Role of Ahara-Vihara and Rasayana in prevention of disease and maintenance of health

Abstract

Ahara and Vihara play very important role in getting these Prayojana. The crucial role of Ahara and Vihara is maintenance of Dhatus i.e., Dhatusamya, by which all physiological activity remain proper e.g. Dahana, Pachana, Chaya-Upachaya Kriya, etc. By Vihara the fitness and constitutional arrangement of body remain well, Jatharagni gets improved and Bala as well Vyadhikshamatva also gets improved. Acharya Charaka says “Aharah Praninam Pranah” and Acharya Sushruta says “Praninam Punarmoolam Aharo Balavarna Ojasam Cha” that is the Ahara is the life of all the Pranis as well as base of Bala, Varna and Oja i.e., life is impossible without Ahara. Thus, Ahara and Vihara are useful for prevention of diseases.  Ayurveda also frequently referred as 'Ashtanga Ayurveda' and Rasayana Chikitsa are the part of the Ashtanga Ayurveda. It helps a person to maintain good health or to establish impaired or lost physical or mental health. Rasayana Chikitsa are said to revitalize all the Sapta Dhatus (body elements), therefore, restores equilibrium and health.