The word Dosha means 'which keeps on changing'. It can be regarded as an error or fault that arises due to imbalance of cosmic elements within the body.
As term Dosha means that which changes with time, therefore it is a dynamic balance between Pancha Mahabhoota. Simultaneous interaction of these five elements result in certain kind of interdependent forces. These forces are known as Vatta, Pitta and Kapha. And these three together is known as Tridosha.
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Vatta
Vatta is a kind of force, generated by interaction of Vayu and Aakash elements. The proportion of Vayu and Aakash elements in body determines the effectiveness of Vatta. The amount of Aakash element will affect the mobility and momentum of Vayu within the body.
Pitta
Pitta is the force created by combination of two elements known as Agni and Jal. It is the force that determines the transformation of one thing into another. For example, The food that we eat is converted into suitable substances by Pitta so that it can be absorbed by the body.
Kapha
Kapha is the force created by the interaction of Jal and Prithvi elements. It governs the structure and growth of body by accumulation and storage.
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Understanding the concept of tridosha
Let's take any machine, for example an automobile.
- Input of raw material and excretion of waste product is governed by Vatta.
- The combustion of fuel and conversion it into useful work is governed by Pitta.
- Storage for future use such as charging of battery is governed by Kapha.
This principle is also valid for all living organism. Their food intake and excretion system is governed by Vatta.
Digestion of food and conversion into substances or elements that can be absorbed by the body is governed by Pitta.
Storage of energy for future use is governed by kapha.
Tridoshas and the universe
As per Ayurveda, all living and non-living things in this nature/ universe undergoes three stages of evolution with time i.e. formation, transformation and destruction . The whole process is governed by Tridosha. The formation or starting and destruction of any thing is governed by Vatta, transformation by Pitta and Kapha governs sustainability.
Tridosha and Tridhaatu
Largely and mostly we heard about dosha. Dosha means fault or mistake. However Vatta, Pitta and Kapha are the governing force that is required for the balance and survival of the body. Then question arises, why they are known as Dosha.
The unbalance among these three forces is called tridosha. However, when Vatta, Pitta and Kapha are in their perfect balance then this state is known as Tridhaatu. Body remains in perfect equilibrium and free from all diseases and ailments during this state.
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Tridosha and human body
Maharshi Vagbhatta says that when the three force are in Tridhaatu, it symbolises a healthy and perfect body. If they loose equilibrium, the body generates diseases and ailments.
Further Maharshi emphasizes that if eating habit and lifestyle is followed against the Ayurveda then these Dosha will manifest the process of destruction within the body.
Tridosha and body parts
The lower abdominal area, below navel, is the influence area of Vatta. It includes our large intestine and small intestine.
The middle part of the body that is area between lungs and navel is influenced Pitta. It includes stomach.
The upper body area including chest area and head is influenced by Kapha.
Tridosha and human lifespan
When a human being is in his childhood, he remains under the influence of kapha. Maximum growth of the body happens during this period. That means the maximum mass of the body is accumulated during the influence period of kapha.
During adulthood of a human being i.e from twenty years to forty years, the body is under the influence of Pitta. This is the sustained transforming stage after this destruction will start.
During the old age i.e after forty years of age, the human body comes under the influence of Vatta that slowly leads to destruction of the body
Tridosha and diseases
Kapha Disease
- Cold, cough and cold
- Cataract in the eye
- Hearing loss
- Thyroid
- Obesity
Pitta Diseases
- Indigestion
- Yellowing of skin, nails and eyes
- Hypertension
- Severe burning or heat sensation in the body
- Ulcers
- Fainting or dizziness
Vatta Diseases
- Weakness in bones
- Shrinking or breaking of bones
- Constipation problem
- Cold and numbness of organs
- Stiffness in body
Summary
Meaning of Ayurveda means ' ved for long life'. It is the perfect science to live a healthy life. But the problem is that we have almost forgotten our ancient scriptures. Maharishi Vagbhatta said that if you follow the principal of Ayurveda, you will definitely live long and healthy life. It's a high time for us to get back to the real science of healthy life i.e. Ayurveda.
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