ARUCHI (ANOREXIA) AS A SYMPTOM & COMPLICATION OF COVID-19 & ITS MANAGEMENT THROUGH AYURVEDA

Abstract

The Corona Virus Disease‐2019 i.e. COVID-19 pandemic has severely impacted the population worldwide and designated as the most devastating health issue of the era. As the viral infection caused by Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Corona Virus- 2 i.e. SARS-CoV-2 primarily affects the respiratory system, cough, breathlessness, ARDS (Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome) are the most common manifestations observed as symptom and consequences of the infection. COVID‐19 also affects the other systems of the body hence give the impression of a multisystem disease. Anorexia i.e. loss of appetite, loss of taste are reported commonly in patients of COVID-19 as symptoms and extra-pulmonary complications. These symptoms are not very much serious or life threatening, but lack of taste & interest in food may cause improper intake of food and compromised nourishment which results in delayed recovery of health in COVID sufferers. In Ayurveda, Ahara (food) is the most vital factor to accomplish a healthy body. So it is important to take healthy nutritious diet for fast recovery from any disease. In Ayurveda, condition of loss of appetite, taste and interest in food is compared with Aruchi, which is mostly reported as a symptom or complication of various illnesses. In this paper various Ayurvedic literatures, research articles related with COVID-19 & Aruchi from PubMed & Google Scholar etc. has been reviewed to understand the Aruchi as a symptom and complication of COVID-19. Ayurvedic procedures like Kavalagraha, Gana, Dhumapana & Mukhadhavana, Nasya eliminates the vitiated Dosha, enhances Jatharagni and strengthen the sense organs, thus improves the taste & smell perception which ultimately results in improved appetite.