Naturopathy and Natural Therapies World Conference 2026

BACKGROUND:

The immune system plays a central role in maintaining health and influencing susceptibility to infections, chronic inflammatory conditions, autoimmune disorders, and metabolic syndromes. Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of medicine, conceptualizes immunity through Ojas and Vyadhi-kṣamatva. Panchakarma, a fivefold detoxification and rejuvenation therapy, is regarded as a cornerstone intervention for restoring systemic balance by eliminating Āma (metabolic toxins) and normalizing Doṣhas.

Although traditionally described in qualitative terms, emerging biomedical evidence suggests that the therapeutic benefits of Panchakarma are mediated through neuroendocrine regulation, immune modulation, and oxidative stress control—mechanisms closely related to chronic inflammatory and psychosomatic disorders.

OBJECTIVES:

To elucidate the molecular and systemic mechanisms through which Panchakarma exerts its neuroendocrine and immunoregulatory effects, integrating Ayurveda theory with current insights from modern physiology, psychoneuroimmunology, and systems biology.

METHODS:

A comprehensive review of clinical and experimental studies from Ayurveda and integrative medicine literature was conducted, focusing on the effects of Panchakarma and its components (Snehana, Svedana, Vamana, Virechana, and Basti) on neuroendocrine parameters, inflammatory biomarkers, and oxidative stress indicators. Observations were interpreted in the context of Ayurvedic principles such as Doṣha Sāmya, Āma Nirharaṇa, and Rasāyana.