Viruddha Ahara As An Epigenetic Trigger In Chronic Dermatoses: An Ayurvedic Hypothesis Paper

Abstract

Viruddha Āhāra (incompatible foods) is an established etiological concept in classical Āyurveda and has been historically implicated in Kuṣṭha and other skin disorders. Modern epigenetics demonstrates that environmental factors including diet can modify DNA methylation, histone marks and non-coding RNA expression — mechanisms that regulate gene expression relevant to skin barrier, immune response and inflammation. We propose a mechanistic hypothesis: repeated exposure to Viruddha Āhāra produces persistent metabolic and inflammatory perturbations that act as epigenetic triggers, promoting chronicity and relapses in dermatoses (e.g., psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, hidradenitis suppurativa). We review classical definitions, summarize contemporary epigenetic evidence in chronic skin disease, outline plausible molecular pathways linking incompatible diet to epigenomic change, and propose a translational research agenda to test this Ayurvedic–molecular hypothesis.