Role of Pathya - Apathya in Vatavyadi

Smrithi JR, Waheeda Banu

Abstract: Vata is the most unstable dosha among the tridoshas and gets vitiated very easily. Many simple dinacharya (daily routine) and ritucharya (seasonal regimen) procedures have been explained by our acharyas to control Vata and prevent it from becoming imbalanced and causing problems. When treating vitiated Vata, several factors must be considered. Acharya Susrutha has explained that four things are necessary for the treatment of any disease: Shodhana (purification), Shamana (palliation), Aahara (diet), and Achara (lifestyle). While we often focus on the first two modalities when treating a patient, equal importance must be given to Aahara and Achara for the successful treatment of Vyadhi (disease). The classics have extensively highlighted the significance of these aspects. This paper is designed to emphasize the role of Pathya (wholesome) and Apthya (unwholesome) with special reference to Vata Vyaadhi.

Keywords: Vata, pathya, apathya, achara, ahara