The Bioavailability Balance: A Critical Review of Millet’s (Kshudra Dhanya) Nutritional Ascent and Anti-Nutrient Caveats
1 PG Scholar, Kriya sharir department, MMM GAC, Udaipur
2 Prof and HOD Kriya sharir department, MMM GAC, Udaipur
Corresponding Author:Jetani Nency
Introduction
Ayurveda establishes Ahara as the "greatest medicine", essential for life's pillars Traya Upastambha and vitality. In the modern context, millets Kshudra Dhanya are championed as sustainable, nutrient-dense 'Nutri-Cereals.' This study addresses the critical need to analyze the dual effect of millets: their celebrated physiological benefits versus the risks posed by their inherent properties and anti-nutrient content, often overlooked in contemporary health narratives. Materials and Methods: This research analyzed classical Ayurvedic texts alongside scientific literature to elaborate the properties of millets (Kshudra Dhanya) and validate their physiological merits and demerits based on qualities like Ruksha and Vatakrita.
Results and discussion
Classical texts establish millets as Ruksha, laghu and lekhana. This combination yields therapeutic benefits: excellent management of obesity and diabetes by reducing Kapha and absorbing excess fat, and aiding digestion. Specific millets also promote bone repair and gut restoration. However, the primary flaw is their highly vata -Aggravating nature, which is the root of many chronic diseases. This severe Rukshata creates systemic pathology: Cardiovascular: Vata causes vasoconstriction, accelerating atherosclerosis and leading to myocardial ischemia. Musculoskeletal: Dryness depletes joint lubrication, causing increased friction and accelerating osteoarthritis. Pediatric: High fiber causes nutrient displacement in children, hindering crucial development.
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- Prof. Gauḍa Banwari Lal: Caraka samhita, published by Rashtriya Ayurveda Vidhyapitha,Delhi, Second Edition; Reprint 2021: Cakrapanidatta Commentry (Ayurveda dipika), Volume-1; Sutrasthan –27/3.
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How to Cite
Nency, J. & Sharma, P. A. K. (2025). The Bioavailability Balance: A Critical Review of Millet’s (Kshudra Dhanya) Nutritional Ascent and Anti-Nutrient Caveats. International Journal of Ayurvedic and Herbal Medicine, 15(6). https://doi.org/10.47191/ijahm/v15i6.20
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