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  2. Volume 2 I Issue 2 [April To June]
  3. PREVENTIVE ASPECTS OF KAYACHIKITSA IN LIFESTYLE DISORDERS: AN INTEGRATIVE REVIEW
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Dr. Jalpa Gandhi

PREVENTIVE ASPECTS OF KAYACHIKITSA IN LIFESTYLE DISORDERS: AN INTEGRATIVE REVIEW

Introduction: Lifestyle disorders such as diabetes mellitus, hypertension, obesity, cardiovascular diseases, and mental stress-related conditions are rising globally due to sedentary behavior, unhealthy diet, and psychosocial stress. Modern medicine emphasizes diagnosis and pharmacological management, but preventive strategies often remain underutilized. Ayurveda, through its branch of Kayachikitsa (internal medicine), provides a strong foundation for prevention by integrating diet, lifestyle, detoxification, and rejuvenation therapies. Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, AYUSH Research Portal, and Google Scholar using keywords “Kayachikitsa,” “prevention,” and “lifestyle disorders.” Classical Ayurvedic texts (Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, Ashtanga Hridaya) were critically reviewed. Studies included systematic reviews, randomized controlled trials (RCTs), observational research, and experimental studies from 2000 to 2025. Non-peer-reviewed, anecdotal, and duplicate data were excluded. Results: Ayurvedic preventive principles such as Nidana Parivarjana (avoidance of causative factors), Dinacharya (daily regimen), Ritucharya (seasonal regimen), Sadvrtta (ethical conduct), and Rasayana (rejuvenation therapy) were found to have direct relevance in mitigating lifestyle disorders. Panchakarma procedures, dietary modifications (Ahara), and physical activity guidelines (Vihara) contribute to prevention by maintaining dosha balance, improving metabolism, and strengthening immunity. Evidence from clinical trials shows efficacy of yoga, meditation, and herbal formulations in reducing risk factors for metabolic syndrome, cardiovascular diseases, and mental health disorders. Discussion: Preventive strategies of Kayachikitsa align with modern principles of lifestyle medicine. Integration of Ayurvedic regimens with contemporary healthcare may address gaps in sustainability, patient compliance, and long-term outcomes. Conclusion: Kayachikitsa offers a holistic preventive framework against lifestyle disorders. Its incorporation into public health models could reduce disease burden, enhance quality of life, and support integrative healthcare strategies worldwide.

KEYWORDS: Ayurveda, Kayachikitsa, Lifestyle Disorders, Prevention, Rasayana