Become A Member

  1. Home
  2. Volume 2 | Issue 1 [January to March]
  3. Ritucharya Guidelines in Samhitas – A Critical Review
Article Image
Ms. Priya Bhaware

Ritucharya Guidelines in Samhitas – A Critical Review

Introduction: Ritucharya, or seasonal regimen, is a fundamental concept in Ayurveda outlined in classical texts (Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, Ashtanga Hridaya). It emphasizes adjusting lifestyle, diet, and therapies according to seasonal variations to maintain dosha balance, prevent seasonal disorders, and optimize health. Modern epidemiology indicates increased morbidity in certain seasons due to lifestyle and environmental factors, highlighting the relevance of Ritucharya in preventive healthcare. Methods: A comprehensive review was conducted using classical Ayurvedic texts and modern scientific databases (PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science). Keywords included “Ritucharya,” “seasonal regimen Ayurveda,” “seasonal health,” and “Ayurvedic preventive medicine.” Inclusion criteria encompassed classical descriptions, experimental, and clinical studies correlating seasonal routines with health outcomes. Exclusion criteria were anecdotal reports and non-peer-reviewed articles.Results: Samhitas provide detailed recommendations for six seasons (Shishira, Vasanta, Grishma, Varsha, Sharad, Hemanta), covering diet, physical activity, sleep, and therapies. Modern evidence aligns with these guidelines, linking seasonal adaptations to improved immunity, metabolic homeostasis, and reduced incidence of seasonal illnesses. Implementation of Ritucharya in contemporary lifestyle may help in managing allergies, viral infections, metabolic disorders, and stress-related conditions. Discussion: While classical texts offer precise seasonal recommendations, modern lifestyle constraints challenge adherence. Integrating Ritucharya with contemporary practices requires adaptation, personalized planning, and education. Future research should focus on clinical trials evaluating seasonal interventions on health outcomes. Conclusion: Ritucharya represents a scientifically relevant preventive strategy. Alignment of daily routine, diet, and therapeutic interventions with seasonal changes offers holistic benefits and can be incorporated into modern lifestyle medicine for enhanced well-being.

 

KEYWORDS: Ayurveda, Preventive health, Ritucharya, Seasonal regimen, Seasonal health