Background: Viruddha Ahara (incompatible diet) is a fundamental concept described in Ayurveda referring to unsuitable dietary combinations and incompatible dietary habits that adversely affect physiological functions. Classical Ayurvedic literature identifies Viruddha Ahara as a major etiological factor for Kushta (skin disorders). In modern times, the prevalence of chronic inflammatory and allergic skin disorders has increased significantly due to unhealthy dietary habits, processed food consumption, and altered lifestyles. Objective: To critically review the role of Viruddha Ahara in the etiopathogenesis of emerging skin disorders from Ayurvedic and modern scientific perspectives. Methods: Classical Ayurvedic texts including Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, and Ashtanga Hridaya were reviewed along with published articles indexed in PubMed, AYUSH portals, and peer- reviewed journals related to Viruddha Ahara and dermatological disorders. Results: Repeated intake of incompatible food combinations leads to Agnimandya, Ama formation, Dosha aggravation, Rakta Dushti, and subsequent manifestation of skin disorders. Modern scientific evidence suggests that incompatible dietary habits contribute to chronic inflammation, oxidative stress, immune dysregulation, gut microbiota imbalance, and hypersensitivity reactions that may precipitate dermatological diseases such as psoriasis, eczema, acne vulgaris, urticaria, and vitiligo. Conclusion: Viruddha Ahara plays a significant role in the pathogenesis of emerging skin disorders. Avoidance of incompatible dietary practices and adoption of Ayurvedic dietary principles may serve as effective preventive and therapeutic strategies for chronic skin diseases.
Dr. Ashish Namdeo*1, Dr. Prafulla 2, Dr. Sheetal Choudhari3, Dr. Kirti Sisodiya4 (Wed,) studied this question.