Suppression of Apāna Vāyu: Classical Ayurvedic Perspectives and Modern Clinical Correlations of Natural Urges

Vd. Milind Aware; Vd. Rahul Chaudhari; Vd. Subhash Sonyabapu Pawar

doi:10.63247/3048-7390.vol.2.issue3.10

Authors

Vd. Milind Aware Shree Saptashrungi Ayurved Mahavidyalaya and Hospital, Nashik, Maharashtra, India Author https://orcid.org/0009-0005-6478-2771
Vd. Rahul Chaudhari Shree Saptashrungi Ayurved Mahavidyalaya and Hospital, Nashik, Maharashtra Author https://orcid.org/0009-0001-8204-4730
Vd. Subhash Sonyabapu Pawar Shree Saptashrungi Ayurved Mahavidyalaya and Hospital, Nashik, Maharashtra, India Author

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.63247/3048-7390.vol.2.issue3.10

Keywords:

Apāna Vāyu, Vegādhāraṇa, udāvarta, Vāta Doṣa, Eliminative Physiology

Abstract

Introduction: Apāna Vāyu is a type of Vāta Doṣa. It is responsible for all the downward-moving physiological functions such as defecation, urination, menstruation, ejaculation, and parturition. Classical Ayurveda literature mentioned various diseases caused due to the suppression of Apāna Vāyu under the heading Vegādhāraṇa, its role in the development of udāvarta and various systemic disorders.

Methods: This review is based on a critical analysis of classical Ayurvedic texts, including Caraka Saṃhitā, Susruta Saṃhitā, and Aṣṭāṅga Hṛidaya, along with their commentaries. Relevant contemporary literature was reviewed to establish clinical and physiological correlations.

Results: Classical sources consistently describe Vegādhāraṇa as a cause of Vāta vitiation, impaired downward movement of Apāna Vāyu, and dysfunction of gastrointestinal, genitourinary, and reproductive systems. Contemporary evidence reveals parallels with conditions such as chronic constipation, urinary retention, pelvic floor dysfunction, dysmenorrhea, and infertility.

Discussion and Conclusion: Apāna Vāyu Vegādhāraṇa represents a significant link between lifestyle practices and disease development. Integrating classical Ayurvedic concepts with modern scientific understanding highlights its relevance in preventive and holistic healthcare.

Author Biographies

Vd. Milind Aware, Shree Saptashrungi Ayurved Mahavidyalaya and Hospital, Nashik, Maharashtra, India

Principal
Vd. Rahul Chaudhari, Shree Saptashrungi Ayurved Mahavidyalaya and Hospital, Nashik, Maharashtra

Guide and Associate Professor, Samhita Siddhant Department
Vd. Subhash Sonyabapu Pawar, Shree Saptashrungi Ayurved Mahavidyalaya and Hospital, Nashik, Maharashtra, India

P.G. Scholar, Samhita and Siddhant Department

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