Critical Review of Ksheeraghrtaabhyaso: Ghee and Milk for Longevity
Journal name: Ayushdhara
Original article title: A Critical Review of Ksheeraghrtaabhyaso Rasayananaam (Regular Ingestion of Ghee and Milk for Rejuvenation and Longevity of Life)
AYUSHDHARA is an international peer-reviewed journal. It focuses on research in Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, Homeopathy, Allopathy, and Pharmaceutical Sciences.
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Krishan Yadav
Consultant in the Department of Swasthavritta, Satya Ayurvedic Medical College and Hospital, Meham, Rohtak, Haryana, India
Ayushdhara:
(A peer-reviewed, bi-monthly open-access journal)
Full text available for: A Critical Review of Ksheeraghrtaabhyaso Rasayananaam (Regular Ingestion of Ghee and Milk for Rejuvenation and Longevity of Life)
Year: 2023 | Doi: 10.47070/ayushdhara.v10i2.1186
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA 4.0
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
The article discusses the Ayurvedic concept of "Ksheeraghrtaabhyaso Rasayananaam," which refers to the regular consumption of ghee (Ghrita) and milk (Ksheera) for rejuvenation and promoting longevity. It emphasizes the integral role of these substances in enhancing health through their nourishing properties and their influence on bodily 'dhatus' (tissues) and 'ojas' (vital energy). The study underscores the significance of these dietary components within the holistic framework of Ayurveda, suggesting that dietary practices can help combat the rising health concerns due to modern lifestyle choices.
The Importance of Rasayana
Rasayana, a branch of Ayurveda concerned with promoting health and longevity, plays a vital role in enhancing immunity and overall well-being. The term itself combines "Rasa," implying nourishment, and "Ayana," referring to the pathway of nourishment within the body. Acharya Charaka's teachings highlight that 'Ajasrika Rasayana' involves the habitual use of nutritious foods like ghee and milk, which not only directly benefit tissue health but also bolster 'ojas' levels. These substances are considered essential for all age groups, offering a natural means of enhancing physical and mental vitality while potentially lowering susceptibility to diseases.
The Role of Dietary Practices
The article also elaborates on the significance of 'Achara Rasayana,' a set of ethical guidelines meant to improve the efficacy of rejuvenation therapies. Following a moral code and maintaining a balanced lifestyle are seen as pivotal for maximizing health benefits from dietary practices. Charaka notes that adherence to principles such as truthfulness, non-violence, and moderation in various life aspects, including diet, significantly contributes to one's health and longevity. This holistic approach underlines how lifestyle choices can enhance the positive effects of consuming rasayana substances like ghee and milk.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the integration of ghee and milk into the daily diet is supported by the principles of Ayurveda as a means to promote rejuvenation and longevity. The regular consumption of these 'rasayana dravyas' not only nourishes the body at the tissue level but also enhances the immune system, vital for protecting against contemporary health threats. As concerns around lifestyle-related diseases become increasingly prominent, this Ayurvedic practice offers a valuable framework for maintaining health, especially in vulnerable populations such as children, who stand to gain significantly from these traditional dietary recommendations.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is Ksheeraghrtaabhyaso Rasayananaam in Ayurveda?
Ksheeraghrtaabhyaso Rasayananaam refers to the regular ingestion of ghee and milk as a rejuvenation therapy for improving health, increasing longevity, and enhancing immune function as part of a healthy diet.
How does the ingestion of ghee and milk benefit health?
Ghee and milk are considered Rasayana dravyas that nourish tissues, enhance Ojas, improve digestion, bolster immunity, and promote overall physical and mental well-being, making them suitable for individuals of all ages.
What role does Achara Rasayana play in longevity?
Achara Rasayana emphasizes adhering to ethical and moral guidelines, which enhances the benefits of Rasayana therapies, optimizing health and longevity while preventing the adverse effects of improper lifestyle choices.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Critical Review of Ksheeraghrtaabhyaso: Ghee and Milk for Longevity�. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.
1) Rasayana (Rasa-ayana):
A branch of Ayurveda focusing on rejuvenation, longevity, and promoting strength and immunity. Rasayana nourishes cells and tissues, improving health both physically and mentally.
2) Milk:
°ä´Ç·É’s milk is highlighted in Ayurveda for its nourishing qualities and is considered a Shrestha Rasayana. Its balanced nutrients are good for all ages.
3) Rasa (Rasha):
In Ayurveda, Rasa refers to the primary nutrient fluid that nourishes cells and tissues in the body, directly linked to Rasayana.
4) Ghrita (Ghrta):
Ghrita, or ghee, is a clarified butter praised for its health benefits, including improving digestion and nurturing Dhatus (tissues).
5) Dhatu:
Fundamental bodily tissues in Ayurveda. Rasayana practices support the proper nourishment and development of Dhatus.
6) Ojas:
The essence of all Dhatus, crucial for immunity and vitality. Both milk and ghee contribute to increasing Ojas in the body.
7) Guna:
Refers to properties or qualities in Ayurveda. For example, Madhura (sweet) and Guru (heavy) qualities are significant in milk and ghee.
8) Ghi (Ghee):
A form of clarified butter known as Ghrita in Ayurveda, it is valued for its therapeutic properties and is part of the Ajasrika Rasayana.
9) Dravya:
A substance or material used in Ayurvedic medicine. Milk and ghee are considered excellent Rasayana Dravyas.
10) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
An ancient Indian system of medicine focused on the balance of body, mind, and spirit through practices such as Rasayana.
11) Madhura:
A taste category in Ayurveda meaning 'sweet.' It is a significant Guna of milk and ghee, contributing to their Rasayana properties.
12) Guru:
A quality meaning 'heavy' in Ayurveda. Milk has Guru Guna, contributing to its nourishing and fortifying effects on the body.
13) Agni:
The digestive fire in Ayurveda. Both Ghrita and Ksheera (milk) enhance Agni, which is essential for digestion and metabolism.
14) Diet:
In Ayurveda, a balanced and nutritious diet including Rasayana Dravya like milk and ghee is essential for health and longevity.
15) Disease:
Ayurveda aims at preventing disease through Rasayana practices which boost immunity and overall health.
16) Stanya:
Breast milk, referred to as Rasadhatu's Upadhatu, is the primary food for infants and supports overall growth and immunity.
17) Pitta:
One of the three Doshas in Ayurveda representing the fire element. Aggravated Pitta can be balanced by cooling and nourishing substances like milk.
18) Ahara:
Means food in Ayurveda. Ksheera (milk) and Ghrita (ghee) are part of the daily Ahara for their Rasayana benefits.
19) Food:
Consuming Rasayana Dravya, such as milk and ghee, is a critical aspect of maintaining health and preventing illness according to Ayurveda.
20) Knowledge:
[see source text or glossary: Knowledge]
21) Substance:
[see source text or glossary: Substance]
22) Snigdha:
A quality meaning 'oily' or 'unctuous.' Both milk and ghee possess Snigdha Guna, providing lubrication and nourishment to the tissues.
23) Ushna (Usna):
Refers to warmth. Some types of Ayurvedic treatments use Ushna Dravyas (warm substances) to balance Doshas.
24) Bala:
Means strength. Rasayana practices involving milk and ghee are believed to enhance Bala (physical strength and immunity).
25) Vata:
One of the three Doshas representing the air element. Vata-pacifying foods like warm milk and ghee help maintain balance.
26) Madhurarasa (Madhura-rasa):
[see source text or glossary: Madhurarasa]
27) Medhya:
Refers to substances that improve intellect and mental functions. Ghee has Medhya properties, enhancing cognitive functions.
28) Dosha (Dosa):
[see source text or glossary: Dosha]
29) Kapha:
One of the three Doshas in Ayurveda, representing the earth and water elements. Milk and ghee help balance Kapha while nourishing the body.
30) Laghu:
[see source text or glossary: Laghu]
31) Mridu (Mrdu):
[see source text or glossary: Mridu]
32) Puranaghrita (Puranaghrta, Purana-ghrita):
Ghee that has been aged for ten years with enhanced properties for healing and Rasayana purposes.
33) Rasadhatu (Rasa-dhatu):
A primary tissue fluid essential for nourishment, it is the first Dhatu formed after digestion according to Ayurvedic principles.
34) Ashtanga (Astanga, Ashtan-anga):
[see source text or glossary: Ashtanga]
35) Purana:
[see source text or glossary: Purana]
36) Ruksha (Ruksa):
[see source text or glossary: Ruksha]
37) Shukra (Sukra):
[see source text or glossary: Shukra]
38) Gandha (Gamdha):
[see source text or glossary: Gandha]
39) Nature:
[see source text or glossary: Nature]
40) Desire:
[see source text or glossary: Desire]
41) Acara:
[see source text or glossary: Achara]
42) Ayana:
Refers to the 'path.' In the context of Rasayana, it denotes the pathway of nutrients and the motion of Rasa in the body.
43) Varna:
[see source text or glossary: Varna]
44) Anger (Angry):
[see source text or glossary: Anger]
45) Cow milk (Cow's milk):
Goksheera, or cow's milk, is regarded as a Shrestha Rasayana and is rich in nutrients essential for growth and immunity.
46) Ashtangahridaya (Astangahrdaya, Ashtanga-hridaya):
[see source text or glossary: Ashtanga-hridaya]
47) Anabhishyandin (Anabhisyandin, Anabhisyandi, Anabhishyandi):
[see source text or glossary: Anabhishyandi]
48) Saptadhatu (Sapta-dhatu, Saptan-dhatu):
[see source text or glossary: Saptadhatu]
49) Laksharasa (Laksarasa, Laksha-rasa):
[see source text or glossary: Laksha-rasa]
50) Raktapitta (Rakta-pitta):
[see source text or glossary: Raktapitta]
51) Meditation:
A practice to achieve mental clarity and calmness. Related to Rasayana by promoting mental health and well-being.
52) Science (Scientific):
The study aims to collect scientific facts to validate the impact of Rasayana practices like ingestion of milk and ghee.
53) Padartha (Pada-artha):
[see source text or glossary: Padartha]
54) Prasanna:
[see source text or glossary: Prasanna]
55) Medicine:
[see source text or glossary: Medicine]
56) Samhita:
[see source text or glossary: Samhita]
57) Atisara:
[see source text or glossary: Atisara]
58) Hridaya (Hrdaya):
[see source text or glossary: Hridaya]
59) Sparsha (Sparsa):
[see source text or glossary: Sparsha]
60) Sattva (Shattva):
[see source text or glossary: Sattva]
61) Dharma:
[see source text or glossary: Dharma]
62) Laksha (Laksa):
[see source text or glossary: Laksha]
63) Satmya:
[see source text or glossary: Satmya]
64) Vipaka:
[see source text or glossary: Vipaka]
65) Kanthi (Kamthi):
[see source text or glossary: Kanthi]
66) Srotas (Shrotas):
The channels or pathways in the body for the transport of Dhatus. Milk and ghee help in cleansing and regulating these channels.
67) Lavana:
[see source text or glossary: Lavana]
68) Shosha (Sosa):
[see source text or glossary: Shosha]
69) Bahala:
[see source text or glossary: Bahala]
70) Medha (Medhas):
[see source text or glossary: Medha]
71) Nitya:
[see source text or glossary: Nitya]
72) Manda (Mamda):
[see source text or glossary: Manda]
73) Sarpis (Sarpi, Sarpish):
[see source text or glossary: Sarpi]
74) Balya:
[see source text or glossary: Balya]
75) Birth:
[see source text or glossary: Birth]
[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 225]
Other Science Concepts:
Discover the significance of concepts within the article: �Critical Review of Ksheeraghrtaabhyaso: Ghee and Milk for Longevity�. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:
Ahimsa, Oja, Puranaghrita, Achararasayana, Rasayana therapy, Swasthavritta, Kamya Rasayana, Ahara Rasa, Srotoshuddhi, Ajasrika Rasayana, Goksheera, Satyavadinam.