The Ayurvedic Wellness Counselor Program

The Ayurvedic Wellness Counselor Program
KAA 102: Ayurvedic Physiology (Dosha Dhātu Mala Vigyan)
Dosha, Dhātu, Mala: An Introduction
The human body is a mirror of our physical surroundings.
The space we inhabit, the air we breathe, the water we
drink, the heat of the sun and the earth underneath our
feet are each an example of the physiological structures
outside our bodies which are reflected in our own
elemental composition.
In Ayurvedic Philosophy, you were introduced to the three
Doshas and the principle of Prakriti and its underlying
tenets. Ayurvedic Physiology takes Philosophy a step
further. It describes the specific operations of these major
energies and laws as the physiological energies, structures
and byproducts in the body and mind.
Human physiology can be summarized into three
categories: Governing energies (Dosha), organs and
structures (Dhātu) and wastes (Mala).
Name
Translation
No. of
Types
Types
Dosha
When imbalanced,
causes disorder.
3
Vāta, Pitta, Kapha
Dhātu
That which holds
together.
7
Rasa, Rakta, Māmsa, Meda,
Asthi, Majja, Shukra/Artava
Mala
That which spoils or
decays the body.
3
Purisha, Mutra, Sweda
The Subdoshas
Subdosha: Secondary Governing Energy
 Each of the doshas have five (5) Subdoshas
with specific actions within the physiological
structure. They affect and govern the emotional
and mental faculties as well as specific organ
functions and operations.
The Subdoshas
 The Subdoshas can be found
acting in every part of the body.
They are distributed according to
the organs and actions that take
place at each respective location.
The Subdoshas | Vāta
 Vāta and its Subdoshas
create
and
sustain
physiological functions related
to Vāta, such as action,
transportation,
movement,
inspiration and buoyancy.
The Subdoshas | Vāta
1. Prāna Vayu
Location
Action
Movement
Signs of Imbalance
Balancing
Herbs
Brain, lungs, heart, throat,
tongue, nose and ears.
Sensory perception, inhalation, nervous control of
heart, ingestion of food, coughing, spitting, sneezing,
belching, thinking and mind control: Joy, happiness.
From outside
to inside
Weakened senses &
confusion, physical &
psychological imbalances.
Tulsi,
Aswagandha
2. Udāna Vayu
Location
Action
Movement
Signs of Imbalance
Balancing
Herbs
Mainly in the chest; Moves
from the navel to the
heart, lungs, throat and
brain.
Energizes mind, awakens intelligence, controls speech,
self-expression, exhalation, memory recall. Gives
strength to the body and glow to the skin.
Upward
Stuttering, congestion,
difficulty in exhaling.
Indecisiveness, difficulty in
responding.
Licorice,
Dashamoola
The Subdoshas | Vāta
3. Vyāna Vayu
Location
Action
Movement
Signs of Imbalance
In the heart; circulates
throughout the body.
Represents the seat of life, consciousness and
unconditional love. Circulates Rasa Dhātu
(nutrients), Rakta Dhātu (blood), thoughts,
emotions and energy to the rest of the body.
Releases sweat, controls muscular contraction
and relaxation. Regulates motor nerve impulses.
Governs physiological and psychological functions
of the Anahata or Heart Chakra.
From the
center to the
periphery.
Circulation problems,
heart palpitations,
Tachycardia, Bradycardia,
Angina pectoris, murmurs,
panic attacks, anxiety
attacks.
Balancing
Herbs
Arjuna,
Ghokshula,
Sthira
The Subdoshas | Vāta
4. Samāna Vayu
Location
Action
Movement
Signs of
Imbalance
Balancing
Herbs
Stomach, small
and large
intestine, liver,
pancreas and
spleen.
Kindles Agni (helps digestion), separates nutrients and wastes from the food
“juice.” Absorbs nutrients and water, maintains peristalsis, and controls the
secretion of digestive enzymes. Converts the intelligence in the food into our
consciousness. Represents the meeting point of Prāna and Apāna. Governs the
physiological and psychological functions of the Manipura or Solar Chakra.
From the
periphery
to the
center
Malabsorption
Diarrhea
Constipation
Indigestion
Cumin,
Coriander,
Ajamōda
Location
Action
Move- Signs of Imbalance
ment
Colon, pelvic
cavity and pelvic
organs.
Supports and strengthens intestinal walls. Maintains the tone of the tissues
and muscles in the pelvis. Absorbs nutrients, eliminates urine and feces,
starts menstrual flow, ejaculation of semen and sperm and assists with
conception. Induces labor, contracts uterus and assists with childbirth.
Nourishes the other Vayus. Governs physiological and psychological
functions of Muladhara or Root Chakra and Swadhisthan or Sacral Chakra.
Downward
5. Apāna Vayu
Constipation, bloating,
distension, lower abdominal
pain. Irritable bowel syndrome,
incontinence, hyperactive
bladder. Prolapsed uterus,
vagina, rectum. PMS, dryness of
vagina. Sterility, miscarriage, ED.
Balancing
Herbs
Haritaki,
Ajamoda
The Subdoshas | Pitta
 Pitta and its Subdoshas
create
and
sustain
physiological
functions
related to transformation,
conversion, digestion, heat
and radiance.
The Subdoshas | Pitta
1. Sādhaka Pitta
Location
Action
Brain and heart
Digestion of ideas, thoughts; discrimination,
awareness. Controls thinking, learning,
understanding. Moves in the heart as compassion and
love. All thoughts like desire, goals and determination
are the function of Sādhaka Pitta
Signs of Imbalance
Balancing Herbs
Sandalwood, Brahmi,
Licorice
The Subdoshas | Pitta
2. Alōchaka Pitta
Location
Action
Signs of Imbalance
Balancing Herbs
All parts of the eyes
Maintains visual acuity, absorbs different images,
colors, and processes visual images. At subtle level it
gives clarity, light and understanding
Poor eye sight, foggy
vision, near- or farsightedness, colorblindness,
conjunctivitis
Triphala, Dārvi
The Subdoshas | Pitta
3. Pāchaka Pitta
Location
Action
Signs of Imbalance
Balancing Herbs
Small intestine & lower
part of stomach
Creates hunger and thirst; Aap part of Pitta liquefies food
and agni part cooks the food. Digests sour, pungent and
bitter foods. Moves food through different parts of
digestive tract with the help of Samāna Vayu; The essential
part of the food is absorbed and the remaining part is
passed to the colon. When the digestive fire is strong we
experience contentment, strength, energy and clarity of
mind.
When Low: Indigestion,
ama production.
To Strengthen: Ginger,
Cloves, Garlic, Ajamoda,
Chitraka
When High: Nausea,
vomiting, acidity, ulcers,
heartburn
To Reduce: Amalaki,
Guduchi, Licorice, Coriander
The Subdoshas | Pitta
4. Bhrājaka Pitta
Location
Action
Signs of Imbalance
Balancing Herbs
Skin
Controls the color & luster of the skin, maintains blood
flow and body temperature, controls sweat glands and
absorption of sunrays to form nutrients. Absorbs
medication patches. Forms the barrier between the
internal and external environments.
Skin inflammations,
blisters, acne, rosacea,
psoriasis, hives, moles,
melanoma, and skin
ulcers, also eats the
stomach lining and
causes ulcers.
Chandana (cooling, blocks the
sun’s rays), Manjishta
(balancing), Red Sandalwood
(cooling)
The Subdoshas | Pitta
5. Ranjaka Pitta
Location
Action
Signs of Imbalance
Balancing Herbs
Liver, spleen, and small
intestine
Gives color to blood, urine and feces. In the liver, the
absorbed food (Ahāra Rasa) is cooked and digested again.
Represents the seat of Panchamahabhutagni where the
food particles are separated into Panchamahabhutas. The
liver also destroys old red blood cells, separating enzymes
which are excreted through the stool, giving a yellow color
to the urine and feces.
Jaundice, anemia,
leukemia, bleeding
disorders
Turmeric, Sharapunkha,
Katuki
The Subdoshas | Kapha
 Kapha and its Subdoshas create
and sustain physiological functions
related
to
construction,
lubrication, nourishment, cohesion
and stabilization.
The Subdoshas | Kapha
1. Tarpaka Kapha
Location
Action
Signs of Imbalance
Balancing Herbs
Brain and spinal cord,
heart
Protects nervous system, nourishes nervous tissue,
lubricates brain cells, regulates the action of the
nervous system, works as a shock absorber against
injuries, and creates calmness, compassion, caring,
love and affection.
Dull mind, lack of
understanding, slow
learning, slow memory
recall, MS
Vacha (Calamus), Ginger
The Subdoshas | Kapha
2. Bōdhaka Kapha
Location
Action
Signs of Imbalance
Balancing Herbs
Mouth, tongue and
salivary glands.
Keeps the oral cavity moist, interprets taste,
lubricates the mucus membrane, liquefies the food
for better chewing, digestion (carbohydrates) and
swallowing, and protects the mouth against acidity
and cavities. Lubricates the throat for softer and
clearer voice. Is very sensitive to emotions. When we
experience anxiety, fear, depression, Bōdhaka Kapha
decreases. With a smell, look or thought of good
food, Bōdhaka Kapha is secreted.
Irregular coating,
plaque. See notes on
tongue diagnosis.
To Increase Kapha:
Licorice
To Decrease Kapha:
Ginger, Cloves
The Subdoshas | Kapha
3. Avalambaka Kapha
Location
Action
Signs of Imbalance
Balancing Herbs
Thoracic cavity, lungs,
pleural cavity, in
pericardium, around
alveoli, and bronchi
Lubricates all the organs in the lungs and provides
nourishment. Carries love and compassion from the heart
to the rest of the body. Every thought and emotion affects
Avalambaka Kapha. For a long healthy life, Avalambaka
Kapha is essential.
Emphysema, Asthma,
Bronchitis, cough,
Pleurisy, heaviness in the
chest.
Ginger, Bibhitaki
The Subdoshas | Kapha
4. Kledaka Kapha
Location
Action
Signs of Imbalance
Balancing Herbs
Stomach (upper part),
Stomach Lining, Secretions
in the Stomach
Moistens food for better digestion and movement
of food in the stomach. Protects and nourishes
stomach lining (mucus membrane), prevents
ulcers. Represents the alkaline secretion in the
stomach.
If Increased: Indigestion, heaviness, ama
formation, mucus in stools.
Ginger, Pippali
If Decreased: Ulcers, burning in the
stomach
The Subdoshas | Kapha
5. Shleshaka Kapha
Location
Action
Signs of Imbalance
Balancing Herbs
Joints
Lubricates joints for smooth action, provides nourishment
to the bones, ligaments and cartilages. Works as a shock
absorber. Lubricates the skin.
Arthritis, swollen joints,
water retention, edema.
To Decrease: Punarnava,
Ginger, Guggulu
To Increase: Licorice
Dhātu | That Which Holds Together
Dhāranāt Dhātavah
The Universe is made up of energy and
matter. Energy needs matter to
mobilize and serve its function. Matter
doesn’t move without energy. For this
purpose, the Doshas represent energy
and the Dhātus represent matter. They
are both close friends who cannot live
or function without each other. The
doshas work through the Dhātus.
Each Dhātu has a primordial vibration and is an expression of
consciousness.
The Dhātus hold (support) the body together.
The Doshas do the function and Dhātus provide the site to do the
function.
The Dhātus are developed from and nourished by food.
There are seven Upadhatus, or secondary tissues, developed as a
byproduct of Dhātu digestion.
The Malas, or waste products are also produced during each Dhātu
digestion.
The Dhātus support the body and provide nutrition to the more subtle
Dhātus. The Upadhatus support the body but do not provide nutrition.
In the disorder process the Dhātus become affected, which is called
Dushya.
The Dhātus are measured in Anjali pramana. Anjali is a measure created
by cupping the palms together to equal roughly 8 fluid ounces.
The grosser Dhātus nourish the subtler Dhātus and subtler the Dhātus
protect the grosser Dhātus.
Dhātu | That Which Holds Together
Dhātu Location
Function
Upadhatu
Mala
Rasa
Preenan (Nourishment)
Māmsa
Muscle
Lepana (Plastering of the body)
Stanya (Breast milk)
Raja (Menstrual fluid)
Kandara (Tendons)
Sira (Blood vessels)
Vasa (Subcutaneous fat)
Twak (Skin)
Kapha
Rakta
Plasma, Lymph,
Serum
Blood
Meda
Asthi
Fat
Bone
Snehana (Lubrication)
Dhārana (Supporting the organs)
Snayu (Ligaments)
Teeth
Sweat
Hair, Nails
Majja
Bone Marrow
Poorana (Filling, feeling)
Tears
Oiliness in the eyes, skin and feces
Shukra/
Artava
Reproductive
Fluid (Sperm or
Ovum)
Prajaotpādana (Procreation)
n/a
n/a
Jeevana (Giving life)
Pitta
Khamala (Waste from natural
openings)
Rasa Dhātu | Plasma, Serum or Lymph with the nutritive essence

Rasa is the grossest of all the Dhātus; it is
plasma, serum, lymph.

Rasa is a juice or liquid (the juice of life) with
nutrients for all the other Dhātus.

Rasa takes 1 day to form after food ingestion.

It measures 9 anjali.

Its Upadhātu is breast milk and menstrual
fluid.

Its Mala is Kapha.
Rasa Dhātu | Plasma, Serum or Lymph with the nutritive essence
Composition
Sites
Functions
Signs of Rasa
Sara, or
Optimum Rasa
Made up of all Mahabhutas, but primarily Aap (jala, water)
Pervades in the whole body but main sites are heart, lymph channels, and
venous blood.
1.
Preenana: Nourishes all Dhātus. Due to the process of catabolism,
Dhātus break down and become deficient. Rasa Dhātu replenishes
those, to maintain balance.
2.
Ahāra Rasa (Digested Food) is absorbed by blood vessels and carried to
Liver. Liver contains Panchamahabhutagnis, which further digest Ahāra
Rasa. Dhātu agnis do further digestion to develop particular Dhātus.
First, Rasa is created, which has all Bhutas for other Dhātus. Thus, it
provides nourishment to others.
3.
The intelligence and the subtle energy of Rasa, which comes from food,
gives contentment to other Dhātus. This energy maintains strength,
love and compassion
4.
It maintains body temperature and pH through sweat glands.
Coagulates blood due to Kapha.
5.
Responsible for lactation and menstruation.
1.
2.
3.
A person is happy, strong, healthy and has good memory
Skin is soft, smooth and glowing
The hair (on the body and head) is oily, soft and silky
Rakta Dhātu | Red Blood Tissue

Rakta Dhātu represents the Red Blood Cells in
the body.

It is the second Dhātu in the body.

It is named due to its color. Rakta means red.

Rakta Dhātu requires 6 days to form after
food ingestion.

It measures 8 anjali.

Its Upadhātus are tendons and blood vessels.

Its Mala is Pitta.
Rakta Dhātu | Red Blood Tissue
Composition
Sites
Functions
Signs of
Rakta Sara
All the Mahabhutas but mainly fire and water.
Bone marrow (red marrow), liver, spleen, red blood cells,
heart and uterus.
1.
Jeevana: Gives life by carrying Prāna.
2.
Provides strength, energy, luster, happiness.
3.
Carries Prāna to all the cells.
4.
Nourishes subtle Dhātus.
5.
Provides enthusiasm, compassion, creativity and
ambition.
6.
Emotionally connected to anger, irritability, and
jealousy (because related to Pitta).
1.
Person is bright, brilliant, and happy.
2.
There is vitality and strength.
3.
Skin is reddish and lustrous, eyes are bright.
4.
Pink lips, nails, conjunctiva.
5.
Body always feels warm and desires cooler things.
Māmsa Dhātu| The Muscle Tissue

Māmsa Dhātu represents the muscles in the
body.

It takes 11 days to form after food ingestion.

The quantity of Māmsa Dhātu is variable
depending on the individual, their Prakriti and
their personal habits.

Its Upadhātus are subcutaneous fat and skin.

Its Mala is ear wax, nasal crust, smegma and
navel discharge.
Māmsa Dhātu| The Muscle Tissue
Composition
Mainly earth, fire and water
Muscle tissue, organs of the body; Over the bones.
Sites
1.
Lepana: Plastering of the body.
Functions
2.
Many organs are made of Māmsa Dhātu.
3.
Regulates activities, moving joints and bones,
coordination, power.
4.
Gives strength to our body frame.
5.
Keeps skin smooth.
6.
Gives confidence, courage and strength.
7.
Emotions are stored in fascia and connective tissue.
8.
Nourishes Meda Dhātu.
1.
Muscular body, with a good tone.
Signs of
Māmsa Sāra 2. Great strength and stamina.
3.
Strong joints and co-ordination.
4.
Person looks strong, healthy, confident, rich, and
intelligent.
Meda Dhātu| The Adipose Tissue

Meda Dhātu represents the fat, lipids, adipose
tissue and cholesterol in the body.

Its main location is in the omentum and
kidneys.

It takes 16 days to form after food ingestion.

It generally measures 2 anjalis, depending on
the individual.

Its Upadhātu is ligaments.

Its Mala is Sweda or sweat.
Meda Dhātu| The Adipose Tissue
Composition
Sites
Functions
Signs of
Meda Sara
Water, earth and fire.
All over the body, under skin, belly, omentum( a fold of
peritoneum connecting or supporting the abdominal
structures as the stomach and liver) , buttocks,
breasts, around joints, around heart, kidney.
1.
Snehana: Keeps muscles lubricated for constant
contraction and retraction; lubrication of joints.
2.
Keeps body strong, and supple; soft voice; oily and
lustrous hair.
3.
Nourishes Asthi Dhātu.
4.
Retains heat.
1.
2.
3.
4.
Well-built body, melodious voice.
Skin, hair, eyes, nails, lips and teeth are smooth,
oily and lustrous.
Rounded and strong joints.
Person is loving, forgiving and compassionate.
Asthi Dhātu| The Bone Tissue

Asthi Dhātu is the hardest Dhātu in the body. Sthā means to
stand or endure.

Asthi Dhātu is one of the seats of Vāta.

The junction of the bones is a Sandhi or joint, which is filled
and lubricated by Shleshaka Kapha to prevent friction during
movement.

It takes 21 days to form after food ingestion.

Its Upadhātu is teeth and cartilage.

Its Malas are hair and nails.
Asthi Dhātu| The Bone Tissue
Composition
Sites
Functions
Mainly earth, space and air.
All the bones in the body.
1.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
Signs of Asthi
Sara
1.
2.
3.
Dhārana (To support): It supports the other Dhātus in the body.
Provides the skeleton to the body and gives shape, and stability to the
body.
Provides attachment to muscles.
Protects vital organs (brain, spinal cord, pelvic organs) within.
Assists in self defense and protects the body.
Carries sound (bones in the ears).
Retains memory of pain, pleasure, sadness and happiness, subconscious
emotions.
Many bone disorders are caused by old age.
It nourishes Majja Dhātu.
Long and strong bones, big and strong joints.
Strong nails, hair, teeth.
Is hardworking, energetic, and has great strength and stamina.
Majja Dhātu| The Bone Marrow

Majja Dhātu represents the Bone Marrow in the
body, as well as anything within the bone, the
brain, spinal cord, red bone marrow or nerve
tissue of body.

The nourishment of Majja begins 26 days after
food ingestion.

It measures 1 anjali and represents ½ anjali of the
brain tissue.

Its Upadhātu are lachrymal secretions or tears.

Its Malās are the oily secretions in the eyes, skin
and feces.
Majja Dhātu| The Bone Marrow
Composition
Sites
Functions
Signs of Majja
Sara
Mainly air, water and earth.
Within the bones, nerve tissue and endocrine
glands.
1.
Poorana: Filling and strengthening the bones.
2.
Strengthening the body.
3.
Nourish Shukla Dhātu.
4.
Communication, Sensory and motor function.
5.
Majja is related to feelings, thoughts, and
emotions in the past, present and in the future.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Body is strong but supple.
Skin and voice are soft.
Joints are strong and well built.
Eyes are big and lustrous.
Person is strong, intelligent and respectable and
lives longer.
Shukla/Artava Dhātu| The Reproductive Tissue

In males, Shukla Dhātu represents the
sperm; in females, Ārtava Dhātu
represents the ovum in the body -or the
female seed potential.

It is the most subtle Dhātu in the body.

Shukla is cool, white, oily, sweet, liquid
and heavy.

Ārtava is hot, astringent, sour, and acidic
in smell

It takes 31 days to form

It measures ½ anjali.
Shukla/Artava Dhātu| The Reproductive Tissue
Composition
Sites
Functions
Mainly water.
Male/female reproductive system.
1.
2.
3.
Signs of Shukla
Sara
1.
2.
3.
4.
Prajotpadana:
Reproduction
and
procreation.
Provide vigor and vitality.
Is the seed potential of all Dhātus.
Strength, stamina, vitality.
Strong bones, eyes, nails and hair.
Enjoys physical intimacy with a
partner.
Many children.
Shukla/Artava Dhātu| The Reproductive Tissue
Why is Shukla Dhātu so Important?

Shukla is not merely located in the reproductive system. It is located all over
the body.

It increases the immune system, vigor, and vitality.

In spirituality, controlling all the desires (especially sexual) is very important.
The goal is to facilitate the life energy to move upwards.

Mental calmness and clarity is increased by Shukla.

Shukla keeps body very strong and free from disorder, and the intellect very
sharp.
Ojas- The glow, aura, radiance, vitality or immunity

The essence of all the Dhātus.

The Prime energy reserve of the body.

The immune system.

A link between the body and mind.

Superior to Shukla.
Qualities
Functions
Types of Ojas
Cool, oily, clear, heavy, soft, static.
1.
Protects life.
2.
Gives strength.
3.
Protects against disorders.
4.
Controls heart beats.
5.
Regulates sense organs and organs of action.
6.
Maintains the balance of all Dhātus.
Para Ojas – It is the important ojas that is responsible for maintaining life. So
its loss leads to death. It is located in the heart.
Apara Ojas – It is the ojas that we attain through food and life-style. It is
distributed throughout the body and strengthens it.
1.
Para: 8 drops ( in the heart)
2.
Apara: ½ Anjali (spread throughout the body)
Dhātu : Relationship of Dosha & Dhātu
The Relationship of Dosha and Dhātu
Dosha
Related Dhātu
Relationship
Kapha
Rasa, Māmsa, Meda, Majja, Shukla
Direct
Pitta
Rakta
Direct
Vāta
Asthi
Inverse
Dhātu: Tissue Nutrition
After digestion by Bhutagnis, Ahāra Rasa (the essence of the food) is
digested further by the Dhātuagnis to provide nutrition to each
particular Dhātu.
The nutrition of the Dhātus is governed in any of the following ways,
depending on need:
The Law of Irrigation (Kedari Kulya)
The Water System in the Farm Law
The Law of Irrigation represents the concept of
water irrigation, which is constant through the
process of circulation. Each Dhātu takes its own
nutrients and then forwards it to the next Dhātu.
Dhātu: Tissue Nutrition
The Law of Transformation (Ksheera Dadhi)
The Milk to Curd Law
Ahāra Rasa

Rasa
Rasa

Rakta
Rakta

Māmsa
Māmsa

Meda
Meda

Majja
Majja

Shukra/Artava
Shukra/Artava

Ojas
Dhātu: Tissue Nutrition
The Law of Selectivity (Khale Kapot)
The Pit and Pigeon Law
Each Dhātu goes to the river of Rasa (plasma) to get
its needed (own peculiar) nutrition and takes it back
to nourish its constituents (fat takes fat; bones take
minerals, etc).
Nutrition is step-by-step nourishment from the
gross to the subtlest Dhātu.
Malas: That Which Spoils or Decays the Body
Malas can become toxins if not removed at the right
time.
Malas support the body.
Cleanse the body.
Over-cleansing removes all the Malas and aggravates
Vāta, which breaks down Kapha and Pitta and weakens
the Dhātus.
Doshas, Dhātus and Malas all the three support the
body.
There are many forms of Malas. Urine and Feces are
Malas of digested food. All the Dhātus after digestion
create Dhātu Malas.
Mutra | Urine
Composition
Taste
Mainly water (and earth)
Odor
Touch
Color
Transparency
Quantity
Sites
Odorless
Function
1.
2.
3.
Acidic, bitter, salty
Warm
Colorless, slightly yellowish
Clear
4 anjali
Mutravaha strotas. Blood, kidneys (vrukka), uretors (mutra gavini),
bladder (Basti), urethra (medhra).
To maintain moistness in the body
To remove wastes, salts and minerals from the body.
Helps to maintain fluid balance, thereby controls blood pressure.
Mutra | Urine
Formation
Signs of Imbalance
Signs of Mutra
Kshaya
Signs of Mutra
Vriddhi
In the small intestine, the digested food is separated into Ahāra Rasa
(digested food) and Malas (wastes). The digested food is absorbed in small
intestine and the wastes pass on to the large intestine. The water waste is
absorbed and the feces are carried into the descending colon. Water is
carried with Rasa and Rakta to rest of the body and the wastes are added
to this. When this blood is filtered through kidneys, urine is separated and
carried through ureters into the urinary bladder. When the bladder gets
full, Apāna Vayu carries the urine through urethra, out of the body.
1.
Formation of increased or decreased quantity
2.
Frequency of micturition
3.
Painful micturition
4.
Change in color, smell or consistency of urine
5.
Kidney stones
1.
Pain in urinary bladder
2.
Scanty urination
3.
Thirst
4.
Dryness of mouth
1.
Excessive urination
2.
Increased frequency
3.
Fullness or pain in the bladder
Purisha| Feces
Composition
Mainly earth, little water
Odor
Bad smell due to fermentation of food. In many digestive
disorders, the smell is worse, because food is not digested
completely.
Yellowish, brownish. This is due to Ranjaka Pitta. (Bile salts
form liver). (In Jaundice, the stools are whitish, or gray, due
to blockage)
7 anjali (roughly). In vegetarian people the quantity is
greater as there is more undigested fiber from vegetables.
Purishavaha strotas (caecum, ascending colon, transverse
colon, descending colon, rectum and anus)
In Vāta imbalance, if Samāna Vayu did not absorb enough
water content, the stools become watery causing diarrhea,
or if there is excess absorption of water then the stools
become very dry and may cause constipation.
Color
Quantity
Sites
Formation
Purisha| Feces
Notes
1.
2.
3.
Function
Signs of Imbalance
1.
2.
3.
4.
1.
2.
3.
Worms in stools is a disorder. The normal bacterial
flora is different from the amoebae, tapeworm,
round worms.
Sensation of defecation: Due peristalsis the feces
move forward. As it starts entering in sigmoid
colon, a person gets the sensation for defecation.
Repeated colonics causes weakness. Due to
emptiness, Vāta aggravates and causes chest pain,
back pain, bloating, gurgling.
Removes solid wastes from the body
Supports intestinal walls
Removes toxins from the intestinal tract
Slows down emptying
Constipation, hard, dry stools, hemorrhoids
Diarrhea, loose motions, Bloody diarrhea, colitis,
diverticulitis
Irritable bowel syndrome, dysentery, parasites
Sweda| Sweat
Composition
Sites
Mainly water
Function
1.
Swedavaha strotas
2.
3.
Keeps the skin moist, and prevents from cracking
and drying
Maintains the temperature of the body. In hot
temperature, Bhrājaka Pitta aggravates and
dilates the blood vessels in the skin. It also
stimulates sweat glands creating more sweat
carrying more heat in the body. In the cold
environment, Vyāna Vayu aggravates and
constricts the blood vessels and the sweat glands.
Cleansing the toxins in the skin or superficial
Dhātus
Prakriti| Body Constitution
Prakriti| Body Constitution
Prakriti, the Body Constitution, is the proportion of Doshas at the time of conception. The most important
factor in Ayurveda is the determination of one’s individual constitution (Prakriti pariksha). Finding the right
Prakriti is critical, as preventive or treatment plans are dependent on the specific Prakriti of the individual
being treated.
There are Seven (7) types of Prakriti:
Type
Eka Doshaja
Dwandwaja
Tridoshic or Sama
Description
Predominant in any one Dosha
Dual types; Two Doshas at relatively equal proportions
with one predominating
Triple Type; Three Doshas at almost equal proportions
Number of
Types
3
Categories
3
VP (PV), PK (KP), KV (VK)
1
VPK
V, P, K
Prakriti| Body Constitution
Knowing Your Prakriti Helps To:
Maintain physical balance
Achieve harmony at the subtle levels
Establish an appropriate life regime
Understand disorder tendencies
Suggest or prescribe proper diet and general herbs
Determine the perfect exercise routine
Provide safe and effective treatments
Find the ideal location to live, find a suitable career
Improve relationships
Add life to our living
Prakriti| Body Constitution
Before finding Prakriti, remember the following
pointers:
 Be objective.
 Choose characteristics which describe and overall
tendency of a person rather than what is
happening right now.
 If more than one description is applicable, weigh
each and select the response that is stronger
than the others.
 V is for Vāta, P is for Pitta and K is for Kapha.
Prakriti| Physical Characteristics
Characteristic
Vāta (V)
Pitta (P)
Kapha (K)
Physical stature
Slim and slender, tall or short, tissues
not well developed
Moderately developed body,
medium built
Well built, stout, stocky
Weight
Light weight, hardly gain weight (Gain
by ounces and lose by pounds), and if
gained weight, can easily get rid of
excess pounds
Medium weight, average, good
muscles, do not gain weight very
easily
Heavy, easy to gain weight (gain by
pounds and loose by ounces), very
difficult to lose weight
Thin, small, narrow, small rib cage
Medium
Broad, large, well developed bust
Small, thin, dry, cold, rough, unsteady,
long thin fingers
Medium, warm, pink, moist,
medium pointed fingers
Large, thick, cool, firm, stocky fingers
Thin, excessively long or short,
prominent joints
Medium
Large, big, stocky
Dull, darkish
Red, ruddy, flushed, glowing
White, pale
Chest
Hands and Fingers
Legs
Complexion
Skin
Thin, dry, cold, rough, cracked
Hair
Thin, dry, straight, dandruff (often)
Warm, moist, pink, with moles,
freckles, acne
Moderate, fine, brown, red or blond
color, receding hairline, tendency to
early balding and graying
Thick, white, moist, cold, soft, smooth
Oily, thick, black, very wavy, lustrous
Prakriti| Physical Characteristics
Characteristic
Vāta (V)
Pitta (P)
Kapha (K)
Shape of the Face
Oval, narrow
Triangular, sharp angle, sharp
contours
Large, round, fat, white or pale, soft
contours
Eyes
Small, dry, thin, brown, unsteady
Medium, sharp, blue or green,
piercing
Big, lustrous, oily, black, attractive
Lips
Thin, small, darkish, dry
Medium, soft, nice curve
Thick, large, oily, smooth, firm
Joints
Small, thin, cracking
Medium, soft, loose
Large, thick, deep seated
Nails
Thin, vertical ridges, dry, rough,
fissured, cracked
Medium, soft, pink
Large, thick, smooth, white, oily
Voice
Low, weak, hoarse
Sharp, loud, high pitch
Quick, inconsistent, erratic, talkative
Definite, argumentative, convincing
Speech
Deep, good tone, loose voice due to
congestion
Slow, not to the point, not very
talkative (good listeners)
Prakriti| Physiological Factors
Characteristic
Vāta (V)
Pitta (P)
Kapha (K)
Variable, erratic, goes up and down
Strong, sharp, can’t tolerate hunger
Low, can easily skip meal
Bowel Movements
Tend to constipate, skip days, dry
stools, and produce gas
Tend to get diarrhea, loose motions,
and loose stools
Regular, once or twice a day, well
formed stools
Sleep
Interrupted, wake up off and on,
insomnia, wake at 3:00am
Light sleeper, moderate, may wake
up but will fall asleep again
Heavy sleep, difficulty in waking up
Dreams
Flying, jumping, moving, nightmares,
dreams often
Vivid colors in dream, passionate
Romantic, sentimental, few dreams
Hobbies
Traveling, dancing, running, aerobics
(action)
Sports, politics (winning)
Nature walks, reading, gardening, fun
activities
Activities
Quick, fast, unsteady, in bursts,
hyperactive
Precise, orderly, thoughtful,
motivated, purposeful, goal
seeking
Slow, steady, relaxed
Appetite
Prakriti| Physiological Factors
Characteristic
Vāta (V)
Pitta (P)
Kapha (K)
Low stamina, poor endurance, get
tired after some activity
Medium
Good endurance, keep working for
long duration
Weather Preference
Enjoy warm and humid weather
Enjoy cooler weather
Enjoy dry and warm weather
Resistance to
Disorder
Weak immune system, fall sick
frequently
Moderate immune system, prone to
infections
Strong immune system, do not fall sick
very easily
Disorder Tendency
Pain, arthritis, mental disorders,
nervous system disorders
Infections, inflammatory disorders,
fevers
Respiratory system disorders, mucus,
water retention, swelling
Stamina/Strength
Total
V:
P:
K:
Prakriti| Giving Proportions to the Humors
There are many variations. There is not one standard method. Be consistent with the one you use. Count all
applicable V’s, P’s and K’s. Divide all three numbers by the smallest total.
For Example
Steps
Vāta
Pitta Kapha
Total from Questionnaire
Divided by Smallest Total
Total (Rounded)
15
15/4
4
8
8/4
2
4
4/4
1
There is no better or worse Body Constitution. It is our responsibility to make peace with our Prakriti. It will stay with
us as long as we live. Each Prakriti has particular strengths and weaknesses depending on:
Culture
Profession
Health
Disorder tendencies
 Evaluate as many Prakriti as possible. It is one of the most important tools offered by Ayurveda.
The End