Śākadravya (Vegetables) as Pathya in Metabolic Disorders–A Review from Classical Texts of Āyurveda with Current Evidences

Abstract

Aim:To review the vegetables mentioned as pathya for metabolic diseases like prameha/madhumeha, hṛdroga, and sthaulya from 15 different classical texts and to analyze the available data critically with the help of reported research activities to establish their role in the prevention and management of metabolic disorders.Background: Metabolic syndrome is a multifactorial disorder, which can be prevented by changes in lifestyle and dietary habits. Among the preventive measures given for various disorders, the classical texts of Āyurveda describe all the vegetables along with their guṇa (properties), karma (action), and prayoga (indication) in different disease conditions under śākavarga. As diet is considered as the best preventive medicine, vegetables are indicated as pathya (wholesome diet) for metabolic diseases like prameha/madhumeha, hṛdroga, and sthoulya, and can be used in the prevention and management of metabolic disorders. Review results:It is observed that among 318 vegetables mentioned in compiled texts, 29 vegetables are indicated in prameha/madhumeha and 33 vegetables are indicated in hṛdroga. Majority of these vegetables are reported for their antidiabetic (18), anti-hyperlipidemia (14), cardio-protective (15), anti-hypertensive (7), and antiplatelet (5) activities. Conclusion:Vegetables mentioned under śākavarga in classical texts of Āyurveda can be effectively used as pathya in metabolic disorders.Clinical significance: On the basis of review results, further scientific studies can be planned clinically to evaluate the beneficial effects of these vegetables in clinical practice.