A conceptual study of Upahata Vayu (air devoid of natural attributes) in context to air pollution.

Background: Environment is made up of both living and non-living things. Ayurveda Classics have mentioned very broad concept about these environment related topics. The concept of Upahata Vayu is described in Charak Samhita that means air which is devoid of its natural attributes. The present era problem of air pollution is described since time immemorial under the concept of Upahata Vayu that seems authenticated till date. Objective: To explore the concept of Upahat Vayu mentioned in Samhitas, and its implication in modern prospective. Materials and Methods: The available Samhita mainly Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, and Ashtanga Hrudaya, along with the prior research works, publications, related material available on internet and all other possible sources. Results: The word Vayu can be understood in two ways as per Ayurvedic Classics. The first meaning of this is air that is present in the environment. When air is affected with unsuitable smell, vapours, gravels, dust, and smoke it causes illness, it is known as air which is devoid of its natural attributes or polluted air. The other is the Vata Dosha. All the Vedas and ancient texts also describe the importance of environment along with air. According to man-universe theory (Loka-Purusha Samya Siddhanta), air in the external environment is also present in internal body in the same symbolic form and perform the same functions in the body. Conclusion: Ayurveda Classics are having broad vision in terms of health about environment related topics, but these topics are explained in very concise form. Air, in general, is a cause of illness which is common to all individuals along with water, land and season.