A CRITICAL REVIEW ON LANGHANA: AYURVEDIC DETOXIFICATION TO METABOLIC REGULATION

Langhana Upavasa (therapeutic fasting) is among the most significant interventions described in classical Ayurvedic texts for restoring metabolic balance and promoting detoxification. The present review critically explores the principles of Langhana as stated in the Brihattrayi and Laghutrayi, highlighting their indications, modes of action and relevance in conditions characterized by excess Kapha, Meda, Ama, and diminished Agni. These foundational concepts provide a framework for understanding their application in contemporary metabolic disorders. Metabolic disorders—including obesity, type 2 diabetes, dyslipidemia, and metabolic syndrome—are increasingly prevalent due to sedentary lifestyles and improper dietary habits. From an Ayurvedic perspective, these conditions correlate with Kapha-Meda vriddhi, Agnimandya, Ama utpatti, and impaired Dhatvagni, resulting in disturbances in energy utilization and storage. This review outlines the Ayurvedic pathological pathways of metabolic dysfunction and examines how Langhana address these imbalances by enhancing digestive power, reducing metabolic load, promoting toxin clearance, and facilitating normalization of tissue metabolism. The discussion further integrates modern scientific evidence demonstrating the physiological effects of fasting—such as improved insulin sensitivity, enhanced fat oxidation, metabolic switching, autophagy activation, modulation of gut microbiota, and reduction of inflammatory markers. Clinical and experimental studies evaluating Langhana or structured fasting protocols in obesity, hyperlipidaemia, and diabetes are critically analysed to establish their therapeutic relevance. This review concludes that Langhana when guided by classical principles and tailored to individual needs, offer promising, safe, and holistic strategies for managing metabolic disorders. However, further standardized clinical research is essential to validate these traditional practices within modern healthcare frameworks.