Sadvritta in Samhitas – Ethical and Preventive Health Perspectives
Introduction: Sadvritta, or ethical conduct, is a cornerstone of Ayurveda, emphasizing moral, social, and personal behaviors to maintain physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. Classical texts like Charaka Samhita and Ashtanga Hridaya highlight its role in disease prevention, promotion of longevity, and societal harmony. In modern times, the principles of Sadvritta resonate with preventive medicine, mental health, and lifestyle interventions. Methods: A comprehensive literature review was conducted using classical Ayurvedic texts and modern scientific databases (PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science). Keywords included “Sadvritta,” “ethical lifestyle Ayurveda,” “preventive health,” “Ayurveda and behavior,” and “personal conduct.” Inclusion criteria encompassed classical references, preclinical, and clinical studies evaluating ethical and lifestyle practices for health outcomes. Exclusion criteria were anecdotal reports and non-peer-reviewed articles. Results: Classical literature describes Sadvritta encompassing personal hygiene, interpersonal conduct, dietary discipline, mental purity, and social ethics. Modern evidence suggests that adherence to ethical and structured lifestyle behaviors improves mental well-being, reduces stress, and enhances immunity. Behavioral interventions aligned with Sadvritta principles reduce risk factors for cardiovascular, metabolic, and psychosomatic disorders. Discussion: While Sadvritta is traditionally viewed as moral guidance, it also functions as a preventive health strategy. Modern scientific studies support its role in lifestyle medicine, stress management, and chronic disease prevention. Integrating Sadvritta into contemporary public health frameworks requires education, culturally sensitive strategies, and policy support. Conclusion: Sadvritta provides a holistic approach to ethical conduct and preventive health. Its principles, when adapted to modern lifestyle, can contribute to physical, mental, and social well-being. Further research should explore quantifiable health outcomes of Sadvritta-based interventions.
KEYWORDS; Ayurveda, Ethics, Lifestyle, Preventive health, Sadvritta