Aging 30 Sep Aging, According to Ayurveda Aging is natural but to age gracefully is an ART. In medical terms, aging is a natural process of gradual decaying of all biological entities. Kala (Time) reserves the right to control aging. It interacts with the humans from conception till death i.e. during entire lifespan (Ayu). This interaction with time governs various changes that occur in the body viz. Dosha, Dhatu, Mala, Agni, & Oja. The old age (Vriddhavastha) is a condition where most diseases manifest the human body. Hence, Ayurveda recommends a holistic approach towards Dhatusamya (homeostasis) and Tridosha (bodily humor) balance so that the process of premature or untimely aging can be prevented. How Ayurvedic Rasayanas help to deal with aging? The rate of aging depends on the biological, psychological, social, and lifestyle conditions of an individual. These parameters either accelerate or prevent premature aging (Akalaja Jara). Hence, to prevent aging before time and to promote longevity, a separate discipline of Rasayana Tantra has been documented by the ancient medical science of Ayurveda. The Ayurvedic perspective of managing aging with Rasayanas During the approximate hundred years of a human lifespan the following sequence has been considered by Ayurveda: - The above Sanskrit Shloka explains the same in a tenure interval of the age of an individual: - 1. Balya (Childhood) - The first decade of life (0-10 Yrs): - This is the most crucial time period for the growth of the brain as about 85% of the brain anatomically matures during this age. Secondly, the first 10 years allow the body to interact with various biotic & abiotic elements to adapt & acclimatize with the environment. Essential herbs for a healthy Childhood: Vacha (Acorus Calamus) & Kashmari (Gmelina arborea): - These herbs are considered nerve tonics for the brain due to their natural anti-oxidant property. These herbs support healthy tissues of body during stressful or changing environments. 2. Vriddhi (Growth) - The second decade of life (11-20 Yrs): - This time period is referred as the "Period of Physical Growth". The underlying reason is that by the end of this tenure, the epiphysial ends of the bones are closed. Essential herbs for a balanced growth: Aswagandha (Withania somnifera) & Bala (Sida cardifolia): - These herbs promote muscle strength & act as a natural source of organic energy during these teen years. Being adaptogenic, these herbs promote calmness, tranquility & positive energy in teenagers. 3. Chavi (Beauty) - The third decade of life (21-30 Yrs): - This time period is referred to "The Phase of Glow/Aura" as the strength, vigor, and vitality are at their peaks. The last years of this phase of life secretly initiates the process of aging. The reason is that the peak rates of metabolism start accumulating the wastes in the cells which deteriorate the efficiency to expel the toxins from the body. Essential herb for Glowing & Gorgeous Beauty - Amalaki (Emblica officinalis):- Amalaki is widely used to promote beauty & longevity as it is rich in antioxidants and vitamin C. Amalaki naturally brightens the skin, purifies blood, & thus, promotes a radiant skin. 4. Medha (Intellect) - The fourth decade of life (31-40 Yrs): - This phase begins to show the symptoms of the declined cognition. In the case of females, there is a noteworthy decline in their reproductive capabilities. Essential herbs for sound Intellect - Shankhpushpi (Convolvulus pluricaulis) & Jyotismati (Celastrus paniculatus): - Shankhpushpi is used as a Rasayana for rejuvenation and Jyotismati supports neuro-cardiovascular functions. Their free radical scavenging and anti-oxidant properties improve memory, intellect, & immunity. 5. Tvaka (Health of skin) - The fifth decade of life (41-50 Yrs): - This phase is particularly marked by the aged skin. There is also a potential decline in the health of teeth, heart, and eyes. Nature gives you the face you have at 20. It is up to YOU to merit the face you have at 50. Essential herbs for healthy skin - Bhringaraja (Eclipta alba): - Its anti-inflammatory properties prevent various skin problems like psoriasis, acne, cracked heels, dermatitis, and itchy scalp. Its natural anti-microbial properties prevent the inflammation of hair follicles and baldness. 6. Drishti (Vision) - The sixth decade of life (51-60 Yrs): - This phase of life hinders the visual capabilities of the individuals. This time period also hinders the prostate, kidney, & gut functioning due to aging. Essential herbo-mineral for sharp vision - Chasku (Cassia absus) & Saptamrita Lauha: - Both are used as natural eye-tonics to prevent the individual from various eye-related problems. Chasku is used as collyrium in eye disorders along with Saptamrita Lauha (as a dietary supplement for the source of iron). 7. Shukra (Sex) - The seventh decade of life (61-70 Yrs): - This time span impacts the sexual health of the individuals due to a sharp decline in the male sex hormones. In fact, a loss of libido occurs in this decade. Essential herbs for healthy sex life - Atmagupta (Mucuna pruriens) & Munjataka (Orchis latifolia): -These herbs possess natural aphrodisiac & rejuvenating properties to balance the release of sex hormones and to maintain a healthy sperm count and libido. "It is mentioned in the Ayurvedic scriptures that if the above seven stages of life are lived with the prescribed herbal regimen, the following three stages WILL NOT BE REQUIRING any additional herbal supplements & the common health issues of the old age such as degenerating intellect, poor skin health, vision, diminished Strength, & reduced physical activity can be naturally prevented". 8. Vikrama (Strength) - The eighth decade of life (71-80 Yrs): - This age period persists with spine deterioration symptoms. Additionally, a major chunk of muscle mass is lost during this time span. 9. Buddhi (Wisdom) - The ninth decade of life (81-90 yrs): - This age is well recognized with the degeneration of neurons. The reason is that during this period the atrophy of the brain occurs which lead to the deteriorated mental health & analytical processing. 10. Karmendriya (Physical Activity) - The tenth decade of life (91-100 Yrs): - This phase is well known as the "The End Phase". Most of the systems of the body start gradually becoming less functional. In this stage even the fundamental requisites to carry out essential activities of daily living become impaired. Ayurvedic thumb rules to prevent premature aging Follow the principles of Swasthavritta such as Tri upastambha (adequate diet, sleep, and coitus). Follow the principles of Ayurvedic Dincharya (daily regimen) and Ritucharya (seasonal regimen). Utilization of Rasayana (rejuvenating treatments) and Vaajikarana (aphrodisiacs). The goal of Ayurveda is to prevent premature aging and to promote longevity. Ayurveda can assist you to steer clear the degenerative effects of aging. So, let nature optimize the development of your immunity and general health to rejuvenate your Body Mind, & Soul with unique herbal Rasayanas prescribed by the oldest medical science known to Mankind. Enjoy Happy & Graceful Aging!