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  2. volume 1 | Issue 2 [April to June]
  3. PANCHAKARMA AS A SUSTAINABLE HEALTH CARE MODEL: A REVIEW
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Dr. Abhay Gandhi

PANCHAKARMA AS A SUSTAINABLE HEALTH CARE MODEL: A REVIEW

Introduction: Non-communicable diseases (NCDs), lifestyle disorders, and rising health care costs have led to a global search for sustainable, integrative health care models. Panchakarma, a classical Ayurvedic purification and rejuvenation therapy, has been traditionally employed for both prevention and management of chronic diseases. Its holistic approach aligns with contemporary principles of sustainability in health care. Methods: Literature was systematically reviewed from Ayurvedic classics (Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, Ashtanga Hridaya), PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar databases. Search terms included “Panchakarma,” “Ayurveda,” “sustainable health care,” and “non-communicable diseases.” Studies were included if they addressed Panchakarma interventions, sustainability in health care, or outcomes in chronic disease management. Both clinical and conceptual studies published between 2000–2025 were considered. Results: Panchakarma demonstrates multi-dimensional benefits: preventive health through detoxification, lifestyle modification, and seasonal regimens; therapeutic potential in NCDs such as diabetes, obesity, arthritis, and neurological disorders; psychosomatic balance through stress reduction and mind-body interventions; environmental sustainability by utilizing herbal, natural, and eco-friendly resources; and cost-effectiveness in reducing long-term health care burden. Modern research validates some Panchakarma practices (e.g., Virechana in metabolic syndrome, Basti in arthritis), though evidence quality varies. Discussion: Panchakarma presents a viable sustainable health care model by integrating preventive, promotive, curative, and rehabilitative aspects. However, methodological limitations in clinical trials, standardization issues, and lack of global policy integration remain challenges. Conclusion: Panchakarma’s holistic and eco-friendly framework offers valuable insights for developing sustainable health systems. Future research should focus on large-scale clinical validation, interdisciplinary collaborations, and policy inclusion to enhance global acceptance.

 

KEYWORDS: Ayurveda, non-communicable diseases, Panchakarma, sustainability, traditional medicine