Ayurvedic Perspective on Management of Nicotine Addiction - A Review

Abstract

Introduction: Addiction is defined as a psychological or physiological dependence on a substance or habit that is beyond one’s control. Nicotine is the most widely consumed psychotropic drugs worldwide. The common use of nicotine increases the risk of noncommunicable diseases to many folds. It’s a long-term brain disorder that promotes compulsive substance usage despite negative effects. Addiction has a wide-ranging negative impact on humans, as well as social consequences. Sudden withdrawal from any addictive medication might result in psychosomatic illness. Aim: The goal of this study was to highlight the different Ayurvedic principles that can be used to prevent and manage addiction. Materials and Methods: This article’s content is based on personal clinical experiences as well as clinical studies published in index and non-index journals that deal with drug addiction, withdrawal, and management. To acquire relevant content, Ayurvedic Samhitas with commentaries and textbooks of Ayurveda and Modern medicine are recommended. Results: The Ayurveda has ancient science which has stores of herbal, mineral or Herbo mineral medication for prevention and cure of disease including addiction and withdrawal of drugs abused. The Padansika Krama is a unique method described in Ayurveda to stop the any harmful or non-harmful substance which homologous to human being, by tapper up manner. Conclusion: In addition, symptomatic withdrawal treatment by using concern drug, medicated smoke/Dhumpana as replacement therapy, psychological counselling, Achara Rasayana, Sadvritta, and Satvavajay Chikitsa are applicable.