Abstract

BALYA MAHAKASHAYA IN CHARAKA SAMHITA: AN APPRAISAL OF THEIR DRAVYA, GUNA, AND KARMA FOR HEALTHY HOLISTIC LIVING

*Dr. Tejbeer Singh, Dr. Parminder Kumar Moudgil

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Abstract

Ayurveda, the ancient Indian medical system, offers a sophisticated framework of pharmacology known as Dravya Guna Vigyana, focusing on the intrinsic qualities and actions of substances. Among its classical classifications, the Balya Mahakashaya, one of the 50 Mahakashayas described in Charaka Samhita Sutrasthana 4/7, comprises ten herbs renowned for enhancing Bala (strength and vitality). These herbs—Aindri, Rishabhi, Atirasa, Rishyaprokta, Payasa, Ashwagandha, sthira, Rohini, Bala, Atibala—are examined in this paper through the lens of Dravya (substance identity), Guna (qualities), Rasa (taste), Virya (potency), Vipaka (post-digestive effect), and Prabhava (special effects). This review emphasizes the pharmacodynamic properties of these herbs, elaborating their Brimhana (nourishing), Rasayana (rejuvenating), Balya (strengthening), and Vajikarana (aphrodisiac) actions. By supporting Dhatu poshana (tissue nourishment), modulating Agni (digestive/metabolic fire), and enhancing Ojas (vital essence), these herbs contribute to both preventive and promotive aspects of health. Correlations are drawn with modern pharmacological findings that support their antioxidant, adaptogenic, and anabolic effects. Highlighting the classical Ayurvedic wisdom embedded in the concept of Mahakashaya, this article provides a detailed appraisal of the Dravya Guna attributes of Balya Mahakashaya. It underscores the importance of these herbs in maintaining physiological integrity, mental clarity, and reproductive vitality, thus reinforcing the concept of holistic health. The study invites further evidence-based exploration to integrate classical herbology with modern health sciences.

Keywords: Balya Mahakashaya, Dravya Guna Vigyana, Charaka Samhita, Rasayana, Ayurvedic Pharmacology, Ojas, Vajikaran.