Ayurveda perspectives toward prevention and management of nicotine and alcohol dependence: a review
RenuB Rathi, BharatJ Rathi
Abstract
Nicotine and alcohol are the most widely consumed psychotropic drugs worldwide. The common use of both, increases the risk of noncommunicable diseases to many folds. Ayurveda has widely described Sadvritta (good conduct) and Satvavajay Chikitsa (Ayurveda psychotherapy), which can be applied in this context along with replacement therapy with medicines described in Madatyaya chapter of Charaksamhita Chikitsasthana. The aim of this study was to highlight the concepts of prevention and management of addiction by various principles of Ayurveda. Major causes of addiction in younger age include genetic predisposition, environmental factors, parental negligence, Pragyaparadh (intellectual blasphemy), Dushita Ahara (unhealthy diet regimen), and search of pleasure or stress reliever. If there is a delay in tackling these problems at early stages, these may turn into menace to health later. Achar Rasayan, Sadvritta, and Satvavajay Chikitsa are the preventive as well as curative measures of de-addiction. Ayurveda also advocates medicated smoke/Dhumpan and alcohol, that is, Drakshasav, Shrikhandasav, and so on, as replacement therapy; use of daily and seasonal regimen and Doshashodhan (elimination of vitiated humors) in day-to-day life is essential to prevent or treat addiction problems. In a nutshell, change in lifestyle, adoption of Ayurveda treatment principles, control on intellectual blasphemy, and environmental issues are directly concerned to deal with addiction problems. The measures adopted for the management of addiction ailments at initial stage also require strong willpower, meditation with counseling, and family–friends support.