EFFECT OF HABITUAL USE OF GUTKHA ON HUMAN BEING - AN AYURVEDIC PERSPECTIVE

Abstract

Background: The World Health Organization (WHO) in their edition of Tobacco Alert gives red alert to the developing countries from Tobacco and Gutkha. Diseases like submucosal fibrosis, cancers of the throat, mouth, lips, and oesophagus were found in Gutkha chewers. Although modern science researcher was found to be worked on the subject related to Gutkha. But as a whole, in combination as present in Gutkha no one really focus on their actions in human beings in Ayurvedic manner i.e., Dosha, Dhatu, Mala, Agni, Strotasa, Indriya, Avayava, Mana, Bala etc. By seeing its adverse effects, it is essential to know its action on Doshadi factors. Materials & Methods- The available information about Gutkha and Ayurvedic information about the constitutes of Gutkha is collected. For the case study Gutkha chewing volunteers. Results- In sharirik laxanas Malavrodh and Malavshtambh are observed in most of the people. Some people cannot defecate easily without Gutkha. Tamraparni is the main content of the Gutkha. In different Ayurvedic texts it is mentioned that it acts as a Madak by Prabhav. So that we can also say that Purisha dushti laxanas like patient can not defecate easily without taking Gutkha was observed due to the effect of Tamraparni. In the Manas laxanas like Mansik Dorbalyata, Kshobha or Chidchidepana, Nairashya, Aswashtata are observed in most of the patients. Conclusion - Gutkha is a composition of Savish and Nirvish Dravyas. It acts as a slow Poison. It shows hazardous effects on human body. It causes Vata Vridhi, Pitta Virdhi and Kapha Kshaya. Gutkha disturbs the normal role of Dosha, Dhatu and Mala