Viruddha Ahara Pathogenesis: A Conceptual Study

Ahara (Food), Nidra (Sleep) and Bramhacharya (Abstinence) are described to be the Tryopsthambhas. Inclusion of Ahara in the three Upsthambh proves its importance. In Ayurveda, Viruddha Ahara is specified as the substance who provokes and mobilizes the Doshas (body humor) but not eliminate it from the body. In modern, Viruddha Ahara can be taken as an understanding of dietary allergy which results in a vast array of morbidities from acute anaphylactic reaction up to the development of chronic systemic diseases. Acharya Charak has described eighteen factors (Desha-Kala-Agni-Matra Viruddha etc. ) which are responsible for dietetic incompatibility and various diseases. The quality of Viruddha Ahara provides a cumulative detrimental effect to the body after their repeated consumption. Aim: To explore the concept of pathogenesis by Viruddha Ahara along with modern perspective. Materials and Methods: For this conceptual study Ayurveda Samhitas like Charak Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, Ashtang Hridya, Madhav Nidana, internet and modern medical literature have been reviewed. Observation and Conclusion: On the basis of Ayurveda and modern pathogenesis it can be concluded that the Viruddha Ahara is responsible in genesis of auto-antigens specially belonging to the various diseases. It should be stopped by taking some prevention modalities like do not take wrong combination of food and must follow the rules and conditions which are safe for our health. Prevention is always claimed better than cure.