IMPORTANCE OF AHARA IN AYURVEDA – A REVIEW ARTICLE

Savita*, Shankar Lal Jat, Ashok Kumar Sharma Kishori Lal Sharma

ABSTRACT

Ayurveda, the science of life, suggested many Siddhantas (principles), One of the most important principles is the three factors that is Aahara, nidra and Brahmacharya, are mentioned as three Upastambha for maintaining the health. Our diet is an essential factor for the formation of body. Food has been given prime importance since Vedic Period. It is considered as Brahma in Upanishad. Acharaya Kashyapa gives it the name “Mahabhaisajya”. Acharya Charak says that consuming improper diet in improper way is the main cause of disease this is explained under Ashtaaharvidhivisheshayatan, Viruddhaahar. Use of incompatible food leads to skin disorder, GIT disorder, Diabetes, obesity, hence these should be avoided. Agni is the main factor in transformation of Chaturvidha Ahara Dravya into Sharira gata bhava like Rasa Rakta, Mamsa, Meda, Asthi, Majja, and Shukra. Agni is the fundamental entity responsible for the passage of food through these three phases. Food is of four different type (Chaturvidha) means Ashita, Khadita, Lidha, Pita. All these four types of food pass through the three phases of digestion and human life continues. This article highlights the basic concepts of Aahar, Astha Aahar Vidhi Visheshayatana, Agni and Metabolism.

Keywords: Ayurveda, Aahar, Agni, Astha Aahar Vidhi Visheshayatana.