A Review On The Medicinal Plants Of Kaayakam Lehyam: Nature’s Hidden Healers For Postpartum Recovery

Abstract

Kaayakam Lehyam is a traditional Ayurvedic polyherbal formulation. Which is employed in postpartum care. Yet its therapeutic basis remains underexplored in scientific literature. This review critically evaluates five core botanical constituents—Piper longum (long pepper), Zingiber officinale (ginger), Terminalia chebula (haritaki), Curcuma longa (turmeric), and Withania somnifera (ashwagandha). By integrating evidence on their ecological distribution, phytochemical composition, and pharmacological potential. Using a narrative review approach, we synthesize data from ethnobotanical records, recent pharmacological studies, and molecular-level investigations to explore their role in modulating inflammation, oxidative stress, hormonal balance, and tissue repair—key processes involved in postpartum recovery. Notably, bioactive compounds such as curcumin, gingerol, piperine, withanolides, and chebulic acid exhibit multi-target interactions, suggesting potential potential additive effects within the formulation. This review offers a novel perspective by linking traditional Ayurvedic knowledge with contemporary biomedical evidence, underscoring Kaayakam Lehyam as a promising integrative strategy for maternal health. Further pharmacological validation and clinical studies are warranted to standardize its use and translate its benefits into modern obstetric practice.