Abstract

APATHYAKARA GHRITA OF CHARAKA SAMHITA: CLASSICAL INSIGHTS INTO MALE FERTILITY MANAGEMENT

Dr. Rahul Dandiya*, Dr. Sarvesh Kumar Singh, Dr. Kshipra Rajoria and Dr. Swati

Abstract

Infertility, particularly male infertility, is a growing concern worldwide, with multifactorial causes such as oxidative stress, hormonal imbalance, nutritional deficiencies, and lifestyle factors. Ayurveda, the ancient science of life, provides a holistic approach to treating infertility through the use of diverse herbal and herbo-mineral formulations. One such potent formulation is Apathyakara Ghrita, mentioned in the Charaka Samhita, which is specifically designed to enhance reproductive health and promote progeny. This ghrita is a medicated ghee prepared using a combination of classical herbs known for their aphrodisiac (Vrishya), rejuvenating (Rasayana), and fertilityboosting properties. The present study aims to review the traditional formulation of Apathyakara Ghrita and examine the pharmacological and therapeutic potential of its individual ingredients—Shatavari, Vidarikanda, Masa, Aatmagupta, Gokshura, Go-Ghrita, Go-Dugdha, Madhu, and Sharkara—in the context of male infertility.

Keywords: Male infertility, Oxidative stress, Apathyakara Ghrita, Reproductive health, Aphrodisiac herbs, Rasayana.