Lifestyle Disorders and Ayurveda with special reference to Raktagata Vata (Hypertension)

Abstract

As the name indicates, lifestyle disorders are disorders or diseases caused by improper lifestyle. They are also called non-communicable diseases (NCDs). According to WHO non-communicable diseases are the cause of 73% of deaths all over the world. These diseases are classified under Santarpanjanya Vyadhis according to Ayurveda. In India, 53% of deaths and 44 % of disability are caused by non-communicable diseases. As per the WHO report it is estimated that an estimated 1.28 billion adults aged 30-79 years worldwide have hypertension, most (two-thirds) living in low and middle-income countries. Raktagata Vata or Hypertension is not considered as Vyadhi by Ayurveda. It is the pathophysiology involves Prasaravastha of Doshas along with Rasa, Rakta and Meda Dhatu from their respective sites to hamper respective Srotas for blood circulation that leads to severe and chronic diseases of the brain, heart, kidneys etc. Ayurveda deals with the prevention of diseases first then cure of diseases. Ayurveda mainly focuses on Ahaar, Vihaar and Aushadha for the treatment of any disease. Ahaar along with Vihara is very important for the maintenance of health. For this, concepts of Dincharya, Ritucharya, Sadvritta and Rasayana therapy have been given in Ayurvedic texts.