Geriayutrics – ayurvedic perspective of senescence and rejuvenescence

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Journal name: Ayushdhara
Original article title: Geriayutrics – ayurvedic perspective of senescence and rejuvenescence
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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Author(s):

*Sathya N. Dornala
Panchakarma Specialist, Swami Vivekanand Ayurvedic Panchakarma Hospital, Dilshad garden, Delhi
Snehalatha SN Dornala
Associate Professor, Dept of Kaumarabhritya, VYDS Ayurved Mahavidyalay, Khurja, UP


Ayushdhara:

(A peer-reviewed, bi-monthly open-access journal)

Full text available for: Geriayutrics – ayurvedic perspective of senescence and rejuvenescence

Year: 2016

Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA 4.0


Download the PDF file of the original publication


Summary of article contents:

Introduction

Ayurveda, one of the world's oldest medical systems, emphasizes the importance of understanding aging, referred to as "Jara" in Sanskrit. This article discusses the Ayurvedic perspective on senescence and rejuvenescence, highlighting its relevance in contemporary society, especially given the increasing aging population. The World Health Organization recognizes the significance of addressing the health needs of older adults, prompting a renewed exploration of Ayurvedic methods to enhance the quality of life and longevity among this demographic. The authors introduce the term "Geriayutrics," underscoring the distinct emphasis Ayurveda places on geriatrics as an essential facet of healthcare.

The Role of Tridosha in Aging

A central concept in Ayurveda is the "Tridosha," which consists of three fundamental energies: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. These doshas are involved in various physiological processes, including growth, maintenance, and decay. The balance among these energies dictates health and contributes to the aging process. In childhood, Kapha predominates (growth), followed by Pitta in adulthood (maintenance), and Vata in old age (deterioration). An imbalance in these doshas can lead to health issues. Therefore, Ayurvedic practices focus on maintaining a harmonious equilibrium among the Tridosha to foster longevity, vitality, and effective aging.

The Importance of Rasayana (Rejuvenescence)

Rasayana, a vital aspect of Ayurveda, is a rejuvenation therapy aimed at promoting health, vitality, and longevity. This therapy encompasses various approaches, including dietary regimens, herbal treatments, and lifestyle modifications designed to enhance overall well-being. The concept of Rasayana is rooted in preventing aging and bolstering immunity against diseases. It not only addresses physical health but also encompasses mental and emotional wellness. Regular practices of Rasayana are believed to delay the aging process, improve cognitive functions, and maintain a sense of vitality. Consequently, Rasayana stands out as a holistic approach to healthy aging within Ayurvedic medicine.

Conclusion

The Ayurvedic understanding of aging and rejuvenescence, encapsulated in the concepts of Tridosha and Rasayana, offers valuable insights for modern healthcare, especially given the demographic shifts towards an aging population. Through the principles of balance and rejuvenation, Ayurveda promotes not just the extension of lifespan but the enhancement of life quality. The authors advocate for incorporating Ayurvedic perspectives into contemporary healthcare practices to foster healthier aging and improve the overall well-being of older adults. Rethinking healthcare frameworks to embrace such integrative methodologies could significantly benefit society, aligning with the timeless wisdom of Ayurveda in ensuring a dignified and enriched aging experience.

FAQ section (important questions/answers):

What is the Ayurvedic perspective on aging and rejuvenation?

Ayurveda views aging, or 'Jara,' as a natural phenomenon. It emphasizes maintaining a balance among the body's three energies, known as 'Tridosha,' and incorporates practices like 'Rasayana' to rejuvenate the body and enhance longevity.

What are the components of Ayurveda that influence aging?

In Ayurveda, aging is influenced by various components including 'Sharira' (body), 'Indriya' (senses), 'Manas' (mind), and 'Atma' (soul). The balance and health of 'Dhatu' (tissues) and 'Agni' (metabolism) also play a crucial role in the aging process.

How does 'Rasayana' therapy contribute to healthy aging?

'Rasayana' is a rejuvenating therapy in Ayurveda aimed at promoting health and longevity. It includes dietary regimens, herbal medicines, and lifestyle practices that nourish the body, enhance vitality, and prevent the onset of age-related ailments.

Glossary definitions and references:

Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Geriayutrics – ayurvedic perspective of senescence and rejuvenescence”. 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) Jara (Jara°, Jará):
Jara denotes the concept of aging in Ayurveda. It is viewed as a natural phenomenon akin to hunger, thirst, and sleep. The term implies the process of senescence, and its understanding is crucial for addressing geriatric health through Ayurvedic methods like Rasayana therapy, which aims to rejuvenate and mitigate the effects of aging.

2) Vata:
Vata is one of the three Doshas in Ayurveda, representing the air principle. It governs movement and influences physiological functions such as nerve impulses and circulation. During old age, Vata tends to become aggravated, leading to symptoms like dryness, emaciation, and general instability in the body.

3) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is an ancient holistic system of medicine originating in India. It combines philosophy, art, and science to promote health and well-being. Ayurveda emphasizes natural therapies, lifestyle modifications, and the balance of Doshas for the prevention and treatment of diseases.

4) Rasayana (Rasa-ayana):
Rasayana is a branch of Ayurveda focused on rejuvenation and anti-aging. It aims to improve longevity and vitality through various methods including dietary regimens, herbal preparations, and behavioral practices. Rasayana therapies nourish the body, boost immunity, and enhance mental faculties.

5) Dhatu:
Dhatu are the seven fundamental tissues in the body according to Ayurveda: Rasa (plasma), Rakta (blood), Mansa (muscle), Meda (fat), Asthi (bone), Majja (marrow), and Shukra (reproductive tissue). Proper nourishment and balance of Dhatus are essential for maintaining health and vitality.

6) Indriya (Imdriya):
Indriyas are the sensory and motor organs that help perceive and interact with the external world. Ayurveda describes them as crucial for life, regulated by Vata through the mind (Manas). Proper function of Indriyas influences overall health and their deterioration is linked to aging.

7) Bala:
Bala refers to strength or vitality in Ayurveda, encompassing physical strength (Vyayama Shakti) and immunity (Vyadhi Kshamatwa Shakti). Bala can be inherent (Sahaja), influenced by age and season (Kalaja), or enhanced through appropriate nutrition and therapy (Yuktikrita).

8) Mala:
Mala are the waste products of metabolism, including urine (Mutra), feces (Shakrit), and sweat (Sweda). According to Ayurveda, proper elimination of Mala is crucial for maintaining health. Malfunction in Mala excretion can indicate or contribute to various health issues.

9) Disease:
Disease in Ayurveda is viewed as an imbalance in the body's natural constitution (Dosha, Dhatu, and Mala). Factors like improper diet, lifestyle, and environmental changes can disturb this balance, leading to physical, mental, and emotional ailments.

10) Sharira (Sarira):
Sharira refers to the physical body in Ayurveda, which is composed of the five Mahabhutas or basic elements: earth, water, fire, air, and ether. The body is seen as a union of these elements along with the mind, senses, and soul, functioning together to sustain life.

11) Dosha (Dosa):
Doshas are the three bio-dynamic forces in Ayurveda: Vata (air), Pitta (fire), and Kapha (water). They govern all physiological activities and their balance is essential for health. Imbalance in Doshas leads to diseases and is a core concept in Ayurvedic diagnosis and treatment.

12) Kala:
Kala refers to time or seasonal changes that influence health in Ayurveda. It can also mean aging or the natural progression of time. Factors related to Kala can trigger physiological changes and are considered in treatments to maintain harmony with natural cycles.

13) Kshaya (Ksaya):
Kshaya means depletion or deficiency in Ayurveda. It usually refers to the reduction of body tissues (Dhatus) or the weakening of vital energies (Doshas). Kshaya leads to various health issues, and its prevention and treatment are crucial for maintaining health, especially in aging.

14) Manas (Mano, Manash):
Manas signifies the mind in Ayurveda, an essential aspect that regulates perception and cognition. Manas controls the Indriyas and is influenced by Vata. Mental health is crucial in Ayurvedic treatment, and imbalance in Manas can lead to psychological disorders.

15) Kapha:
Kapha is one of the three Doshas in Ayurveda, representing the elements of water and earth. It is responsible for structure, stability, and lubrication in the body. Imbalance in Kapha can lead to issues like lethargy, congestion, and excessive mucus production.

16) Mana:
[see source text or glossary: Mana]

17) Tridosha (Tridosa, Tri-dosha):
Tridosha refers to the three fundamental bio-dynamic forces in Ayurveda: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. These forces govern all physiological and pathological processes in the body. Balance among the Tridosha is essential for health, and their imbalance leads to disease.

18) Agni:
Agni represents the metabolic and digestive fire in Ayurveda. It is responsible for the transformation of food into energy and tissues. Proper functioning of Agni is crucial for health, and its impairment can lead to the accumulation of toxins (Ama) and various diseases.

19) Vishamagni (Vishama-agni, Visamagni):
Vishamagni denotes irregular or fluctuating digestive fire in Ayurveda. It is often associated with Vata imbalance and results in inconsistent digestion and metabolism. Vishamagni can lead to incomplete digestion, formation of toxins (Ama), and various health disorders.

20) Parinama:
Parinama signifies transformation or the effects of time in Ayurveda. This includes natural aging and environmental changes that impact health. Ayurveda considers Parinama as a natural process but also accounts for its influence in the progression of diseases.

21) Pitta:
Pitta is one of the three Doshas in Ayurveda, associated with the elements of fire and water. It governs digestion, metabolism, and body temperature. Pitta's imbalance can lead to inflammation, acidity, and heat-related disorders.

22) Ojas:
Ojas is considered the essence of all bodily tissues (Dhatus) and is crucial for vitality, immunity, and overall well-being in Ayurveda. Depletion of Ojas leads to weakness, susceptibility to diseases, and various degenerative conditions associated with aging.

23) Rasa (Rasha):
Rasa refers to the primary body fluid or plasma in Ayurveda. It is the first of the seven Dhatus and is responsible for nourishing all other tissues. Proper formation and circulation of Rasa are essential for maintaining health and vitality.

24) Food:
Food in Ayurveda is seen as a primary factor influencing health. Proper digestion, assimilation, and nutrition from food help maintain the balance of Doshas, Dhatus, and Agni. Ayurveda emphasizes a diet that aligns with an individual's constitution and seasonal changes.

25) Human body:
The human body in Ayurveda is viewed as a complex interplay of Doshas, Dhatus, Malas, Srotas, and the mind, working in harmony. Maintaining this balance is crucial for health, and any disruption can lead to diseases.

26) Dhatukshaya (Dhatuksaya, Dhatu-kshaya):
[see source text or glossary: Dhatu-kshaya]

27) Lakshana (Laksana):
Lakshana refers to symptoms or signs of diseases in Ayurveda. Identifying Lakshana is crucial for diagnosis and treatment, providing insight into the underlying imbalances in Doshas, Dhatus, and other physiological components.

28) Nidana:
Nidana is the etiology or cause of diseases in Ayurveda. It includes factors like improper diet, lifestyle, and environmental changes that lead to the imbalance of Doshas and the development of diseases. Understanding Nidana is essential for effective treatment.

29) Nature:
Nature in Ayurveda refers to the natural world and its rhythms and cycles, such as seasonal changes (Kala). Aligning oneself with these natural cycles is considered crucial for maintaining health and preventing diseases.

30) Atman (Atma):
Atma signifies the soul in Ayurveda. It is considered the supreme entity, immune to the cycle of birth, disease, and death (Nirvikara). Ayurveda takes Atma into account for its holistic approach to health, integrating body, mind, and soul.

31) Avarana:
Avarana means blockage or obstruction in Ayurveda, often related to the channels (Srotas). It can result from the accumulation of Ama (toxins) and lead to various health issues like impaired digestion, circulation, and metabolism.

32) Samyoga:
[see source text or glossary: Samyoga]

33) Prakopa:
[see source text or glossary: Prakopa]

34) Vikara:
[see source text or glossary: Vikara]

35) Akala:
Akala Jara refers to premature aging in Ayurveda. Unlike Kala Jara, which is natural and timely, Akala Jara occurs ahead of time due to factors like improper diet, lifestyle, and psychological stress. It leads to early onset of age-related health problems.

36) Fire:
In Ayurveda, fire primarily refers to Agni, the digestive and metabolic fire. Proper functioning of Agni is essential for digestion, assimilation, and overall metabolism. Imbalance in Agni can lead to the formation of Ama (toxins) and various diseases.

37) Saptadhatu (Sapta-dhatu, Saptan-dhatu):
[see source text or glossary: Sapta-dhatu]

38) Vitiation (Vitiated):
Vitiation in Ayurveda refers to the disturbance or imbalance of Doshas, Dhatus, or other physiological components. It can be caused by factors like improper diet, lifestyle, or environmental changes, leading to various diseases and health issues.

39) Medicine:
Medicine in Ayurveda involves the use of natural remedies, herbs, and treatments to restore balance and health. It includes therapies like Panchakarma, Rasayana, and appropriate dietary and lifestyle modifications based on individual needs.

40) Vriddha (Vrddha):
[see source text or glossary: Vriddha]

41) Vikriti (Vikrti):
[see source text or glossary: Vikriti]

42) Sahaja (Saha-ja):
[see source text or glossary: Sahaja]

43) Srotas (Shrotas):
Srotas are the channels or pathways in the body through which Doshas, Dhatus, Malas, and nutrients circulate. Proper functioning of the Srotas is essential for maintaining health. Blockage or malfunction in Srotas leads to various diseases and imbalances.

44) Vyadhin (Vyadhi):
Vyadhi means disease in Ayurveda. It refers to any imbalance in the body's natural constitution (Dosha, Dhatu, and Mala). Vyadhi results from improper diet, lifestyle, and environmental factors, and requires treatment to restore balance and health.

45) Thirst:
Thirst is a natural physiological phenomenon listed among Svabhavabala rogas in Ayurveda. It signifies the body's need for water and is essential for maintaining hydration and proper bodily functions.

46) Acara:
Achara refers to conduct or behavior in Ayurveda. Achara Rasayana encompasses principles and ethical guidelines for maintaining physical, mental, and social well-being. It includes practices like speaking truthfully, showing kindness, and living a balanced life.

47) Ahara:
Ahara means food in Ayurveda, considered essential for health. Proper digestion and assimilation of Ahara nourish the body's tissues and balance Doshas. A balanced diet tailored to an individual's constitution and seasonal changes is emphasized.

48) India:
India is the origin of Ayurveda, a holistic medical system practiced for thousands of years. Ayurveda's principles, treatments, and therapies have been deeply rooted in Indian culture and continue to influence modern health practices.

49) Death:
[see source text or glossary: Death]

50) Vayu:
[see source text or glossary: Vayu]

51) Yuktikritabala (Yuktikrtabala, Yuktikrita-bala):
[see source text or glossary: Yuktikrita-bala]

52) Sahajabala (Sahaja-bala):
[see source text or glossary: Sahaja-bala]

53) Naimittika:
[see source text or glossary: Naimittika]

54) Vatavyadhi (Vata-vyadhi):
[see source text or glossary: Vatavyadhi]

55) Discussion:
In-depth discussions in Ayurvedic texts help understand the principles and approaches to health and disease management. They provide insights into concepts like Rasayana, aging, and balancing Doshas, ensuring comprehensive and holistic healthcare practices.

56) Anubandha (Anubamdha):
[see source text or glossary: Anubandha]

57) Samprapti:
[see source text or glossary: Samprapti]

58) Mahabhuta (Maha-bhuta):
[see source text or glossary: Mahabhuta]

59) Mandagni (Manda-agni, Mamdagni):
[see source text or glossary: Mandagni]

60) Ashtanga (Astanga, Ashtan-anga):
[see source text or glossary: Ashtanga]

61) Vrishya (Vrsya):
[see source text or glossary: Vrishya]

62) Purisha (Purisa):
[see source text or glossary: Purisha]

63) Vriddhi (Vrddhi):
[see source text or glossary: Vriddhi]

64) Sukhayu:
[see source text or glossary: Sukhayu]

65) Nityaga:
[see source text or glossary: Nityaga]

66) Shakti (Sakti):
[see source text or glossary: Shakthi]

67) Varṇya (Varnya):
[see source text or glossary: Varnya]

68) Manasa (Manasha):
[see source text or glossary: Manasa]

69) Sneha:
[see source text or glossary: Sneha]

70) Mutra:
[see source text or glossary: Mutra]

71) Kitta:
[see source text or glossary: Kitta]

72) Adana:
[see source text or glossary: Adana]

73) Bhava:
[see source text or glossary: Bhava]

74) Ratha:
[see source text or glossary: Ratha]

75) Shosha (Sosa):
[see source text or glossary: Sosha]

[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 196]

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