The problem of longevity has always intrigued man. Not only he wishes to live longer, but also desires to enjoy all pleasures of life. It is biologically possible for a man to live to the age of 125-150 years and there are records of persons who lived beyond the limits that exist today. The primary causes of ageing are genetic and these are unavoidable. Genetically one has a predetermined life span, morphological and physiological constitution and therefore an average rate of metabolism characteristic of given individual. The secondary causes are avoidable and they comprise of infections, diseases, deficiencies of vitamins, enzymes, hormones and other vital factors. These causes may not threaten life but affects the length of life span by producing irreparable damage to the tissues. Rasayana Chikitsa is one of the important branches of Ashtanga Ayurveda especially formulated to improve the health of the individual and at the same time cure the disease by promoting the strength and vitality. It contributes to the integrity of the Rasadi Sapta Dhatus and thus increases the longevity. The Rasayana by virtue of its capacity to modify the metabolic changes enable the man to fully utilise the possibilities, that nature has endowed him with. It not only prolongs the life but also improves the quality of life. A large number of drugs have been recommended for the use in Rasayana Chikitsa. Among them some drugs like Soma and its species Vidanga etc. are considered highly potent. Among the non-medicinal group, the regular use of ghee particularly the variety obtained from the milk but not from the curd and Brahmacharya is stated to prolong life. The lists of the drugs that can be used for Rasayana Chikitsa as advised by the Brihatrayi are discussed in main paper.
