AN AYURVEDIC PERSPECTIVE ON IMMUNOLOGICAL BALANCE: THE ROLE OF PANCHAKARMA IN MANAGING AUTOIMMUNE DISORDERS
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Keywords
Ayurveda, Autoimmune Diseases, Immunity, Vyadhi Kshamatva, Panchakarma, Shodhana, Ojas
Abstract
Background: Ayurveda posits that health is a state of dynamic equilibrium, and disease arises from an imbalance in the body's fundamental functional units. A core Ayurvedic principle is that a single etiological factor does not produce a uniform pathological outcome in all individuals, underscoring the critical role of the host's defense capacity, termed Vyadhi Kshamatva (immunity).
Objective: This review aims to synthesize the classical Ayurvedic understanding of immunity and its dysregulation, explore its parallels with the modern pathophysiology of autoimmune disorders, and evaluate the therapeutic potential of Panchakarma (bio-purification procedures) in restoring immune homeostasis.
Methods: A comprehensive narrative review was conducted by critically analyzing classical Ayurvedic texts—including Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, and Ashtanga Hridaya—alongside contemporary medical literature on autoimmunity sourced from databases like PubMed and Google Scholar.
Results: Ayurveda conceptualizes immunity as a multi-factorial network sustained by Agni (digestive and metabolic fire), the equilibrium of Dosha (bio-humors), Dhatu (tissues), and Mala (waste products), the patency of Srotas (channels), and the integrity of Ojas (vital essence). Autoimmune disorders, characterized by self-attack, are interpreted through the lens of Dhatu Vaishamya (tissue imbalance) and loss of Prakriti (natural state). Panchakarma therapies are designed to correct these underlying imbalances at a systemic level through individualized, multi-modal protocols involving purification (Shodhana) and rejuvenation (Rasayana).
Conclusion: The Ayurvedic framework provides a unique holistic model for understanding the complex etiology of autoimmune diseases, emphasizing host susceptibility over external pathogens. Panchakarma emerges as a promising therapeutic strategy aimed not merely at symptom suppression but at root-cause resolution by detoxifying tissues, restoring metabolic integrity, and strengthening host immunity. Further rigorous clinical research is warranted to validate these classical insights.
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Priyanka Sharma
PG Scholar, Department of Panchakarma, NIA Jaipur India
Manish Kumar Sharma
Ph.D Scholar, PG Department of Kriya Sharir, PGIA, DSRRAU Jodhpur, India