Abstract

Dr. Priya Pathak*, Dr. Umesh Shukla, Dr. Rajika Gupta and Prof. T. C. Thakur

ABSTRACT

Ayurveda the most ancient science of life, practiced in India for thousands of years based on its own unique fundamental principles such as prevention of disease, maintenance of health and promotion of health. Trayopasthamba consists of Ahara (food), Nidra (Sleep) and Brahmacarya (good conducts). Each Upasthamba has its own importance in prevention of disease. Aahara has been considered as the first one which shows its prime importance. Ahara stands for balanced diet and is the first and foremost pillar of Ayurveda. Acharya Charaka has clearly stated, that a daily diet should be of such quality, which not only helps to maintain present well- being but serves as a prophylactic against upcoming disease. This is a very important aspect of preventive medicine as mentioned in Ayurvedic classics. Diseases are mainly result from unhealthy diet and faulty dietary habits, lack of physical activity and lack of awareness. Triguna represents essential energies of the mind. Individual’s personality is genetically determined and dependent on dominance of Triguna. According to Triguna Theory it is hard to change physical constitution, but mental attitude can be molded through the choice of food. Ancient Yogic science classified food in to three basic categories called the Satvik Ahara, Rajasic Ahara and Tamasic Ahara based on their influence on Triguna of mind. Through this paper the effect of Trigunas on mental health is explained and classics will be reviewed. An attempt has been made to explain them in terms of scientific terminology and their relation with Ahara.