Virudh Ahara in Ayurveda: Insights into Its Role in Preventive Health Care

Authors

  • Pawan Kumar PhD Scholar, Assistant Professor, Shri Krishna AYUSH University, MSM Institute of Ayurveda, Bhagat Phool Singh Mahila Vishwavidyalaya, Sonipat, Haryana, India. Author
  • Seema Rani Professor and Chairperson, PG Department of Swasthavritta and Yoga, Institute for Ayurveda Studies and Research, Faculty of Ayurveda, Shri Krishna AYUSH University, Kurukshetra, Haryana, India. Author

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.48165/IRJAY.2025.81012

Keywords:

Agni, Ayurveda, Incompatible Diet, Lifestyle Diseases, Preventive Health care, Virudh Ahara

Abstract

Background: Virudh Ahara (incompatible food combinations) represents a fundamental concept in Ayurveda, describing foods that disrupt physiological homeostasis. With rising lifestyle diseases, understanding Virudh Ahara has become increasingly relevant for preventive health care. Materials of Review: Classical Ayurvedic texts (Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, Ashtanga Hridaya) and contemporary research from PubMed, Google Scholar, and AYUSH databases. Methods of Review: Systematic literature review using keywords “Virudh Ahara,” “incompatible foods,” “lifestyle diseases” for studies published 2000–2024. Type of Review: Narrative review combining classical knowledge with contemporary evidence. Results of Review: Analysis revealed Virudh Ahara contributes to lifestyle diseases through Agni dysfunction, Ama formation, and Dosha imbalance. Modern dietary habits align with classical incompatibility categories. Conclusion: Virudh Ahara provides a critical framework for understanding diet-related pathogenesis and serves as a valuable tool for preventive healthcare strategies.

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Published

2025-11-11

How to Cite

Kumar, P., & Rani , S. (2025). Virudh Ahara in Ayurveda: Insights into Its Role in Preventive Health Care . International Research Journal of Ayurveda & Yoga, 8(10), 65-70. https://doi.org/10.48165/IRJAY.2025.81012