AN AYURVEDIC REVIEW ON JANAPADODHWAMSA

Abstract

Ayurveda the eternal life science from many centuries proved to be the most efficient tool in the health management system. It gives more weightage to the prevention than the cure. Janapadodhwamsa is one among the unique concept described in Ayurveda treatises which literally means demolition or annihilation of people or community. Acharya Charaka called it Janapadodhwamsa, Acharya Sushruta called it Maraka, and Acharya Bhela called it Janamaar. There are four factors that have been described which are common and essential for every living being, that is, Vayu (air), Jala (water), Desha (land), and Kaala (season). Among these four factors, Kaala is mainly main factor. Any abnormal alteration in these four factors can significantly influence individual or community or environment or all of them together. Vitiation of these four common factors is the cause for Janapadodhwamsa. Foremost reason for Janapadodhwamsa has been described as Adharma (immorality) and the root cause of Adharma is said to be Pragyaparadha (delinquency of wisdom). Considering the note worthiness of Janapadodhwamsa, a whole chapter has been depicted in CharakaSamhita illustrating its onset, causes, peculiar features, and management. Its causative agents, method of prevention has been clearly explained. To manage Janapadodhvamsa, it is advised to include the usage of Rasayana therapy, Panchkarama procedures, SadvritPaalan (code of right conducts), and Aachara Rasayana, that is, behavioral therapy.