Nidana vivechana in akaalaja jara – review
Journal name: Ayushdhara
Original article title: Nidana vivechana in akaalaja jara – review
AYUSHDHARA is an international peer-reviewed journal. It focuses on research in Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, Homeopathy, Allopathy, and Pharmaceutical Sciences.
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Sindhu Jain M S*
P.G.Scholar, Dept. of Roga Nidana, JSS Ayurveda Medical College and Hospital, Mysuru, Karnataka
Subash Chandra Bose M
Professor, Dept. of Roga Nidana, JSS Ayurveda Medical College and Hospital, Mysuru, Karnataka
Ayushdhara:
(A peer-reviewed, bi-monthly open-access journal)
Full text available for: Nidana vivechana in akaalaja jara – review
Year: 2018
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA 4.0
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
Aging, characterized by the gradual deterioration of cells, tissues, and organs over time, has significant implications in Ayurveda. This ancient system of medicine identifies the concept of Jara (aging) and distinguishes between normal aging (Kaalaja) and premature aging (Akaalaja Jara). The latter is viewed as an unnatural and untimely process that can potentially shorten lifespan and is primarily attributed to lifestyle factors including improper diet, lack of exercise, and mental stress. Understanding the nidana (causative factors) is essential for the prevention of premature aging, which is why Ayurveda emphasizes Nidanaparivarjana (avoidance of causes) as the first line of treatment.
The Role of Nidanas in Premature Aging
The concept of Nidanas can be bifurcated into Samanya Nidana (general causes) and Vishesha Nidana (specific causes). In the context of premature aging, Samanya Nidana suggests that the vitiation of the Tridoshas (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha) leads to aging signs. Specifically, environmental factors such as climate changes, excessive use of technology, and polluted surroundings can trigger imbalance. On the other hand, Vishesha Nidana encompasses specific influences such as Aharaja (dietary), Viharaja (lifestyle), and Manasika (mental) factors. For instance, excessive consumption of certain tastes like Lavana (salty) can lead to hair greying, while stress-related emotions can hinder proper digestion and lead to tissue degeneration, contributing to premature aging.
Impact of Dietary Habits on Aging
Diet plays a crucial role in preventing premature aging as outlined in the Aharaja Nidana category. Improper dietary habits such as excessive consumption of specific Rasas (tastes), disobeying food rules like Ashtavidhaaharaayatananiyamas, and neglecting the quality and quantity of food can lead to nutrient deficiencies, affecting the overall nourishment of body tissues (Dhatus). Acharya Charaka emphasizes moderation, stating that excessive intake of certain foods can lead to signs of aging such as decreased strength and vitality. Furthermore, the concept of Rasaja bhava, which involves healthy prenatal nourishment, suggests that a mother’s diet directly influences the child’s future health and susceptibility to early aging.
Conclusion
To combat the increasing prevalence of premature aging, understanding the various Nidanas that contribute to this condition is essential. Factors such as dietary habits, lifestyle choices, and emotional states play significant roles in maintaining the balance of the Tridoshas, which directly influences the aging process. Through Ayurvedic principles, including Nidanaparivarjana, the focus is on prevention and targeted treatment strategies. The integration of contemporary scientific theories regarding aging further validates Ayurvedic insights. Thus, a thorough understanding of the causes of premature aging is paramount for effective management and restoration of health in today's fast-paced environment.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is Akaalaja Jara in Ayurveda?
Akaalaja Jara refers to premature aging occurring before the age of 60. It is considered unnatural and results from inadequate precautions and unhealthy lifestyle choices, leading to various aging symptoms.
What are the primary causes of premature aging?
The causes include improper diet (Aharaja Nidana), lifestyle choices (Viharaja Nidana), and psychological factors (Manasika Nidana). These factors contribute to vitiation of Doshas, particularly Vata, leading to aging signs.
How does Ayurveda propose to prevent premature aging?
Ayurveda emphasizes understanding the Nidanas or causative factors of diseases, advocating for Nidanaparivarjana, which includes avoiding known causes of premature aging through a balanced diet, healthy lifestyle, and mental well-being.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Nidana vivechana in akaalaja jara – review”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.
1) Nidana:
Nidana refers to the causative factors or diagnosis of a disease in Ayurveda. It is crucial to understand Nidanas for effective treatment as 'Nidana parivarjana' is considered the first line of treatment for most conditions. Nidana helps in identifying the root cause.
2) Jara (Jara°, Jará):
Jara is the Ayurvedic term for aging. It is defined as the stage where 'Mamsadidhatu' will be in 'Shlathavastha' and is characterized by symptoms like 'Khalitya', 'Palitya', and reduced strength. Jara can be both 'Kaalaja' (natural aging) and 'Akaalaja' (premature aging).
3) Food:
Food plays a pivotal role in Ayurveda under the concept of 'Ahara'. Proper diet is necessary for the nourishment and growth of Dhatus. Improper dietary habits can lead to diseases and premature aging. For example, excessive intake of salted food can cause 'Akaalaja Jara'.
4) Bhava:
Bhava refers to various properties and qualities in Ayurveda. Examples include 'Rasaja Bhava' which indicates features like body growth, nourishment, and energy. Pitrija Bhava signifies genetic traits inherited from the father, impacting aspects like hair and complexion.
5) Rasa (Rasha):
Rasa generally means taste or essence in Ayurveda. Different Rasas like 'Lavana', 'Amla', and 'Katu' have specific effects on health. Excessive consumption of particular Rasa can lead to symptoms like greying of hair and wrinkles. Specific Rasas impact various 'Dhatus'.
6) Vata:
Vata is one of the three Doshas in Ayurveda and is characterized by its dry, light, and mobile properties. It is often associated with aging and vitiation can lead to premature aging ('Akaalaja Jara'). Proper balance of Vata is crucial for overall health.
7) Lakshana (Laksana):
Lakshana refers to the symptoms or signs of a disease or condition. For example, aging has specific Lakshanas like 'Khalitya', 'Palitya', and reduced strength. Recognizing these Lakshanas helps in diagnosing and managing conditions like premature aging.
8) Disease:
In Ayurveda, diseases arise from an imbalance of Doshas and improper lifestyle habits. Diseases range from physical to mental conditions, and both internal and external factors contribute to the onset. Preventive measures include understanding and avoiding Nidanas.
9) Ahara:
Ahara refers to food or diet in Ayurveda. It is crucial for maintaining the health and growth of 'Dhatus'. Improper Ahara, such as overeating or consuming incompatible foods ('Viruddhaahara'), can lead to various health issues, including premature aging.
10) Vitiation (Vitiated):
Vitiation in Ayurveda refers to the imbalance of Doshas. Factors like poor diet, stress, and improper lifestyle can lead to vitiation of Vata, Pitta, and Kapha, causing various health issues. Premature aging ('Akaalaja Jara') often involves Vata vitiation.
11) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is an ancient system of medicine emphasizing the balance of body, mind, and spirit. It offers holistic treatment approaches, focusing on preventive measures. Concepts like 'Jara', 'Rasayana', and 'Nidana' are integral to managing aging and promoting longevity.
12) Rasaja (Rasa-ja):
Rasaja Bhava refers to properties derived from the Rasa (essence) of food taken by a pregnant woman. It influences the growth, nourishment, and complexion of the baby. Deficiencies in Rasaja Bhava can lead to premature aging symptoms.
13) Dosha (Dosa):
Doshas are functional principles in Ayurveda: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. They govern physiological activities and their imbalance can lead to diseases. For instance, aging and premature aging are often linked to Vata vitiation. Doshas need to be balanced for optimal health.
14) Tridosha (Tridosa, Tri-dosha):
Tridosha signifies the three Doshas: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. For an individual’s proper growth and health, these must be in balance. Premature aging occurs from Tridosha imbalance, primarily dominated by Vata. Ayurveda aims to balance Tridoshas to maintain health.
15) Palitya:
Palitya refers to the greying of hair, a common symptom of aging. It signifies the premature aging of hair follicles due to internal or external factors. Excess intake of salty foods (Lavana Rasa) can expedite Palitya, contributing to 'Akaalaja Jara'.
16) Sindhu (Simdhu):
Sindhu Jain M S is one of the authors of this review on Nidana Vivechana in Akaalaja Jara. Sindhu is a P.G. Scholar in the Dept of Roga Nidana at JSS Ayurveda Medical College and Hospital, Mysuru, Karnataka, India.
17) Dhatu:
Dhatus are the seven bodily tissues in Ayurveda, including Rasa, Rakta, Mamsa, Meda, Asthi, Majja, and Shukra. Proper nourishment of Dhatus is essential for health. Imbalanced diet and lifestyle can lead to improper Dhatu nourishment, causing premature aging.
18) Rasayana (Rasa-ayana):
Rasayana refers to rejuvenative therapies in Ayurveda. It aims at promoting longevity, enhancing immunity, and preventing aging. It is primarily used to inhibit the aging process and maintain youth, as highlighted by Acharya Charaka.
19) Samanya:
Samanya Nidana refers to general causes of diseases, primarily associated with Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. These include improper diet, lifestyle, and external environmental factors, leading to Dosha vitiation and conditions like premature aging ('Akaalaja Jara').
20) Chandra:
Subash Chandra Bose M is one of the authors of the review on Nidana Vivechana in Akaalaja Jara. Subash is a professor in the Dept of Roga Nidana at JSS Ayurveda Medical College and Hospital, Mysuru, Karnataka, India.
21) Kshaya (Ksaya):
Kshaya refers to depletion or loss in Ayurveda. For instance, 'Dhatu Kshaya' means the degradation of bodily tissues. Improper nourishment and lifestyle can lead to Kshaya, resulting in conditions like premature aging ('Akaalaja Jara').
22) Lavana:
Lavana refers to salt or salty taste in Ayurveda. Excessive intake of Lavana Rasa can lead to premature aging symptoms like greying of hair, baldness, and loosening of teeth. Moderation of Lavana intake is advised to prevent such symptoms.
23) Manasikabhava (Manasika-bhava):
Manasika Bhavas are mental and emotional factors in Ayurveda. They include emotions like 'Shoka', 'Bhaya', and 'Krodha'. These factors can affect one's physical health, leading to conditions like premature aging due to improper food intake and Dhatu nourishment.
24) Purushartha (Purusartha, Purusha-artha):
Purushartha refers to the four goals of human life in Ayurveda: Dharma (duty), Artha (wealth), Kaama (desires), and Moksha (liberation). To achieve these, one must be healthy. Ayurveda focuses on preventive measures to maintain health and achieve these goals.
25) Samprapti:
Samprapti refers to the pathogenesis or sequence of events that leads to the manifestation of a disease. It involves factors like 'Nidana sevana', Dosha disturbance, and improper Dhatu nourishment, leading to conditions like premature aging ('Akaalaja Jara').
26) Karnataka:
Karnataka is a state in India where JSS Ayurveda Medical College and Hospital is located. The study on Nidana Vivechana in Akaalaja Jara was conducted here by Sindhu Jain M S and Subash Chandra Bose M.
27) Vishesha (Visesa):
Vishesha Nidana refers to specific causes of diseases. In the context of 'Akaalaja Jara', it includes specific dietary habits (Aharaja Nidana), lifestyle activities (Viharaja), and mental/emotional factors (Manasikanidanas) that contribute to premature aging.
28) Dhamani:
Dhamani refers to channels or vessels in the body, such as arteries. It is one of the Pitrija Bhavas inherited from the father. Any defects in Dhamani can contribute to premature aging symptoms.
29) Shmashru (Smasru, Smashru):
Smashru is a term that refers to facial hair or beard. It is one of the genetic factors ('Pitrija Bhava') inherited from the father. Defects in Smashru can result in premature aging symptoms.
30) Kshara (Ksara):
Kshara refers to alkaline substances. According to Ayurveda, excessive intake of Kshara can lead to early signs of aging like 'Shithila Mamsa', 'Akala Kalitya', and 'Valaya'. Using Kshara in moderation is recommended to avoid premature aging.
31) Vihara:
Vihara refers to lifestyle activities in Ayurveda. Improper Vihara like excessive walking, day sleep, and excessive sexual activity can negatively impact health and lead to symptoms of premature aging ('Akaalaja Jara'). Balanced lifestyle activities are crucial.
32) Shukra (Sukra):
Shukra refers to seminal fluid or reproductive tissues in Ayurveda. It is one of the genetic traits ('Pitrija Bhava') inherited from the father. Any defects in Shukra can result in issues like premature aging. Proper nourishment is essential for Shukra health.
33) Mithya:
Mithya refers to improper or incorrect practices in Ayurveda. Mithyayoga includes improper association with time, senses, and activities leading to diseases. Practices like improper diet or Mithya Vihara can lead to conditions like premature aging ('Akaalaja Jara').
34) Matra:
Maatra refers to the appropriate quantity. Consuming Ahara (food) in deficient or excessive quantity can impact health. Inappropriate Maatra can lead to Dhatu depletion and premature aging. Hence, maintaining proper Maatra of food is essential for health.
35) Danta (Damta):
Danta refers to teeth. It is one of the genetic traits ('Pitrija Bhava') inherited from the father. Defects in Danta can lead to premature aging symptoms like loosened teeth. Proper dental hygiene and nutrition are crucial for maintaining Danta health.
36) Pitta:
Pitta is one of the three Doshas in Ayurveda, governing metabolism and transformation. An imbalance in Pitta can lead to various health issues. Combining factors like Pitta vitiation and poor lifestyle can contribute to premature aging.
37) Artha:
Artha in Ayurveda reflects the goal of material prosperity in life. For achieving Artha, maintaining good health is essential. Ayurveda emphasizes lifestyle and diet's role in achieving holistic well-being and fulfilling life goals like Artha.
38) Karma (Karman):
Karma in Ayurveda refers to action or activities. Improper Karma like excessive exercise, forceful suppression of urges, and improper speech can lead to Dosha imbalance and health issues, including premature aging ('Akaalaja Jara'). Moderation in activities is advised.
39) Nakha:
Nakha refers to nails, one of the genetic traits inherited from the father ('Pitrija Bhava'). Defects in Nakha can result in premature aging symptoms. Proper diet and nail care are essential for maintaining healthy Nakha.
40) Asthi (Ashthi):
Asthi refers to bones in Ayurveda, one of the seven Dhatus. It is among the genetic traits inherited from the father ('Pitrija Bhava'). Poor nourishment or genetic defects in Asthi can lead to premature aging symptoms like weak bones.
41) Snayu:
Snayu refers to ligaments or tendons, important for body structure. It is a genetic trait inherited from the father ('Pitrija Bhava'). Defects in Snayu can cause premature aging symptoms. Proper nourishment is essential for maintaining healthy Snayu.
42) India:
India is the country where Ayurveda originated. The study on Nidana Vivechana in Akaalaja Jara was conducted at JSS Ayurveda Medical College and Hospital in Mysuru, Karnataka, India.
43) Kesa (Kesha):
Kesha refers to hair, an important genetic trait inherited from the father ('Pitrija Bhava'). Defects in Kesha can lead to premature aging symptoms like hair fall ('Khalitya') and greying ('Palitya'). Proper hair care and diet are crucial for healthy Kesha.
44) Roga:
Roga means disease in Ayurveda. It results from Dosha imbalance and improper lifestyle. Understanding Nidanas (causative factors) is crucial for effective treatment. Preventive measures and proper diet can help in managing Roga and conditions like premature aging.
45) Agni:
Agni refers to the digestive fire in Ayurveda. Proper Agni is essential for good health, aiding in digestion and assimilation of nutrients. Disturbed Agni, as in 'Vishamagni', can lead to improper Dhatu nourishment and conditions like premature aging ('Akaalaja Jara').
46) Loma (Lomaka):
Loma refers to body hair, one of the genetic traits inherited from the father ('Pitrija Bhava'). Defects in Loma can indicate premature aging symptoms. Proper nourishment and care can help maintain healthy Loma.
47) Kaya:
Kaya refers to the body or physical being in Ayurveda. Proper nourishment, lifestyle, and balance of Doshas are essential for a healthy Kaya. Imbalances and poor lifestyle can lead to conditions like premature aging ('Akaalaja Jara').
48) Yoga:
Yoga refers to the practice of physical and mental disciplines in Ayurveda. It includes proper association with time (Kala Yoga), food, and activities. Proper Yoga maintains Dosha balance and overall health. Incorrect association (Mithyayoga) can lead to diseases.
49) Sira (Shira):
Sira refers to veins, significant for circulatory health, inherited from the father ('Pitrija Bhava'). Any defects in Sira can lead to issues like premature aging. Proper lifestyle and diet help in maintaining healthy Sira.
50) Diet:
Diet, known as Ahara in Ayurveda, plays a crucial role in health. Proper diet maintains Dhatu nourishment and health. Improper diet, such as excessive Rasa like Lavana, can lead to premature aging ('Akaalaja Jara'). Balanced diet is essential.
51) Fear:
Fear, or 'Bhaya', is a Manasika Bhava (mental factor) influencing health. Consistent fear can impede proper digestion and Dhatu nourishment, contributing to premature aging ('Akaalaja Jara'). Mental well-being is crucial for overall health.
52) Hair:
Hair is discussed in Ayurveda under Kesha, one of the genetic traits inherited from the father ('Pitrija Bhava'). Hair issues like greying ('Palitya') and fall ('Khalitya') are premature aging symptoms. Proper care and diet are essential for healthy hair.
53) Genetic defect:
Genetic defects in Ayurveda are linked to 'Pitrija Bhava', factors inherited from the father like hair, bones, and nails. These defects can lead to premature aging. Understanding these genetic traits helps in managing related health issues.
54) Dhatukshaya (Dhatuksaya, Dhatu-kshaya):
Dhatu-kshaya refers to the depletion of bodily tissues. It occurs from improper diet, lifestyle, and mental factors. This depletion leads to symptoms like weakness and aging ('Akaalaja Jara'). Preventing Dhatu-kshaya is essential for health.
55) Civilization:
Modern civilization factors like increased stress, poor diet quality, and lack of exercise negatively affect aging. These lifestyle changes contribute to premature aging ('Akaalaja Jara'). Ayurveda emphasizes understanding and mitigating these factors.
56) Smritinasha (Smrtinasa, Smriti-nasha):
Smritinasha refers to loss of memory, a symptom of aging and premature aging. Aging-related conditions in Ayurveda list Smritinasha as a key symptom. Proper diet and lifestyle are essential to prevent Smritinasha and maintain cognitive health.
57) Lavanarasa (Lavana-rasa):
Lavana-rasa refers to the salty taste in Ayurveda. Excessive consumption of Lavana-rasa can lead to premature aging symptoms like greying of hair and wrinkles. It impacts Dhatu health and should be consumed in moderation.
58) Avalekhana:
Avalekhana refers to combing hair during menstruation, mentioned as a prohibited activity in Ayurveda for maintaining health. Improper actions like Avalekhana can aggravate Doshas and contribute to conditions like premature aging ('Akaalaja Jara').
59) Adhyashana (Adhyasana):
Adhyashana refers to overeating in Ayurveda. It causes improper digestion, leading to Ama formation and Dosha imbalance. This can result in Dhatu depletion and premature aging symptoms. Proper food intake is essential for health.
60) Vishamagni (Vishama-agni, Visamagni):
Vishamagni refers to irregular digestive fire in Ayurveda, often caused by Vata disturbance. It leads to improper digestion and nutrient absorption, contributing to conditions like premature aging ('Akaalaja Jara'). Maintaining balanced Agni is crucial.
61) Mithyayoga (Mithya-yoga):
Mithyayoga refers to improper association with time, senses, and activities. Incorrect practices can lead to Dosha imbalance and health issues like premature aging ('Akaalaja Jara'). Ayurveda emphasizes proper Yoga (association) for maintaining health.
[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 118]
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