Understanding of Kuposhan in Ayurveda: A Review

Abstract

Introduction: The term malnutrition covers two broad groups of conditions. One is under-nutrition; other is over nutrition. Malnutrition affects people in every country. Undernutrition is widely recognized as a major health problem  in developing countries of the world. It has been estimated that in India, 47% of children suffer from varying degrees  of malnutrition. Aims and Objective: The aim of the study was to collect and compile the data regarding kuposhan (undernutrition)  in different ayurvedic and contemporary texts. Materials and Methods: Different Classical textbooks, modern books, different journals, and websites were referred  to in the above context. Discussion: Aahara (food) is one of the Trayopsthambha (Tripods of life) of life as per Ayurvedic classics. Ayurveda describes malnutrition under Apatarpanjanya Vyadhis. (undernutrition diseases). Based on severity and etiology,  these disorders may be considered as Karshya (Undernutrition), Phakka, Parigarbhika (Kwashiorkor), and  Balashosha (Marasmus). The exact correlation of Kuposhana with any specific disease of modern medicine is not  possible but various clinical signs and symptoms are exactly same as that of Protein-energy malnutrition. Proper diet  and lifestyle modification, Nidan parivarjan (removal of cause), and Brimhana chikitsa describe in ayurveda, one  can control or reverse this type of condition. Conclusion: Kuposhan can be correlated with malnutrition there are detailed description and its management  available in classical text in Ayurveda. This management is equally helpful in the present context.