Biochemical appraisal of Gomutra (Cow urine)

Abstract

The sacred animal cow accorded a special status in Indian tradition. Its various products including urine is being used for various purposes since time immemorial. Cow urine is recognized to contain almost all substances (elements, enzymes, hormones, etc.) which are required by a human biological system. Therefore, regular use of cow urine maintains the balance of these elements in the human biological system and thus helps to maintain a good health & also helps to treat various disorders. Ayurveda (Indian system of medicine) described the various uses for different products of cow. Cow urine is recognized as ‘Amrit’ & Sanjeevani and its regular use promotes positive health. As a therapeutic agent cow urine is traditionally being used to treat many illnesses which include various allergies (especially skin allergies), cold, flu, hepatitis, leucorrhoea, leprosy, rheumatoid arthritis, various types of bacterial & viral infections, tuberculosis, ulcers and in chemical intoxication. Recent researches also validated cow urine having various pharmacological potential which include anti-oxidant, immunomodulating, bio-enhancing, lipid lowering, anti-diabetic, anti-carcinogenic, anti-microbial, anthelmintic, etc. effects.