big> |
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− | |header3 =
| + | <big>'''Abstract'''</big> |
| + | <p style="text-align:justify;">[[Vajikarana]] is a branch of [[Ayurveda]] which is intended to increase virility, improve quality of germinal cells as well treatment of various sexual dysfunctions. In this chapter code of conduct related to sex, dietary regime, qualities of normal sperm, factors affecting virility, qualities of sexual partner, role of mind in infertility, aphrodisiac and therapeutic formulations etc. are described. Simple and easy to prepare formulations are described in the chapter. Though these are described for males but we can apply same principles and formulations to female also for more preponderant effect. [[Vajikarana]] is generally misinterpreted as sexology. This myth is broken in this chapter by mentioning other effects of wider applicability and can be used for improving progeny and creating better world. The chapter is restricted to principles, regime and formulations. Aetiological factors, pathology of sexual dysfunctions and other aspects are mentioned in other chapters of this text. </p> |
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− | }}
| + | '''Keywords''': ''Vajikarana, [[Shukra]], Vrishya'', libido, sexual dysfunctions, infertility, healthy progeny. |
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| == Introduction == | | == Introduction == |
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− | Sexual relationships are among the most important social and biological relationships in human life. India played a significant role in the history of sex, right from writing of the first literature that treated sexual intercourse as a science. Since ancient times, India pioneered the use of sexual education through art and literature. This subject was not considered taboo in [[Ayurveda]] and it was included as separate branch ''vajikarana'' in which various aspects related to sexuality are scientifically dealt. If we see the literal meaning of ''vajikarana'', we find that this word is made up of two words – ''Vaji'' and ''Karana''. ''Vaji'' refers to horse and karana refers to power. So, ''vajikarana'' can be said to be a modality by which one can perform sexual activity for long time and frequently like a horse. But the effect of this branch is much more and helps to achieve good physique, potency, strength and complexion; it revitalizes the reproductive power; helps in getting healthy and good progeny; resolves various sexual dysfunctions like erectile dysfunction, infertility, premature ejaculations etc. Hence it can be said that subject is concerned with aphrodisiacs, virility and improving health of progeny. | + | Sexual relationships are among the most important social and biological relationships in human life. India played a significant role in the history of sex, right from writing of the first literature that treated sexual intercourse as a science. Since ancient times, India pioneered the use of sexual education through art and literature. This subject was not considered taboo in [[Ayurveda]] and it was included as separate branch [[Vajikarana]] in which various aspects related to sexuality are scientifically dealt. If we see the literal meaning of [[Vajikarana]], we find that this word is made up of two words – ''Vaji'' and ''Karana''. ''Vaji'' refers to horse and karana refers to power. So, [[Vajikarana]] can be said to be a modality by which one can perform sexual activity for long time and frequently like a horse. But the effect of this branch is much more and helps to achieve good physique, potency, strength and complexion; it revitalizes the reproductive power; helps in getting healthy and good progeny; resolves various sexual dysfunctions like erectile dysfunction, infertility, premature ejaculations etc. Hence it can be said that subject is concerned with aphrodisiacs, virility and improving health of progeny. |
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− | Literature related to ''vajikarana'' is present in all the three great treatises which show that this subject was considered paramount for betterment of humans. In [[Charak Samhita]] it is placed before describing treatment of various diseases and in ''Sushruta Samhita'', it is described after discussion of disease treatment. In ''Ashtanga'' it is mentioned in ''Uttara Sthana'' and is last chapter of this text. The order of placement depends upon basic theme of a text. Charak has given prime importance to promotion and preservation of health, whereas Sushruta and Vagbhata emphasized upon the treatment of diseases. This shows with time, Ayurvedic concept of promotion and prevention of health became less important in comparison to disease management. | + | Literature related to [[Vajikarana]] is present in all the three great treatises which show that this subject was considered paramount for betterment of humans. In [[Charak Samhita]] it is placed before describing treatment of various diseases and in ''Sushruta Samhita'', it is described after discussion of disease treatment. In ''Ashtanga'' it is mentioned in ''Uttara Sthana'' and is last chapter of this text. The order of placement depends upon basic theme of a text. Charak has given prime importance to promotion and preservation of health, whereas Sushruta and Vagbhata emphasized upon the treatment of diseases. This shows with time, Ayurvedic concept of promotion and prevention of health became less important in comparison to disease management. |
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− | [[Vajikarana]] is divided in four sections - ''Samyoga Sharamooliya'', ''Asikti Kshirika, Mashaparnabhritiya'' and ''Pumana Jata Baladika''. If we analyze the name of these sub-sections we will find that out of four, name of three sections (''Samyoga Sharamooliya, Asikti Kshirika, Mashaparnabhritiya'') are based on the first formulation described. Last section is named to give emphasis on their effect. The name of four sub-sections or ''pada'', itself suggests that in [[Vajikarana]] chapter, accentuation is given more to formulations. On analyzing these formulations one interesting fact which comes out is that out of 50 formulations mentioned very few can be considered as therapeutic preparations. Only four ''gutika'' or ''vati'' (tablets) are mentioned whereas seven ''mamsarasa'' (meat soup), ten types of milk preparations, four types of eggs, six types of ''pupalika, audana, payasa, rasala'' (different rice and milk preparations), etc. are given. Most of them are common dietary preparations included in normal diet and can be easily prepared. While stating difference in ''rasayana'' and ''vajikarana'', it is stated that ''vajikarana'' should be administered regularly to an individual. | + | [[Vajikarana]] is divided in four sections - ''Samyoga Sharamooliya'', ''Asikti Kshirika, Mashaparnabhritiya'' and ''Pumana Jata Baladika''. If we analyze the name of these sub-sections we will find that out of four, name of three sections (''Samyoga Sharamooliya, Asikti Kshirika, Mashaparnabhritiya'') are based on the first formulation described. Last section is named to give emphasis on their effect. The name of four sub-sections or ''pada'', itself suggests that in [[Vajikarana]] chapter, accentuation is given more to formulations. On analyzing these formulations one interesting fact which comes out is that out of 50 formulations mentioned very few can be considered as therapeutic preparations. Only four ''gutika'' or ''vati'' (tablets) are mentioned whereas seven ''mamsarasa'' (meat soup), ten types of milk preparations, four types of eggs, six types of ''pupalika, audana, payasa, rasala'' (different rice and milk preparations), etc. are given. Most of them are common dietary preparations included in normal diet and can be easily prepared. While stating difference in ''[[rasayana]]'' and [[Vajikarana]], it is stated that [[Vajikarana]] should be administered regularly to an individual. |
− | [[Ayurveda]] considers ''brahmacharya'' as one of the three ''upastambha'' or pillars of life. It refers to a certain code of conduct related to sexual life. It is said that sexual activity should be neither practiced as complete celibacy nor excessive indulgence should be done as both will have detrimental effect on body as well as mind. It is recommended that the person below 17 years of age and more than 70 years of age should not consume ''vajikarana'' preparations. These preparations have to be consumed by ''Jitendriya Purusha'' or man who has control on his senses and desires. If ''vajikarana'' preparations are consumed by a man who has lost control over his senses and desire, he may prove harmful to society. Excessive coitus leads to ''shosha'' or loss of ''dhatus'' and suppression of sexual desire leads to impotency. Rules regarding coitus frequency, time, pattern changes due to seasonal variation, pre and post coitus preparations etc. are described at different places in ''Samhita''. Before administration of ''vajikarana'' therapy purification should be done so that vitiated ''doshas'' and toxins are removed from the body and blocked channels are opened. This leads to increased bio-availability of ''vajikarana'' drugs for beneficial results. ''Vajikarana'' treatment benefits include increased sexual performance, improving health of future progeny as well as treatment of many sexual disorders like infertility, erectile dysfunction and premature ejaculation. | + | [[Ayurveda]] considers ''brahmacharya'' as one of the three ''upastambha'' or pillars of life. It refers to a certain code of conduct related to sexual life. It is said that sexual activity should be neither practiced as complete celibacy nor excessive indulgence should be done as both will have detrimental effect on body as well as mind. It is recommended that the person below 17 years of age and more than 70 years of age should not consume [[Vajikarana]] preparations. These preparations have to be consumed by ''Jitendriya Purusha'' or man who has control on his senses and desires. If [[Vajikarana]] preparations are consumed by a man who has lost control over his senses and desire, he may prove harmful to society. Excessive coitus leads to ''shosha'' or loss of ''[[dhatu]]s'' and suppression of sexual desire leads to impotency. Rules regarding coitus frequency, time, pattern changes due to seasonal variation, pre and post coitus preparations etc. are described at different places in ''Samhita''. Before administration of [[Vajikarana]] therapy purification should be done so that vitiated ''[[dosha]]s'' and toxins are removed from the body and blocked channels are opened. This leads to increased bio-availability of [[Vajikarana]] drugs for beneficial results. [[Vajikarana]] treatment benefits include increased sexual performance, improving health of future progeny as well as treatment of many sexual disorders like infertility, erectile dysfunction and premature ejaculation. |
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− | [[Ayurveda]] has given immense importance to women in relation to sexual activity. Woman has been referred as ''kshetra'' or medium in which seed (or sperm) is implanted and fetal growth and development takes place. To get healthy progeny, woman should have certain qualities like she must be from different clan, physically and mentally salubrious and she should be pure (she should have taken post menstrual bath etc.). Such claims are still valid as it is seen that marriages in blood relatives or in same clan have more preponderance of genetic disorders. Chance of having healthy progeny is influenced by the mental state of partners. In ancient times, society was male dominant and females were not given equivalent status & rights like their male counterparts. At many places, social beliefs and rituals prevalent at that time has affected Ayurvedic literature. In ''vajikarana'' also most of the descriptions are related to males only. Rules, formulations, code of conduct etc. mentioned apply to females also and so ''vajikarana'' principles and formulations should not be restricted to males only and should be administered to females also. | + | [[Ayurveda]] has given immense importance to women in relation to sexual activity. Woman has been referred as ''kshetra'' or medium in which seed (or sperm) is implanted and fetal growth and development takes place. To get healthy progeny, woman should have certain qualities like she must be from different clan, physically and mentally salubrious and she should be pure (she should have taken post menstrual bath etc.). Such claims are still valid as it is seen that marriages in blood relatives or in same clan have more preponderance of genetic disorders. Chance of having healthy progeny is influenced by the mental state of partners. In ancient times, society was male dominant and females were not given equivalent status & rights like their male counterparts. At many places, social beliefs and rituals prevalent at that time has affected Ayurvedic literature. In [[Vajikarana]] also most of the descriptions are related to males only. Rules, formulations, code of conduct etc. mentioned apply to females also and so [[Vajikarana]] principles and formulations should not be restricted to males only and should be administered to females also. |
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− | It can be stated that ''vajikarana'' is the special branch of [[Ayurveda]] which improves the reproductive system and enhances sexual function. It deals with aphrodisiacs, virility and improving health of progeny. The principles described can provide solution to increasing sexual dysfunctions and declining fecundity. Scientific research is needed in the field of ''vajikarana'' therapies. | + | It can be stated that [[Vajikarana]] is the special branch of [[Ayurveda]] which improves the reproductive system and enhances sexual function. It deals with aphrodisiacs, virility and improving health of progeny. The principles described can provide solution to increasing sexual dysfunctions and declining fecundity. Scientific research is needed in the field of [[Vajikarana]] therapies. |
| </div> | | </div> |
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| Now we shall expound the first quarter section entitled ''Samyoga Sharamooliya'' on the virilification. Thus, said Lord Atreya. [1-2] | | Now we shall expound the first quarter section entitled ''Samyoga Sharamooliya'' on the virilification. Thus, said Lord Atreya. [1-2] |
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− | ==== Importance of ''vajikarana'' and woman as the best for virilification ==== | + | ==== Importance of [[Vajikarana]] and woman as the best for virilification ==== |
| <div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"> | | <div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"> |
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| The person, who is healthy and desirous of a child, should enter in to sexual intercourse with a woman who belongs to a different clan, who is free from diseases, who is sexually excited, cheerful and who has taken her post menstrual purifacatory bath. [8-15] | | The person, who is healthy and desirous of a child, should enter in to sexual intercourse with a woman who belongs to a different clan, who is free from diseases, who is sexually excited, cheerful and who has taken her post menstrual purifacatory bath. [8-15] |
| </div> | | </div> |
− | ==== Disregard of childless person and benefits of ''vajikarana'' ==== | + | ==== Disregard of childless person and benefits of [[Vajikarana]] ==== |
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| </div> | | </div> |
| ==== Various preparations for improving virility ==== | | ==== Various preparations for improving virility ==== |
− | ==== ''Brimhani Gutika'' ==== | + | ==== Brimhani Gutika ==== |
| <div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"> | | <div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"> |
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| </div></div> | | </div></div> |
| <div style="text-align:justify;"> | | <div style="text-align:justify;"> |
− | Three ''palas'' (1 ''pala''=approx.40 gram) of each of the roots of ''shara'' and sugarcane, giant sugarcane, ''ikshubaalika'', ''shatavari'', ''payasya, vidari, kantakari, jeevanti, jeevaka, meda, beera, rishbhaka, bala, ridhi, gokshura, raasna, atmagupta,'' and ''punarnava'' should be mixed with one ''adhaka'' of freshly collected ''masha'' and boiled in one ''drona'' of water till one fourth remains. After that, the paste of ''madhuka, draksha, falgu, pippali, atmagupta, madhuka, kharhura, shatavari, vidari, amalaki'' and the juice of sugarcane should be separately added and one ''adhaka'' of ghee and one ''drona'' of milk should be mixed to it. After boiling this should be filtered and one ''prastha'' of each of sugar and the powder of ''tugakshiri'', four ''palas'' of ''pippali'', one ''pala'' of ''maricha'', half ''pala'' each of the powder of ''twak, ela'' and saffron and two ''kudava'' of honey should be added. Now, semi-solid pills of size of one ''pala'' each in quantity should be prepared. This preparation is highly virilific, nourishing and promoter of strength. On administration of these pills, the person gets stallion like vigor in sexual intercourse. (Formulation: ''Brimhani Ghutika'') [24-32] | + | Three pala (1 pala=approx 40 gram) of each of the roots of [[shara]] and [[ikshu]] (sugarcane), giant sugarcane, [[ikshuvaalika]], [[shatavari]], [[payasya]], [[vidari]], [[kantakari]], [[jeevanti]], [[jeevaka]], [[meda]], [[veera]], [[rishbhaka]], [[bala]], [[riddhi]], [[gokshura]], [[raasna]], [[atmagupta]], and [[punarnava]] should be mixed with one ''adhaka'' of freshly collected ''masha'' and boiled in one ''drona'' of water till one fourth remains. After that, the paste of ''madhuka, draksha, falgu, pippali, atmagupta, madhuka, kharhura, shatavari, vidari, amalaki'' and the juice of sugarcane should be separately added and one ''adhaka'' of ghee and one ''drona'' of milk should be mixed to it. After boiling this should be filtered and one ''prastha'' of each of sugar and the powder of ''tugakshiri'', four ''palas'' of ''pippali'', one ''pala'' of ''maricha'', half ''pala'' each of the powder of ''twak, ela'' and saffron and two ''kudava'' of honey should be added. Now, semi-solid pills of size of one ''pala'' each in quantity should be prepared. This preparation is highly virilific, nourishing and promoter of strength. On administration of these pills, the person gets stallion like vigor in sexual intercourse. (Formulation: ''Brimhani Ghutika'') [24-32] |
| </div> | | </div> |
− | ==== ''Vajikarana Ghritam'' ==== | + | |
| + | ==== Vajikarana Ghritam ==== |
| <div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"> | | <div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"> |
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| Decoction of one ''adhaka'' each of freshly collected ''masha'', seeds of ''atmagupta, jeevaka, rishbhaka, veera, meda, riddhi, shatavari, madhuka'' and ''ashwagandha'' should be prepared and one ''prastha'' of cow’s ghee, ten ''prastha'' of milk, one ''prastha'' of each of juice of ''vidari'' and sugarcane should be added. After that four ''palas'' of each of sugar ''tugakshiri'', and honey and one ''pala'' of ''pippali'' should be added to it. By taking one ''pala'' of this medicated ghee, the man should take food, if he wishes to have an inexhaustible store of semen and great phallic strength. (Formulation: ''Vajikarana Ghrita'') [33-38] | | Decoction of one ''adhaka'' each of freshly collected ''masha'', seeds of ''atmagupta, jeevaka, rishbhaka, veera, meda, riddhi, shatavari, madhuka'' and ''ashwagandha'' should be prepared and one ''prastha'' of cow’s ghee, ten ''prastha'' of milk, one ''prastha'' of each of juice of ''vidari'' and sugarcane should be added. After that four ''palas'' of each of sugar ''tugakshiri'', and honey and one ''pala'' of ''pippali'' should be added to it. By taking one ''pala'' of this medicated ghee, the man should take food, if he wishes to have an inexhaustible store of semen and great phallic strength. (Formulation: ''Vajikarana Ghrita'') [33-38] |
| </div> | | </div> |
| + | |
| ==== ''Vajikarana Pinda Rasa'' ==== | | ==== ''Vajikarana Pinda Rasa'' ==== |
| <div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"> | | <div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"> |
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| Now we shall expound the third section "Mashaparnabhritiya" on the virilification. Thus said Lord Atreya. [1-2] | | Now we shall expound the third section "Mashaparnabhritiya" on the virilification. Thus said Lord Atreya. [1-2] |
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− | ==== Specific cow’s milk for ''vajikarana'' ==== | + | ==== Specific cow’s milk for [[Vajikarana]] ==== |
| <div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"> | | <div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"> |
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| The semen gets diminished by old age, worry, anxiety, diseases, overexertion, fasting and excessive sexual indulgence. By consumption, fear, suspicion and grief, by seeing the deformities in woman, by non excitation of the woman, absence of passionate determination, by abstention from sex and just after full sexual enjoyment, a man is rendered incapable of mating with a woman. This depends on strength of the body and mind.[36-45] | | The semen gets diminished by old age, worry, anxiety, diseases, overexertion, fasting and excessive sexual indulgence. By consumption, fear, suspicion and grief, by seeing the deformities in woman, by non excitation of the woman, absence of passionate determination, by abstention from sex and just after full sexual enjoyment, a man is rendered incapable of mating with a woman. This depends on strength of the body and mind.[36-45] |
| </div> | | </div> |
− | ==== Description of ''Shukra'' ==== | + | ==== Description of ''[[Shukra]]'' ==== |
| <div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"> | | <div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"> |
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| As the juice exists in the sugarcane, ghee in the whole curd, and oil exists in whole part of the sesame seed, in the same way, semen pervades in the entire body which has the sensation of touch. | | As the juice exists in the sugarcane, ghee in the whole curd, and oil exists in whole part of the sesame seed, in the same way, semen pervades in the entire body which has the sensation of touch. |
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− | The semen trickles down from its site during copulation between man and woman because of sex act, passionate attachment, and physical pressure, as water comes out of a wet cloth when squeezed. The semen is ejaculated from the body as a result of these eight factors- excitement, excessive desire, fluidity, viscosity, heaviness, atomicity and the tendency to flow out and the speedy motion of ''vata''. The un-manifested soul which takes different forms in this world, manifests itself in the form of semen.[46-49] | + | The semen trickles down from its site during copulation between man and woman because of sex act, passionate attachment, and physical pressure, as water comes out of a wet cloth when squeezed. The semen is ejaculated from the body as a result of these eight factors- excitement, excessive desire, fluidity, viscosity, heaviness, atomicity and the tendency to flow out and the speedy motion of ''[[vata]]''. The un-manifested soul which takes different forms in this world, manifests itself in the form of semen.[46-49] |
| </div> | | </div> |
− | ==== Characteristics of ''Shukra'' ==== | + | ==== Characteristics of ''[[Shukra]]'' ==== |
| <div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"> | | <div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"> |
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| The semen which is thick, sweet, unctuous, without any putrid smell, heavy, viscid, white in color, and abundant in quantity, invariably helps in procreation. This is undoubtful about the semen.[50] | | The semen which is thick, sweet, unctuous, without any putrid smell, heavy, viscid, white in color, and abundant in quantity, invariably helps in procreation. This is undoubtful about the semen.[50] |
| </div> | | </div> |
− | ==== ''Vajikarana'' ==== | + | ==== [[Vajikarana]] ==== |
| <div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"> | | <div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"> |
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| ##Similar pharmacological function of drugs. | | ##Similar pharmacological function of drugs. |
| #The male and female partners shall be physically and psychologically able to have pleasant coitus. | | #The male and female partners shall be physically and psychologically able to have pleasant coitus. |
− | *''Vajikarana'' drugs besides helping get good progeny and pleasure is useful in living healthy and long life. | + | *[[Vajikarana]] drugs besides helping get good progeny and pleasure is useful in living healthy and long life. |
− | *For copulation, the ''shukra'' should possess qualities such as thickness, sweetness, unctuousness, without any putrid smell, heavyness, viscidity, white in colour, and abundant in quantity. This invariably helps in procreation. | + | *For copulation, the ''[[shukra]]'' should possess qualities such as thickness, sweetness, unctuousness, without any putrid smell, heavyness, viscidity, white in colour, and abundant in quantity. This invariably helps in procreation. |
− | *Mind plays a great role in ''vajikarana''. It is important to have a pleasant mind for proper sexual satisfaction. All those items which lead to pleasure increase virility. | + | *Mind plays a great role in [[Vajikarana]]. It is important to have a pleasant mind for proper sexual satisfaction. All those items which lead to pleasure increase virility. |
| *Sexual act should not be done before age16 and after age 70. | | *Sexual act should not be done before age16 and after age 70. |
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| == Vidhi Vimarsha (Applied Inferences ) == | | == Vidhi Vimarsha (Applied Inferences ) == |
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− | ''Rasayana'' and ''vajikarana'' therapies have common aim to provide positive health and prevention of diseases by increasing vigor of healthy person and so, [[Vajikarana]] is described just after [[Rasayana]] chapter. Health scientists are showing great interest in screening classical ''rasayana'' drugs for their antioxidant activity and research reveals good results. Studies on ''amalaki rasayana'' <ref>Dwivedi V, Anandan EM, Mony RS, Muraleedharan TS, Valiathan MS, Mutsuddi M, et al. In vivo effects of traditional Ayurvedic formulations in Drosophila melanogaster relate with therapeutic applications. PLoS One. 2012;7:e37113.</ref> shows increased longevity and on Drosophila melanogaster <ref> Fontana L, Partridge L, Longo VD. Extending healthy life span – From yeast to humans. Science. 2010;328:321–6.</ref> there is reduced oxidative damage to extend lifespan. Many drugs are described as ''rasayanas'' and ''vajikara'' both. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) has deteriorating effect on sperm. This has been increasing due to changing lifestyle and exposure to environmental pollution. Spermatozoa normally produce ROS in a normal physiological process. The amount of ROS produced is to be carefully controlled. Imbalance between the generation and scavenging of ROS may lead to damage to DNA or other important structures. Spermatozoa lack cytoplasmic defensive enzymes, such as catalase, glutathione peroxidase, which are involved in the protection of most cell types from ROS induced peroxidative damage. Large amounts of unsaturated fatty acids are observed in plasma membranes of spermatozoa, those are particularly vulnerable to free radical attack.<ref>Jones R and Mann T (1973) Lipid peroxidation in spermatozoa. Proc R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 184,103–107.</ref> The subfertile men have higher concentrations of ROS in seminal plasma, whereas an inverse correlation exists between ROS concentration and motility.<ref>Carlsen E, Giwercman A, Keiding N, Skakkebaek NE, Review Evidence for decreasing quality of semen during past 50 years. BMJ. 1992 Sep 12; 305(6854):609-13</ref> Many ''rasayanas'' act as antioxidants, so they can also be used to enhance sperm quality and quantity. Thus, mutual correlation and common mode of action justifies description of ''vajikarana'' just after ''rasayana'' therapy. | + | ''[[Rasayana]]'' and [[Vajikarana]] therapies have common aim to provide positive health and prevention of diseases by increasing vigor of healthy person and so, [[Vajikarana]] is described just after [[Rasayana]] chapter. Health scientists are showing great interest in screening classical ''[[rasayana]]'' drugs for their antioxidant activity and research reveals good results. Studies on ''amalaki rasayana'' <ref>Dwivedi V, Anandan EM, Mony RS, Muraleedharan TS, Valiathan MS, Mutsuddi M, et al. In vivo effects of traditional Ayurvedic formulations in Drosophila melanogaster relate with therapeutic applications. PLoS One. 2012;7:e37113.</ref> shows increased longevity and on Drosophila melanogaster <ref> Fontana L, Partridge L, Longo VD. Extending healthy life span – From yeast to humans. Science. 2010;328:321–6.</ref> there is reduced oxidative damage to extend lifespan. Many drugs are described as ''[[rasayana]]s'' and ''vajikara'' both. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) has deteriorating effect on sperm. This has been increasing due to changing lifestyle and exposure to environmental pollution. Spermatozoa normally produce ROS in a normal physiological process. The amount of ROS produced is to be carefully controlled. Imbalance between the generation and scavenging of ROS may lead to damage to DNA or other important structures. Spermatozoa lack cytoplasmic defensive enzymes, such as catalase, glutathione peroxidase, which are involved in the protection of most cell types from ROS induced peroxidative damage. Large amounts of unsaturated fatty acids are observed in plasma membranes of spermatozoa, those are particularly vulnerable to free radical attack.<ref>Jones R and Mann T (1973) Lipid peroxidation in spermatozoa. Proc R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 184,103–107.</ref> The subfertile men have higher concentrations of ROS in seminal plasma, whereas an inverse correlation exists between ROS concentration and motility.<ref>Carlsen E, Giwercman A, Keiding N, Skakkebaek NE, Review Evidence for decreasing quality of semen during past 50 years. BMJ. 1992 Sep 12; 305(6854):609-13</ref> Many ''[[rasayana]]s'' act as antioxidants, so they can also be used to enhance sperm quality and quantity. Thus, mutual correlation and common mode of action justifies description of [[Vajikarana]] just after ''[[rasayana]]'' therapy. |
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| For many years, decline in human semen quality and fertility rates has been a concern.<ref>MacLeod J, Heim L M. Characteristics and variations in semen specimens in 100 normal young men. Journal of Urology. 1945;54:474–482.</ref> Environmental and occupational pollutants, changes in lifestyles, exposure to toxic agents, and changes in dietary habits are observed among the most commonly cited factors associated with these declines.<ref>Tielemans E, Burdorf A, te Velde ER, Weber RF, van Kooij RJ, Veulemans H, Heederik DJ, Occupationally related exposures and reduced semen quality: a case-control study, Fertil Steril. 1999 Apr; 71(4):690-6.</ref> The environmental and lifestyle factors causing subfertility shall be targeted for curative or preventive measures. Environmental stress causes increase in the number of free radicals (i.e., hydrogen peroxide [H2O2] and reactive oxygen species [ROS] that cause apoptosis in the spermatogenic cell.<ref>Wang X, Sharma RK, Sikka SC. Oxidative stress is associated with increased apoptosis leading to spermatoozoa DNA damage in patients with male factor infertility. Fertil Steril. 2003;80:531–5.</ref> Chronic or severe stress leads to anovulation and amenorrhea in women <ref>Barnea, E. R., and Tal, J. Stress-r elated reproductive failure. J. In Vitro Fertil. Embryo Transfer 8: 15-23 (1991).</ref> and to decrease in sperm count, motility, and morphology in men.<ref>McGrady, A. V. Effects of psychological stress on male reproduction: a review. Arch. Androl. 131: 1-10 (1984).</ref> Smoking,<ref>Goverde HJ, Dekker HS, Janssen HJ, Bastiaans BA, Rolland R, Zielhuis GA.,Semen quality and frequency of smoking and alcohol consumption--an explorative study. Int J Fertil Menopausal Stud. 1995 May-Jun;40(3):135-8.</ref> alcohol,<ref>Joo KJ, Kwon YW, Myung SC, Kim TH, The effects of smoking and alcohol intake on sperm quality: light and transmission electron microscopy findings. J Int Med Res. 2012;40(6):2327-35.</ref> caffeine,<ref>Vine MF, Setzer RW Jr, Everson RB, Wyrobek AJ, Human sperm morphometry and smoking, caffeine, and alcohol consumption. Reprod Toxicol. 1997 Mar-Jun;11(2-3):179-84.</ref> pesticides, air pollution,<ref>Jurewicz J, Hanke W, Radwan M, Bonde JP, Environmental factors and semen quality.Int J Occup Med Environ Health. 2009;22(4):305-29.</ref> bisphenol A,<ref>Akingbemi BT, Sottas CM, Koulova AI, Klinefelter GR, Hardy MP. Inhibition of testicular steroidogenesis by the xenoestrogen bisphenol A is associated with reduced pituitary luteinizing hormone secretion and decreased steroidogenic enzyme gene expression in rat Leydig cells. Endocrinology. 2004;145:592–603</ref> diseases like hypertension, diabetes mellitus, obesity, cardio-vascular disease are related to deterioration of reproductive health<ref>Sunil Kumar, Archana Kumari, Shiva, Murarka, Lifestyle factors in deteriorating male reproductive health, Indian Journal of Experimental Biology, Vol 47, August 2009, pp.615-624.</ref> by affecting sperm quality. | | For many years, decline in human semen quality and fertility rates has been a concern.<ref>MacLeod J, Heim L M. Characteristics and variations in semen specimens in 100 normal young men. Journal of Urology. 1945;54:474–482.</ref> Environmental and occupational pollutants, changes in lifestyles, exposure to toxic agents, and changes in dietary habits are observed among the most commonly cited factors associated with these declines.<ref>Tielemans E, Burdorf A, te Velde ER, Weber RF, van Kooij RJ, Veulemans H, Heederik DJ, Occupationally related exposures and reduced semen quality: a case-control study, Fertil Steril. 1999 Apr; 71(4):690-6.</ref> The environmental and lifestyle factors causing subfertility shall be targeted for curative or preventive measures. Environmental stress causes increase in the number of free radicals (i.e., hydrogen peroxide [H2O2] and reactive oxygen species [ROS] that cause apoptosis in the spermatogenic cell.<ref>Wang X, Sharma RK, Sikka SC. Oxidative stress is associated with increased apoptosis leading to spermatoozoa DNA damage in patients with male factor infertility. Fertil Steril. 2003;80:531–5.</ref> Chronic or severe stress leads to anovulation and amenorrhea in women <ref>Barnea, E. R., and Tal, J. Stress-r elated reproductive failure. J. In Vitro Fertil. Embryo Transfer 8: 15-23 (1991).</ref> and to decrease in sperm count, motility, and morphology in men.<ref>McGrady, A. V. Effects of psychological stress on male reproduction: a review. Arch. Androl. 131: 1-10 (1984).</ref> Smoking,<ref>Goverde HJ, Dekker HS, Janssen HJ, Bastiaans BA, Rolland R, Zielhuis GA.,Semen quality and frequency of smoking and alcohol consumption--an explorative study. Int J Fertil Menopausal Stud. 1995 May-Jun;40(3):135-8.</ref> alcohol,<ref>Joo KJ, Kwon YW, Myung SC, Kim TH, The effects of smoking and alcohol intake on sperm quality: light and transmission electron microscopy findings. J Int Med Res. 2012;40(6):2327-35.</ref> caffeine,<ref>Vine MF, Setzer RW Jr, Everson RB, Wyrobek AJ, Human sperm morphometry and smoking, caffeine, and alcohol consumption. Reprod Toxicol. 1997 Mar-Jun;11(2-3):179-84.</ref> pesticides, air pollution,<ref>Jurewicz J, Hanke W, Radwan M, Bonde JP, Environmental factors and semen quality.Int J Occup Med Environ Health. 2009;22(4):305-29.</ref> bisphenol A,<ref>Akingbemi BT, Sottas CM, Koulova AI, Klinefelter GR, Hardy MP. Inhibition of testicular steroidogenesis by the xenoestrogen bisphenol A is associated with reduced pituitary luteinizing hormone secretion and decreased steroidogenic enzyme gene expression in rat Leydig cells. Endocrinology. 2004;145:592–603</ref> diseases like hypertension, diabetes mellitus, obesity, cardio-vascular disease are related to deterioration of reproductive health<ref>Sunil Kumar, Archana Kumari, Shiva, Murarka, Lifestyle factors in deteriorating male reproductive health, Indian Journal of Experimental Biology, Vol 47, August 2009, pp.615-624.</ref> by affecting sperm quality. |
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− | === Role of diet in ''vajikarana'' === | + | === Role of diet in [[Vajikarana]] === |
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| Nutrition status is also a major cause of sub-fertility. Sexual dysfunction due to malnutrition can be easily overcome. Nutrition is important for DNA synthesis leading to development of spermatozoa and oocytes. Diet also provides exogenous antioxidants (vitamins C and E). Dietary formulations mentioned are perfect amalgamation of energy and nutrients required for production and maturation of sperm. | | Nutrition status is also a major cause of sub-fertility. Sexual dysfunction due to malnutrition can be easily overcome. Nutrition is important for DNA synthesis leading to development of spermatozoa and oocytes. Diet also provides exogenous antioxidants (vitamins C and E). Dietary formulations mentioned are perfect amalgamation of energy and nutrients required for production and maturation of sperm. |
− | In [[Ayurveda]], ''ahara'' or diet has been considered to be a form of medicine (''bhaishajya'') and the role of diet is not limited to nutrition only. Properly planned diet can be used for prevention as well as treatment of the diseases. ''Shukra'' is one of the seven ''dhatus'' and is formed by successive evolution of ''dhatus'' starting from ''rasa dhatu'' and diet forms the substrate (Cha. Chi. 15/16). So, ''ahara'' is one important factor on which quality of ''dhatu'' depends. | + | In [[Ayurveda]], ''ahara'' or diet has been considered to be a form of medicine (''bhaishajya'') and the role of diet is not limited to nutrition only. Properly planned diet can be used for prevention as well as treatment of the diseases. ''[[Shukra]]'' is one of the seven ''[[dhatu]]s'' and is formed by successive evolution of ''[[dhatu]]s'' starting from ''[[rasa dhatu]]'' and diet forms the substrate [Cha.Sa. [[Chikitsa Sthana]] 15/16]. So, ''ahara'' is one important factor on which quality of ''[[dhatu]]'' depends. |
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− | Various simple dietary preparations which can increase quantity as well as quality of sperm are mentioned. The substance acts in various modes in the body, one of those is the principle of ''dravya samanya'' (similarity in substance) i.e. consumption of food item similar to body tissues increase them due to similar constitution. Keeping this fact in mind semen of different animals has been used with fat. ''Snigdha dravya'' (unctuous substances) increase semen by similar properties. However, this mode of therapy may not have individual acceptance or practical in current period so principle of ''guna samanya'' (''dravya'' with similar properties) may be used. | + | Various simple dietary preparations which can increase quantity as well as quality of sperm are mentioned. The substance acts in various modes in the body, one of those is the principle of ''dravya samanya'' (similarity in substance) i.e. consumption of food item similar to body tissues increase them due to similar constitution. Keeping this fact in mind semen of different animals has been used with fat. ''Snigdha dravya'' (unctuous substances) increase semen by similar properties. However, this mode of therapy may not have individual acceptance or practical in current period so principle of ''[[guna]] samanya'' (''dravya'' with similar properties) may be used. |
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| ==== Role of milk and dairy products ==== | | ==== Role of milk and dairy products ==== |
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− | Milk is integral to Ayurvedic diet regime. In the list of best factors for sustaining life, milk is considered best among all substances providing life (Cha.Su.25/40). Milk has a nutrition value as it provides essential amino acids, vitamins, minerals and fatty acids, and affects absorption of nutrients. Milk fat has a wide-ranging spectrum of fatty acids and lipids. Milk protein is rich in amino acids leading to stimulation of muscle synthesis, positive health effects on blood pressure, inflammation, oxidation and tissue development. | + | Milk is integral to Ayurvedic diet regime. In the list of best factors for sustaining life, milk is considered best among all substances providing life [Cha.Sa.[[Sutra Sthana]] 25/40]. Milk has a nutrition value as it provides essential amino acids, vitamins, minerals and fatty acids, and affects absorption of nutrients. Milk fat has a wide-ranging spectrum of fatty acids and lipids. Milk protein is rich in amino acids leading to stimulation of muscle synthesis, positive health effects on blood pressure, inflammation, oxidation and tissue development. |
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| In [[Ayurveda]], milk has been said to have beneficial effect on semen quality. However, in present era due to change in feeding regime of dairy animals, composition of milk might have been changed. This change has resulted into increase in estrogens, fat content etc. which are attributed to cause adverse effect on semen quality. Few researches have claimed that milk and dairy products have negative effect on semen as observed in male mice.<ref>Ma YX, Ebine N, Aoki K, Kusunoki M, Misumi J, Effects of cow's milk on reproduction in ICR male mice, Biomed Environ Sci. 2009 Apr;22(2):161-3.</ref> In another study, intake of full-fat dairy was observed inversely related to sperm motility and morphology.<ref>Afeiche M, Williams PL, Mendiola J, Gaskins AJ, Jørgensen N, Swan SH,Chavarro JE., Dairy food intake in relation to semen quality and reproductive hormone levels among physically active young men. Hum Reprod 2013 Aug;28(8):2265-75</ref> High intake of saturated fats was negatively related to sperm concentration whereas higher intake of omega-3 fats was positively related to sperm morphology.<ref>Jill A. Attaman et al., Dietary fat and semen quality among men attending a fertility clinic, Hum. Reprod. (2012) doi: 10.1093/humrep/des065</ref> It has been suggested that environmental estrogens could be responsible for the decline in sperm counts. | | In [[Ayurveda]], milk has been said to have beneficial effect on semen quality. However, in present era due to change in feeding regime of dairy animals, composition of milk might have been changed. This change has resulted into increase in estrogens, fat content etc. which are attributed to cause adverse effect on semen quality. Few researches have claimed that milk and dairy products have negative effect on semen as observed in male mice.<ref>Ma YX, Ebine N, Aoki K, Kusunoki M, Misumi J, Effects of cow's milk on reproduction in ICR male mice, Biomed Environ Sci. 2009 Apr;22(2):161-3.</ref> In another study, intake of full-fat dairy was observed inversely related to sperm motility and morphology.<ref>Afeiche M, Williams PL, Mendiola J, Gaskins AJ, Jørgensen N, Swan SH,Chavarro JE., Dairy food intake in relation to semen quality and reproductive hormone levels among physically active young men. Hum Reprod 2013 Aug;28(8):2265-75</ref> High intake of saturated fats was negatively related to sperm concentration whereas higher intake of omega-3 fats was positively related to sperm morphology.<ref>Jill A. Attaman et al., Dietary fat and semen quality among men attending a fertility clinic, Hum. Reprod. (2012) doi: 10.1093/humrep/des065</ref> It has been suggested that environmental estrogens could be responsible for the decline in sperm counts. |
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| ==== Feeding of animal affects quality of milk ==== | | ==== Feeding of animal affects quality of milk ==== |
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− | Milk composition can be altered by the feeding regime of cow. Content of several fatty acids such as c9, t11-CLA and the ratio between omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids are affected by the amount of grass and supplemental feeds (concentrate) in the diet. Milk content of several vitamins and minerals are also influenced by the cow's diet.<ref>Anna Haug, Arne T Hostmark, and Odd M Harstad Bovine milk in human nutrition – a review, Lipids Health Dis. 2007; 6: 25.</ref> In a study it was found that concentrations of micro-components like CLA, and to a lesser extent EPA and DHA, can be significantly enhanced through the use of diet formulation and nutritional management of dairy cows.<ref>Lock AL, Bauman DE, Modifying milk fat composition of dairy cows to enhance fatty acids beneficial to human health, Lipids, 2004 Dec;39(12):1197-206</ref> In another study effect of diet and cooling interactions on milk composition were studied in cows. So, it can be said that diet definitely affects milk composition and in turn effects are also modulated. If cow is fed with ''masha'' then the qualities of milk will increase and thus such milk is said to be good aphrodisiac that have more beneficial effects on sperm quality. Masha itself has properties of increasing ''shukra'' as it has ''snigdha'' and ''madhura'' qualities. | + | Milk composition can be altered by the feeding regime of cow. Content of several fatty acids such as c9, t11-CLA and the ratio between omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids are affected by the amount of grass and supplemental feeds (concentrate) in the diet. Milk content of several vitamins and minerals are also influenced by the cow's diet.<ref>Anna Haug, Arne T Hostmark, and Odd M Harstad Bovine milk in human nutrition – a review, Lipids Health Dis. 2007; 6: 25.</ref> In a study it was found that concentrations of micro-components like CLA, and to a lesser extent EPA and DHA, can be significantly enhanced through the use of diet formulation and nutritional management of dairy cows.<ref>Lock AL, Bauman DE, Modifying milk fat composition of dairy cows to enhance fatty acids beneficial to human health, Lipids, 2004 Dec;39(12):1197-206</ref> In another study effect of diet and cooling interactions on milk composition were studied in cows. So, it can be said that diet definitely affects milk composition and in turn effects are also modulated. If cow is fed with ''masha'' then the qualities of milk will increase and thus such milk is said to be good aphrodisiac that have more beneficial effects on sperm quality. Masha itself has properties of increasing ''[[shukra]]'' as it has ''snigdha'' and ''madhura'' qualities. |
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| According to [[Ayurveda]], cow milk is better than other milk. Beneficial role of cow’s milk has been established by some recent researches. A study unambiguously clarified at the cellular level that cow's milk increased the activities of human PPARalpha, PPARdelta, and RXRalpha. The nuclear peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPAR) have been shown to play crucial roles in regulating energy homeostasis including lipid and carbohydrate metabolism, inflammatory responses, and cell proliferation, differentiation, and survival because PPAR agonists have the potential to prevent or ameliorate diseases such as hyperlipidemia, diabetes, atherosclerosis, and obesity.<ref>Suhara W, Koide H, Okuzawa T, Hayashi D, Hashimoto T, Kojo H., Cow's milk increases the activities of human nuclear receptors peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors alpha and delta and retinoid X receptor alpha involved in the regulation of energy homeostasis, obesity, and inflammation, J Dairy Sci. 2009 Sep;92(9):4180-7</ref> Milk is itself regarded as ''Sadyo Shukrakara'' (means instant aphrodisiac) in [[Ayurveda]] as it increases sperm quality soon after the consumption. | | According to [[Ayurveda]], cow milk is better than other milk. Beneficial role of cow’s milk has been established by some recent researches. A study unambiguously clarified at the cellular level that cow's milk increased the activities of human PPARalpha, PPARdelta, and RXRalpha. The nuclear peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPAR) have been shown to play crucial roles in regulating energy homeostasis including lipid and carbohydrate metabolism, inflammatory responses, and cell proliferation, differentiation, and survival because PPAR agonists have the potential to prevent or ameliorate diseases such as hyperlipidemia, diabetes, atherosclerosis, and obesity.<ref>Suhara W, Koide H, Okuzawa T, Hayashi D, Hashimoto T, Kojo H., Cow's milk increases the activities of human nuclear receptors peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors alpha and delta and retinoid X receptor alpha involved in the regulation of energy homeostasis, obesity, and inflammation, J Dairy Sci. 2009 Sep;92(9):4180-7</ref> Milk is itself regarded as ''Sadyo Shukrakara'' (means instant aphrodisiac) in [[Ayurveda]] as it increases sperm quality soon after the consumption. |
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| ==== Rice and its preparation with milk ==== | | ==== Rice and its preparation with milk ==== |
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− | ''Shashitika'' rice is ''snigdha, madhura'' and ''sheeta'' and so by Ayurvedic principle of ''guna samanya'' (similar properties) it helps in improving semen quality.<ref>Chakrapani, Charak Samhita of Charak with [[Ayurveda]] Dipika commentary, Sutrasthana, 5/3, Rastriya Sanskrit Sansthana, Delhi, 2006.</ref> ''Balya'' and ''brimhaniya'' drugs are added to rice for increasing strength of patient. ''Masha, shali, shashtika, godhuma'' provide combination of both carbohydrate and protein. It can be taken with milk and meat juice which again adds nutritive value. As digestive power varies with persons, dose fixation should be done individually after assessment of ''agni''. | + | ''Shashtika'' rice is ''snigdha, madhura'' and ''sheeta'' and so by Ayurvedic principle of ''[[guna]] samanya'' (similar properties) it helps in improving semen quality.<ref>Chakrapani, Charak, Sutra sthana, chap 5 Matrasheetia Adhyaya Verse 3, Rastriya Sanskrit Sansthana, Delhi, 2006.</ref> ''Balya'' and ''brimhaniya'' drugs are added to rice for increasing strength of patient. ''Masha, shali, shashtika, godhuma'' provide combination of both carbohydrate and protein. It can be taken with milk and meat juice which again adds nutritive value. As digestive power varies with persons, dose fixation should be done individually after assessment of ''agni''. |
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| ''Payasa'' is dietary preparation which is popular as sweet dish in India. It is prepared from combination of milk and rice. It has property to increase sperm quality. If made from various aphrodisiac drugs its effect is much more. ''Payasa'' is included in normal diet regime so it can be easy aphrodisiac formulation by changing contents of ''Payasa''. | | ''Payasa'' is dietary preparation which is popular as sweet dish in India. It is prepared from combination of milk and rice. It has property to increase sperm quality. If made from various aphrodisiac drugs its effect is much more. ''Payasa'' is included in normal diet regime so it can be easy aphrodisiac formulation by changing contents of ''Payasa''. |
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| === Ghee === | | === Ghee === |
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− | Clarified butter (''ghrita'' or ghee) is used as aphrodisiac because it is considered good for ''rasa, shukra'' and ''ojas'' ([[Charak Samhita]] [[Sutra Sthana]] 13/14). Intake of regular ghrita and milk is said to be best ''rasayana'' in ''Agrya Prakrana'' by Charak. Ghee is used as processing media that carries the therapeutic properties of herbs to all the body's tissues. Proper metabolism of drug is crucial in obtaining the maximum benefit. The lipophilic action of ghee facilitates transportation to a target organ and final delivery inside the cell, since the cell membrane also contains lipid. The effect of herb increases when it is used with ghee as compared to powder or tablet form.<ref> Illingworth D, Patil GR, Tamime AY. Anhydrous milk fat manufacture and fractionation. In: Tamime AY, editor. Dairy Fats and Related Products. Chichester, West Sussex: Wiley-Blackwell; 2009.</ref> ''Rasala'' has been said to be ''balya'' and ''shukrala'' (Bhavaprakasha Purva Khanda-12/124-127). | + | Clarified butter (''ghrita'' or ghee) is used as aphrodisiac because it is considered good for ''[[rasa]], [[shukra]]'' and ''[[ojas]]'' [Cha. Sa.[[Sutra Sthana]] 13/14]. Intake of regular ghrita and milk is said to be best ''[[rasayana]]'' in ''Agrya Prakrana'' by Charak. Ghee is used as processing media that carries the therapeutic properties of herbs to all the body's tissues. Proper metabolism of drug is crucial in obtaining the maximum benefit. The lipophilic action of ghee facilitates transportation to a target organ and final delivery inside the cell, since the cell membrane also contains lipid. The effect of herb increases when it is used with ghee as compared to powder or tablet form.<ref> Illingworth D, Patil GR, Tamime AY. Anhydrous milk fat manufacture and fractionation. In: Tamime AY, editor. Dairy Fats and Related Products. Chichester, West Sussex: Wiley-Blackwell; 2009.</ref> ''Rasala'' has been said to be ''balya'' and ''shukrala''<ref>Bhavamishra. Bhavaprakasha -Volume I.Purva Khanda Chapter 12 Verse 124-127 Translated from Sanskrit by K.R. Srikantha Murthy. 1st ed. Varanasi: Krishnadas academy;2000.pp.- </ref> |
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| ''Pupalika'' is a dietary preparation which increases strength and sexual power. When prepared with potent aphrodisiac drugs as mentioned above its efficacy increases many fold. Such preparation can be easily prepared and can be used as food supplement. | | ''Pupalika'' is a dietary preparation which increases strength and sexual power. When prepared with potent aphrodisiac drugs as mentioned above its efficacy increases many fold. Such preparation can be easily prepared and can be used as food supplement. |
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| Egg increases virility as they provide indispensable nutrients needed for sperm formation. Pork and chicken meat has been used in some formulations. For vegetarians, a diet rich in protein with high nutritive value can be used. | | Egg increases virility as they provide indispensable nutrients needed for sperm formation. Pork and chicken meat has been used in some formulations. For vegetarians, a diet rich in protein with high nutritive value can be used. |
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− | Fish has ''snigdha, madhura, vrimhaniya, balya'' and ''vrishya'' properties. ''Shaphari'' is a kind of small fish. ''Rohita'' is best among different varieties of fish. On basis of ''guna'', fish helps in improving sperm quality. Fish has various important constituents that are not synthesized by humans. Seafood, such as fish, crustacean and mollu | + | Fish has ''snigdha, madhura, vrimhaniya, balya'' and ''vrishya'' properties. ''Shaphari'' is a kind of small fish. ''Rohita'' is best among different varieties of fish. On basis of [[guna]], fish helps in improving sperm quality. Fish has various important constituents that are not synthesized by humans. Seafood, such as fish, crustacean and molluscan shellfish, and echinoderms, provides in the edible part (e. g., filet, abdominal muscle) many nutritional components beneficial for the human diet like n-3 polyunsaturated long chain fatty acids (PUFAs), namely eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), essential elements such as selenium and iodine, high potassium and low sodium concentrations, and the vitamins D, A, E, and B-12, as well as taurine (2-aminoethanesulfonic acid) among others. Omega-3 fatty acids are major components of neuronal, retinal, and myocardial membranes. Its protein is highly digestible due to low connective tissue content, and cholesterol content is also low in fish. Lean fish species are extremely low in fat content (<1 %), while fatty species are extremely rich in PUFAs.<ref>Oehlenschläger J Seafood: nutritional benefits and risk aspects, Int J Vitam Nutr Res. 2012 Jun;82(3):168-76. doi: 10.1024/0300-9831/a000108</ref> Many of these are required for proper functioning of reproductive system of human. So, fish may help in improving sperm quality. |
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| + | === Non medicinal agents and mental factors for vajikarana === |
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| + | Mental factors play prime role in sexual behaviour and on this fact. Sankalpa (determination) is best aphrodisiac. Soumansaya (pleasant mental disposition) is the most important factor in [[garbha]] dharana or conception. While mentioning factors having beneficial role on sperm quality and quantity, mental factors have also been given importance. Harsha is termed as stimulating pleasure to initiate the sexual act by psychological means (Gangadhar commentary on 1-4/48). ‘Harsha’ can be explained as the desire produced from Samkalpa (fantasy) leading to erection and ejaculation (Chakrapani commentary). |
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| + | Mental status and surroundings of the patient plays crucial role in determining virility of a person. Studies show that psychosocial distress contributes significantly to the etiology of some forms of infertility.<ref>Wasser SK, Sewall G, Soules MR. Psychosocial stress as a cause of infertility. Fertil Steril. 1993 Mar;59(3):685-9.</ref> Stress is one among important factor of increasing infertility. Psychological stress reduces semen quality with a central underlying mechanism being impairment of gonadotropin drive.<ref>Fenster L, Katz DF, Wyrobek AJ, Pieper C, Rempel DM, Oman D, Swan SH, Effects of psychological stress on human semen quality, J Androl. 1997 Mar-Apr; 18(2):194-202</ref> Stress also reduces sperm quality by increasing plasma ROS generation and decreasing antioxidant protection.<ref>Eskiocak S, Gozen AS, Taskiran A, Kilic AS, Eskiocak M, Gulen , Effect of psychological stress on the L-arginine-nitric oxide pathway and semen quality., Braz J Med Biol Res. 2006 May; 39(5):581-8.</ref> Lengthy sexual abstinence was found to affect all semen characteristics. Semen volume and concentration and total sperm count showed significant increases, whereas motility and normal morphology decreased significantly with duration of abstinence. With regard to fertility, a long abstinence period might induce senescence of spermatozoa.<ref>Levitas E, Fertil Steril. Relationship between the duration of sexual abstinence and semen quality: analysis of 9,489 semen samples., 2005 Jun;83(6):1680-6.</ref> Mental stress is one of the main causes of infertility. Healthy and stress free mind increases chances of conception. Advice on modifiable lifestyle factors should be given to people presenting for infertility treatment to help them make positive changes that may improve their chances of pregnancy. <ref>Anderson K, Nisenblat V, Norman R. Lifestyle factors in people seeking infertility treatment - A review. Aust N Z J Obstet Gynaecol. 2010 Feb;50(1):8-20. doi: 10.1111/j.1479-828X.2009.01119.x.</ref> Pleasant mind and environment can contribute a lot to improve virility. |
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| + | Eight factors which are involved in ejaculation process are mentioned. Harsha, as discussed earlier, is stimulating pleasure to initiate the sexual act by psychological means. ‘Harsha’ is the desire produced from Sankalpa (determination) leading to erection and ejaculation. Chakrapani described tarsha as vanitanamabhilasha i.e. desire of female partner. The word tarsha is also used to denote trisha so it can be described as strong desire to have female partner. Both the harsha and tarsha are psychological entities. According to Hemadri, the substance which is having the potency of prerana (stimulation) is called sara. So, sara is natural quality of [[shukra]] and so it flows without retention. Picchilata refers to sliminess and so it helps in smooth ejaculation. Gurutva helps in falling of semen. Anu refers to small so due to anu-bhava semen comes out quickly. Chakrapani comments that due to anu-bhava [[shukra]] has tendency to come out. The factors sara, paicchilya, guru, anu-bhava and pravanabhava are the physical properties of [[shukra]] which helps in ejaculation. |
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| + | There is immense need that we should change lifestyle to have content mind. Meditation, Yoga and Ayurvedic spiritual principles can contribute a lot in this field. |
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| + | === Explanation of [[shukra]] === |
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| + | From the different descriptions given regarding [[shukra]], its structure and functional identity can be understood in a broader sense. The term [[shukra]] represents androgens, semen and sperm itself according to the suitability of the contexts. In above context the seat of [[shukra]] has been told as whole body so it can be taken as hormone. It has been clarified that semen exists in whole and it comes out after sexual arousal. The main object and mean of sexual arousal is tactile stimulation. [[Shukra]] pervades all over the body seated on the sparshanendriya (tactile sensorium). The mind has inseparable union with tvak. According to Gangadhara the [[shukra]] present in the tvak (Tvaggatam Shukram) by continuous erotic stimulation gets ejaculated. Sushruta compares the ejaculatory physiology with that of lactation since both are deeply associated with psychological factors in Nidana Sthana 10th chapter. Sushruta explains the physiology of ejaculation as a combined activity of [[vata]] which is heightened by the heat generated in the act of copulation as a result of the rubbing of female and male genital organs which dispels the [[shukra]]. |
| + | There are various parameters for normal [[shukra]]. Beside physical parameters, the main criteria of normal [[shukra]] is that it should be able to procreate progeny. |
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| + | === Factors affecting virility === |
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| + | Virilty of a person may vary from person to person. Normal variations are described in here. Two parameters are given by which virility of a person can differ. In first example sparrow is mentioned to indicate frequency of sexual activity whereas in second example elephant is mentioned to indicate large amount of semen ejaculation. With help of two examples, sparrow and elephant variation in frequency and amount of semen ejaculation has been mentioned. These two parameters are important for determining fertility rate. |
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| + | ==== 1. Frequency: ==== |
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| + | Statistical estimates suggest that fecund ability rises sharply with frequency of intercourse. It is observed in a study that 94% of women aged 35 years and 77% women aged 38 years are conceived with regular intercourse for three years. <ref>Noord-Zaadstra BM, Looman CWN, Alsbach H, Habbema JDF, te Velde ER, Karbaat J. Delaying childbearing: effect of age on fecundity and outcome of pregnancy. BMJ. 1991;302:1361–5.</ref> The risk of erectile dysfunction in males aged among 30 to 75 years can be reduced by maintaining a regular frequency of intercourse. <ref>Zhanting Qin et al.Impact of frequency of intercourse on erectile dysfunction: a cross-sectional study in Wuhan, China, Journal of Huazhong University of Science and Technology (Impact Factor: 0.58). 06/2012; 32(3):396-9.</ref> Coital frequency is directly related to conception. Research shows that best sperm motility is found in semen emission every three to four days on average.<ref>MacLeod J, Gold RZ. The male factor in fertility and infertility. V. Effect of continence on semen quality. Fertil Steril.1952;3:297–315</ref> Intercourse every two to three days can maximize the overall chance of natural conception because spermatozoa can survive for up to seven days after insemination in the female reproductive tract.<ref>Perloff WH, Steinberger E. In vivo survival of spermatozoa in cervical mucus. Am J Obstet Gynecol. 1964;88:439–42.</ref> So, regular coitus with 3-4 days gap should be regarded as optimum coital frequency. |
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| + | ==== 2. Volume: ==== |
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| + | With the example of elephant, the second parameter of semen volume is mentioned. According to WHO guidelines, the normal semen volume is 2.0–5.0 mL. Adequate volume of semen is required to carry male gametes into the female reproductive tract. Therefore, ejaculate volume is an important component of a semen analysis done to investigate male factor infertility. <ref>Roberts M, Jarvi K. Steps in the investigation and management of low semen volume in the infertile man. Canadian Urological Association Journal. 2009;3(6):479-485.</ref> |
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| + | ==== 3. Season: ==== |
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| + | Effect of seasonal and individual variation on virility of a person has been mentioned. A particular code of conduct based on season has been told for coitus frequency. Such regime helps to preserve the strength of the person. According to Chakrapani, in hemant (early winter) and shishir Ritu (winter) virility of a person is more. So one can have coitus regularly as per their strength in these seasons. In vasant ritu (spring) coitus on every third day, and in varsha ritu (rainy season) in fortnight is advocated. |
| + | Human conception follows a seasonal rhythm.<ref>Cagnacci, A. and Volpe, A. (1996) Influence of melatonin and photoperiod on animal and human reproduction. J. Endocrinol. Invest., 19, 382–411</ref> Seasonal modifications of reproductive functions <ref>Meriggiola, M.C., Noonan, E.A., Paulsen, C.A. and Bremner, W.J. (1996) Annual patterns of luteinizing hormone, follicle stimulating hormone, testosterone and inhibin in normal men. Hum. Reprod., 11, 248–252.</ref> and semen parameters<ref>Levine, R.J., Brown, M.H., Bell, M. et al. (1992) Air-conditioned environments do not prevent deterioration of human semen quality during summer. Fertil. Steril., 57, 1075–1083.</ref> are documented in human males. Recent trends noted a decline in relation of seasonal variation and human conception rhythm. The increased industrialization leading to increase in people being shielded from both photoperiod (by indoor work) and temperature (by heating and air conditioning) might be the reason behind this.<ref>Till Roenneberg, Jürgen Aschoff, Annual Rhythm of Human Reproduction: II. Environmental Correlations, J Biol Rhythms September 1990 vol. 5 no. 3 217-239</ref> |
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| + | ==== 4. Cause of infertility: ==== |
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| + | In present era, even with availability of sophisticated diagnostics in approximately 15% to 30% of couples we are unable to find out the exact cause of infertility. <ref>Effectiveness and treatment for unexplained infertility, Practice Committee of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine, Fertil Steril. 2006 Nov; 86(5 Suppl 1):S111-4</ref> Ayurvedic Scholars included all conditions in which no evident cause of infertility was seen under broad term ‘Prakritya’. The second important cause for infertility which is observed was affliction of diseases. A person who is afflicted with diseases gets debilitated and this result in decrease in fertility/virility. This is another important principle and it shows scientific vision of ancient Ayurvedic scholars. |
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| + | === Adverse impact of infertility === |
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| + | Infertility is one of the major stress factor <ref>Cousineau TM, Domar AD. Psychological impact of infertility. Best Pract Res Clin Obstet Gynaecol. 2007;21(2):293–308.</ref> similar to the intensity of a life-threatening illness. <ref>Cook E: Characteristics of the biopsychosocial crisis of infertility. J Counsel Dev 1987;65:465-471</ref> <ref>Leiblum SR, Aviv A and Hamer R (1998) Life after infertility treatment: a long-term investigation of marital and sexual function. Hum Reprod 13, 3569–3574</ref> This distress and its treatment can affect various aspects of personal and family life. <ref>Burns LH and Covington SH (1999) Psychology of Infertility. In Burns LH and Covington SH (eds) Infertility Counselling.A Comprehensive Handbook for Clinicians. Parthenon Publishing, New York, pp. 3–25.</ref> It also adversely affects the relationship in terms of support, satisfaction and communication <ref>Lee T-Y, Sun G-H and Chao S-C (2001) The effect of an infertility diagnosis on the distress, marital and sexual satisfaction between husbands and wives in Taiwan. Hum Reprod 16, 1762–1767.</ref>, increases anxiety, guilt, somatization and depression. <ref>Fassino S, Pièro A, Boggio S, Piccioni V and Garzano L (2002) Anxiety, depression and anger suppression in infertile couples: a controlled study. Hum Reprod 17, 2986–2994.</ref> It challenges one’s own beliefs and about the world. <ref>Domar A, Zuttermeister PC, Seibel M and Benson H (1992b) Psychological improvement in infertile women after behavioural treatment: a replication. Fertil Steril 58, 144–147.</ref>The social network is affected as well.<ref>Fekkes M, Buitendijk SE, Verrips GHW, Braat DDM, Brewaeys AMA, Dolfing JG, Kortman M, Leerentveld RA and Macklon NS (2003) Health-related quality of life in relation to gender to gender and age in couples planning IVF treatment. Hum Reprod 18, 1536–1543</ref> As purpose of life is terribly shattered person goes in depression and considers himself as useless. |
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| + | === Selected vajikarana herbs and formulations currently in use === |
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| + | Shatavari, Vidari, Jivanti, Twakshiri, Sita, Godhuma, Masha are referred to have aphrodisiac properties in recent nighantu(glossaries of herbs). This is due to their inherent properties similar to [[shukra]]. |
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| + | #Ikshu: Ikshu or sugarcane has aphrodisiac properties and when cow is fed with sugarcane stalks than the milk will be more beneficial and rich in its aphrodisiac qualities. |
| + | #Pippali: Pippali is said to be vrishya or drug having property to increase sperm. Pippali has above mentioned properties only when it is used in proper dose and for short time. |
| + | # Yashtimadhu: Madhuka is guru, madhura, snigdha in properties. So, by [[guna]] samanya it acts as good aphrodisiac. When given with ghee, honey and milk it forms good aphrodisiac formulation. |
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| + | === Researches on herbs === |
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| + | ==== 1. Kapikachchu (Mucuna pruriens): ==== |
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| + | Atmagupta or Mucuna pruriens has been established as potent aphrodisiac. M. pruriens efficiently recovers the spermatogenic loss induced due to Ethinyl estradiol administration by reduction in ROS, restoration of mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), regulation of apoptosis and increase in the number of germ cells. L-DOPA largely accounts for pro-spermatogenic properties of M. pruriens.<ref>Singh AP, Sarkar S, Tripathi M, Rajender S. Mucuna pruriens and its major constituent L-DOPA recover spermatogenic loss by combating ROS, loss of mitochondrial membrane potential and apoptosis, PLoS One. 2013;8(1):e54655. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0054655. Epub 2013 Jan 22.</ref> In another study, seminal plasma of infertile patients, the levels of lipids, antioxidant vitamins, and corrected fructose were recovered after a decrease in lipid peroxides after treatment.<ref>Ahmad MK, Mahdi AA, Shukla KK, Islam N, Jaiswar SP, Ahmad S., Effect of Mucuna pruriens on semen profile and biochemical parameters in seminal plasma of infertile men, Fertil Steril. 2008 Sep;90(3):627-35. Epub 2007 Nov 14.</ref> Another study has clearly demonstrated the potency of M. pruriens to reduce the diabetic induced sperm damage induced by oxidative stress (OS).<ref>Suresh S, Prithiviraj E, Lakshmi NV, Ganesh MK, Ganesh L, Prakash S. Effect of Mucuna pruriens (Linn.) on mitochondrial dysfunction and DNA damage in epididymal sperm of streptozotocin induced diabetic rat, J Ethnopharmacol. 2013 Jan 9;145(1):32-41. doi: 10.1016/j.jep.2012.10.030. Epub 2012 Oct 26.</ref> In a study oral administration of M. pruriens to infertile men for 3 months not only resulted in general improvement in sperm count and motility but it also led to significant reduction in the level of psychological stress.<ref>Shukla K et al., Mucuna pruriens Reduces Stress and Improves the Quality of Semen in Infertile Men, Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. Mar 2010; 7(1): 137–144.</ref> Similar research studies of other drugs mentioned should be done to explore their aphrodisiac properties. |
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| + | ==== 2. Arjuna (Terminalia arjuna): ==== |
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| + | Extract of T. arjuna could be used as a natural antioxidant and enhancing the phytosterol content in clarified butter. Antioxidant supplementation drastically improves sperm count and sperm motility. <ref>Wirleitner B, Dietary supplementation of antioxidants improves semen quality of IVF patients in terms of motility, sperm count, and nuclear vacuolization,Int J Vitam Nutr Res. 2012 Dec;82(6):391-8</ref> Some tribal communities of Assam, India use Arjuna in cases of infertility as observed in an ethno-botanical survey. <ref>Deka j, Kalita J. C., Ethnobotanical important medicinal plants of Kamrup district, Assam, India, used in fertility treatment, International research journal of pharmacy, 2013, 4(3).</ref> Arjuna bark is widely used to decrease level of serum triglycerides and cholesterol, recover the level of high-density lipoprotein (HDL). As an anti-ischemic agent, it relieves myocardial necrosis, modulates platelet aggregation. It is an effective antioxidant. <ref>Sumitra M, Manikandan P, Kumar DA, Arutselvan N, Balakrishna K, Manohar BM, Puvanakrishnan R (2001). Experimental myocardial necrosis in rats: role of arjunolic acid on platelet aggregation, coagulation and antioxidant status. Mol. Cellular Biochem. 224: 135-142</ref> So, antioxidant properties of Arjuna can be used to increase virility of a person. |
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| + | All five Gana (Shukrajanana, Jeevaniya, Brumhaniya, Balya and Kshira Samjanana) as mentioned in fourth chapter of [[Sutra Sthana]] are used in vajikarana. The drugs mentioned in these Gana are mainly madhura, sheeta, mridu in nature and so by similarity in properties, they increase sperm quality. For example, meda is included in jeevaniya & shukrajanana gana; payasya in brumahaniya & balya; Jivanti in jeevaniya; shali & shashtika in stanyajanana. These drugs may act on higher center of the brain, i.e. the hypothalamus and limbic system. This may have anti-stress, adaptogenic actions, which helps to alleviate anxiety associated with sexual desire and performance. Administration of vajikarana [[rasayana]] viz. C. orchioides, A. longifolia and M. pruriens ethanolic extracts modulates the level of the pituitary hormones FSH and LH. <ref>Chauhan NS, Saraf DK, Dixit VK. Effect of vajikaran rasayana herbs on pituitary–gonadal axis. Eur J Integr Med. 2010;2:89–91.</ref> |
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| + | === Current vajikarana formulations === |
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| + | Experienced ayurvedic physicians create vajikarana formulations based upon the properties of individual dravya and needs of the individual. Identification of some drugs mentioned in the text is controversial. Some drugs are endangered species. So, practically it is not possible to prepare some formulations with same ingredients, but Pratinidhi or [[Abhava]] drugs can be used in place of such drugs. |
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| + | === Further scope === |
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| + | Ayurvedic formulations for vajikarana lack research as per current scientific standards. Lack of standardization of formulations and difficulty in getting unadulterated herbs are realistic obstacles in the utility of vajikarana preparations. Randomized controlled trials of these formulations can be helpful in understanding efficacy, possible side effects and other treatment related parameters. |
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