Prakriti-Based Medicine: Exploring the Genetic Foundations of Ayurvedic Principles

Ayurveda (the science of life) is an ancient system of medicine practised in India and works on the concept of Prakriti, a person's individual physical and psychological constitution influenced by three Dosha (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha). Ayurgenomics integration genomics and Ayurveda for the personalized medicine may provide new insights into Tridosha theory to personalize medicine. Scientific studies have begun to unravel the genetic basis of Prakriti, including correlations between individual constitution types and SNPs (single nucleotide polymorphisms), gene expression patterns, and physiological states. Domain 9 relates with relation of Prakriti with disease susceptibility, drug metabolism, drug efficacy. Epigenetics, the dynamic alteration in gene expression by lifestyle and environment is these days recognized as a foundation to Ayurvedic teachings. Ayurnutrigenomics is an emerging idea with the aim to develop personalized functional foods and nutraceuticals based on a person's genetic make-up, inspired by Ayurveda principles. From a Prakriti perspective, the three pillars of Ayurveda Ahara (diet), Vihara (activity or lifestyle), and Aushadhi (medicine) form a well-knitted method to provide personalized care for patients according to their Prakriti and preventive health promotion. Future implications The utilization of Ayurgenomics into modern medicine has tremendous life-changing possibilities and can really change the future of healthcare by delivering personalized, feasible means to address illness. However, more in-depth research is required for the complete understanding of molecular basis of Prakriti and for validation of Ayurvedic therapies with well-defined clinical trials.