Mitigating Lifestyle Disorders through Ayurveda

[Find the meaning and references behind the names: Fast, Heart, Richa]

© 2025 Richa Dwivedi and Kshipra Rajoria. This is an open-access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License (CC BY 4.0). ( https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ ) REVIEW ARTICLE Mitigating Lifestyle Disorders through Ayurveda Richa Dwivedi 1 * , Kshipra Rajoria 2 1 PG Scholar, Department of Panchakarma, National Institute of Ayurveda Deemed to be University, Jaipur, Rajasthan, India 2 Assistant Professor, Department of Panchakarma, National Institute of Ayurveda Deemed to be University, Jaipur, Rajasthan, India ABSTRACT Introduction: The rising prevalence of lifestyle diseases such as hypertension, diabetes, dyslipidemia, and obesity is alarming, particularly regarding cardiovascular health, which accounts for about 30% of global deaths. In India, the incidence of these disorders has surged due to rapid economic growth and Westernized lifestyles. Ayurveda, a holistic life science, offers effective strategies for preventing and managing these conditions through comprehensive dietary management, lifestyle modifications, detoxification methods like Panchakarma, and rejuvenation therapies Material and methods: Material related is collected from Ayurvedic text including Bahatriye, Laghutrye,. The available commentaries of Ayurvedic samhitas has also been referred to collect relevant matter. Ayurveda addresses physical, psychological, and spiritual health, making it particularly relevant for lifestyle-related issues. Cardiovascular problems, categorized under Hridroga, highlight the connection between heart health and psychological well-being, illustrating how stress negatively impacts cardiac function. Unlike conventional Western medicine, which often focuses solely on physical symptoms, Ayurveda emphasizes identifying and treating root causes to promote overall wellness. A person's lifestyle reflects their psychological influences and early experiences, and disruptions in this balance lead to lifestyle disorders, which Ayurveda attributes to ' Prajnaparadha ' (intellectual error) Discussion: By advocating for healthier habits through regimens like Dinacharya (daily routines) and Ritucharya (seasonal practices), Ayurveda supports detoxification and overall well-being 1. INTRODUCTION Lifestyle disorders refer to a range of diseases or health conditions that are the product of unhealthy lifestyle choices. Most common examples of such diseases include hypertension, diabetes, arthritis, obesity, and insomnia, which are now among the leading causes of mortality around the world. These conditions affect physical and mental health but overall well-being. While lifestyle disorders were once more prevalent in developed countries but now, the situation has changed drastically [1] Developing countries, such as India are projected to become hotspot center of lifestyle-related health issues in the next decade. Ayurveda, one of the oldest and most comprehensive systems of medicine, offers valuable ways in preventing and managing these conditions. It’s emphasizing approach on, a balanced diet, lifestyle adjustments, Panchakarma detoxification, herbal remedies, and rejuvenation therapies, has gained global attention for its effectiveness. Ayurveda Corresponding Author: Richa Dwivedi, PG Scholar, Department of Panchakarma, National Institute of Ayurveda Deemed to be University, Jaipur, Rajasthan, India. Email: richadwivedi 4545@gmail.com focuses on the person as a whole, addressing not just physical health, but also mental and spiritual well-being and treating the disease by dismantling its roots to prevent their recurrence [2] This integrated approach makes Ayurveda a powerful and promising solution for managing lifestyle disorders 2. MATERIALS AND METHODS The primary causes of lifestyle disorders are unhealthy eating habits such as overeating, excessive reliance on processed and packaged foods, energy drinks, artificial sweeteners, and fast foods. Other contributing factors include stress, sedentary lifestyles, smoking, alcohol consumption, and poor sleep patterns. These issues are mostly driven by modern living habits and urbanization, further exacerbated by altered eating behaviors. Another major concern in today’s world is inadequate exposure to sunlight and fresh air. Diet and lifestyle are key factors that influence the probability of developing lifestyle diseases. Aspects, such as occupation nature and culture, the time dedicated to exercise and leisure, family interactions, stress levels, and physical activity determine the risk of falling victim to these disorders [3] The International Research Journal of Ayurveda & Yoga Vol. 8(2), pp. 12-15, February, 2025 Available online at http://irjay.com ISSN: 2581-785 X DOI: 10.48165/IRJAY.2025.80203 ARTICLE INFO Article history: Received on: 10-01-2025 Accepted on: 15-02-2025 Published on: 28-02-2025 Key words : Ayurveda, Dinacharya, Lifestyle Disorders, Panchkarma, Ritucharya

[Find the meaning and references behind the names: Pir, Low, Manas, Main, Mala, Ama, Rashi, Don, Karan, Ritu]

Dwivedi and Rajoria: Lifestyle Disorders with Ayurvedic Principles 2025; 8(2):12-15 13 old adage “all work and no play” illustrates how a lack of recreation increases susceptibility to disease. While factors, such as heredity, age, and gender are beyond control, others – such as drug abuse, tobacco use, and alcohol consumption – can be avoided, controlled, and managed. The rising prevalence of lifestyle diseases means that one in four Indians is at risk of suffering from non-communicable diseases (NCDs), such as diabetes, cardiovascular conditions, or cancer before the age of 70. According to global and domestic health organizations, NCDs are responsible for nearly 60% of total mortality in India. The World Health Organization’s 2014 NCD country profiles revealed that cancer, chronic respiratory diseases, and cardiovascular diseases are the leading global causes of death, accounting for 38 million deaths annually, with 28 million of those occurring in low and middle-income and developing countries, including India. According to Ayurveda, the root cause of lifestyle disorders is Prajnaparadha, or “intellectual misconduct.” This concept reflects the idea that an individual’s lifestyle is the result of their physical capacity, psychological functions, and the habits, behaviors, and patterns of living formed through childhood experiences and social influences, such as family and peers. Ayurveda suggests that these factors are deeply intertwined, where psychological control governs physical and sensory actions. When this balance is disrupted, it leads to an imbalance in lifestyle, giving rise to various disorders. Prajnaparadha is considered one of the three main causes of disease in Ayurveda, often manifesting as improper actions that lead to health issues [4] For instance, suppressing natural urges, a consequence of Prajnaparadha, is cited as a major cause of numerous health problems. Ayurveda emphasizes that the suppression of these urges may lead to the accumulation of toxins (ama) due to improper removal of waste products during metabolism is a fundamental cause of disease. Therefore, Ayurveda advocates the elimination of these toxins as the first step in treatment [5] 3. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION To manage lifestyle disorders, Ayurveda offers several regimens including Nidana parivarjana Ahara (diet), Vihara (lifestyle practices), Dinacharya (daily regimen), Ritucharya (seasonal regimen), Panchakarma (detoxification therapies), and Rasayana (rejuvenation therapies). Adhering to the principles of Sadvritta (ideal conduct) and Achara Rasayana (codes of conduct) is crucial for maintaining mental health and well-being 3.1. Nidana Parivarjana To avoid the disease-causing factors in diet and lifestyle to inhibit the development of disease [6] For example, restriction of excessive intake of newly harvested grains, pulses, meat of marshy and aquatic animals, milk, new wine, and immature curd with doing more physical exercise and avoiding excessive sleep, bed rest, and sedentary habits can reduce the probability of diabetes 3.2. Ahara and Vihara In Ayurveda, Ahara (diet) and Vihara (lifestyle practices) play a central role in health and wellness. Ayurveda places particular importance on Ahara, not only for its biological benefits but also for its emotional and spiritual significance. It is also one of the trayopstambha aka the three subsidiary pillars of life [7] Food is considered the “Prana” or life force, essential for health and longevity [8] Ayurveda teaches that hita-ahara (wholesome food) promotes well-being, while ahitaahara (unwholesome food) leads to various disorders. In the modern era, however, the principles of the hita-ahara are often ignored, contributing to the rise of lifestyle diseases. Ayurveda also highlights the importance of refraining from the use of Viruddha Ahara (dietary incompatibilities), which can lead to various imbalances and health problems. Eighteen types of dietary incompatibilities have been described in detail, which should be avoided to maintain health and longevity. Furthermore, ayurveda explains different do’s and don’ts regarding diet and dietary supplements such as pathyapathya, which definitely help in the prevention and management of various lifestyle disorders. It also describes ashta ahar vidhi vishesaytan to determine the utility of food that are prakrati, karan, sanyog, rashi, desh, kal, upyog sanstha, and upyokta. 3.3. Daivavyapashraya Chikitsa This therapeutic approach incorporates spiritual practices such as chanting mantras, using herbs and gems, performing rituals, and fasting [9] These practices have a positive effect on the mind and can help manage psychosomatic health, reduce stress, and improve emotional well-being. Research shows that approximately 90% of the global population engages in some form of spiritual or religious activity, which plays a significant role in coping with stress and preventing lifestyle disorders 3.4. Satvavajaya Chikitsa Ayurveda defines the person’s swasthya as healthy not only when his dosha, dhatu, mala, and agni are in equilibrium condition but also his manas ( prasannnatmendriya manah ) should be in normal condition. Satvavajaya r efers to the method of controlling the mind by detaching it from unwholesome desires and distractions. This practice helps in managing emotional stress and mental disturbances. By controlling mental desires, one can achieve greater psychological stability and prevent mental health issues, which are often linked to lifestyle diseases. The term sattvavajaya pertains winning or control over the mind (sattva), which is usually unstable and always running after different vishayas and arthas . This particular modality is therapeutic for mental and emotional disturbances as it works by restraining the mind from going after unwholesome desires 3.5. Dinacharya Ayurveda stresses the importance of adhering to daily routines aligned with natural circadian rhythms [10] The day should begin with mindfulness, early rising, and the elimination of natural urges without suppression. Practices such as daily bathing, oil massage ( Abhyanga ) , and maintaining proper hygiene help balance the body and promote longevity. Ayurveda also advises avoiding late-night sleep, stale food, excessive exertion, and misuse of the senses, as these can disrupt the biological clock and increase susceptibility to lifestyle diseases 3.6. Ritucharya Ritu(seasons) are classified by different features that expresses different effects on the body as well as the environment. As we know adaptation to the changes is the key for survival therefore the knowledge of ritucharya is important Ritucharya refers to adjusting diet and lifestyle according to the changing seasons to maintain balance in the body. Ayurveda’s preventive approach emphasizes modifying lifestyle habits to acclimatize to seasonal changes without disturbing the body’s homeostasis. Seasonal cleansing, through regular purification practices, such as Panchakarma , is recommended to maintain both physical and mental health.

[Find the meaning and references behind the names: Raja, Long, Love, Nil, Good]

Dwivedi and Rajoria: Lifestyle Disorders with Ayurvedic Principles 2025; 8(2):12-15 14 3.7. Panchakarma Panchakarma consists of five main detoxification therapies designed to cleanse the body of toxins and restore balance among the biohumors (Vata, Pitta, Kapha) and mental doshas (Raja and Tama). These therapies include Vaman (therapeutic vomiting), Virechan (therapeutic purgation), Asthapan Basti (decoction enema), Anuvasana Basti (oil enema), and Nasya (nasal therapies). Panchakarma not only detoxifies the body but also rejuvenates it, strengthens the immune system, and enhances the effectiveness of subsequent treatments. It is particularly emphasized as a preventive and restorative practice. In Sushruta Samhita raktamokshan bloodletting by siravedh, leech therapy (for toxic blood mainly pittaj and raktaj disorders) is mentioned [11] Panchkarma is used to cleanse the body channels to eliminate toxins ( aam formation) out of the body and achieve homeostasis of tridosha (vata, pitta, kapha) or three bio humors and manas doshas (raja and tama) to attain beneficial psychosomatic effect which further leads to normal chemical and electric balancing inside the biosystem in all over body system, such as the circulatory system, digestive system, and lymphatic system, and ultimately restoring the dosha-dhatu samyata . When executed properly panchkarma rejuvenates the body and increases the longevity of healthy life 3.8. Rasayana In addition to diet, Ayurveda also promotes Rasayana (rejuvenation) therapies to restore vitality. Rasayanas are considered medicinal dietary supplements that nourish the body and rejuvenate tissues. These therapies help improve the body’s metabolism, nutritional status, and overall tissue health, contributing to the prevention of lifestyle diseases. Rasayan has a comprehensive scope to generate positive immunomodulation, longevity and sustenance of mental and sensorial competence. Specific Rasayanas are designed to target different organs, such as Medhya Rasayana for the brain, Hridya Rasayana for the heart, and Twachya Rasayana for the skin. Rasayan also has a preventive role against lifestyle disorders through improved metabolism, immunity, endocrine and exocrine secretion, antioxidant action, hemopoietic effect, adaptogenic action, anabolic action, and neuroprotective action at a molecular level [12] 3.9. Vajikaran Vajikaran or Vrishya Chikitsa is one of the eight key specialties in Astanga Ayurveda [13] It focuses on enhancing sexual health, vitality, and improving reproductive health [14] According to the Charak Samhita, the proper use of these treatments can result in a well-developed and attractive physique, increased strength, better complexion, and sexual potency. These therapies are beneficial in treating common sexual issues such as infertility, erectile dysfunction, and premature ejaculation. Vajikaran drugs are also used to enhance the quality of sperm and ovum, promoting healthy procreation and the birth of strong, healthy children, especially after detoxifying the body 3.10. Sadvratta and Achara Rasayana 3.10.1. Sadvratta Ayurveda is an ancient science that holds many valuable insights for a fulfilling life. It includes a dedicated section on ethical conduct or moral regimen, which helps maintain balance in life and prevent various lifestyle-related disorders. These simple moral principles and guidelines are relevant to all people, regardless of time or place. Ignoring or violating these principles leads to suffering in the long run. In essence, Sadvrat encompasses good mental, social, personal, moral, and religious conduct. It fosters “ arogya indriyavijay,” meaning the achievement of good health and self-control 3.10.2. Achara rasayana In Ayurveda, there is a unique concept that emphasizes moral, ethical, and behavioral conduct. This includes truthfulness, non-violence, personal and public cleanliness, mental and personal hygiene, compassion, and a yogic lifestyle. Such behaviors promote the rejuvenation of the body and mind [15] Key practices include being truthful, free from anger, avoiding alcohol, embracing non-violence, maintaining calmness, speaking kindly, engaging in meditation, staying clean, practicing charity and religion, showing respect and love, balancing wakefulness and sleep, consuming ghee regularly, being mindful of time and place, controlling the senses, associating with elders, maintaining a positive attitude, and being devoted to Vedic scriptures. Those who adopt these practices benefit from the effects of Achar Rasayan therapy. Behavioral Rasayan is especially significant for modern life 4. CONCLUSION Ayurveda’s holistic approach, which focuses on the root causes of lifestyle diseases, offers a comprehensive framework for promoting health and preventing illness. Through a combination of proper diet, lifestyle practices, detoxification, rejuvenation therapies, and mental well-being techniques, Ayurveda provides a sustainable path to managing and preventing lifestyle disorders. By emphasizing prevention and the balance of mind, body, and spirit, Ayurveda offers a profound solution for achieving long-term health and happiness in an increasingly ailing society Lifestyle diseases, also referred to as NCDs or chronic diseases of lifestyle, arise from an unhealthy relationship between individuals and their environment. These conditions share common risk factors, such as poor diet, smoking, lack of physical activity, and chronic stress. Major contributors to these diseases include high blood pressure, tobacco use, high cholesterol, diabetes, and obesity. Over time, these factors lead to long-term health issues, resulting in high mortality from conditions, such as stroke, heart attacks, cancer (due to tobacco use and poor nutrition), chronic respiratory diseases, renal failure, and others In terms of treatment and prevention, Ayurveda has proven to be highly effective in addressing lifestyle diseases. While other medical systems primarily focus on providing nutritional food and encouraging physical activity, Ayurveda goes beyond these basic measures. It offers a comprehensive approach to nutrition and physical activity, making it clear that Ayurveda holds significant potential in both the prevention and management of lifestyle diseases 5. ACKNOWLEDGMENTS None 6. AUTHORS’ CONTRIBUTIONS All the authors contributed equally in design and execution of the article 7. FUNDING Nil.

Dwivedi and Rajoria: Lifestyle Disorders with Ayurvedic Principles 2025; 8(2):12-15 15 8. ETHICAL APPROVALS This study not require ethical clearance as it is a review study 9. CONFLICTS OF INTEREST Nil 10. DATA AVAILABILITY This is an original manuscript and all data are available for only review purposes from principal investigators 11. PUBLISHERS NOTE This journal remains neutral with regard to jurisdictional claims in published institutional affiliation REFERENCES 1. Sastri AD. Sushrut samhita sutra sthan. Delhi: Chaukambha Sanskrit Sansthan; 2007. p. 90 2. Sastri K. In: Nath CG, editors. Charak samhita vidyotini hindi commentary. Varanasi: Chaukhambha Bharti Academy; 2003. p. 192 3. Sastri AD. Sushrut samhita sutra sthan. Delhi: Chaukambha Sanskrit Sansthan; 2007. p. 91 4. Sastri K. Charak samhita varanasi sutra sthan. Varanasi: Chaukhambha Bharti Academy; 2003. p. 194 5. Sastri K. Charak samhita vimana sthan. Varanasi: Chaukhambha Bharti Academy; 2020. p. 62 6. Sastri AD. Sushrut samhita sutra sthan. Delhi: Chaukambha Sanskrit Sansthan; 2007. p. 191 7. Sastri K. Charak samhita varanasi sutra sthan. Varanasi: Chaukhambha Bharti Academy; 2003. p. 196 8. Shastri KP. Charaka samhita. Sutrasthana. Ch. 11. Varanasi: Chaukhambha Publications; 2019. p. 567 9. Sastri AD. Sushrutasamhita, sushruta chikitsa sthana anagatabadhapratishedha adhaya. Delhi: Chaukhambha Sanskrit Sansthana; 2018. p. 670 10. Sastri K. Chaturvedi gorkhnath, charakasamhita, charaka chikitsa rasayana (ayurvedasamutthaniyam rasayana pada). Varanasi: Chaukhambha Bharati Academy; 2020. p. 258 11. Sastri AD. Sushrut samhita sutra sthan. Delhi: Chaukambha Sanskrit Sansthan; 2007. p. 310 12. Sastri K. Charak samhita varanasi sutra sthan. Varanasi: Chaukhambha Bharti Academy; 2003. p. 199 13. Sastri AD. Sushrutasamhita, sushruta chikitsa sthana anagatabadhapratishedha adhaya. Delhi: Chaukhambha Sanskrit Sansthana; 2018. p. 674 14. Sastri K. Chaturvedi gorkhnath, charakasamhita, charaka chikitsa rasayana (ayurvedasamutthaniyam rasayana pada). Varanasi: Chaukhambha Bharati Academy; 2020. p. 253 15. Sastri AD. Sushrutasamhita, sushruta chikitsa sthana anagatabadhapratishedha adhaya. Delhi: Chaukhambha Sanskrit Sansthana; 2018. p. 675 How to cite this article: Dwivedi R, Rajoria K. Mitigating Lifestyle Disorders Through Ayurved. IRJAY. [online] 2025;8(2);12-15 Available from : https://irjay.com DOI link- https://doi.org/10.48165/IRJAY.2025.80203