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Department of PG Studies in Agada Tantra evum Vidhi Vaidyaka , SDMCAH, Hassan, Karnataka, India
Food (Anna) is regarded as one of the fundamental pillars of life in Ayurveda. While wholesome food sustains health and longevity, unwholesome, contaminated, or incompatible food can become a source of disease. The Ayurvedic concept of D???vi?a describes a latent form of poison that remains concealed within the body and gradually vitiates the Dh?tus, leading to chronic pathological conditions. Classical texts identify Anna as one of the important factors responsible for the manifestation of D???vi?a. In the modern era, continuous exposure to pesticides, food additives, preservatives, heavy metals, microplastics, adulterants, and ultra-processed foods has become inevitable. These substances often enter the body in small quantities over prolonged periods, resulting in cumulative toxicity. This article explores the concept of Anna as a hidden source of D???vi?a and highlights its relevance in understanding contemporary food-related health challenges through the lens of Ayurvedic toxicology.
Food (Āhāra) is a fundamental requirement for the survival and maintenance of all living beings. Recognizing its vital role, Ayurveda regards Āhāra as one of the three principal pillars of life (Trayopastambha), alongside Nidrā (sleep) and Brahmacharya (celibacy). These three pillars collectively support, nourish, and sustain the physical and mental well-being of an individual1. “Anna” is a term often used synonymously with “Āhāra” to denote food. Acharya Charaka states, “Annam Vṛttikaranam”, emphasizing that food is the primary factor responsible for sustaining life and maintaining the body. Here, the term “Vṛtti” signifies nourishment, growth, and the proper functioning of the body. Thus, Āhāra serves as the essential source of nutrition that supports the development, maintenance, and vitality of an individual2. A wholesome diet promotes the growth and maintenance of life, while an unwholesome diet becomes a source of various diseases3. Beyond nourishing the body, food significantly influences physical, mental, and emotional well-being. However, when consumed in an improper, incompatible, or contaminated form, it can become a causative factor for disease. Modern dietary practices have undergone remarkable changes due to industrialization, globalization, and technological advancements in food production. Food products are increasingly exposed to chemical fertilizers, pesticides, preservatives, synthetic additives, packaging contaminants, and environmental pollutants. These g toxic exposures often occur in minute quantities and may not produce immediate symptoms. Nevertheless, their cumulative effects can contribute to chronic diseases and metabolic disturbances.
Ayurveda offers a unique perspective through the concept of Dūṣīviṣa, a latent poison that remains hidden in the body and gradually impairs tissue function. The inclusion of "Anna" among the etiological factors of Dūṣīviṣa suggests the profound influence of dietary practices on chronic toxicity and disease development.
CONCEPT OF DŪṢĪVIṢA
The term Dūṣī Viṣa comprises Dūṣī (vitiated, impure, or latent) and Viṣa (poison), indicating a weakened toxic substance that persists in the body for a prolonged period and gradually impairs health4. Dūṣīviṣa refers to a poison of relatively low potency that persists in the body in a latent or concealed state. Owing to its diminished toxic properties (Guna), it does not produce immediate manifestations but acts gradually over time. Its prolonged persistence in the body may result in a delayed onset of toxic effects and cumulative toxicity5. The Avaraṇa effect of Kapha conceals and retains low-potency poisons within the body, allowing them to persist for a prolonged period without producing acute, severe, or fatal manifestation.6
दूषितं देशकालान्नदिवास्वप्नैरभीक्ष्णशः |
यस्माद्दूषयते धातून् तस्माद्दूषीविषं स्मृतम् ||
The poison which, due to repeated exposure to an unsuitable habitat, season, food, daytime sleep, and other improper lifestyle factors, remains in the body and gradually vitiates the Dhātus is Dūṣīviṣa. Thus, these factors contribute to the formation, persistence, and manifestation of Dūṣīviṣa in the body7.
Significance of Anna in Dūṣīviṣa:-
Anna is not merely a source of nutrition but can also become a medium for the accumulation of toxic influences. Ayurveda recognizes several dietary factors that may contribute to Dūṣīviṣa formation:
Repeated exposure to such dietary factors weakens Agni, promotes Āma formation, and initiates Dhātu Duṣṭi, thereby creating favorable conditions for Dūṣīviṣa.
Modern Sources of Food-Induced Dūṣīviṣa –
Pesticides
To prevent food losses caused by pests, more than 1,000 pesticide formulations are used across the world. Each pesticide exhibits unique physicochemical properties and produces specific toxicological effects in living organisms. exposure to large amounts of pesticides can lead to acute poisoning, while prolonged or excessive exposure may result in chronic health consequences5.
Major Human Health Disorders Associated with Exposure to Various Pesticides and Their Consequences6
|
Disorder/Disease |
Pesticides Involved |
Major Consequences |
|
Alzheimer's Disease (AD) |
Organochlorines, Organophosphates |
Memory loss, dementia, cognitive decline, impaired thinking |
|
Parkinson's Disease (PD) |
Paraquat, Rotenone, Mancozeb |
Tremors, muscle rigidity, impaired movement, neurodegeneration |
|
Breast Cancer |
DDT, DDE, Chlordane, Heptachlor, Chlorpyrifos, Organochlorines |
Increased risk of breast tumor development and malignancy |
|
Bladder Cancer |
Imazaquin, Imazethapyr |
Increased risk of bladder cancer |
|
Colon Cancer |
Various pesticides associated with heterocyclic aromatic amines |
Increased risk of colorectal malignancy |
|
Liver Cancer |
Organochlorines, Certain fungicides and herbicides |
Hepatic carcinogenesis and liver malignancy |
|
Leukemia |
Various agricultural pesticides, Permethrin |
Abnormal white blood cell proliferation, childhood leukemia |
|
Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma (NHL) |
Glyphosate |
Increased risk of lymphatic cancers |
|
Male Infertility |
Organophosphates, Pyrethroids |
Reduced sperm count, poor sperm morphology, erectile dysfunction |
|
Female Infertility |
Herbicides and agricultural pesticides |
Difficulty conceiving and reduced fertility |
|
Birth Defects |
Organochlorine Pesticides (OCPs) |
Neural tube defects, limb defects, cleft palate, ocular abnormalities |
|
Asthma |
Organophosphates, Pyrethroids, Carbamates, Paraquat, Organochlorines |
Wheezing, dyspnea, chronic respiratory problems |
|
Respiratory Disorders |
Agricultural pesticides, PAHs |
Reduced lung function, airway inflammation, bronchial hyperresponsiveness |
|
Lung Cancer |
Long-term agricultural pesticide exposure |
Increased risk of pulmonary malignancy |
|
Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) |
Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs), Various pesticides |
Fat accumulation in liver, inflammation, liver dysfunction |
|
Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) |
DDT, DDE, Dieldrin, PCBs, Organophosphates, Organochlorines |
Insulin resistance, impaired glucose metabolism, hyperglycaemia |
|
Diabetic Nephropathy |
DDT, Heptachlor Epoxide |
Kidney damage associated with diabetes |
|
Allergic Dermatitis |
p-Phenylenediamine (p-PDA), Sensitizing pesticides |
Rash, itching, blisters, skin irritation |
|
Rhinitis |
p-PDA, Phthalates |
Sneezing, nasal congestion, runny nose |
|
Allergic Asthma |
Phthalates and sensitizing pesticides |
Airway inflammation, wheezing, respiratory hypersensitivity |
Food Preservatives
Artificial preservatives are synthetic chemicals added to foods to delay contamination and prolong shelf life. While they improve food preservation, some may contribute to adverse health effects and are typically identified as additives on food labels7,8.
Common Food Preservatives and Food-Contact Chemicals Associated with Adverse Health Effects 9
|
Preservative/Chemical |
Common Sources |
Major Health Effects/Consequences |
|
Sodium Nitrite & Sodium Nitrate |
Bacon, sausages, hot dogs, ham, smoked fish, processed meats |
Formation of nitrosamines, increased risk of colon, pancreatic, brain and nasopharyngeal cancers; diabetes; respiratory infections |
|
Sulfites |
Dried fruits, wine, shrimp, processed potato products |
Asthma attacks, allergic reactions, skin irritation, diarrhea, abdominal pain, destruction of vitamin B₁ |
|
Sodium Benzoate |
Soft drinks, fruit juices, processed foods |
Hives, asthma, allergic reactions; possible carcinogenic risk when combined with vitamin C |
|
BHA (Butylated Hydroxyanisole) |
Chips, cereals, cookies, vegetable oils, processed foods |
Possible carcinogenic effects; tumor formation reported in animal studies |
|
Propyl Gallate |
Processed foods, fats, oils, meat products |
Potential carcinogenic effects observed in animal studies |
|
TBHQ (Tert-Butylhydroquinone) |
Vegetable oils, processed foods, snacks |
Increased incidence of tumors in animal studies |
|
Artificial Food Colors |
Candies, beverages, bakery products, children's foods |
Hyperactivity and behavioral problems, particularly in children with ADHD |
|
Trans Fats (Partially Hydrogenated Oils) |
Processed snacks, baked goods, fast foods |
Increased risk of cardiovascular disease and metabolic disorders |
|
Emulsifiers |
Ice cream, mayonnaise, processed foods |
Altered gut microbiota, inflammatory bowel disease, intestinal inflammation |
|
Bisphenol A (BPA) |
Food can linings, plastic containers, receipts |
Endocrine disruption, fertility problems, obesity, immune and nervous system disorders |
|
Phthalates |
Food packaging, plastics, personal care products |
Hormonal imbalance, reproductive toxicity, obesity, cardiovascular disease, allergies, asthma |
|
Perfluoroalkyl Chemicals (PFCs) |
Non-stick cookware, grease-proof packaging, water-resistant products |
Low birth weight, thyroid dysfunction, immune suppression, fertility problems |
|
Perchlorate |
Dry food packaging, contaminated water |
Thyroid dysfunction, impaired brain development in children |
Ultra-Processed Foods
WHO reports indicate that obesity and chronic diseases are increasing worldwide, partly due to the higher consumption of ultra-processed foods. Diseases such as obesity, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes have become major public health problems. In 2016, about 1.3 billion adults globally were affected by obesity, with most cases occurring in high-income countries10.
Health Disorders Associated with Ultra-Processed Foods10
|
Category of Disorder |
Components Involved |
Health Consequences |
|
Obesity |
High-fructose corn syrup (HFCS), trans fats, emulsifiers |
Increased appetite, overeating, fat accumulation, weight gain, increased BMI, obesity |
|
Diabetes |
Added sugars, refined carbohydrates, unhealthy fats |
Insulin resistance, impaired glucose metabolism, increased risk of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus |
|
Cardiovascular Diseases |
Trans fats, excess salt, excess sugar |
Hypertension, dyslipidemia, increased risk of heart disease |
|
Cancer |
Artificial additives, preservatives, nitrates, nitrites |
Increased risk of colorectal cancer and other cancers |
|
Neurological Disorders |
Certain food additives, artificial sweeteners |
Neurobehavioral and neurological disturbances |
|
Endocrine Disorders |
Artificial additives and preservatives |
Hormonal imbalance and endocrine disruption |
|
Allergic Reactions |
Food additives, artificial colors, preservatives |
Allergies, hypersensitivity reactions |
|
Liver Disorders |
Excess sugars, advanced glycation end products (AGEs), contaminants such as furan |
Fatty liver disease, liver damage, hepatotoxicity |
|
Gastrointestinal Disorders |
Emulsifiers, additives |
Gut microbiota imbalance, intestinal inflammation |
|
Metabolic Disorders |
High sugar, salt, and fat content |
Metabolic syndrome, chronic inflammation |
Heavy Metal Contamination
Exposure to heavy metals occurs through multiple pathways, including ingestion of contaminated food and water, inhalation of polluted air, and dermal absorption. These metals can disrupt a wide range of physiological and biochemical processes, resulting in adverse health effects.11
Toxicological Characteristics and Health Effects of Major Environmental Heavy Metals12
|
Heavy Metal |
Sources of Exposure |
Mechanism of Toxicity |
Clinical Manifestations |
|
Aluminum (Al) |
Contaminated food and water, aluminum cookware and foil, industrial emissions, coal-fired power plants, metal industries, inhalation of aluminum dust and fumes |
Accumulation in tissues, oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, disruption of iron metabolism, mitochondrial dysfunction, impairment of intestinal barrier and neurotransmission |
Neurotoxicity, cognitive impairment, pulmonary fibrosis, COPD, asthma, anemia, hypertension, atherosclerosis, gastrointestinal inflammation, inflammatory bowel disease |
|
Cadmium (Cd) |
Cigarette smoke, mining and smelting industries, battery recycling, phosphate fertilizers, contaminated food and water, industrial emissions |
Oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, lipid peroxidation, inhibition of antioxidant enzymes, DNA repair inhibition, apoptosis, inflammation |
COPD, emphysema, pulmonary fibrosis, nephropathy, proteinuria, hypertension, atherosclerosis, osteoporosis, osteomalacia, lung cancer, kidney cancer, prostate cancer |
|
Mercury (Hg) |
Fish and shellfish (methylmercury), dental amalgams, industrial emissions, coal combustion, contaminated water, cosmetics, occupational exposure |
Binding to sulfhydryl (-SH) groups, oxidative stress, mitochondrial damage, disruption of enzyme activity, neuronal degeneration |
Neurotoxicity, tremors, memory loss, sensory impairment, nephrotoxicity, pulmonary toxicity, cardiovascular dysfunction, developmental abnormalities, Minamata disease |
|
Arsenic (As) |
Contaminated groundwater, industrial processes, pesticides, wood preservatives, cosmetics, seafood, rice, herbal medicines |
Oxidative stress, inhibition of antioxidant enzymes, interference with cellular respiration, DNA damage, epigenetic alterations, endothelial dysfunction |
Skin lesions, hyperpigmentation, hyperkeratosis, skin cancer, lung cancer, bladder cancer, peripheral neuropathy, cognitive dysfunction, hypertension, atherosclerosis, liver and kidney damage |
|
Lead (Pb) |
Lead-based paints, batteries, plumbing systems, mining, smelting, industrial emissions, contaminated dust, soil, food and water |
Mimics calcium, disrupts neurotransmission, oxidative stress, inhibition of heme synthesis, mitochondrial dysfunction, enzyme inhibition |
Cognitive impairment, developmental delay, encephalopathy, peripheral neuropathy, anemia, nephropathy, hypertension, reproductive toxicity, behavioral disorders |
|
Chromium (Cr⁶⁺) |
Chrome plating, welding fumes, leather tanning, stainless steel manufacturing, contaminated water, industrial exposure |
Intracellular reduction generates reactive oxygen species (ROS), oxidative DNA damage, lipid peroxidation, inflammation, genotoxicity |
Dermatitis, skin ulcers, nasal septum perforation, asthma, bronchitis, pulmonary fibrosis, kidney and liver damage, lung cancer, reproductive toxicity |
Microplastics and Packaging Contaminants
The primary raw materials used in packaging production are non-renewable resources, particularly petroleum and natural gas. The extraction, processing, and utilization of these resources contribute substantially to environmental degradation, greenhouse gas emissions, and various adverse health impacts13.
Common Plastic Polymers, Their Monomers, Sources/Uses, and Potential Human Health Effects14.
|
Monomer Type |
Polymer Type |
Common Sources/Uses |
System Affected in Humans |
|
Ethylene |
Polyethylene (PE) |
Plastic bags, packaging films, bottles |
Endocrine system and reproductive health |
|
Propylene |
Polypropylene (PP) |
Food packaging, bottle caps, synthetic fibers |
Allergic reactions and skin irritation |
|
Terephthalic acid + Ethylene glycol |
Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) |
Beverage bottles, food containers, synthetic fibers |
Reproductive health and hormone balance |
|
Styrene |
Polystyrene (PS) |
Foam packaging, disposable utensils, insulation materials |
Central nervous system and respiratory system |
|
Vinyl chloride |
Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) |
Pipes, window frames, packaging materials |
Endocrine disruption, reproductive health, hormone imbalance |
|
Caprolactam (Nylon 6); Hexamethylenediamine + Adipic acid (Nylon 66) |
Polyamide (PA) |
Clothing fibers, fishing nets, automotive parts |
Allergic reactions |
|
Isocyanates + Polyols |
Polyurethane (PU) |
Foam materials, coatings, adhesives |
Respiratory issues and allergic reactions |
|
Methyl methacrylate |
Acrylic (PMMA) |
Acrylic sheets, paints, household products |
Respiratory irritation |
|
Terephthalic acid + Ethylene glycol |
Polyethylene terephthalate glycol (PETG) |
Beverage bottles, food containers, synthetic fibers |
Respiratory irritation |
|
Terephthalic acid + 1,4-Butanediol |
Polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) |
Electrical components, automotive parts, packaging materials |
Developmental delays in children, neurological issues, cardiovascular problems in adults |
Food Adulteration
Food Safety and Standard Act of India (FSSAI) defined adulterants as, ‘’any material which could be employed for making food impure, unsafe or sub standard or misbranded or containing extraneous matter’ Adulterants are commonly incorporated into everyday food products and pose significant health risks, including carcinogenic effects and other serious hazards (Jaiswal et al., 2016). Food adulteration arising during manufacturing and processing can negatively impact human health. These contaminants are associated with a wide range of disorders such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases, renal and hepatic dysfunction, hormonal disturbances, reproductive issues, immune system suppression, and mental health problems. Various chemical adulterants, including formalin, calcium carbide, melamine, and histamine, are known to exert harmful effects on human health (Mridha, 2011).15
A list of commonly adulterated food products along with the adulterants used and their associated harmful effects on human health is presented below.15
|
Food Product |
Adulterants |
Impact on Health |
|
Milk |
Water, starch, urea, extraction of fat |
Various health issues |
|
Sugar |
Chalk powder |
Digestive system disorders |
|
Tea |
Artificial pigments/dyes, iron filings |
Stomach infections |
|
Coffee powder |
Tamarind and date seed powder, sawdust |
Liver disorders, cancer |
|
Salt |
White powder, stone, rawa |
Diarrhea |
|
Chilli powder |
Artificial colors, brick powder, Sudan dye |
Stomach disorders |
|
Turmeric |
Lead chromate, sawdust, metanil yellow |
Blood and lung cancer |
|
Mustard seed |
Seeds of prickly poppy (Argemone) |
Carcinogenic effects |
|
Black pepper |
Dried papaya seeds |
Epidemic dropsy, glaucoma |
|
Pulses |
Kesari dal, metanil yellow, clay, stone |
Cardiac arrest, harmful effects |
|
Butter |
Margarine, starch |
Lathyrism, carcinogenesis, stomach disorders |
|
Honey |
Fructose syrup, cane sugar |
Food poisoning |
|
Sweets/Juices |
Coal tar dye, metanil yellow |
Stomach disorders |
|
Rice, Wheat |
Mud, sand, soapstone, ergot |
Cancer, toxin release |
|
Green chillies/Green peas |
Malachite green |
Cancer, genetic mutations, reproductive harm |
|
Vegetable oil |
Argemone oil, mineral oil |
Cancer |
|
Ghee |
Vanaspati, ghee essence, starch, mashed/sweet potato |
Heart disease, skin infections, cancer |
|
Carbonic drinks |
Aluminium compounds |
Cancer, acute renal failure |
|
Ice creams |
Detergent powders |
Asthma, lung disorders |
|
Seafood |
Mercury, arsenic |
Skin, lung, brain disorder |
DISCUSSION
Dūṣīviṣa is characterized by the persistence and gradual action of poison in the body due to repeated exposure to improper Deśa, Kāla, Anna, and lifestyle factors. Among these, Anna is particularly important because food is consumed regularly and may act as a route of repeated exposure to toxic substances. Modern dietary contaminants such as pesticides, preservatives, heavy metals, microplastics, packaging contaminants, and adulterants may contribute to chronic toxic exposure. From an Ayurvedic perspective, repeated intake of such unsuitable Anna may impair Agni, promote Āma formation, and subsequently cause Dhātu Duṣṭi, providing a conceptual basis for the development and manifestation of Dūṣīviṣa.
CONCLUSION
Dūṣīviṣa provides an important Ayurvedic framework for understanding the effects of repeated, low-level toxic exposure. Contaminated and unsuitable food may play a significant role in this process through impairment of Agni, Āma formation, and Dhātu Duṣṭi. Therefore, ensuring food safety, avoiding adulterated or contaminated foods, and adopting wholesome dietary practices may help prevent the accumulation and manifestation of Dūṣīviṣa. Further scientific studies are required to establish direct correlations between classical Dūṣīviṣa and modern dietary toxicants
REFERENCES
Karthik Mahantesh Goudar*, Ashwin Kumar S. Bharathi, Santosh Nerli, Anna As A Hidden Source Of Dūṣīviṣa In Modern Lifestyle, Int. J. Sci. R. Tech., 2026, 3 (9), 554-563. https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.22959068
10.5281/zenodo.22959068