Ayurveda, the ancient science of life, offers profound wisdom on longevity and vitality. Unlike modern anti-aging trends that focus on superficial aesthetics, Ayurveda emphasizes holistic well-being. Rooted in Rasayana (rejuvenation therapy), it works at a cellular level to nourish the body, enhance vitality, and slow aging naturally. According to Ayurvedic principles, aging stems from the depletion of Ojas (life essence), imbalances in Doshas (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha), and the accumulation of toxins (Ama).
To counter aging, Ayurveda prescribes a disciplined daily routine (Dinacharya), seasonal detoxification (Panchakarma), and mindful nutrition. Adaptogenic herbs like Ashwagandha, Shatavari, and Brahmi support stress management and cognitive function. Amla and Guduchi serve as potent antioxidants, while Ghee, Turmeric, and Triphala aid digestion, immunity, and cellular regeneration. Complementing these, Abhyanga (oil massage), yoga, and meditation enhance circulation, skin health, and mental clarity.
True longevity, according to Ayurveda, is not just about extending lifespan but ensuring a disease-free, high-quality life. By aligning with nature, detoxifying the body, and nurturing the mind, Ayurveda offers sustainable, time-tested solutions for graceful aging. It reinforces the belief that youthfulness is an inner state—rooted in balance and vitality.
In an exclusive conversation with The Interview World, Dr. B.S. Chauhan, Visiting Faculty at Himachal Pradesh University and Founding Member of the Science and Management Society, Himachal Pradesh, shares groundbreaking insights into innovative Ayurvedic anti-aging solutions. He discusses their transformative impact on longevity and well-being, highlights the power of Ayurvedic herbs in slowing aging, explores India’s vast market potential for anti-aging products, and outlines his long-term vision for Ayurvedic healthcare centres.
Here are the key takeaways from his compelling conversation.
Q: Could you share insights into the innovative anti-aging solutions you are developing and their potential impact on human longevity and well-being?
A: Every human being aspires to live a long, healthy, and fulfilling life. But how long can we truly live? Modern science estimates human longevity at around 100 years. However, Vedic literature extensively documents lifespans exceeding a century, often surpassing 100 years. We have thoroughly studied these ancient texts and discovered numerous prescribed methodologies for longevity.
One well-known process is Panchakarma, widely practiced today. However, Vedic wisdom describes even more profound techniques. Kayakalpa focuses on total bodily renewal, while Droni-Praveshika Rasayana offers an extraordinary approach. This method involves ingesting a potent blend of 38 rare herbs until the stomach is full, followed by six months of deep unconscious rest inside a wooden casket. The text describes this as a transformational process, capable of restoring an aging individual to complete youthful vigour. Similarly, Kutipraveshika replicates the experience of re-entering the womb, enabling a profound physiological rebirth.
These ancient practices suggest that one can easily live up to 90 or 100 years, after which rejuvenation can restore the body to a near-newborn state. Interestingly, modern science is also exploring similar possibilities. Our research has uncovered documented evidence supporting these rejuvenation techniques, many of which rely on rare Himalayan herbs. Our team is actively identifying and studying these botanicals, preparing to apply these ancient processes in the near future.
To further our research, we have travelled to regions known for exceptional longevity, including Okinawa, Japan, parts of Italy, and the United States. We have also documented numerous centenarians within our own region. Notably, Shivanand Ji of Varanasi, currently around 130 years old, exemplifies remarkable longevity. Additionally, historical records detail the life of Telang Swami from South India, who reportedly lived for 280 years.
Vedic literature even introduces the concept of Ichcha Mrityu—the ability to choose one’s time of death—suggesting that individuals once lived according to their own will. We are now sharing these invaluable findings on international platforms, engaging with global scholars and researchers to bridge ancient wisdom with modern science.
Q: Have you developed any Ayurvedic products for anti-aging, or is your focus primarily on spreading awareness and knowledge about Ayurvedic longevity practices?
A: Himachal Pradesh is home to numerous herbal gardens, and I am personally involved in their cultivation and research. Among the many medicinal herbs found here, Meda (Polygonatum verticillatum) stands out. This powerful herb possesses antitussive, carminative, and tonic properties. It generates bodily heat, reduces excess fluids, and treats conditions such as diminished vitality, kidney and hip pain, abdominal swelling, joint fluid accumulation, skin eruptions, and persistent coughs.
Interestingly, Chyawanprash derives its name from Chaman Rishi, who regularly consumed Meda for its rejuvenating effects. We have successfully cultivated both Meda and Mahameda, along with several other rare herbs that flourish in our region.
Himachal Pradesh is also rich in medicinal plants like Cordyceps, known for its ability to enhance immunity by stimulating immune cells and essential biochemical processes. Additionally, herbs such as Kuth and Arthi play a crucial role in bodily rejuvenation. Our vast herbal wealth holds immense potential for health, longevity, and overall well-being.
Q: What are your insights on the market opportunities for anti-aging products in India, and how do you see consumer demand evolving in this space?
A: We receive numerous inquiries from across India and even internationally for these medicinal herbs. Demand often far exceeds our current production capacity. While we currently cultivate these herbs in kilograms, some buyers request them in tons. To bridge this gap, we are actively expanding our production capabilities. The opportunities in this sector are immense, and scaling up is essential to meet the growing market demand.
Q: What’s your long-term vision for your organization to further propel the movement of producing anti-aging products?
A: We aim to involve 10,000 to 50,000 farmers from Himachal Pradesh in large-scale medicinal farming, not just within our state but also in Jammu & Kashmir and Uttarakhand. These cold-climate hilly regions offer ideal conditions for cultivating high-value medicinal herbs. Expanding this farming community will create economic opportunities while preserving traditional knowledge.
Beyond agriculture, we also plan to establish a wellness centre. During our research, we visited renowned wellness centres in Kerala. However, Himachal Pradesh, with its pristine environment and pleasant climate, presents an equally promising location. A well-designed wellness centre here can cater not only to Indian visitors but also to international tourists seeking holistic healing and rejuvenation.
