Research Article | | Peer-Reviewed

Charakaukta Vaya Sthapana Mahakashaya: A Traditional Ayurvedic Formulation as a Targeted Nutricosmetic for Skin Rejuvenation and Anti-aging

Received: 9 October 2025     Accepted: 9 January 2026     Published: 11 July 2026
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Abstract

This review explores the potential of Charakaukta Vaya Sthapan Mahakashaya, a traditional Ayurvedic formulation, as a targeted nutricosmetic for skin rejuvenation and anti aging. The review synthesizes information from classical Ayurvedic texts and modern research to evaluate the formulation’s composition, pharmacological properties, mechanisms of action, and potential benefits for skin health. The analysis suggests that Vaya Sthapan Mahakashaya, rich in antioxidants and bioactive compounds, may offer a holistic approach to mitigating skin aging by addressing oxidative stress, chronic low grade inflammation, impaired tissue nourishment, and collagen degradation. Individual constituent herbs such as Amrita (Tinospora cordifolia), Dhatri (Emblica officinalis), Abhaya (Terminalia chebula), Mandukparni (Centella asiatica), and Punarnava (Boerhavia diffusa) exhibit immunomodulatory, anti inflammatory, wound healing, and hydrating effects that are relevant to nutricosmetic use. Additionally, their Rasayana properties align with the Ayurvedic concept of Vaya Sthapana (stabilization of aging) through Tridosha balance and Dhatu nourishment. Further research, including well designed preclinical studies and clinical trials, is warranted to validate these findings, define optimal dosage and formulations, and establish the safety and efficacy of Vaya Sthapan Mahakashaya as a standardized nutricosmetic intervention.

Published in American Journal of Clinical and Experimental Medicine (Volume 14, Issue 2)
DOI 10.11648/j.ajcem.20261402.12
Page(s) 34-39
Creative Commons

This is an Open Access article, distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/), which permits unrestricted use, distribution and reproduction in any medium or format, provided the original work is properly cited.

Copyright

Copyright © The Author(s), 2026. Published by Science Publishing Group

Keywords

Vaya Sthapan Mahakashaya, Ayurveda, Nutricosmetics, Skin Rejuvenation, Anti-aging, Rasayana

1. Introduction
Aging is a complex biological process characterized by the gradual accumulation of cellular and molecular damage, leading to functional decline and increased susceptibility to age-related diseases. The skin, being the body's outermost layer, is particularly vulnerable to the effects of aging, manifesting as wrinkles, loss of elasticity, dryness, and pigmentation changes. While chronological aging is inevitable, premature aging can be accelerated by various extrinsic factors, including UV radiation, pollution, poor diet, and stress.
Concept of Aging in Ayurveda
Ayurveda, views aging (Jara) as a natural and inevitable process influenced by various factors. This process involves a decline in tissue strength (Dhatu Kshaya), reduced immunity (Oja Kshaya) , and the dominance of Vata dosha . Understanding these Ayurvedic principles is crucial for developing targeted interventions to promote healthy aging and skin rejuvenation. In recent years, there has been growing interest in nutricosmetics – dietary supplements that support skin health and beauty from within. Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of medicine, offers a rich tradition of herbal formulations with potential nutricosmetic benefits. Among these, the Charakaukta Vaya Sthapan Mahakashaya stands out as a potent anti-aging formulation. .
The Vaya Sthapan Mahakashaya, described in the Charaka Samhita, is a combination of herbs traditionally used to promote longevity, vitality and overall well-being. These herbs are believed to possess Rasayana properties, which involve rejuvenating and revitalizing the body's tissues. However, a comprehensive evaluation of the Vaya Sthapan Mahakashaya's potential as a targeted nutricosmetic for skin rejuvenation and aging prevention is lacking.
This review aims to bridge this gap by synthesizing information from classical Ayurvedic texts and modern research to:
1) Identify the key ingredients of the Charakaukta Vaya Sthapan Mahakashaya.
2) Explore the potential mechanisms of action of these ingredients in promoting skin health.
3) Evaluate the available evidence supporting the use of Vaya Sthapan Mahakashaya as a nutricosmetic for skin rejuvenation and aging prevention.
Concept of Rasayana and its relevance to anti-aging and skin rejuvenation.
रसायनं च तज्ज्ञेयं यज्ज्जराव्याधिनाशनम् । (शा.स.पूर्व खण्ड. 4/14)
Rasayana (rejuvenation therapy) is aimed at establishing longevity, intellect, and strength. It enhances bodily functions, removes diseases, and eradicates aging and ailments.
Drugs which possesses rasyana properties have anti aging effect.
2. Material and Methods
This review employed a comprehensive literature search strategy to gather relevant information. The following resources were consulted:
1) Classical Ayurvedic texts: Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, Ashtanga Hridayam, and other relevant Ayurvedic compendia.
2) Electronic databases: PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar.
The inclusion criteria were:
1) Studies or articles discussing the composition, properties, or uses of the Vaya Sthapan Mahakashaya or its individual ingredients.
2) Studies investigating the effects of these ingredients on skin health, aging, or related biological processes.
3) Articles providing information on the Ayurvedic principles underlying the use of the formulation.
Information extracted from the selected sources included:
1) List of ingredients in the Vaya Sthapan Mahakashaya.
2) Traditional uses and properties of each ingredient according to Ayurveda.
3) Modern scientific evidence supporting the potential mechanisms of action of these ingredients.
4) Studies evaluating the effects of these ingredients on skin health or aging.
3. Results
The Charakaukta Vaya Sthapan Mahakashaya typically includes the following key ingredients:
Table 1. Ten herbs under vaya sthapana mahakashaya.

S.no.

Plant name

Botanical name

Family

Pharmacological properties

Used part

1.

Amrita

Tinospora cordifolia

Menispermaceae

Rasa-Tikta, Kashaya Guna-Guru, Snigdha Virya- Ushna Vipaka-Madhura

Kaanda

2.

Abhaya

Terminalia chebula

Combrataceae

Rasa-Pancharas (Kashaya Pradhan) Guna-Laghu, Ruksha Virya- Ushna Vipaka-Madhura Prabhava-Tridoshhar

Phala

3.

Dhatri

Emblica officinalis

Euphorbiaceae

Rasa-Pancharas (Amla Pradhan) Guna-Guru, Ruksha Virya-Sheeta Vipaka- Madhura

Phala

4.

Mukta

Pluchea lanceolata

Asteraceae

Rasa-Tikta Guna- Guru Virya- Ushna Vipaka- Katu Prabhava-Vishaghna

Patra

5.

Shweta

Clitoria ternatea

Fabaceae

Rasa-Katu, Tikta Guna-Laghu, Ruksha Virya-Sheeta Vipaka-Katu

Patra, Pushpa, Moola

6.

Jivanti

Leptadenia reticulata

Asclepidaceae

Rasa- Madhura Guna-Laghu, Snigdha Virya- Sheeta Vipaka- Madhura

Moola

7.

Atirasa

Asparagus racemosus

Liliaceae

Rasa-Madhura, Tikta Guna-Guru, Snigdha Virya- Sheeta Vipaka- Madhura

Kanda

8.

Mandukparni

Centella asiatica

Umbelliferae

Rasa-Tikta, Kashaya Guna- Laghu Virya- Sheeta Vipaka- Madhura Prabhava-Medhya

Panchanga

9.

Sthira

Desmodium gangeticum

Fabaceae

Rasa-Madhura, Tikta Guna- Laghu Virya- Ushna Vipaka- Madhura

Panchanga

10.

Punarnava

Boerhavia diffusa

Nyctaginaceae

Rasa-Madhura, Tikta Guna-Laghu, Ruksha Virya-Ushna Vipaka- Madhura

Moola, Bheeja, Panchanga

Therapeutic indication as vaya sthaphana
Amrita-“रसो...आयुःप्रदान्यामयनाशनानि बलाग्नि…वर्ण-स्वरवर्धनानि ।..रसायनानि ॥”(च. चि. 1/3-31) .
Amrita is a rejuvenating drug that possesses immuno-modulatory (i.e. rasayana) property which helps to promote longevity, enhance strength and complexion.
1) Abhaya- “हरीतकी………. च रेचनी कोष्ठामयघ्नी ।..रसायनी.... त्वगामयघ्नी ।।”(रा. नि) .
Haritaki is beneficial for cleansing the intestines which helps in detoxification of body.
It is a rejuvenating herb that helps to cure skin diseases.
2) Dhatri- “आमलकी वयास्थाप्नाना।।”(च.सू.२५/40) .
Dhatri helps to restore or stabilize aging. (i.e vayasthapana)
Promotes collagen synthesis, wound healing, and reduces inflammation. .
3) Mukta- “रासना वताहरा ।। ”(च.सू.२५/40) .
Rasna is a promising drug which helps to pacify vata dosha which is mainly responsible for akalaja jara (i.e. early aging signs)
4) Shweta – “गिरिकर्णी कुष्ठरुजापहा।।” (ध.नि.) .
Girikarni, Hima and Tikta are beneficial in pacifying pitta dosha.
It is effective in curing skin diseases.
5) Jivanti- “जीवन्ती शीतला स्वादुः स्निग्धा दोषत्रयापहा । रसायनी बलकरी (सु. उ० १७-५०) .
Jivanti also possesses Immunomodulatory property, adaptogenic effect and supports tissue repair.
6) Atirasa- “वातकफहरे तिक्ते महाश्रेष्ठे रसायने ।।” (रा.नि.) .
Satavari supports hormonal balance and promotes skin hydration. .
7) Mandukparni- “कषाया मधुरा स्वादुपाकायुष्या रसायनी ॥ स्वर्या स्मृतिप्रदा कुष्ठ ॥” (भा.प्र.) .
Enhances cognitive function and reduces stress, which can indirectly benefit skin health. .
8) Sthira- “शालपर्णी……दोषत्रयहरी बृंहण्युक्ता रसायनी तिक्ता विषहरी स्वादुः (भा.प्र.) .
Anti-inflammatory effects Reducing inflammation, which is a key contributor to skin aging and various skin conditions.
9) Punarnava- “पुनर्नवा तिक्ता रसायनी ।” ” (रा.नि.) .
Diuretic and rejuvinative, support kidney function and detoxification.
Figure 1. Tinospora cordifolia.
Figure 2. Terminalia chebula.
Figure 3. Embelica officinalis.
Figure 4. Pluchea lanceolata.
Figure 5. Clitoria ternatea.
Figure 6. Leptadenia reticulate.
Figure 7. Asparagus racemososus.
Figure 8. Desmodium gangeticum.
Figure 9. Centella asiatica.
Figure 10. Boerhavia diffusa.
Modern research suggests that these ingredients may exert their beneficial effects on skin health through various mechanisms, including:
1) Antioxidant activity: Protecting against free radical damage caused by UV radiation, pollution, and other environmental stressors.
2) Anti-inflammatory effects: Reducing inflammation, which is a key contributor to skin aging and various skin conditions.
3) Collagen synthesis: Stimulating the production of collagen, which is essential for skin elasticity and firmness.
4) Wound healing: Promoting tissue repair and regeneration.
5) Hydration: Improving skin hydration and reducing dryness.
6) Immunomodulation: Strengthening the skin's natural defenses against infection and inflammation.
4. Discussion
The Charakaukta Vaya Sthapan Mahakashaya represents a holistic Ayurvedic formulation designed to promote Vaya Sthapana—the stabilization or reversal of the aging process. Its multidimensional therapeutic potential lies in addressing the fundamental biological and doshic mechanisms that contribute to cutaneous and systemic aging. The rich antioxidant profile of constituent herbs such as Amrita (Tinospora cordifolia), Dhatri (Emblica officinalis), and Abhaya (Terminalia chebula) plays a crucial role in combating oxidative stress, one of the primary factors accelerating cellular aging. These antioxidants scavenge free radicals, prevent lipid peroxidation, and protect structural proteins such as collagen and elastin from degradation.
In addition to antioxidant support, several herbs in the formulation exhibit potent anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties that assist in maintaining dermal homeostasis. Amrita and Jivanti, for instance, modulate immune function and enhance tissue regeneration, while Punarnava aids in detoxification and fluid balance. Furthermore, Mandukparni (Centella asiatica) promotes fibroblast proliferation and collagen synthesis, resulting in improved skin texture, firmness, and elasticity. Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus) contributes to hormonal equilibrium, thereby supporting cutaneous hydration and delaying hormonal aging in women.
From an Ayurvedic standpoint, Vaya Sthapan Mahakashaya works on multiple levels—by balancing the Tridosha (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha), nourishing the Dhatus (tissues), and rejuvenating Ojas, the essence of vitality and immunity. Because premature aging is primarily linked to Vata vitiation and Dhatu Kshaya (tissue degeneration), the Rasayana (rejuvenative) action of this formulation is particularly effective in stabilizing Vata while supporting tissue regeneration and nutritional assimilation. This integrative balancing of physiological and psychological elements aligns with the Ayurvedic concept of swasthya (dynamic equilibrium of body, mind, and spirit).
Despite promising traditional insights, the scientific validation of Vaya Sthapan Mahakashaya as a nutricosmetic formulation remains limited. There is a need to investigate the synergistic interactions among its components through pharmacodynamic studies, in vitro models, and clinical trials. Such studies should measure specific parameters like dermal hydration, transepidermal water loss (TEWL), collagen density, wrinkle depth, and pigmentation, thereby providing quantitative evidence for its nutricosmetic efficacy. Comparative analyses with standard antioxidant agents could further elucidate its relative potency and mechanism of action.
5. Limitations
This review is limited by the availability of scientific evidence specifically evaluating the Vaya Sthapan Mahakashaya as a nutricosmetic. Most of the evidence is based on studies of individual ingredients or related formulations. Further research is needed to confirm the synergistic effects of the formulation as a whole.
6. Conclusion
The Charakaukta Vaya Sthapan Mahakashaya, a traditional Ayurvedic formulation, holds promise a a targeted nutricosmetic for skin rejuvenation and aging prevention. Its rich antioxidant content, anti-inflammatory properties, and potential to support collagen synthesis and hydration make it a compelling candidate for further research. Clinical trials are needed to validate its efficacy and safety and to fully elucidate its mechanisms of action. Future research should also focus on optimizing the formulation and delivery methods to maximize its nutricosmetic benefits.
Abbreviations

UV

Ultraviolet

Conflicts of Interest
The authors declare no conflicts of interest.
References
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[2] Bhavamishra. Bhavaprakash. Chaukhambha Sanskrit Samsthana, Varanasi, 1997.
[3] Smith, A. B., & Jones, C. D. The Science of Aging. Academic Press, 2010.
[4] Charaka Samhita. Classical Ayurvedic text.
[5] Agnivesha, Charaka, & Dridhabala. (n.d.). The Caraka Samhita of Agnivesa, revised by Caraka and Dridhabala: With introduction by Vaidya-Samrat Sri Satya Narayana Sastri “Padmabhushana” and elaborated Vidyotini Hindi commentary by Pt. Kashinath Sastri and Dr. Gorakha Nath Chaturvedi (Part 2). Varanasi, India: Chaukhamba Bharati Academy.
[6] Narahari Pandita. (2012). Raj Nighantu (S. C. Sankhyadhar, Comp., D. Sankhyadhar, Comp., & K. C. Chunekar, Foreword). Varanasi, India: Chaukhambha Orientalia.
[7] Agnivesha, Charaka, & Dridhabala. (n.d.). The Caraka Samhita of Agnivesa, revised by Caraka and Dridhabala: With introduction by Vaidya-Samrat Sri Satya Narayana Sastri “Padmabhushana” and elaborated Vidyotini Hindi commentary by Pt. Kashinath Sastri and Dr. Gorakha Nath Chaturvedi (Part 1). Varanasi, India: Chaukhamba Bharati AcademySushruta Samhita. Classical Ayurvedic text.
[8] Golechha, M., Sarangal, V., Ojha, S., Bhatia, J., & Arya, D. S. Anti-inflammatory effect of Emblica officinalis in rodent models of inflammation. International Journal of Inflammation, 2014, 2014, 178408.
[9] Sharma, P. V., & Sharma, G. P. (2008). Dhanvantari Nighantu. Varanasi, India: Chaukhamba Orientalia.
[10] Sushruta. (2016). Sushruta Samhita (K. A. D. Shastri, Ed.; Reprint ed.). Chaukhamba Sanskrit Sansthan, Varanasi.
[11] Gautam, M., Saha, S., Bani, S., Kaul, A., Mishra, S., Patil, D., Satti, N. K., Suri, K. A., Gairola, S., & Suresh, K. Immunomodulatory activity of Asparagus racemosus on systemic Th1/Th2 immunity: Implications for its immunoadjuvant potential. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 2009, 121(2), 241–247.
[12] K. C Chunekar, BhavaprakashNighantu Chaukhambha Sanskrit Samsthana, Varanasi, 1997.,446
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    Bisht, M., Uniyal, A., Anita. (2026). Charakaukta Vaya Sthapana Mahakashaya: A Traditional Ayurvedic Formulation as a Targeted Nutricosmetic for Skin Rejuvenation and Anti-aging. American Journal of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, 14(2), 34-39. https://doi.org/10.11648/j.ajcem.20261402.12

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    Bisht, M.; Uniyal, A.; Anita. Charakaukta Vaya Sthapana Mahakashaya: A Traditional Ayurvedic Formulation as a Targeted Nutricosmetic for Skin Rejuvenation and Anti-aging. Am. J. Clin. Exp. Med. 2026, 14(2), 34-39. doi: 10.11648/j.ajcem.20261402.12

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    Bisht M, Uniyal A, Anita. Charakaukta Vaya Sthapana Mahakashaya: A Traditional Ayurvedic Formulation as a Targeted Nutricosmetic for Skin Rejuvenation and Anti-aging. Am J Clin Exp Med. 2026;14(2):34-39. doi: 10.11648/j.ajcem.20261402.12

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  • @article{10.11648/j.ajcem.20261402.12,
      author = {Manisha Bisht and Ayushi Uniyal and Anita},
      title = {Charakaukta Vaya Sthapana Mahakashaya: A Traditional Ayurvedic Formulation as a Targeted Nutricosmetic for Skin Rejuvenation and Anti-aging},
      journal = {American Journal of Clinical and Experimental Medicine},
      volume = {14},
      number = {2},
      pages = {34-39},
      doi = {10.11648/j.ajcem.20261402.12},
      url = {https://doi.org/10.11648/j.ajcem.20261402.12},
      eprint = {https://article.sciencepublishinggroup.com/pdf/10.11648.j.ajcem.20261402.12},
      abstract = {This review explores the potential of Charakaukta Vaya Sthapan Mahakashaya, a traditional Ayurvedic formulation, as a targeted nutricosmetic for skin rejuvenation and anti aging. The review synthesizes information from classical Ayurvedic texts and modern research to evaluate the formulation’s composition, pharmacological properties, mechanisms of action, and potential benefits for skin health. The analysis suggests that Vaya Sthapan Mahakashaya, rich in antioxidants and bioactive compounds, may offer a holistic approach to mitigating skin aging by addressing oxidative stress, chronic low grade inflammation, impaired tissue nourishment, and collagen degradation. Individual constituent herbs such as Amrita (Tinospora cordifolia), Dhatri (Emblica officinalis), Abhaya (Terminalia chebula), Mandukparni (Centella asiatica), and Punarnava (Boerhavia diffusa) exhibit immunomodulatory, anti inflammatory, wound healing, and hydrating effects that are relevant to nutricosmetic use. Additionally, their Rasayana properties align with the Ayurvedic concept of Vaya Sthapana (stabilization of aging) through Tridosha balance and Dhatu nourishment. Further research, including well designed preclinical studies and clinical trials, is warranted to validate these findings, define optimal dosage and formulations, and establish the safety and efficacy of Vaya Sthapan Mahakashaya as a standardized nutricosmetic intervention.},
     year = {2026}
    }
    

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    AB  - This review explores the potential of Charakaukta Vaya Sthapan Mahakashaya, a traditional Ayurvedic formulation, as a targeted nutricosmetic for skin rejuvenation and anti aging. The review synthesizes information from classical Ayurvedic texts and modern research to evaluate the formulation’s composition, pharmacological properties, mechanisms of action, and potential benefits for skin health. The analysis suggests that Vaya Sthapan Mahakashaya, rich in antioxidants and bioactive compounds, may offer a holistic approach to mitigating skin aging by addressing oxidative stress, chronic low grade inflammation, impaired tissue nourishment, and collagen degradation. Individual constituent herbs such as Amrita (Tinospora cordifolia), Dhatri (Emblica officinalis), Abhaya (Terminalia chebula), Mandukparni (Centella asiatica), and Punarnava (Boerhavia diffusa) exhibit immunomodulatory, anti inflammatory, wound healing, and hydrating effects that are relevant to nutricosmetic use. Additionally, their Rasayana properties align with the Ayurvedic concept of Vaya Sthapana (stabilization of aging) through Tridosha balance and Dhatu nourishment. Further research, including well designed preclinical studies and clinical trials, is warranted to validate these findings, define optimal dosage and formulations, and establish the safety and efficacy of Vaya Sthapan Mahakashaya as a standardized nutricosmetic intervention.
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