Abstract

INTEGRATING AYURVEDA AND PHYTOCHEMISTRY: A REVIEW OF BIOACTIVE CONSTITUENTS IN RASAYANA DRAVYAS

Dr. Megha Laxman Pathare* and Dr. Prasanna Gawali

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Abstract

The ancient science of Ayurveda offers a holistic framework for promoting longevity and vitality through the concept of Rasayana, which emphasizes rejuvenation, immunomodulation, and resistance against disease. In recent years, a growing interest has emerged in integrating Ayurvedic knowledge with modern phytochemical analysis to understand the bioactive constituents responsible for the therapeutic efficacy of Rasayana Dravyas. This review aims to bridge classical Ayurvedic principles with modern scientific insights by highlighting the phytoconstituents found in prominent Rasayana herbs and exploring their pharmacological relevance. Classical texts such as Charaka Samhita and Sushruta Samhita describe Rasayana as a specialized branch dedicated to maintaining Ojas, enhancing cognitive function, delaying aging (Vayasthapana), and preventing degeneration (Jara). Several Rasayana herbs, including Amalaki (Emblica officinalis), Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia), Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus), and Haritaki (Terminalia chebula), have been extensively studied for their bioactive components such as withanolides, polyphenols, flavonoids, alkaloids, and glycosides. These compounds exhibit a broad range of pharmacological actions, including antioxidant, adaptogenic, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, neuroprotective, and anti-aging properties. By correlating classical Ayurvedic actions with modern phytochemical profiles, this integration strengthens the evidence base for Rasayana therapy and supports its inclusion in contemporary preventive and therapeutic protocols. Furthermore, understanding the synergy of multiple constituents in whole-plant preparations reinforces the holistic approach of Ayurveda, offering promising avenues for drug discovery and integrative medicine. This review advocates for systematic phytochemical and pharmacological exploration of Rasayana Dravyas within the framework of traditional wisdom and modern science.

Keywords: Ayurveda, Rasayana, Phytochemistry, Bioactive compounds, Rejuvenation, Adaptogens, Herbal medicine, Withanolides, Immunomodulation, Antioxidants.