According to Ayurvedic philosophy everything in this universe, including the human body, is composed of five elements, the 'Panchamahabhuta' (punch-maha-bhu-ta). These elements are 'Akash' (Space), 'Vayu' (Air), 'Agni' (Fire), 'Jala' (Water) and 'Prithvi' (Earth). Akash - Corresponds to the spaces in the body, the mouth, nostrils, respiratory tract and cells. Vayu - Is the element of movement, pulsation, muscular movement, contraction of lungs. Agni - Controls the enzymes, fuels the digestive system and regulates metabolism. Jala - Corresponds to body fluids such as the blood, lymph, saliva, digestive juices. Prithvi - Corresponds to the solid structures like the bones, nails, hair, skin. These elements then combine into three 'doshas' or bio-energetic forces that governs our health. The three doshas or 'Tridosh' are 'Vata dosh', 'Pitta dosh', and 'Kapha dosh'. Vata Dosh - Combination of space & air. Is responsible for entire physiological function of the human body. Governs the principle of movement, nerve impulse, circulation of blood & lymph nodes , respiration & elimination of various discharge from the body. Pitta Dosh - Combination of Fire & Water. Pitta dosh helps in digestion. It is responsible for the biochemical activity, cellular metabolism as well as vision, thirst and appetite. Kapha Dosh - Combination of Water & Earth. Kapha Dosh is responsible for the strength, sturdiness and the formation of the body. It also offers protection to the body. Cerebral spinal fluid is a type of Kapha dosh which protects the brain and the spinal column. Unique proportions of these doshas constitute our body. When we are healthy, the three doshas are in balance. When the three doshas are not in balance, diseases occur. Ayurvedic treatments comprise of powders, tablets, decoctions, medicated oils etc. prepared from natural herbs, plants and minerals. To conclude, the Ayurvedic treatment aims at balancing the doshas thus helping cure the ailments. |
What is Ayurveda? |
Ayurveda is the traditional Indian system of medicine. It is one of the oldest medical system in the world, which dates back to more than 5000 years. The word Ayurveda is derived from 2 words 'Ayu' means life and 'Veda' means knowledge in Sanskrit language. Ayu or life represents a combination of the body, sense organs, the mind and the soul. |
