An exploratory analysis of probable role of Pathya and Apathya in skin disease

Abstract

Every living and non-living being in this universe is composed of five basic elements, the Pancha Mahabhuta. The Panch
 Every living and non-living being in this universe is composed of five basic elements, the Pancha Mahabhuta. The Pancha Mahabhuta components of the ingested food nourishes their respective tissue elements in the body. Ahara is the best of all medicines and is considered one among the Trayopsthamba. The main idea of Pathya Ahara and Vihara serves as the foundation for both the preventive and therapeutic components of Ayurveda. Ayurveda places a strong emphasis on fundamental dietary principles, or Ashtavidha Ahara Vidhi Visheshayatana. Skin is given due importance since time immemorial owning to the aesthetic value conferred upon it. Skin diseases are mainly described under the spectrum of Kushtha. Dietary modifications have hitherto received little attention in dermatological therapy. However, recent studies have discovered a strong link between various dermatological conditions and food. Ayurveda describes a wide range of etiological factors for dermatological disorders. Consumption of Ahara such as Ati-Lavana, Ati-Amla, Viruddhahara, Guru-Snigdha Annapana, Ajeernahara plays a significant role in the development of skin disease. Excessive intake of food items like Dadhi, fish with milk, Masha, Mulaka, Tila, Madya further contribute to Kushtha. In this article an attempt is made to highlight the probable role of Apathya and emphasize the scope of Pathya Ahara in the management of skin disease.
 a Mahabhuta components of the ingested food nourishes their respective tissue elements in the body. Ahara is the best of all medicines and is considered one among the Trayopsthamba. The main idea of Pathya Ahara and Vihara serves as the foundation for both the preventive and therapeutic components of Ayurveda. Ayurveda places a strong emphasis on fundamental dietary principles, or Ashtavidha Ahara Vidhi Visheshayatana. Skin is given due importance since time immemorial owning to the aesthetic value conferred upon it. Skin diseases are mainly described under the spectrum of Kushtha. Dietary modifications have hitherto received little attention in dermatological therapy. However, recent studies have discovered a strong link between various dermatological conditions and food. Ayurveda describes a wide range of etiological factors for dermatological disorders. Consumption of Ahara such as Ati-Lavana, Ati-Amla, Viruddhahara, Guru-Snigdha Annapana, Ajeernahara plays a significant role in the development of skin disease. Excessive intake of food items like Dadhi, fish with milk, Masha, Mulaka, Tila, Madya further contribute to Kushtha. In this article an attempt is made to highlight the probable role of Apathya and emphasize the scope of Pathya Ahara in the management of skin disease.