Panchagavya ghrita: Classical foundations, pharmacological evidence and emerging clinical applications: A comprehensive review

Abstract

Panchagavya Ghrita (PGG) is a classical Ayurvedic lipid-based formulation prepared from five cow-derived substances: milk, curd, ghee, urine, and dung. Traditionally indicated in epilepsy (Apasmara), psychiatric disorders (Unmada), fever (Jwara), and jaundice (Kamala), PGG has gained renewed scientific attention for its neuroprotective, anticonvulsant, immunomodulatory, antioxidant, and hepatoprotective properties. Experimental studies demonstrate anticonvulsant and cognitive-enhancing effects, while preliminary clinical evidence suggests benefits in epilepsy management and migraine prophylaxis. The ghrita base facilitates central nervous system drug delivery, and cow urine distillate may function as a bioenhancer. Despite promising findings, evidence remains limited by small sample sizes, heterogeneity in preparation methods, and lack of randomized controlled trials. This review integrates classical Ayurvedic literature with modern experimental and clinical research to evaluate therapeutic potential, mechanisms of action, safety, and future research directions.