Abstract

Dr. Divya Khinchi*, Prof. Ashok Kumar Sharma, Prof. Kishori Lal Sharma

ABSTRACT

Background: Stress is a multifaceted physiological and psychological response that occurs when an individual encounters internal or external challenges threatening homeostasis. While acute stress serves an adaptive function, chronic stress can lead to dysregulation of the nervous, endocrine, and immune systems, resulting in various psychosomatic and systemic disorders. Modern Psychoneuroimmunology (PNI) provides a scientific framework for understanding the bidirectional interactions between psychological processes, neural pathways, endocrine responses, and immune function. Objective: The present study aims to explore the relationship between stress physiology and Dosha imbalance by integrating the principles of Ayurveda with the modern concept of Psychoneuroimmunology. It seeks to understand the physiological mechanisms involved in the stress response, particularly the role of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, sympathetic nervous system, and immune modulation. The study further aims to examine the Ayurvedic perspective of stress in terms of Tridosha, Manasika Doshas, and Ojas, and to correlate these concepts with neuroendocrine and immunological changes observed during stress. Methodology: The present study is a narrative review based on a comprehensive analysis of classical Ayurvedic literature and contemporary scientific publications. Relevant Ayurvedic concepts related to stress, Tridosha, Manasika Doshas (Rajas and Tamas), Ojas, and Kriya Sharir were collected from classical texts such as Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, Ashtanga Hridaya, and their commentaries. Modern scientific information regarding stress physiology, the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal (HPA) axis, autonomic nervous system, immune responses, and Psychoneuroimmunology was obtained from standard medical textbooks, peer-reviewed journals, and published research articles. The collected data were critically reviewed and analyzed to identify similarities and correlations between Ayurvedic concepts and contemporary scientific understanding of stress. A comparative and integrative approach was adopted to bridge traditional Ayurvedic knowledge with modern biomedical evidence, thereby providing a holistic perspective on the relationship between stress physiology and Dosha imbalance. Results and Discussion: The review revealed significant conceptual similarities between Ayurvedic descriptions of Dosha imbalance and the modern understanding of stress physiology. Stress activates the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal (HPA) axis and the sympathetic nervous system, leading to the release of cortisol, adrenaline, and other stress mediators. These physiological changes closely resemble the manifestations of aggravated Vata and Pitta Doshas described in Ayurveda. Vata aggravation is associated with anxiety, restlessness, insomnia, and disturbed neural functions, while Pitta imbalance is linked to irritability, anger, hypermetabolism, and inflammatory responses. Chronic stress was found to affect immune regulation, resulting in increased susceptibility to infections and inflammatory disorders, which can be correlated with Kapha disturbance and depletion of Ojas, the Ayurvedic essence responsible for vitality, immunity, and overall well-being. Conclusion: Stress is a complex physiological and psychological phenomenon that influences the nervous, endocrine, and immune systems, ultimately affecting overall health and well-being. The present review demonstrates that several concepts of modern stress physiology and Psychoneuroimmunology have notable parallels with Ayurvedic principles of Tridosha, Manasika Doshas, and Ojas. Activation of the HPA axis and sympathetic nervous system during stress can be correlated with the aggravation of Vata and Pitta Doshas, while stress-induced immune dysfunction resembles Kapha imbalance and Ojas depletion. Ayurveda emphasizes the interconnectedness of the mind and body and provides a holistic approach to maintaining health through the preservation of Doshic balance and mental equilibrium. The integration of Ayurvedic concepts with modern scientific understanding offers valuable insights into the mechanisms underlying stress-related disorders and highlights the potential of Ayurvedic interventions such as Yoga, Meditation, Satvavajaya Chikitsa, and Rasayana therapy in promoting stress resilience. Therefore, bridging Ayurveda and Psychoneuroimmunology may contribute to the development of comprehensive and integrative strategies for stress prevention, management, and overall health promotion.