Traditional Insights into Male Reproductive Health: A Narrative Review of Vajikarana Dravyas (Aphrodisiac Substances) in Raj Nighantu (The Royal Ayurvedic Lexicon)

Male reproductive disorders are varied and often inter-related, with prevalence ranging from common sexual dysfunction, infertility to rare congenital anomalies. Conventional therapies, which include hormonal treatment, surgical procedures, and assisted reproductive techniques, often face limitations in cost, accessibility and are associated with side-effects. To combat this, there is a need to identify new herbal sources that are natural, cost-effective, and free from adverse effects, which can be utilised both for prevention and treatment. One of the important Lexicons is Raj Nighantu, as it stands out for its practical relevance and regional adaptability. It offers more detailed entries and a wider range of substances, including many newer plant species. A thorough analysis of Raj Nighantu’s Vajikarana medications has been conducted for this purpose, utilising Ayurvedic classic texts, available printed sources and databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. Drugs that affect the male reproductive system have been investigated through experimental research and phytochemical screening. The Ayurvedic concept of Rasapanchaka was used to further confirm their pharmacodynamic activities. About 95 plants with the Vajikarana effect were found in this review; 34 of these have been shown to improve the functioning of the male reproductive system.