Abstract

AYURVEDA BASED DIET AND LIFESTYLE GUIDELINES FOR PREVENTION AND MANAGEMENT OF SKIN DISEASES W.S.R. TO KUSHTHA

Deepika Puri and Rohit Johari*

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Abstract

Ayurveda, the science of life, aims to have a happy life through deep understanding perceived by the acharyas. The progressive establishment of scientific Ayurveda began in the Vedic period and has defined life as a manifestation of union of soul, mind and body. Ahara (dietetics), Nidra (proper sleep) and Brahmacharya (self-control over sexual desires) also termed “Tripod”plays a vital role and are in the maintenance of health. Besides these, Dinacharya and Ritucharya has also been given importance. Ayurveda has developed the wisdom of dietetics on the basis of various natural perceptions. Ahara (dietetics), Vihara (lifestyle) and Oushadha (medication /therapeutics)form the cornerstone of palliative treatment. Anatomy and physiology of skin has been dealt in detail in Ayurveda. Acharyas explained skin diseases under the spectrum of Kushta and has pointed at its multi-factorial etiology. Erroneous diet and lifestyle have been implicated as chief factors for the onset, progression and recurrence of many skin diseases. They can be prevented by following proper diet and lifestyle mentioned in Ayurveda.

Keywords: Ayurveda, Acharyas, Ahara, Nidra, Brahmacharya, Dinacharya, Ritucharya, Vihara, Oushadha, Kushta.