Cognitive Decline in the Digital Era: Exploring the Preventive and Neuroprotective Role of Medhya Rasayana

The rapid expansion of digital technology has significantly transformed human lifestyle, communication, education, and occupational practices. Although digitalisation has improved accessibility and global connectivity, excessive dependence on smartphones, computers, social media platforms, and virtual communication systems has emerged as a growing public health concern. Prolonged screen exposure, constant multitasking, sleep disturbances, excessive sensory stimulation, and information overload adversely affect attention span, emotional stability, memory, learning capacity, and overall cognitive performance. Recent evidence suggests that cognitive dysfunction is increasingly observed not only among older individuals but also among adolescents and young adults, leading to concepts such as “digital cognitive overload” and “digital dementia.” From an Ayurvedic perspective, these disturbances can be understood through the concepts of Prajnaparadha (intellectual error), Asatmya Indriyartha Samyoga (inappropriate sensory–object interaction), Ratri Jagarana (night awakening), aggravation of Vata Dosha, and vitiation of Raja and Tama Gunas. These pathological changes ultimately impair higher cognitive faculties, including Medha, Smriti, Dhee, and Dhriti. Ayurveda emphasises the preservation of mental health through Swasthavritta, Achara Rasayana, Satvavajaya Chikitsa, and Rasayana Tantra. Among these, Medhya Rasayana represents a specialised group of rejuvenative therapies known to enhance memory, intellect, concentration, emotional balance, and cognitive resilience. Classical Medhya Rasayana drugs such as Mandukaparni, Yashtimadhu, Guduchi, and Shankhapushpi possess neuroprotective, antioxidant, adaptogenic, anxiolytic, and cognition-enhancing properties. This review explores cognitive decline associated with excessive digital exposure, drawing on Ayurvedic principles. It highlights the preventive and neuroprotective role of Medhya Rasayana in maintaining cognitive wellness in the digital era.