ROLE OF RASAYANA THERAPY IN GERIATRICS (JARA CHIKITSA): AN INTEGRATIVE REVIEW
Introduction: The global rise in life expectancy has resulted in an increasing geriatric population, accompanied by challenges of aging-related decline, multimorbidity, frailty, and reduced quality of life. Modern medicine addresses geriatric conditions primarily through symptomatic care and disease-specific pharmacotherapy but often falls short in offering holistic, preventive, and rejuvenative solutions. Ayurveda, through its branch of Jara Chikitsa (geriatrics), emphasizes Rasayana therapy—rejuvenation measures aimed at delaying aging, enhancing immunity, and promoting healthy longevity. Methods: This review employed a comprehensive literature search in Ayurvedic classics (Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, Ashtanga Hridaya) and modern scientific databases (PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, AYUSH Research Portal). Studies included were clinical trials, pharmacological investigations, systematic reviews, and conceptual papers on Rasayana therapy and geriatrics. Exclusion criteria comprised anecdotal reports, unpublished theses, and non-peer-reviewed material. Results: Classical texts describe Rasayana therapy as enhancing ojas, promoting medhya (cognitive function), and maintaining tissue integrity. Single herbs (Amalaki, Guduchi, Ashwagandha, Shatavari), compound formulations (Chyawanprash, Brahma Rasayana), and specialized practices (Achara Rasayana) are highlighted. Modern evidence supports Rasayana’s antioxidant, immunomodulatory, neuroprotective, and anti-aging properties. Clinical trials indicate benefits in cognitive decline, immunity enhancement, stress reduction, metabolic regulation, and quality of life improvement in elderly populations. Discussion: Rasayana therapy provides a multidimensional approach addressing biological aging, psychosocial well-being, and functional independence. However, gaps remain in large-scale randomized controlled trials, standardized formulations, and molecular mechanism elucidation. Conclusion: Rasayana therapy offers a holistic, preventive, and rejuvenative strategy in geriatric healthcare. Its integration with modern geriatric practices may significantly contribute to healthy aging, reduced morbidity, and enhanced quality of life in elderly populations.
KEYWORDS: Aging, Ayurveda, Geriatrics, Jara Chikitsa, Rasayana Therapy