Abstract

BRUMHANIYA DRAVYAS (WEIGHT PROMOTING DRUGS) - A LITERARY REVIEW

*Umakant N. Rabb

Abstract

The word Brimhana means to nourishment, nutrition and promoting corpulence. The Dravyas which increases muscle bulk called as Brimhaniya Dravyas. The drugs mentioned in this group are as; Ksheerini (Ksheera Vidari-Ipomea digitata Linn), Dugdhika (Euphorbia prostrate W. Ait), Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera Dunal), Kakoli (Nomocharis oxypetala Royle), Ksheerakakoli (Lilium polyphyllum D. Don), Bala (Sida cordifolia Linn), Atibala (Abutilon indicum Linn), Vanakarpasa (Thespesia lampas (Cav), Dalz & Gibs), Payasya (Vidarikanda- Pueraria tuberosa DC), Vidhaara (Vriddhadaru-Argyreria nervosa (Burm. f) Boj). These drugs are used in Ksheena, Kshata, Krisha, Vriddha, Durbala, person who walks excess, indulging in sexual activity, and intake of excess alcohol. The qualities of these drugs are Guru, Sheeta, Snigdha, Bahala, Sthula Picchila, Manda, Sthira, Shlakshna. Here an attempt is made to rule out the controversial aspects of some drugs with help of other classical Granthas. Further scope of study is find the exact botanical source and make available these drugs in the form of medicinal as well as nutritional supplements for those who are under malnutrition.

Keywords: Ayurveda, Charaka Samhita, Brimhaniya Dravyas, Nighantu, Malnutrition, Weight promoting drugs etc.