Vajikarana Chikitsa (treatment) deals with the preventive and curative aspects of male infertility, impotency, weak libido and related defects. It is one of the eight special branches of Ayurveda. Vajikarana may therefore be called a science of eugenics and aphrodisiacs.
In ancient times, an individual without progeny was generally subjected to ridicule, while one with a number of children was respected. It was in response to this social compulsion that Vajikarana branch of Ayurveda came into practice. There are several herbal preparations to promote virility, in the form of pills, ghee, milk, certain types of eatables, curds and other food preparations. These are administered orally, after proper elimination therapy.
Rectal therapy with Vajikarana medicines in the form of emetics is also given. Apart from herbs, eggs of birds like hen, swan, and peahen and also of fish, animal fat of pig, semen of birds like sparrow, swan, cock and peacock, and also of crocodile have been stated to be useful to increase semen and sexual activity.
Vajikarana medicines are required to be given only after considering the power of digestion along with a proper nutritious diet.
The process of Vajikarana does not merely consist of prescribing oral medicines and food but also takes into consideration the environmental elegance, use of desirable clothes, cosmetics, and garlands of fragrance which positively influence the art and science of loving as well as of procreation.
In addition, massage, bathing, and taking enema with an aphrodisiac are secondary measures of Vajikarana. Freedom from disease and fear, and consumption of milk and ghee with food are helpful factors in rejuvenation.
Vajikarana Chikitsa is given between the ages of 16 and 70.