An ayurvedic perspective of nutraceuticals w.s.r. to pandu (anemia)

Summary of article contents:

Ayurved is an ancient science that emphasizes the concepts of proper nutrition, and functional food for the prevention as well as management of a wide range of disorders. Ayurveda has considered food ( Ahara ) as a chief drug ( Mahaushadhi ) and believes that health is the product of nutrition. Acharya Kashyapa has termed it as ‘ Mahabhaishaja ’ and explained that there is no medicine like Ahara . Ahara is such a medicine that alone can make people healthy. Consumers' demand for quality of life and complimentary or alternative products has fueled the 'Nutraceuticals' revolution. Nutraceuticals are natural bioactive materials that provide demonstrated physiological benefits or reduce the risk of chronic diseases, above and beyond their basic nutritional function. The roots of Nutraceuticals can be traced to Ayurveda as the science advises a wide range of food preparations that can be consumed daily for improving quality of life by offering protection from external & internal stressors. Pandu (Anemia) is one of the major healthcare issues worldwide. Posed lifestyle changes are associated with drastically increased risk of chronic illness & diseases, posing a substantial healthcare & financial burden to society globally. An association between food habits & the individual lifestyle with anemia or Pandu has been manifested. In Pandu (Anemia), there is a process of breakdown or loss of ability to function efficiently of body tissues like Rasa-Rakta , Meda Dhatus, Srotas like Annavaha, Rasavaha, Raktavaha , and these major biological activities are replenished by intake of food. Ayurveda references that the 'Living body is formed by food' and also, considers a wholesome diet as powerful as medicine. Taking into consideration body, mind, and spirit as well as rejuvenation, Ayurveda emphasizes ' Rasayana’ as the primary method of maintaining health and vigor for preserving harmony in the three physiological dimensions i.e., Doshas . This article details and proposes the role of nutraceuticals, and the various food preparations which can be consumed by people suffering from Pandu (Anemia) as nutraceuticals or functional food with an Ayurvedic view. Review of all literature regarding Rasayana, Ahara, Pathya , and Nutraceuticals aspects in Ayurved classical texts as well as all available scientific publications. All the data is compiled, analyzed, and discussed in the Ayurvedic view and nutraceuticals. Keywords: Nutraceuticals, Pandu , Nutrition, Ahara , food supplements, Rasayana, Pathya-Apathya INTRODUCTION Hematological ailments include a wide array of chronic diseases comprising a complicated etiology