Abstract

Vd. Fayaz Ahmed*

ABSTRACT

The word gara is derived from the word gru with suffix ?ach? which means to digluted or could be digluted which generally indicates the liquid form. From one aspect this word (Gara) meaning also come as poison. According to Aacharya Charak, it is defined as kalantar avipaki means it takes a long time to digest so it does not show acute toxicity but produces many diseases. Gara visha is a toxic combination of substances which shows effects after interval of some time and does not kill the patient instantly. Ahara (food) Nidra (sleep) and Brahmacharya (controlled sex) are three basic pillars of Shareera (body).[1] Ahara (food) is the prime need for sustaining of life. It has its own importance in concept of Trividha Upasthambha (sub-pillars of body). Without Ahara (food), life would not continue for very long, so it is considered under Upasthambha (sub-pillars of body). For sustainment of life, for all living beings Ahara (food) is very much essential. Ahara (food) is responsible for both Arogya (health) and Vyadhi (diseases). According Vidhi (Dietary regimen) if HitaAhara (compatible diet) is consumed it provides Bala (promotion of strength), Varna (complexion) and Indriyaprasadna (nourishment of the senses). Ahara (food) does not benefit the body, if it is not prepared as per the AstaAhara Vidhi Visheshayatana (factors for wholesomeness). The substances which when consumed cause for aggravations of Doshas (morbid humors) but do not expel them out of the body and bring about abnormalities in the Rasa etc. Dhatus (tissues of the body) give rise to diseases are considered to be incompatible food and named as Viruddha Aahara (incompatible diet).[2] The Indian food industry stood around US$39.03 billion in 2013 and is expected to grow at a rate of 11% to touch US$ 64.31 billion.