Ayurvedic Conceptualization of Addiction: A Correlative Study of Prajnaparadha, Triguna, and Neurobiological Reward Pathways

Abstract

Addiction is a chronic, relapsing disorder characterized by compulsive substance use despite harmful consequences and is primarily mediated by dysregulation of the brain’s reward circuitry. The present review attempts to correlate the Ayurvedic concept of Prajnaparadha (error of intellect) and Triguna imbalance with the modern neurobiological understanding of addiction. Classical Ayurvedic texts describe Prajnaparadha as impairment of Dhi (intellect), Dhriti (self-control), and Smriti (memory), leading to faulty judgment and repetitive harmful behaviour. This conceptual framework closely parallels executive dysfunction, impaired impulse control, and maladaptive reward learning described in contemporary neuroscience. The mesolimbic dopamine pathway, particularly the ventral tegmental area–nucleus accumbens circuit, plays a central role in reinforcing addictive behaviour through excessive dopamine release. Repeated substance exposure produces neuroadaptations such as tolerance, craving, reduced responsiveness to natural rewards, and weakening of prefrontal cortical control. These changes may be interpreted as disturbances of Dhi, Dhriti, and Smriti, resulting in sustained Prajnaparadha. Further, predominance of Rajas and Tamas gunas corresponds to heightened impulsivity, stress reactivity, emotional instability, and depressive states observed in addiction, whereas Sattva represents cognitive clarity and emotional regulation. Ayurveda emphasizes correction of behavioural errors through Sadvritta, disciplined lifestyle, and cultivation of mental balance.