Abstract

CONCEPTUAL STUDY OF ANUPANA IN AYURVEDA

Verma V.K.*, Nathani S., Kotecha M. and Prajapati N.

Abstract

Anupana is the substance which is taken with or after food or drug. It enhances the effects of drug and helps in management of diseases. These are also called as vehicle, adjuvant or carrier of drugs. It adds relish to the food, nourishes the body, replenishes the lost tissues, provides energy, promotes strength, aids in digestion and assimilation of food properly; thereby promoting longevity. Water is best among all types of anupana. It helps in delivery of drug to the target organs and its assimilation in the body with pace just like oil drop spreads over water. Dose of anupana differs with different dosha. Various substances are described as anupana according to disease. Properties of anupana also depend upon various factors like its own nature, time of administration, relation with food, state of patient and disease etc. It is contra-indicated in case of supraclavicular diseases, cough, asthma, hiccups, hoarseness of voice and chest injury. It can be a promising source for drug development.

Keywords: Anupana, vehicle, adjuvant.