Review on Spermatogenic Activity of Gokshuradi Churna

Abstract

Infertility is an important and growing health problem affecting nearly 15% of couples worldwide. It is estimated that male factors contribute to 20-70% of cases depending on the latitude. Male reproductive system is highly sensitive to many factors such as environmental, lifestyle as well as numerous physical and chemical factors which leads to infertility. In 40 to 50 % of cases, a semen analysis can rule out the cause of the infertility. Many drugs in the market are available but they might produce various side effects that cannot be ignored. Vajikarana is one among the eight branches of Ayurveda. In Ayurveda, there are various herbal and herbomineral formulations that take place in Vajikarana chikitsa owing to their aphrodisiac property. Gokshuradi Churna is one of such versatile formulation that possesses Vajikarana properties and is used in male infertility. This formulation consists of five herbal ingredients i.e. Gokshura (Tribulus terrestris Linn.), Ikshura (Asteracantha longifolia Nees.), Mash (Phaseolus Mungo Linn.), Atmagupta (Mucuna prurita Hook.) & Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus Wild.). It is a polyherbal formulation illustrated in the classical text of Ashtanga Hridaya. Many formulations are available in various texts under the same name Gokshuradi Churna with different contents and different Rogadhikara (indications). This article compiles probable mode of action and Spermatogenesis activity of each ingredient of Gokshuradi Churna.