Abstract

NIDRA AND MALE REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH: AN INTEGRATIVE REVIEW OF AYURVEDIC PRINCIPLES AND MODERN SCIENTIFIC PERSPECTIVES

Dr. Abhishek Sharma*, Prof. Ashok Kumar Sharma

Abstract

Sleep (Nidra) one of the Trayopasthambha (three pillars of life) in Ayurveda is fundamental for maintaining physical health, mental equilibrium, and reproductive vitality. Classical Ayurvedic texts such as Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, and Ashtanga Hridaya describe that proper sleep promotes Bala (strength), Vrishya (virility), and Ayu (longevity), whereas disturbed or insufficient sleep (Anidra) leads to Vata Prakopa, Ksheena Shukra (reduced semen quality), and Kleebata (impotency). In modern terms, these conditions correlate with hormonal imbalance, reduced testosterone, and impaired spermatogenesis. Contemporary research confirms that sleep deprivation disrupts the hypothalamic–pituitary–gonadal (HPG) axis, elevates cortisol levels, and suppresses gonadotropin and testosterone secretion, resulting in decreased sperm count, motility, and morphology. Oxidative stress and circadian misalignment further contribute to male infertility. Ayurvedic concepts such as Nidra Samyak Charya (proper sleep regimen) and Vajikarana Chikitsa (aphrodisiac therapy) offer preventive and therapeutic insights into maintaining reproductive health. Integrating these ancient principles with modern sleep science provides a holistic framework for managing male infertility by restoring Shukra Dhatu and hormonal balance.

Keywords: Ayurveda, Nidra, Shukra Dhatu, Male Infertility, Vata Prakopa, Vajikarana, Sleep Deprivation, HPG Axis, Testosterone, Circadian Rhythm, Rasayana, Reproductive Health.