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Predictive, Preventive and Personalized Medicine: Leads From Ayurvedic Concept of Prakriti (Human Constitution)

  • Precision Medicine and Pharmacogenomics (S Nair, Section Editor)
  • Published:
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Abstract

Purpose of Review

Genomics has ushered in a phase of predictive, preventive and personalized medicine (PM), and several attempts are being made to detect genetic variations that are responsible for susceptibility to diseases and varied response to medications, however, have met with only a limited success. Ancient Indian system of medicine, Ayurveda, strongly emphasize on personalized patient care under the concept of Prakriti (phenotype-based human constitution). We would therefore like to put forward a new dimension of PM—the ‘Prakriti-based medicine’ bearing testable molecular and genetic correlates.

Recent Findings

Current investigations in the field of genomics, PM and Ayurveda have inspired many researchers and started in-depth deliberation on how Prakriti (phenotype-based Ayurveda constitution) is associated with the field of genomics, biochemistry, psychology, physiology and therapeutics. Various genotypes have also been correlated with Prakriti. Studies have shown wide range of utilities of Prakriti assessment in therapeutics, i.e. from predicting disease susceptibility of an individual, prevention of impending diseases, early diagnosis through screening of the high risk, rational drug designing, customization of therapy (drug, diet and lifestyle) and health maintenance.

Summary

Ayurvedic Prakriti-based treatment resonates with PM and pharmacogenomics and holds potential and promise for future predictive or preventive medicine. Further studies are warranted towards integrating or complementing genomics and contemporary medical science with Prakriti and explore the future possibilities.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Rasashastra and Bhaishajya Kalpana, Faculty of Ayurveda, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, 221005, India

    Rohit Sharma

  2. Department of Rasashastra and Bhaishajya Kalpana, All India Institute of Ayurveda, New Delhi, 110076, India

    Pradeep Kumar Prajapati

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Sharma, R., Prajapati, P.K. Predictive, Preventive and Personalized Medicine: Leads From Ayurvedic Concept of Prakriti (Human Constitution). Curr Pharmacol Rep 6, 441–450 (2020). https://doi.org/10.1007/s40495-020-00244-3

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