Medicosnext
Words by Pragya Pokharel
Ayurveda, an ancient system of medicine, not only heals the body but embraces a philosophy that harmonizes with the essence of balanced living.
Embark on a journey through time as we unravel the rich history of Ayurveda, an ancient system of medicine that has withstood the sands of time. With roots that delve deep into history, Ayurveda is not just a medical system but a philosophy that encompasses the essence of balanced living. In this exploration, we trace its origins, evolution, principles, and the cultural contexts that shaped this holistic approach to health and continues to influence wellness practices around the globe.
Rooted in divinity, Ayurveda’s origins are traced to the Hindu God Brahma, imparting holistic knowledge for the well-being of humanity through the ages.
The origin of Ayurveda is rooted in divinity, believed to have been bestowed by the Hindu God Brahma, the creator of the universe. Legend has it that Brahma transmitted this holistic knowledge to sages for the well-being of humanity. It was then passed on from sages to their disciples and then to common man through writings and narrations. The information about the healing properties of the herbs was composed in the form of poems, called “Shlokas”. These were used by sages to describe the use of medicinal plants. The Hindu system of healing is believed to be based on four eminent compilations of knowledge (Vedas) called as Yajur Veda, Rig Veda, Sam Veda, and Atharva Veda. The Rig Veda is the most well-known of all the four Vedas and describes 67 plants and 1028 Shlokas. The Atharva Veda and Yajur Veda describe 293 and 81 medicinally useful plants. The practice of Ayurveda is based upon the knowledge gained from these Vedas. The writings in Rig Veda and Atharva Veda are attributed to “Atreya” who is believed to have been conferred with this knowledge from Lord Indra, who initially received it from Lord Brahma. Agnivesha compiled the knowledge from the Vedas, and it was edited by Charaka and some other scholars and is presently called as “Charaka Samhita”. Charaka Samhita describes all aspects of Ayurvedic medicine and Sushruta Samhita describes the Science of Surgery. Both these legendary compilations are still used by practitioners of traditional medicine and is the most respected of all the records.
Basic principles of Ayurveda
Ayurveda believes that the entire universe is composed of five elements: Vayu (Air), Jala (Water), Aakash (Space or ether), Prithvi (Earth) and Teja (Fire). These five elements referred to as Pancha Mahabhoota in Ayurveda are believed to form the three basic humors of human body in varying combinations. The three humors; Vata dosha, Pitta dosha and Kapha dosha are collectively called as “Tridoshas” and they control the basic physiological functions of the body along with five sub-doshas for each of the principal doshas. Ayurveda believes that the human body consists of Saptadhatus (seven tissues) Rasa (tissue fluids), Meda (fat and connective tissue), Rakta (blood), Asthi (bones), Majja (marrow), Mamsa (muscle), and Shukra (semen) and three Malas (waste products) of the body, viz. Purisha (faeces), Mutra (urine) and Sweda (sweat). Vata dosha maintains the cellular transport, electrolyte balance, elimination of waste products and its effect is increased by dryness. Pitta dosha regulates the body temperature, optic nerve coordination and hunger and thirst management. Heat conditions of the body aggravate Pitta. Kapha dosha is increased due to sweet and fatty food and it provides lubrication to the joints for proper functioning. Vata is believed to govern the catabolism of the body, Pitta oversees metabolism, and Kapha manages anabolism. Maintaining a harmonious balance between these three doshas and other contributing factors is essential for optimal health. Any disruption in this equilibrium can lead to a state of illness or disease. According to Ayurveda, a state of well-being is achieved by upholding a perfect balance between the natural elements and the Tridoshas within the human body, guided by the principles of divine wisdom.
Balancing the Pancha Mahabhoota, Tridoshas, Sapta Dhatus, and Tri Malas, Ayurveda’s timeless wisdom offers a comprehensive approach to human well-being.
As aforementioned, the human body, as per Ayurveda, is thought to consist of seven types of tissues known as “Sapta Dhatus.” These tissues operate in synergy to facilitate the proper physiological functioning of the body. The Rakta Dhatu, akin to blood, plays a crucial role in regulating the circulation of blood cells and providing essential components to the body. The Mamsa Dhatu, or muscle tissue, lends support through skeletal muscles to the Meda Dhatu, which comprises adipose fat. The Asthi Dhatu encompasses the bones, while the Majja Dhatu consists of bone marrow and necessary fluids for bone lubrication and functioning. Lastly, the Shukra Dhatu is responsible for the functions of the reproductive organs in the body. Understanding and maintaining the balance of these fundamental elements contribute to a state of holistic health in Ayurvedic philosophy.
Apart from the Doshas and the Dhatus, the other important factors considered in the doctrine of Ayurveda are the Tri Malas and Trayo Dosa Agni. Tri Malas are the three types of waste products formed in the body due to metabolic and digestive functions of the body. They comprise of the Mutra (urine), Purisa (faeces), and Sveda (sweat). Ayurveda explains that if the balance between Tridosha is not maintained the waste products of the body are not effectively eliminated and these lead to further complications.
According to Ayurvedic principles, the body’s biological fire governing all metabolic functions is referred to as “Agni.” There exist thirteen categories of Agni within the human body, with particular emphasis on the crucial digestive fire known as Jatharagni. Jatharagni shares a close relationship with Pitta and, ultimately, Vata within the body. An increase in acidity conditions elevates the digestive fire, leading to heightened Pitta levels and the manifestation of related symptoms. The digestive fire, or Agni, plays a vital role in maintaining normal microflora, facilitating proper digestive functions, and providing energy to the entire body. Any disruptions in the balance of this digestive fire can result in discomfort in the gastrointestinal tract and give rise to pathological complications. Recognizing the significance of Agni in the intricate balance of bodily functions underscores its pivotal role in Ayurveda’s holistic approach to well-being.
Ayurveda employs the “Pancha karma” method in its therapies. Pancha karma therapy applies various processes for the rejuvenation of the body, cleansing and enhancing longevity. In practice, Ayurveda has eight disciplines called as “Äshtanga Ayurveda”. They are Kayachikitsa (internal medicine treatment), Bhootavidya (treatment of psychological disorders), Kaumar Bhritya (pediatric treatment), Rasayana (study of geriatrics), Vajikarana (treatment through aphrodisiacs and eugenics), Shalya (surgical treatment), Shalakya (otorhinolaryngological and ophthalmological treatment), Agada Tantra (toxicological studies).
Conclusion:
As we witness the timeless wisdom of Ayurveda, its rich history, and profound principles, we encounter more than a system of medicine; we discover a philosophy that encapsulates balanced living. From divine origins to the intricate balance of elements within the human body, Ayurveda provides a holistic roadmap to well-being. The acceptance of Ayurveda globally, grounded in its practical applications like “Pancha karma” therapies and diverse disciplines of “Äshtanga Ayurveda,” reflects its profound understanding of nature’s elements. In an era where ancient wisdom meets modern acceptance, Ayurveda stands as a beacon, offering a harmonious approach to health that transcends time and resonates across cultures. Beyond theoretical wisdom, Ayurveda’s acceptance globally is a testament to its profound understanding of nature’s elements and their alignment for holistic health. With its rich knowledge of plants, minerals and animal-based products, Ayurveda has achieved its widespread acceptance globally.
