Article: UPAYOGA NIYAMA (DIETARY RULES) IN AYURVEDA: A CRITICAL REVIEW

Article Category: Review articles

DOI: 10.7897/2277-4343.1006115

Pages: 11-14

Author: Kumbhar Abhijeet Babanrao *, Londhe Deepak J.

Abstract: As per Ayurveda, ‘food is the medicine if it consumed properly’. Ingestion of food which is uniquely suitable to the physiology with prescribed dietary rules enhances the ones physical, mental and spiritual strength. Ayurveda is the science of life and the term prana (life) used for ahara itself indicates its due importance. Acharya Sushruta defines a healthy person as one in whom there is perfect balance of all bodily functions with equilibrium of the mind, senses and spirit. Only suitable ahara is not able to provide the health but certain other factors execute the prime role. Acharya charaka has elaborated these factors under the heading upyoga niyama (dietary rules). These dietary rules play crucial role in the digestion process, maintenance of equilibrium of doshas and dhatus and to bestow the strength to mind and sense organs. In this article we discuss the role upayoga niyama with their logical interpretation.

Keyword: Upyoga niyama, ahara, dietary rules.