Ayurvedic Principles and Therapeutic Protocols in Alcohol Addiction Management: A Review

Dr. Bhupendra Kumar; Dr. Anita Sharma; Dr. Dharti; Dr. Amol S Kadu

doi:10.63247/3048-7390.vol.2.issue3.5

Authors

Dr. Bhupendra Kumar National Institute of Ayurveda (Deemed to be University), Jaipur (Rajasthan) Author https://orcid.org/0009-0000-9503-8826
Prof. (Dr.) Anita Sharma National Institute of Ayurveda (Deemed to be University), Jaipur (Rajasthan) Author
Dr. Dharti National Institute of Ayurveda (Deemed to be University), Jaipur (Rajasthan) Author
Dr. Amol S Kadu National Institute of Ayurveda (Deemed to be University), Jaipur (Rajasthan) Author https://orcid.org/0009-0005-4057-8135

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.63247/3048-7390.vol.2.issue3.5

Keywords:

Alcohol Addiction, Alcohol Use Disorder , Detoxification, Rasāyana Therapy, Integrative Medicine

Abstract

Background: Alcohol addiction is a major global public health concern, contributing to significant morbidity and mortality. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), harmful alcohol use is responsible for approximately 3.3 million deaths annually worldwide. Classical Ayurvedic texts describe conditions analogous to alcohol dependence, chronic toxicity, and withdrawal states under concepts such as madyapāna, madātyaya, and mada-atyaya cikitsā. Ayurveda describes a comprehensive framework for managing alcohol-related disorders through detoxification (śodhana), stabilization of mental functions (mano-saṃskāra), rejuvenation (rasāyana), and restoration of systemic balance. Management includes herbal formulations, diet and lifestyle regulation, Panchakarma therapies, and mind–body practices such as yoga and meditation.

Materials and Methods: Data were compiled from classical Ayurvedic treatises, modern medical textbooks, peer-reviewed journal articles, clinical studies, and credible online scientific databases. Relevant information was analyzed to understand Ayurvedic principles and therapeutic interventions applicable to alcohol addiction and associated withdrawal states.

Results: The Ayurvedic approach to alcohol addiction focuses on correcting the underlying disturbances in doṣa, agni, and mental faculties (manas). Evidence from classical principles and contemporary research suggests that Ayurvedic interventions may assist in detoxification, reduce withdrawal symptoms, improve neurocognitive function, and enhance emotional resilience. Integrative therapies—such as specific herbal formulations (e.g., Aśvagandhā, Brahmī, Harītakī), Panchakarma procedures, nutritional support, and mind–body practices—contribute to restoring physiological stability and promoting long-term behavioral change.

Conclusion: Ayurveda offers a holistic and individualized framework for the management of alcohol addiction and its associated complications. When combined with structured rehabilitation strategies, Ayurvedic interventions may support withdrawal management, psychological stabilization, and long-term recovery. Further well-designed clinical studies are required to validate Ayurvedic protocols as complementary or integrative approaches in global addiction medicine.

Author Biographies

Dr. Bhupendra Kumar, National Institute of Ayurveda (Deemed to be University), Jaipur (Rajasthan)

P.G. Scholar, Department of Agadatantra, National Institute of Ayurveda (Deemed University), Jaipur.
Prof. (Dr.) Anita Sharma, National Institute of Ayurveda (Deemed to be University), Jaipur (Rajasthan)

Professor & Head, Department of Agadatantra
Dr. Dharti, National Institute of Ayurveda (Deemed to be University), Jaipur (Rajasthan)

P.G. Scholar, Department of Agadatantra
Dr. Amol S Kadu, National Institute of Ayurveda (Deemed to be University), Jaipur (Rajasthan)

Associate Professor, Department of Agadatantra

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