Abstract

KASA: A CRITICAL REVIEW IN AYURVEDA WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE TO PATHYA-APATHYA

Jigyasa Pathak*, Vd.B.R.Patel, Aswathi Mohan and Dr. Kalpesh Panara

Abstract

Introduction: Kasa is one of the pathological conditions explained in many contexts in Ayurveda texts. Kasa may develop as an independent disease, a lakshana associative to other disease or as Upadrava of a disease. Understanding and differentiating the Kasa is most important to treat the condition effectively. Aim: The aim of the present study is to compile different Dravya used as pathya in Kasa roga. Drugs that can be used as simple remedies in kasa(cough) and also various diets and regimens having pathya (wholesome) and apathya (unwholesome) effect indicated for Kasa roga have been reviewed. Material and methods: Various diets and regimens having pathya (wholesome) and apathy (unwholesome) effect indicated for Kasa roga was compiled from different Samhita Grantha and Chikitsa Granth available in the library of I.P.G.T&R.A, Jamnagar. Latest research articles were referred from the internet. Results and Discussion: The diet and drugs compiled in Kasa mostly had madhura rasa followed by tikta and katu rasa. Most of the drugs have Bhedan, chedan, lekhana Brinhana, Balya, Rasayana properties and mostly belonged to family Poaceae. The drugs were reported to have anti- histaminic and anti- tussive activity. The Dravya used as Pathya in Kasa should have laghu, Snigdha and ushna guna. Conclusion: Clinical and experimental study of the plant is indispensable to evaluate its efficacy in the management of Kasa.

Keywords: Ayurveda, Cough, Kasa, Pathya- apathy.