A Holistic Approach to Ocular Health: Pathya–Apathya Principles in Netra Roga as Described in Yogaratnakara

Abstract

The most important sense organ is Netra as rightly said by Acharya Sushruta– “Sarvendriyanam madhye nayanam pradhanam” thus it requires appropriate Pathya ahara and vihara for the maintenance of normal functioning and also to prevent many avoidable and preventable ocular diseases. The very motto of Ayurveda is Swasthasya swaastya rakshanam aturasya vikara prashamanam is full filled if a person does proper analysis of Pathya and Apathya in Swastha avastha and Vyadhi avastha. In the current digital world, excessive screentime and improper lifestyle has significant impact on ocular health, with regards to this preventable ocular impact Pathya-apathya plays an important role. Ayurveda give more importance to Pathya and Apathya in the prevention, management and prognosis of any disease. The improper diet and lifestyle may adversely affect the normal functional integrity of Netra by aggravating the Doshas at different levels leading to many ocular diseases. An important Ayurvedic compendium Yogaratnakara gives a vast valuable detail in a systemic manner regarding the wholesome and unwholesome diet and regimens to be followed in relation to ocular health and disease. The present work aims to compile the complete details given by Acharya Yogaratnakara regarding the dietary substances, behavioural practices and lifestyle factors indicated or contraindicated in Netra chikitsa. Furthermore, the work highlights the relevance of Pathya-apathya as a prime supportive component and emphasizes the need for its appropriate incorporation in the community w.r.to preventive and therapeutic Netra chikitsa.