A SCIENTIFIC REVIEW OF NITYA SEVANIYA AAHARA

Abstract

Ayurveda, the ancient science of life, places great emphasis on daily dietary practices for maintaining health and preventing diseases. The concept of Nitya Sevaniya Aahara (daily consumable diet) is central to this preventive approach. These food substances are recommended for regular consumption because of their Rasayana (rejuvenating), Balya (strength-promoting), Agnideepaka (digestive fire-enhancing), and Dhatu Poshaka (tissue-nourishing) properties. Food (Aahara) is considered one of the three fundamental pillars of life, along with Nidra (sleep) and Brahmacharya (celibacy). आहारसंभवं वस्तु रोगाश्चाहारसंभवाः।(च.सू.28/45) The World Health Organization (WHO) has also emphasized food safety with its 2015 slogan, “From farm to plate, make food safe,” highlighting the importance of proper nutrition as a key component of primary health care. Acharya Charaka and Acharya Vagbhata elaborated on Nitya Sevaniya Dravya, comparable to the modern concept of a balanced diet. Since both health and disease originate from food, the appropriate selection of daily diet is essential. This dietary framework identifies specific food substances whose inherent qualities (Rasa, Guna, Virya, and Vipaka) help maintain the balance of Doshas, optimize Agni, and nourish the Dhatus, thereby preserving homeostasis and preventing the formation of Ama (toxins). तच्च नित्यं प्रयुञ्जीत येनानुवर्तते । अजातानां विकाराणामनुत्पतिकरं च यत्॥(च. सू. 5/13) Acharya Charaka and Acharya Sushruta classified foods into several categories: Nitya Sevaniya Dravya (to be consumed daily), Nitya Asevaniya Dravya (to be avoided daily), Adhyashana, Vishamashana, and Asatmya Aahara (irregular or incompatible foods). Both Nitya Sevaniya and Nitya Asevaniya Aahara Dravya are described in detail in classical texts. This review highlights the importance of the daily intake of Nitya Sevaniya Aahara Dravyas in promoting the health of healthy individuals, preventing disease onset, and maintaining overall well-being.