Langhana (लङ्घन)

Langhana means 'to lighten' or 'to reduce'. It refers to any therapy that brings about lightness in the body. While it i.

Ayurvedic Principles (Siddhanta Kosha) 1 min read
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Sanskrit Verse

यत्किञ्चिल्लाघवकरं देहे तल्लङ्घनं स्मृतम्।

— (Charaka Samhita, Sutrasthana 22/9)

Explanation

Langhana means ’to lighten’ or ’to reduce’. It refers to any therapy that brings about lightness in the body. While it is commonly understood as fasting (Upavasa), it is one of ten therapies and can also include things like drinking warm water, exposure to sun and wind, and taking digestive herbs (Pachana). It is primarily used to digest Ama and pacify Kapha.

Clinical Importance

Langhana is the primary treatment for diseases of mild severity, especially those caused by over-nutrition (Santarpana). It is the first step in treating most fevers (Jwara) and digestive disorders. Knowing when to apply lightening vs. nourishing therapy is a key clinical skill.