Abstract

AYURVEDIC PERSPECTIVE ON FRUITS AND VEGETABLES FOR REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH (VRISHYA) FROM CLASSICAL LITERATURE

Dr. Anirudh Sharma*, Dr. Deepa L. S.

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Abstract

In Ayurveda, the importance of diet (Ahara) towards improving reproductive health (Vrishya) is focused. Not only are fruits (Phala Varga) and vegetables (Shaka Varga) nutritive, but they have certain pharmacologically useful propertises that are helpful to Shukra dhatu (Semen). Numerous fruits and vegetables have been found to have the Vrishya (aphrodisiac and reproductive vitality-enhancing) effects in classical texts like Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, Ashtanga Hridaya and Bhavaprakasha Nighantu. This paper is a critical review as well as a compilation of references to Vrishya fruits and vegetables as found in these texts.

Keywords: Ayurveda, Vrishya, Reproductive health, Phala Varga, Shaka Varga, Brihattrayi, Bhavaprakasha Nighantu