A Comprehensive Review on Pathya Apathya in Parada Bhasma Sevana

Abstract

Pathya is the food and regimen which is beneficial and nutritional to the body and mind. Apathya is that which acts opposite to Pathya. Proper protocol, including medicines along with rules and regulations about diet and regimens, leads to a successful therapeutic effect. Rasaushadhis are being most potent and act rapidly with a minute dose, necessitating disciplined compliance to Pathya and abstinence of Apathya. This article systematically documents protocols of Pathya Apathya during Parada Bhasma administration, from across 13 authoritative Rasashastra textbooks. Most of the Acharyas remarked on the usage of Pitta shamana (Pitta pacifying), Madhura rasa (sweet taste), Shita virya (cold potency), Deepana (digestive stimulant) and Vatanulomana (facilitates downward movement of Vata) substance among Pathya Ahara, while Pitta vardhaka (Pitta aggravating), Teekshna guna (penetrating quality), Ushna virya (hot potency) and Srotorodhaka (causes obstruction of body channels) substance among Apathya Ahara. Also remarked Vihara, which leads to mind cheerfulness and pleasing of sense organs as Pathya Vihara, and which leads to Vata pitta Prakopa and disturbance to the mind as Apathya Vihara. The probable rationale behind the selection of these regulations can be Rasapanchaka, drug interactions, Deha prakriti (individual body constitution), Roga Avastha (stage of disease), Kaala (season), and the drug's pharmacokinetics. Interaction may be validated with the help of chelation therapy and the antioxidant properties of specified substances. Although there are observable discrepancies among Pathya Apathya discussed by Rasagranthas, a scientific basis is needed to evaluate therapeutic relevance through future research.