How traditional herbal wisdom aligns with modern anti-aging research
Ayurveda's mechanism of herbs is the same as the biological mechanisms of aging explained in modern science, although the philosophical approach of both systems is different. But with modern-day advanced technologies, it is possible to validate the anti-aging benefits of Ayurveda herbs by identifying the specific bioactive compounds found in them and looking at their effects on the cellular and molecular pathways of aging.
Mechanism of action of Ayurveda herbs from a modern anti-aging perspective
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Antioxidants: Scavenges free radicals. E.g.. Ashwagandha
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Anti-inflammatory: Reduces chronic inflammation. E.g.. Turmeric
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Restoring gut microbiome: As we age, there is altered functioning of the gut microbiome, and as aging is connected to the health of the gut microbiome, adjusting the gut flora to improve the intestinal microecology is important to prevent age-related diseases. E.g.. Triphala (Three fruits – Haritaki, Bibhitaki and Amalaki)
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Regulate cellular senescence: Oxidative stress and DNA damage result in irreversible arrest of the cell cycle, which may increase with age. This contributed to a decline in health. So, compounds that can help prevent and control cellular senescence through epigenetic regulation will have anti-aging benefits. E.g.. Gotu Kola
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Multi-targeted approach of Ayurveda herbs: A single herb or herbal supplement in Ayurveda has multiple bioactive constituents that act in a synergistic manner, targeting multiple pathways simultaneously. E.g.. Amalaki
Examples of lab studies supporting Ayurvedic herbs’ antioxidant and adaptogenic effects
Bioactive compounds in Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) and its action -
Withanolides: Anti-inflammatory, Antioxidant, Neuroprotective
Sitoindosides: Adaptogen, Cognitive enhancement
Alkaloids: Anxiolytic
Flavonoids: Antioxidant, Anti-inflammatory
Research articles:
Bioactive compounds in Amalaki (Emblica officinalis) and its action -
Polyphenols and tannins: Anti-cancer, Antioxidant
Flavonoids: Anti-inflammatory and cardioprotective
Vitamins: Antioxidant, Antimicrobial
Research articles:
Bioactive compounds in Gotu Kola (Centella asciatica) and its action -
Pentacyclic triterpenoids: Antioxidant, Anti-inflammatory, Skin protective
Bioactive compounds in Haridra (Curcuma longa) and its action -
Curcuminoids: Antitumor
Terpenoids – Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant
As per Ayurveda, the mode of action of herbs is determined by the five principles – Rasa (Taste), Guna (Qualities), Virya (Potency), Vipaka (Post-digestive effect) and Prabhava (Special action).
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