Abstract

BHALLATAKA AS RASAYANA: A CLASSICAL AYURVEDIC REJUVENATIVE PARADIGM INTERPRETED THROUGH MODERN BIOMEDICAL PERSPECTIVES

Dr. Neha Arya*, Prof. Dr. Vidushi Tyagi

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Abstract

Bhallataka (Semecarpus anacardium Linn.), one of the principal Rasayana Dravya in Ayurveda, has been extensively described in classical texts for its Ayushkara (life-promoting), Medhya (intellect-enhancing), and Agnivardhaka (digestive fire–stimulating) properties. Traditional Rasayana Chikitsa aims to delay ageing, enhance immunity, and maintain psychosomatic balance. To explore the concept of Bhallataka Rasayana in classical Ayurvedic literature and correlate its rejuvenative claims with contemporary biomedical evidence. A systematic review of Ayurvedic texts including Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, and Ashtanga Hridaya was undertaken to identify references to Bhallataka Rasayana. Parallelly, modern experimental and clinical studies on Semecarpus anacardium were analyzed through electronic databases to elucidate pharmacological correlations. Semecarpus anacardium has a wide spectrum of pharmacological activities, according to the thorough assessment of the literature. It is highly valued among herbs and has a wide range of biological potentials. It also presents many opportunities for brand-new study fields. The fruit extract exhibits a variety of effects, including antibacterial, anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, anti-atherogenic, anti-oxidant, promoter of hair growth, and many more. These mechanisms validate the Rasayana claims of Dhatu Poshana (tissue nourishment), Vyadhi-kshamatva (disease resistance), and Jara Nivarana (anti-ageing).

Keywords: Antioxidant, Ayurveda, Bhallataka, Immunomodulator, Semecarpus anacardium, Rasayana, Rejuvenation.