Chapter - Study of Ayurveda

2. Savitribai Phule Pune University
Department of Education & Extension
Name – Apeksha Shrikant Kurane
Subject – medicinal botany
Course – TY BSc Bed ( Sem 5th )
Title – Study of Ayurveda
Teacher – Dr. Sarika Torawane

3.  Title –
Study of Ayurveda

4. • The concepts of universal interconnectedness, the body's constitution (Prakriti)
and life forces (doshas) are the primary basis of Ayurveda.
• It is the world's oldest holistic (whole body) healing system, which was
developed more than 5000 years ago in India.
• It considers the balance between the mind, body and spirit for promoting good
health. In United States it is considered as complementary, and alternative
medicine (CAM) Ayurveda considers that everything in the universe dead or
alive is connected.
• This system also belive on Panchamahabhutas. e.g. space, air, fire, water and
earth.
• Doshas such as Vata dosha (space and air), Pitta dosha (fire and water) and
Kapha dosha (water and earth) control the functioning of human body.
Ayurveda aims to preserve health and wellness and preventing disease rather
than treating it.
INTRODUCTION

5. • The knowledge we have now is by three surviving texts of Charaka,
Sushruta and Vaghbata.
• Charaka (1st century A.D.) wrote Charaka Samhita (samhita- meaning
collection of verses written in Sanskrit).
• Sushruta (4th century A.D.) wrote his Samhita i.e. Sushruta Samhita.
• Vaghbata (5th century A.D.) compiled the third set of major texts called
Ashtanga Hridaya and Ashtanga Sangraha.
• Charaka’s School of Physicians and Sushruta’s School of Surgeons became
the basis of Ayurveda and helped organize and systematically classify into
branches of medicine and surgery.
HISTORY

6. • Sixteen major supplements (Nighantus) were written in the ensuing
years – Dhanvantari, Bahavaprakasha, Raja and Shaligrama to name
a few that helped refine the practice of Ayurveda. New drugs were
added and ineffective ones were discarded.
• Expansion of application, identification of new illnesses and finding
substitute treatments seemed to have been an evolving process.
• Close to 2000 plants that were used in healing diseases and abating
symptoms were identified in these supplements.
• Dridhabala in the 4th century revised the Charaka Samhita.
• The texts of Sushruta Samhita were revised and supplemented by
Nagarjuna in the 6th century.

7.  There developed eight branches/divisions of Ayurveda:
1. Shalakya Tantra (surgery and treatment of head and neck.
Ophthalmology and ear, nose, throat)
2. Shalya Tantra (Surgery)
3. Agada Tantra (Toxicology)
4. Bhuta Vidya (Psychiatry)
5. Kaumara bhritya (Pediatrics)
6. Rasayana (science of rejuvenation or anti-ageing)
7. Vajikarana (the science of fertility and aphrodisiac)

8. • The word ‘Veda' means Knowledge.
• The evolution of the Indian art of healing and living a healthy life comes
from the four Vedas namely: Rig Veda, Sama Veda, Yajur Veda and Atharva
Veda. Ayurveda attained a state of reverence and is classified as one of the
UpaVedas - a subsection attached to the Atharva Veda.
• The Atharva Veda contains not only the magic spells and the occult sciences
but also the Ayurveda that deals with the diseases, injuries, fertility, sanity
and health.
• Ayurveda incorporates all forms of lifestyle in therapy. Thus yoga, aroma,
meditation, gems, amulets, herbs, diet, astrology, color and surgery etc. are
used in a comprehensive manner in treating patients.
• Treating important and sensitive spots on the body called Marmas is
described in Ayurveda. Massages, exercises and yoga are recommended.
ORIGINS

9. Concepts of Panchamahabhutas, Saptadhatus
and Tridosha
1. Panchamahabutas Concept :
• According to Ayurveda everything in life is composed of the
Panchamahabhutas - Akash (Space), Vayu (Air), Jal (Water), Agni (Fire) and
Prithvi (Earth).
• Omnipresent, they are mixed in an infinite variety of relative proportions such
that each form of matter is distinctly unique. Constantly changing and
interacting with each other, they create a situation of dynamic flux that keeps
the world going.
• This is a small example: Within a simple, single living cell for example the
earth element predominates by giving structure to the cell.
• The water element is present in the cytoplasm or the liquid within the cell
membrane.

10. • The fire element regulates the metabolic processes regulating the cell. While the air
element predominates the gases there in.
• The space occupied by the cell denoting the last of the elements.
• In the case of a complex, multi cellular organism as a human being for instance,
Akash (space) corresponds to spaces within the body (mouth, nostrils, abdomen
etc.); Vayu (air) denotes the movement (essentially muscular); Agni (fire) controls
the functioning of enzymes (intelligence, digestive system, metabolism); Jala(water)
is in all body fluids (as plasma, saliva, digestive juices); and Prithvi (earth) manifests
itself in the solid structure of the body (bones, teeth, flesh, hair et al).
• The Panchmahabhutas therefore serve as the foundation of all diagnosis treatment
modalities in Ayurveda and has served as a most valuable theory for physicians to
detect and treat illness of the body and mind successfully.
• For example if a person has more of the fire element in the body he may suffer from
more acid secretion (gastric/ digestive), which if causing harm in the form of
hyperacidity etc., can be controlled by giving him food which contains more of Jala
(water) mahabhuta in it like sugarcane juice etc.

11. Concept of Panchmahabutas

12. • The Physical, psychic and cosmic language of the body is created from the
circadian rhythm of the universe set in motion some billions of years ago
when the five great elements were born. Space, air, fire, water and earth, the
first material for life, are the basis of the Vedic sciences.
• In Ayurveda human physiology and anatomy is rooted in bodily Humors
(doshas) tissues (dhatus) and wastes (malas).
• These three principles support all of life and are more than the physical
substance of our anatomy.
• Doshas are three in number called Tridoshas (tri meaning three and doshas
being the basic physical energies/humors).
• They are the primary and essential factors of the human body that govern our
entire physical structure and function. Derived from the Panchmahabhutas
(five elements).

13. 2. Saptadhatus Concept :
The structural and supporting units of the body are
called Dhatu in Ayurveda. In modern science, it related
to tissues. So, Dhatu meaning in English is tissue. In
ayurveda science, there are seven basic tissues that make
the body and these tissues are collectively called Sapta
Dhatu in Ayurveda.

14. 1 Rasa Dhatu:
Rasa Dhatu relates to body fluids in the body. It includes intracellular and
extracellular fluids, plasma in the blood and fluid in the lymphatic system. It
also includes all nutrients absorbed in the intestine.
•Dosha: Kapha Dosha
•Upadhatu: Stanya (breastmilk), Raja (menstrual fluid/blood)
•Mala (Waste Product): Sweat, Tears, and Saliva
Rasa Dhatu is responsible for providing nutrition to all cells, tissues, and
organs in the body.

15. 2 Rakta Dhatu:
Rakta Dhatu relates to blood components (RBCs) except plasma
in the blood. Rakta is derived from nutrients present in the Rasa.
•Dosha: Pitta Dosha
•Upadhatu: Shira (Blood Vessels), Kandara (Fascia)
•Mala (Waste Product): Crucial columns
Rakta Dhatu supplies oxygen to all structures in the body. It is also
responsible for maintaining strength, health, and happiness. It
supports the functions of skin and sense organs.

16. 3 Mamsa Dhatu:
Mamsa Dhatu relates to muscular tissues in the body. Mamsa tissue is derived
from nutrient in the Rakta in addition to Rasa.
•Dosha: Kapha Dosha
•Upadhatu: Muscle, Fat and Skin
•Mala (Waste Product): Earwax, crusts in the nose, and tartar of teeth
The main function of Mamsa Dhatu is to provide strength to the body and
protecting internal organs.

17. 4 Meda Dhatu:
Meda Dhatu relates to adipose tissues in the body. It is derived from
nutrients in Mamsa Dhatu in addition to Rasa, and Rakta.
•Dosha: Kapha Dosha
•Upadhatu: Snayu (tendons), Sandhi (joints), Shira (lymphatic
vessels),and Sweat (Sharangadhara Samhita)
•Mala (Waste Product): Sweat, Smegma of the prepuce
Meda Dhatu is responsible for lubrication and providing strength
and nutrition to the bones, joints, tendons, and ligaments.

18. 5 Asthi Dhatu:
• Asthi Dhatu relates to bony and skeletal tissues in the body. It is
derived from nutrients in Meda Dhatu in addition to Rasa, Rakta, and
Mamsa.
• Dosha: Vata Dosha
• Upadhatu: Teeth
•
• Mala (Waste Product): Nails and Hair
The main function of Asthi Dhatu is to protect delicate nervous
tissue, brain, spinal cord and support bone marrow.

19. 6 Majja Dhatu:
• Majja Dhatu relates to the Bone marrow and nervous tissue in the body. It is
derived from nutrients in the Asthi Dhatu in addition to Rasa, Rakta,
Mamsa, and Meda.
•
• Dosha: Kapha Dosha
• Upadhatu: Hair (according to Sharangadhara Samhita)
• Mala (Waste Product): Oily secretions of skin – include secretions of
sebaceous gland
Majja Dhatu is responsible for proving nourishment to Shukra Dhatu. All
functions of bone marrow, brain, and nervous tissue represent the functions of
Majja Dhatu.

20. 7 Shukra Dhatu:
Shukra Dhatu relates to the generative tissue in the body. It is derived from
nutrients in the Majja Dhatu in addition to Rasa, Rakta, Mamsa, Meda, and
Asthi.
Dosha: Kapha Dosha
Upadhatu:
Mala (Waste Product):
Shukra Dhatu is not only constituents of semen or ovum. It also includes all
generative tissues and stem cells in the body, which are responsible for
cellular regeneration and reproduction.

21. CONSEPT OF SAPTADHATUS

22.  Tridosha Concept
• Each dosha – which like the elements cannot be detected with our senses
but their qualities, can be.
• They are the combination of any two of the five Bhutas (five elements) with
the predominance of one. Called Vata, Pitta and Kapha in Sanskrit, these
three are responsible for all the physiological and psychological processes
within the body and mind dynamic forces that determine growth and decay.
• Every physical characteristic, mental capacity and the emotional tendency
of a human being can therefore be explained in terms of the tridoshas.
• When existing in the body of all living organisms, the five elements
congregate in a certain pattern and are known in Sanskrit as doshas, the
literal meaning of which is, “that which is quick to go out of balance.”
Doshas imply that the human system maintains a delicate balance, its
dynamic elemental composition always being on the verge of disorder.

23. • The doshas are a classic example of energy and matter in dynamic accord. All
matter born from energy remains intricately woven within its core nature of
energy. In a state of balance or equilibrium, doshas are considered an energy
force in that we cannot visibly detect them as they move through and support
bodily function.
• For example most of the physical phenomena ascribed to the nervous system
by modern physiology for example, can be identified with Vata. Just as the
entire chemical process operating in the human body can be attributed to
Pitta, including enzymes, hormones and the complete nutritional system. The
activities of the skeletal and the anabolic system, actually the entire physical
volume of an organism, can be considered as Kapha.

24. CONCEPT OF TRIDOSHA

25. • In a state of imbalance or disequilibrium the doshas become visible as
excessive mucus, bile, flatus, and physical matter.
• When these early signs of disorder are ignored, imbalances can quickly
become full-blown diseases.
• Each dosha thus shares a quality with another (although there remain slight
differences in the nature of shared quality).
• Also, each has an inherent ability to regulate and balance itself, which comes
from the opposite qualities that arise from the doshas constituent (basic)
elements.
• When the doshas are in balance i.e. In a state of equilibrium, we remain
healthy. As Charaka, the great ayurvedic sage, explained: “Vata, pitta and
kapha maintain the integrity of the living human organism in their normal
state and combine so as to make the man a complete being with his indriyas
(sense organs) possessed of strength, good complexion and assured of
longevity.” It is only when that there is imbalance within these three doshas
that disease is caused.

26. • And since it is the strongest dosha in the constitution that usually has the
greatest tendency to increase, one is most susceptible to illnesses associated
with an increase of the same.
• Each dosha also has a primary function in the body. Vata is the moving force,
Pitta is the force assimilation, and Kapha is the force of stability.
• Vata, the most dominant of the doshas, governs bodily movement, the
nervous system, and the life force. Without Vata’s mobility in the body, Pitta
and Kapha would be rendered lame. Governs enzymatic and hormonal
activities, and is responsible for digestion, pigmentation, body temperature,
hunger, thirst, and sight.
• Further, Pitta acts as a balancing force for Vata and Kapha. Kapha governs the
body’s structure and stability. It Imbricates joints, provides moisture to the
skin, heals wounds, and regulates Vata and Pitta. Vata, Pitta, and Kapha
pervade the entire body, but their primary domains are in the lower, middle,
and upper body, respectively.

27. • Kapha rules the (UPPER) head, neck, thorax, chest, and upper portion of
the stomach, fat tissues, and the joints.
• Pitta pervades the (MIDDLE) chest, umbilical area, stomach, small
intestines, and vyana sweat and lymph glands, and the blood.
• Vata dominates the (LOWER) body, pelvic region, colon, bladder, urinary
tract, thighs, legs, arms, bones, and nervous system. Apart from its main
site; each dosha has four secondary sites located in different areas of the
body.
• Thus each dosha then has five sites considered to be its centres of
operation, which include the various outreach systems because of which
the entire body functions. The doshas interact continuously with the
external elements to replenish their energy within the body. Each of the
three Doshas’ five sites has a specific responsibility towards the
maintenance of the organism.

28. BASED ON
BENEFITS
• Kamya rasayana
(Enhances normal
health)
• Naimittika rasayana
(Based on disease
condition)
BASED ON
METHOD USE
• Vatatapika rasayana
(Outdoor regimen)
• Kutipraveshika
rasayana (Indoor
hospital based)
• Achara rasayana (Good
conduct)
BASED ON
MATERIAL USE
• Aushadha rasayana
(Drugs based)
• Ajasrika rasayana (Diet
based)
RASAYAN
• CLASSIFICATION OF RASAYAN

29. • Plants used in Ayurvedic Treatments
• There are many medicinal plants used in Ayurveda Here only
some are mentioned:
• 1. ASHWAGANDHA:
• Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera L) is a small woody plant
native to India and North Africa. Its root and berries are used
to produce a very popular Ayurvedic remedy (2 Trusted
Source).
• It’s considered an adaptogen, which means that it’s believed to
help your body manage stress more effectively. Research has
shown that it reduces levels of cortisol, a hormone that your
adrenal glands produce in response to stress.

30. ASWAGANDHA

31. • Moreover, research shows that Ashwagandha may enhance
muscle growth, memory, and male fertility, as well as lower
blood sugar levels. However, larger studies are needed to
confirm these benefits
• Finally, there’s evidence that it may help reduce
inflammation and boost your immune system, though
more studies are needed.

32. 2.BOSWELLIA
• Boswellia, also known as Indian frankincense or olibanum, is
made from the resin of the Boswellia serrata tree. It’s known for
its easily recognizable spicy, woody aroma.
• Research suggests that it may be particularly effective at
reducing inflammation by
• preventing the release of inflammation-causing compounds
known as leukotriene.
• In test-tube and animal studies, boswellia appears to be as
effective as non-steroidal anti inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), yet
with fewer side effects.

33. BOSWELLIA

34. • Human studies link boswellia to reduced pain, improved
mobility, and a greater range of movement in people with
osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. It may also help
prevent
• oral infections and fight gingivitis.
• Moreover, it may improve digestion in people with
ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease, as well as breathing
in people with chronic asthma

35. 3. TRIPHALA:
Triphala is an Ayurvedic remedy consisting of the following three small
medicinal fruits (26Trusted Source):
1. Amla (Emblica officinalis, or Indian gooseberry)
2. Bibhitaki (Terminalia bellirica)
3. Haritaki (Terminalia chebula)
•
• Test-tube and animal studies show that triphala may reduce
inflammation caused by arthritis, as well as prevent or limit the growth
of certain types of cancer.
• It may also function as a natural laxative, reducing constipation,
abdominal pain, and flatulence while improving the frequency and
consistency of bowel movements in people with gut disorders.

36. TRIPHALA

37. • 4. BRAHMI:
• Brahmi (Bacopa monieri) is a staple herb in Ayurvedic medicine.
• According to test-tube and animal studies, brahmi appears to have
strong anti inflammatory properties that are as effective as common
NSAIDS.
• Studies also link it to improvements in learning rates, attention,
memory, and information processing, as well as reduced symptoms of
attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), such as inattention,
impulsivity, poor self-control, and restlessness.
• Some studies further suggest that brahmi may have adaptogenic
properties, which means that it may help improve your body’s ability to
deal with stress and anxiety. However, more research is needed before
strong conclusions can be made.

38. BRAHMI

39. • 5. CUMIN:
• Cumin is a spice native to the Mediterranean and Southwest Asia.
• It’s made from the seeds of the Cuminum cyminum plant, which
are known for their distinctive earthy, nutty. And spicy flavor.
• Research shows that cumin may boost the activity of digestive
enzymes and facilitate the release of bile from the liver, speeding
digestion and easing the digestion of fats.
• Studies have also linked this Ayurvedic spice to reduced symptoms
of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), such as abdominal pain and
bloating. Plus, cumin may protect against type 2 diabetes by
lowering blood sugar levels and improving insulin sensitivity.
• It may also protect against heart disease by increasing HDL (good)
cholesterol while reducing triglycerides and LDL (bad) cholesterol.

40. CUMIN

41. • 6. TURMERIC:
• Turmeric (Curcuma langa), the spice that gives curry its
characteristic yellow color, is another popular Ayurvedic
remedy. Curcumin, its main active compound, has powerful
antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Test-tube research shows that it may be equally or even
more effective than some anti-inflammatory drugs-without
all of their side effects.
• Also, turmeric may help protect against heart disease, in
part by improving blood flow as effectively as exercise or
certain pharmaceutical drugs.

42. TURMERIC

43. • One study further suggests that it may be as effective as Prozac, a drug
commonly used to treat depression. Moreover, compounds in turmeric may
help preserve brain function by increasing brain levels of brain-derived
neurotrophic factor (BDNF). Low levels of BDNF have been linked to
disorders like Alzheimer’s and depression.
• That said, most studies have used very large amounts of curcumin, whereas
turmeric comprises only around 3% of this compound. Thus, amounts larger
than those found in turmeric are likely needed to attain these health benefits,
and such large doses may cause stomach upset (70Trusted Source).

44. 7.LICORICE ROOT (Glycyrrhiza glabra):
• Licorice root, which is native to Europe and Asia, comes from the
Glycyrrhiza glabra plant and holds a central place in Ayurvedic medicine.
• Test-tube and human studies suggest that licorice root may help reduce
inflammation and fight viruses and bacteria. It also appears to offer relief
from a sore throat and promote oral health by protecting against dental
cavities and Candida). This Ayurvedic spice may likewise help prevent or
manage heartburn, bloating, nausea, belching, and stomach ulcers.
• When applied to the skin, it may reduce symptoms of skin rash, including
redness, itching, and swelling. However, the only studies on this root are
generally small, and more research is needed to confirm these benefits.

45. LICORICE

46. • 8. BITTER MELON
• Bitter melon (Momordica charantia) is a tropical vine closely related
to zucchini, squash, cucumber, and pumpkin. It’s considered a staple
in Asian cuisine and packed with nutrients and powerful antioxidants.
• Research suggests that bitter melon may help lower blood sugar levels
and promote the secretion of insulin, the hormone responsible for
keeping blood sugar levels stable.
• If you use insulin to manage your blood sugar levels, consult your
healthcare before adding bitter melon to your daily routine to prevent
your blood sugar levels from becoming dangerously low.
• Animal studies further suggest that it may lower triglyceride and LDL
(bad) cholestero levels, though human studies are needed to confirm
this.

47. BITTER MELON

48. 9. CARDAMOM
• Cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum), which is sometimes referred to as
the “queen of spices,” has been part of Ayurvedic medicine since ancient
times.
• Research suggests that cardamom powder may help reduce blood
pressure in people with elevated levels. There’s also evidence that inhaling
cardamom essential oil the uptake of oxygen into the lungs during
exercise. May increase
• Moreover, test-tube and animal research suggests that cardamom may
help protect against Helicobacter pylori bacteria, which is a common
cause of stomach ulcers, and may reduce the size of gastric ulcers by at
least 50% or even eradicate them.

49. CARDAMOM