Become A Member

  1. Home
  2. Volume 2 I Issue 2 [April To June]
  3. ROLE OF AUSHADHI AND RASAYANA IN THE PREVENTION OF PREGNANCY COMPLICATIONS: AN AYURVEDIC AND MODERN SCIENTIFIC REVIEW
Article Image
Shital Gaikwad

ROLE OF AUSHADHI AND RASAYANA IN THE PREVENTION OF PREGNANCY COMPLICATIONS: AN AYURVEDIC AND MODERN SCIENTIFIC REVIEW

Introduction: Pregnancy is a physiological state requiring optimal maternal health to ensure safe outcomes for both mother and child. Despite advances in modern obstetrics, pregnancy complications such as preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, anemia, and recurrent pregnancy loss remain global challenges. Ayurveda emphasizes preventive measures through Aushadhi (therapeutic formulations) and Rasayana (rejuvenative therapies), which aim to strengthen maternal physiology, improve fetal development, and reduce complications. Methods: A comprehensive literature review was conducted using classical Ayurvedic texts (Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, Kashyapa Samhita), commentaries, and modern research databases including PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. Keywords such as “Ayurveda,” “Rasayana,” “pregnancy complications,” “antenatal care,” and “Aushadhi” were used. Inclusion criteria were classical references, clinical studies, preclinical studies, and reviews discussing the role of herbal formulations and Rasayana therapy in maternal health. Results: Ayurvedic texts describe specific Aushadhi like Shatavari, Ashwagandha, Guduchi, and Amalaki for maternal nourishment, hormonal balance, and immunity enhancement. Rasayana therapy supports Ojas (vital essence), improving resistance against disease and stress. Modern research validates many of these herbs for their adaptogenic, immunomodulatory, and antioxidant roles, showing potential in preventing conditions like gestational diabetes, hypertension, and preterm labor. Evidence suggests synergistic benefits when Rasayana is integrated into antenatal care. Discussion: Ayurvedic preventive strategies emphasize holistic well-being, focusing on maternal nutrition, psychological balance, and fetal growth. While modern evidence supports the pharmacological effects of Rasayana herbs, systematic clinical trials are limited. Integrating Ayurvedic Rasayana with evidence-based obstetrics could provide a complementary framework for reducing pregnancy-related complications.

 

KEYWORDS: Antenatal care, Aushadhi, Ayurveda, Pregnancy complications, Rasayana