Abstract

ENVIRONMENTAL HYGIENE AND PUBLIC HEALTH AN AYURVEDIC PERSPECTIVE THROUGH SWASTHAVRITTA

Dr. Richa Sharma*

Abstract

Environmental hygiene and public health are increasingly important issues in today’s global health context, with a growing focus on sustainable practices, disease prevention, and the overall health of individuals and communities. Ayurveda, an ancient Indian healthcare system, presents a holistic perspective on health that highlights the interconnectedness of the body, mind, spirit, and environment. A significant aspect of Ayurveda is Swasthavritta, which offers guidance on maintaining physical, mental, and environmental well-being through various practices related to hygiene, diet, lifestyle, and seasonal changes. This review examines the Ayurvedic viewpoint on environmental hygiene and its significance in modern public health initiatives. Ayurveda stresses the importance of balancing the five elements—earth, water, fire, air, and ether—and the three doshas (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha), which provides a distinct framework for understanding the impact of environmental factors on human health. Through Swasthavritta, Ayurveda advocates for the implementation of hygiene practices that benefit both individuals and the surrounding environment, promoting communal efforts aimed at disease prevention and health enhancement. These guiding principles underscore the necessity of a clean environment, access to pure water and air, responsible waste management, and respect for the natural cycles of both the body and the environment. The review aligns Ayurvedic practices with current public health issues such as sanitation, mental health, pollution management, and preventive care. It also emphasizes the potential advantages of integrating Ayurvedic concepts into modern public health policies, particularly in tackling chronic diseases, mental health challenges, and issues related to environmental sustainability. Despite facing hurdles such as the need for scientific verification, cultural disparities, and limited resources, the holistic perspective of Ayurveda provides valuable insights for improving global health systems. By incorporating Swasthavritta into public health strategies, communities can promote a focus on environmental sustainability, mental health, and disease prevention. The article concludes with an exploration of practical applications, existing challenges, and opportunities for integrating Ayurvedic principles into contemporary public health frameworks, ultimately contributing to a more sustainable and cohesive approach to global health.

Keywords: Environmental Hygiene, Public Health, Preventive Healthcare, Holistic Health, Sanitation, Sustainable Health Practices, Mental Health.