In Ayurveda, health is described as the perfect balance of doshas (Vata, Pitta, Kapha), dhatus (tissues), and ojas (vital energy). Among the many nutrients that support this balance, Vitamin B12 plays an important role in maintaining ojas, agni (digestive fire), and dhatu-poshan (nourishment of tissues). Role of Vitamin B12 in Ayurveda
Although the ancient Ayurvedic texts do not mention “Vitamin B12” directly, its qualities and functions are connected with the rasa dhatu (nutritional essence) and rakta dhatu (blood tissue). A strong supply of this nutrient helps in:
Supporting ojas for vitality and immunity.
Strengthening rasa and rakta dhatus, improving blood quality.
Maintaining sharp smruti (memory) and balanced manas (mind).
Keeping prana vayu steady, ensuring proper energy flow in the body.
Symptoms of Vitamin B12 Deficiency (Ayurvedic View)
When the body lacks this vital nutrient, it leads to dhatu kshaya (tissue depletion) and imbalance of Vata dosha. Common signs include:
Daurbalya (weakness and fatigue)
Bhrama (dizziness)
Manasik aswasthata (mental stress, anxiety, confusion)
Rakta alpatva (low quality of blood/anaemia-like symptoms)
Jivha and Mukha roga (tongue and mouth-related discomfort)
Shwas kashtata (breathlessness, low prana shakti)
Ayurvedic Sources of Vitamin B12
Ayurveda emphasizes obtaining nutrients from ahaar (diet) and aushadhi dravya (herbal remedies). Some natural sources that help increase Vitamin B12 in the body are:
Dugdha (cow’s milk) – nourishes rasa and rakta dhatu.
Dadim (pomegranate) – supports rakta dhatu formation.
Masha (black gram) – strengthens tissues and improves vitality.
Godhuma (wheat) and yava (barley) – enhance digestion and dhatu poshan.
Haritaki, Amalaki, Bibhitaki (Triphala) – improve absorption and digestion.
Shatavari and Ashwagandha – rasayana herbs that improve strength and ojas.
Benefits of Adequate Vitamin B12 (Ayurvedic Insight)
Improves ojas shakti leading to stronger immunity.
Enhances smruti and medha shakti (memory and concentration).
Maintains balance in Vata dosha, reducing fatigue and weakness.
Strengthens rasa and rakta dhatus, giving natural glow and vitality.
Supports manas health, reducing irritability and mental stress.
Promotes dirghayu (long and healthy life).
Ayurvedic Lifestyle Tips for Better Absorption
Eat freshly prepared, satvik aahar.
Avoid excessive junk, packaged, and tamasic foods.
Follow dinacharya (daily routine) to keep agni balanced.
Include rasayana herbs like Ashwagandha, Shatavari, Guduchi, and Triphala.
Practice pranayama and yoga to improve prana flow and enhance nutrient assimilation.
