Abstract

A STUDY ON UNDERSTANDING OF ANUPANA- ITS UTILITY AND SIGNIFICANCE

Dr. Samichha Neupane* and Dr. Bikash Raj Ghimire

Abstract

Ayurveda is not only the science of treating the ailing but is the science of hale and hearty living. Its main aim is swastasyaswastarakshanamaturasyavikaraprashamanam cha. For arogyasthapana, Ayurveda explains various concepts such as sadvritta (codes of right conduct), dincharya (daily regime), aaharavidhividhana (rules and regulations regarding the food consumption) and also aushadhasevana. Bhesajaavachranavidhi (Drug administration) in Ayurveda is a science by itself. Under this title it constitutes a concept Anupana, which forms an integral part of chikitsha. The concept of anupana is a unique one which is very well established in Ayurveda. Anupana is explicated along with food stuffs (ahara) as well as medications (aushada) under different conditions. The specialty of Ayurveda is that the food articles or any medicines can be used for treating different kinds of diseases by changing the anupana. Anupana is a substance which is taken along with or after the intake of Aahara (food) and Aushadha(drug). According to dictionary, meaning of anupana is the one which is taken along with or after medicine. In the context of food, anupana helps in its better digestion and absorption and provides complete nourishment of the body. It brings some changes in a substance along with which it is administered. It also plays a very significant role in treating the diseases and helps the drug to act quickly. Along with main medication the adjuvant with which it is taken plays an important role in success of treatment.On review of literature anupana has multidimensional effect; it will act as nutritive, stimulant, preventive and curative.

Keywords: Anupana, Bhesajaavachranavidhi, Ahara, Ayurveda, Drug action, Adjuvant.