Understanding Metabolic Syndrome Through the Lens of Traditional Indian Medicine

Each year, non-communicable diseases (NCDs) claim the lives of almost 40 million people, which accounts for around 70% of all fatalities worldwide. Since, major cause for these ailments are poor life style choices, these conditions are sometimes referred to as lifestyle disorders. One of such major life style disorder is Metabolic Syndrome, as we see the conception of syndrome, similar idea of cluster of diseases is mentioned as vyadhisankar by acharya Charak. Vyadhisankara (co-morbidity)” is the term used for the co-existence phenomenon of diseases in an individual and in Metabolic Syndrome this co-existence is seen between central obesity, high plasma glucose levels, increased blood pressure and increased low density lipoproteins (LDL) and low HDL. Furthermore, for comprehending the underlying pathophysiology, the notion of Shatkriya kala has been taught by Acharya Sushruta. A better diagnostic strategy for metabolic syndrome can thus be devised using these ayurvedic Principles. This will provide opportunities for this disorder's conventional course of treatment and a way to prevent its spread by adhering to the ayurvedic lifestyle recommendations. Key words: Metabolic Syndrome, Vyadhisankar, Nidanarthak Roga, Cardiovascular Disorders, Ayurvedic Diagnostic approach