European Journal of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences

GENERAL INTRODUCTION OF VIRUDDHA AHAR AND IT'S COMPLICATIONS ACCORDING TO AYURVEDA

Annapurna R.* and Siddalingesh M. Kudari

ABSTRACT

Aahar is the food item swallowed by the humans either in the form of liquids or solids. All medicines available in this world are also called food.Viruddha Ahara, an ancient concept in Ayurveda, elucidates the adverse effects of incompatible food combinations on health. While rooted in traditional wisdom, its relevance persists in contemporary dietary practices. This abstract explores the concept of Viruddha Ahara in today's scenario, shedding light on its significance amidst evolving dietary trends and lifestyles. In the modern era, the accessibility to diverse cuisines and the fusion of culinary traditions have led to the adoption of novel nutritional habits. However, amidst this culinary diversity, the principles of food compatibility outlined in Viruddha Ahara remain pertinent. The ingestion of incompatible food combinations can disrupt the digestive process, leading to various health complications such as indigestion, bloating, and nutrient malabsorption. Anything which is ingested and swallowed and maintains the equilibrium of Sharirik dhatus and helps in eliminating the disturbance of the equilibrium, is said to be Aahar. Now Aahar, if doesn’t maintain the equilibrium of Sharirik dhatus is said to beViruddhahar. Food sustains the life of living beings. But Viruddhahar, on the other hand, is the causative factor of many diseases. Our ancient texts have given a lot of examples of Viruddhahar, which should not be taken or ingested. This article will enlighten a number of classical examples of Viruddhahar described in Brihattrayi, along with the generalized after-effects of these viruddha or incompatible combinations of the food. After enlisting a number of examples of Viruddhahar, scholars also described the treatment of the after-effects of these incompatabilities. Viruddhahar, no doubt, can cause serious complications, may it be toxic symptoms or even death; but can also be wholesome or Satmaya in the individuals having deeptagni, practices exercise or oleation regularly etc.

Keywords: Viruddhahar, lifestyle, dosha, dhatu-pratyanik, ahitkar, aamvisha, abhishyandi, teekshagni, deeptagni, erysepals, ascites, epilepsy, AGE.