WHAT IS THE ORIGIN OF AYURVEDA ?
Ayurveda, the ancient healthcare system, has its origins dating back to the beginning of the universe. As human life emerged on Earth, Ayurveda was applied for health and well-being. The ancient Vedic texts contain scattered references to Ayurvedic remedies and various aspects of medicine and health. Atharva-Veda, in particular, holds extensive Ayurvedic information. Therefore, Ayurveda is considered an offshoot of Atharva Veda.
Q.1 WHAT IS THE AYURVEDIC VIEWPOINT OF STRUCTURE AND FUNCTIONS OF THE BODY?
The universe, as well as the human body, is composed of five basic elements collectively called โPanch Mahabhootasโ. These elements are Aakash (Ether), Vayu (Air), Agni (Fire), Aapa (Water), and Prithvi (Earth). The sixth essential component of life is Atma (life spirit), without which life ceases. The human body consists of Doshas (Bio-humors), Dhatus (Body matrix), and Malas (excretable products). Vata, Pitta, and Kapha, known as Tridoshas, are physiological entities responsible for carrying out all bodily functions. Dhatus are the structural components of the body, including Rasa (Plasma), Rakta (Blood cells), Mamsa (Muscular tissue), Meda (Fatty tissue), Asthi (Bony tissue), Majja (Bone marrow), and Shukra (Hormonal and other secretions of genitals). Agni (Metabolic fire) exists in thirteen different forms, managing the body's metabolism. Waste products of the body, such as faeces, sweat, and urine, are produced as by-products of metabolism. These are known as malas. All metabolic transformations occur within the body through Srotases (body channels), which are the sites for Agni's action.
Q.2 WHAT IS THE BASIC PHILOSOPHY OF HEALTH, DISEASE, AND TREATMENT IN AYURVEDA?
According to Ayurveda, 'Health' is a state of equilibrium of normal functions of doshas, dhatus, malas, and Agni, leading to a contented body, mind, and soul. It means that maintaining health requires a continuous state of balance in doshas, dhatus, malas, and Agni. Any disturbance of this equilibrium results in disease. It is believed that erratic lifestyles are one of the fundamental causes behind the failure to maintain this equilibrium. Treatment, with or without drugs, and the application of specific rules regarding diet, activity, and mental status, are implemented to restore this equilibrium, thereby achieving health.
Q.3 HOW IS DIAGNOSIS DONE IN AYURVEDA?
Diagnosis in Ayurveda serves a dual purpose: to establish the nature and type of pathology and to determine the appropriate treatment. The first aspect involves examining the patient and conducting various investigations to diagnose the specific disease. Physical examination primarily includes inspection, palpation, percussion, and interrogation. The second aspect aims to assess the individual's strength and physical status to plan the appropriate management. This involves evaluating Prakriti (Body constitution), Saar (Tissue quality), Samhnan (physique), Satva (Mental strength), Satamya (specific adaptability), Aaharshakti (diet intake capacity), Vyayaam shakti (exercise capacity), and Vaya (age). Based on this assessment, individuals are classified as having Pravar bal (excellent strength), Madhyam Bal (moderate strength), or Heen Bal (low strength).