Concept of infectious diseases in Ayurveda

Abstract

COVID-19, a disease caused by SARS-Cov-2 virus, has become pandemic and is spreading widely across the world, and resulted in deaths of millions in just few months. Statistically, it is noted that worldwide deaths has occurred due to outbreak of infectious diseases. There is list of epidemics caused by infectious diseases like Ebola, Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS), swine flu, bird flu, etc. But, spread of COVID-19 is much more remarkable in very short period of time. Modern system of medicine, do not have any definitive management. Now, we need to think about other systems of medicine to break this chain. So in Ayurvedic perspective, the COVID-19 can be considered as Aupasargika/ AgantujaVyadhi (Infectious disease). Present study aims to understand the principles of Ayurveda, in view of concept, epidemiology, etiopathology, prognosis, prevention and management of infectious diseases. It comprises of probable approaches of infectious diseases through Ayurveda. References established on data pertaining to available in Ayurveda classics, modern texts, peer review journals regarding the same. The speedily spread of COVID-19 is due to indulgence in the etiological factors, by people of this era. The onset period of this pandemic wasVasantaRutu(spring), hence KaphaPrakopa(vitiation of Kapha) is there. And the further pathogenesis is like ShwasanakaSannipatikaJwara(fever due to vitiation of all humors). So, Panchakarma (Internal purification), Rasayana Chikitsa (Rejuvenating treatment) and Sadvritta (Good regime) can be included in the management of such diseases. From this study it can be concluded that disease is produced due to an imbalance between physical and mental elements, as it reduces resistance of body against disease. If we cure or prevent this imbalance and the strengthen host's defense system by Ayurvedic drugs, lifestyle modifications, and diet modifications, the body will be immune to diseases.