Anupana is the exclusive concept from pharmacology and dietetics in Ayurveda. The term anupana refers to adjuvant or vehicle or carrier or a drug/food. It is usually a liquid which is given just after or along with some drug/food. Ahara anupana thus refers to the adjuvant of a food article which is deliberately introduced in order to get maximum benefits from that food and reduce its unwanted effects on one's health.
In charaka Samhita, the right anupana of ahara is said to be opposite in properties of that food. Such anupana is believed to increase energy levels, nourishment and strength in body after taking that food. It helps in proper digestion and transformation of that food in one's body so that one can get maximum benefits from it. <ref>Charaka Samhita (Sutrasthanam Adhyaya 27 Sutra 319-26)</ref> Subsequently it helps to fulfill the nutritional requirements of the body through the particular diet.
Meaning: The right anupana of ahara energizes the person. It helps in smooth digestion of the food taken and ultimately increases strength and longevity.