Pharmacognostical and Nutritional Assessment of Sprouted Pennisetum glaucum and Sorghum bicolor as Body-Sustaining (Dhatu-Poshaka) Functional Foods in Ayurveda

Background: The concept of Dhātu-Poṣaṇa in Ayurveda emphasizes the role of wholesome diet in nourishing body tissues and maintaining physiological equilibrium. Sprouted millets, traditionally used in Indian diets, are gaining scientific attention as functional foods because sprouting increases enzymatic activity and improves their nutritional and bioactive properties. Objective: The present study aimed to evaluate the pharmacognostical and nutritional properties of sprouted Pennisetum glaucum L. and Sorghum bicolor L. and to explore their potential as Dhātu-Poṣaka functional foods in Ayurveda. Methods: The sprouted grains were subjected to pharmacognostical evaluation including macroscopic, microscopic, physicochemical analysis for quality valuation and nutritional value assessment. Results: Germination was found to enhance organoleptic characteristics, improve structural features, and increase the availability of nutrients. Preliminary phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of phenolics, flavonoids, carbohydrates, proteins, and essential macro and micronutrients assessment confirmed that sprouting of these grains possess significant nutritional properties. Conclusion: In conclusion, pharmacognostical standardization demonstrates that sprouted P. glaucum and S. bicolor possess significant nutritional and therapeutic attributes, supporting their use as Dhatu-Poshaka functional foods in Ayurveda. Further studies may help establish their clinical relevance in health promotion.