PREVENTIVE AND CURATIVE ASPECTS OF KAYACHIKITSA: A CLASSICAL REVIEW

Abstract

Kayachikitsa, the principal branch of internal medicine in Ayurveda, plays a vital role in both prevention and management of diseases by maintaining the equilibrium of Dosha, Dhatu, Mala, and Agni. Classical Ayurvedic texts emphasize that preservation of health is as important as treatment of disease, and Kayachikitsa addresses both these objectives through a comprehensive and individualized approach. Preventive aspects of Kayachikitsa include regulation of Ahara and Vihara, strengthening of Agni, observance of Dinacharya and Ritucharya, and use of Rasayana therapy to enhance immunity and vitality. On the curative side, Kayachikitsa focuses on understanding disease through Hetu, Purvarupa, Rupa, and Samprapti, followed by appropriate application of Shodhana and Shamana therapies for correction of underlying pathology. This classical review highlights how preventive measures reduce disease susceptibility, while curative principles aim at root-cause correction rather than symptomatic relief. The integrated preventive and curative framework of Kayachikitsa thus offers a safe, holistic, and sustainable approach to health care, with relevance in the management of lifestyle and chronic disorders prevalent in the modern era.