Ashraya Ashrayi Bhava - A fundamental concept in Ayurveda

[Find the meaning and references behind the names: Man, Sharma, Ayu, Mohan, Madan, Meena, Nil, Med, Suman]

Journal of Ayurveda and Integrated Medical Sciences 2025 Volume 10 Number 2 FEBRUARY E-ISSN:2456-3110 Review Article Ashraya Ashrayi Bhava Publisher www.maharshicharaka.in Ashraya Ashrayi Bhava - A fundamental concept in Ayurveda Bairwa S 1* , Sharma MM 2 , Meena S 3 , Vedprakash 4 DOI:10.21760/jaims.10.2.30 1* Surbhi Bairwa, Post Graduate Scholar, PG Dept of Rog Nidan Evum Vikriti Vigyan, Madan Mohan Malviya Govt Ayurved College, Udaipur, Rajasthan, India 2 Man Mohan Sharma, Professor, PG Dept of Rog Nidan Evum Vikriti Vigyan, Madan Mohan Malviya Govt Ayurved College, Udaipur, Rajasthan, India 3 Suman Meena, Lecturer, PG Dept of Rog Nidan Evum Vikriti Vigyan, Madan Mohan Malviya Govt Ayurved College, Udaipur, Rajasthan, India 4 Vedprakash, Lecturer, PG Dept of Rog Nidan Evum Vikriti Vigyan, Madan Mohan Malviya Govt Ayurved College, Udaipur, Rajasthan, India Ayurveda, the ancient science of life, provides a profound understanding of human anatomy, physiology, pathology, and therapeutics through its unique principles and doctrines. Among these, the concept of Ashraya-Ashrayi Bhav is pivotal in comprehending the intricate relationships between the body, its various components, and the factors influencing health and disease. This principle forms the foundation for understanding the interactions between the substratum (Ashraya) and the residing entity (Ashrayi) and is essential for diagnosing diseases and devising treatment strategies. This article explores the concept of Ashraya-Ashrayi Bhav in detail, delving into its classical references, physiological and pathological implications, and its relevance in modern medical science Keywords: Ashraya-Ashrayi Bhav, anatomy, physiology, pathology Corresponding Author How to Cite this Article To Browse Surbhi Bairwa, Post Graduate Scholar, PG Dept of Rog Nidan Evum Vikriti Vigyan, Madan Mohan Malviya Govt Ayurved College, Udaipur, Rajasthan, India Email: Bairwa S, Sharma MM, Meena S, Vedprakash, Ashraya Ashrayi Bhava - A fundamental concept in Ayurveda . J Ayu Int Med Sci. 2025;10(2):220-224 Available From https://jaims.in/jaims/article/view/4045 Manuscript Received Review Round 1 Review Round 2 Review Round 3 Accepted 2025-01-15 2025-01-25 2025-02-05 2025-02-15 2025-02-26 Conflict of Interest Funding Ethical Approval Plagiarism X-checker Note None Nil Not required 12.58 © 2025 by Bairwa S, Sharma MM, Meena S, Vedprakash and Published by Maharshi Charaka Ayurveda Organization. This is an Open Access article licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ unported [CC BY 4.0] J Ayu Int Med Sci 2025 ; 10 ( 2 ) 220

[Find the meaning and references behind the names: Guna, Mala, Rasa]

Introduction In addition to discussing the anatomical significance of Doshas having residents in the Dhatus and Mala , Ashrayi Ashraya Bhava also discusses the clinical relationship between the Doshas , specifically Ashrayi (Abode) and Dhatus Mala , specifically Ashraya (Resident), which must be adhered to in cases where the Doshas are vitiated in order to restore them and treat any Vyadhi (disease) that may be present in the body The Asthi Dhatu (bones) is impacted when the Vata Doshas become vitiated. The Kshaya of Asthi Dhatu is the outcome of an increase in Vruddhi in the Guna of Vata Dosha , and vice versa. The Rakta Dhatu (blood) is impacted when the Pitta Doshas become vitiated. Sweda Mala (sweating) is the outcome of Vruddhi in the Guna of Pitta Dosha Rakta Dhatu's Vruddhi rises when Pitta Dosha's Guna experiences Vruddhi . Sweda Mala (sweating) is the outcome of Vruddhi in the Guna of Pitta Dosha . The Vruddhi of Rakta Dhatu is the outcome of the Vruddhi in the Guna of Pitta Dosha . The Rakta Dhatu is impacted by vitiation of the Pitta Doshas . Vruddhi in the Pitta Dosha Guna leads to Vruddhi in the Rakta Dhatu Guna . The Rasa , Mamsa (muscles), Meda (fat tissue), Majja (bone marrow), and Shukra (semen) Dhatu are all impacted by vitiation of the Kapha Doshas . Vruddhi in the Guna of Majja , Rasa , Mamsa , Meda , and Shukra Dhatu are the outcomes of Vruddhi in the Guna of Kapha Dosha . Purisha Mala (feces) and Mutra (urine) are the consequences of Vruddhi in the Guna of Kapha Dosha Ashrayi and Ashraya Ashrayi (Abode) Ashraya (Resident) Vata Asthi Pitta Sweda, Rakta Kapha Rasa, Mamsa, Meda, Majja, Shukra, Mutra, Purisha Definition and Classical References The term Ashraya means substratum, seat, or host, while Ashrayi refers to the entity that resides or depends upon the Ashraya . Together, Ashraya Ashrayi Bhav denotes a relationship where one entity provides support or sustenance to another. This concept is extensively discussed in the Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita , and other classical Ayurvedic texts Physiological Basis of Ashraya-Ashrayi Bhav The principle of Ashraya-Ashrayi Bhav is evident in the interactions between Doshas, Dhatus (tissues), and Malas (waste products). These interactions ensure the harmonious functioning of the body Doshas and their Ashraya Doshas - Vata, Pitta , & Kapha - are fundamental bio energies that govern physiological activities. Each Dosha has specific seats ( Ashraya ) where they predominantly reside & exert their functions 1. Vata Dosha Ashraya : Pakvashaya (large intestine) and Asthi Dhatu (bone tissue) Physiological Role: Governs movement, communication, and neurological activities. Clinical Implications: Disorders like constipation, arthritis, and osteoporosis are manifestations of Vata imbalance affecting its Ashraya 2. Pitta Dosha Ashraya : Amasaya (stomach) and Raktadhatu (blood tissue). Physiological Role: Controls digestion, metabolism, and thermoregulation. Clinical Implications: Diseases like hyperacidity, jaundice, and inflammatory disorders arise from Pitta imbalance 3. Kapha Dosha Ashraya : Uras (chest) and Medadhatu (fat tissue) Physiological Role: Provides stability, lubrication, and immunity. Clinical Implications: Conditions such as obesity, respiratory congestion, and diabetes are linked to Kapha imbalance Dhatus and their Interactions The dhatus act as Ashraya for subsequent dhatus in the sequential process of tissue nourishment ( Dhatu Parinama ). For example: Rasa Dhatu (plasma) nourishes and supports Rakta Dhatu (blood). Any disruption in this sequence leads to diseases like anemia or malnutrition Malas and their Ashraya The Malas (waste products) like Purisha (feces), Mutra (urine), and Sweda (sweat) depend on specific organs for elimination Surbhi B et al. Ashraya Ashrayi Bhava J Ayu Int Med Sci 2025 ; 10 ( 2 ) 221

[Find the meaning and references behind the names: Long, Colon, Rich]

The colon, kidneys, and sweat glands act as their respective Ashraya Pathological Aspects of Ashraya-Ashrayi Bhav The disruption of the Ashraya-Ashrayi relationship is a key factor in disease manifestation. This imbalance can occur due to various reasons, such as improper diet, lifestyle, or environmental factors Disease Progression When a Dosha becomes aggravated, it disturbs its Ashraya (substratum), leading to localized or systemic disorders. For instance, aggravated Kapha in the lungs ( Ashraya ) results in respiratory issues like asthma or bronchitis Chronic Conditions Long term disturbances in this relationship lead to degenerative and chronic diseases. An example is the depletion of Asthi Dhatu (bone tissue) due to prolonged Vata imbalance, causing osteoporosis Diagnostic Relevance Identifying the Ashraya and Ashrayi helps pinpoint the root cause of diseases. For example, in skin disorders, the interaction between Pitta Dosha and Rakta Dhatu is analyzed Treatment Strategies Strengthening Ashraya : Rejuvenative therapies like Rasayana aim to fortify the substratum, ensuring better support for the Ashrayi Pacifying Ashrayi : Imbalanced Doshas are treated with appropriate diet, herbs, and therapies Panchakarma Panchakarma therapies are designed to restore Ashraya-Ashrayi harmony For example: Virechana : Used to eliminate aggravated Pitta from its Ashraya in the gastrointestinal tract Basti : Targets Vata disorders in its Ashraya , the colon Philosophical Dimensions of Ashraya-Ashrayi Bhav Beyond physical entities, the concept of Ashraya- Ashrayi Bhav extends to the mind and soul, emphasizing the holistic approach of Ayurveda 1. Mind-Body Connection The body serves as Ashraya for the mind, while the mind influences bodily functions as Ashrayi Mental health disorders often manifest as physical ailments, illustrating this interdependence 2. Spiritual Perspective Soul ( Atma ) resides within the body ( Sharira ), symbolizing ultimate Ashraya-Ashrayi relationship Practices like Yoga and meditation aim to balance this relationship, leading to spiritual wellbeing Modern Correlations of Ashraya-Ashrayi Bhav The principles of Ashraya-Ashrayi Bhav find relevance in modern medical science, offering a deeper understanding of host parasite interactions, tissue organ relationships, and disease mechanisms 1. Host-Pathogen Interaction The body acts as Ashraya for microbes, both beneficial and harmful. Diseases occur when pathogenic organisms disturb the balance, akin to Dosha imbalances 2. Tissue-Organ Dynamics The interaction between organs and tissues reflects the Ashraya-Ashrayi concept For example, bone marrow ( Ashraya ) produces blood cells ( Ashrayi ), maintaining hematological health 3. Integrative Medicine The Ashraya-Ashrayi framework aligns with modern holistic approaches, emphasizing preventive care and personalized treatment Practical Applications in Daily Life Ayurveda emphasizes maintain balance of Ashraya & Ashrayi through diet, lifestyle, & therapies 1. Dietary Recommendations Consuming foods that nourish specific tissues strengthens their Ashraya . For example Calcium rich foods for Asthi Dhatu (bones) Iron rich foods for Rakta Dhatu (blood) 2. Lifestyle Practices Adopting routines like Dinacharya and Ritucharya ensures Dosha balance and supports Ashraya- Ashrayi harmony Surbhi B et al. Ashraya Ashrayi Bhava J Ayu Int Med Sci 2025 ; 10 ( 2 ) 222

[Find the meaning and references behind the names: Karma, Maha, Teja]

3. Herbal Remedies Herbs like Ashwagandha , Guduchi , and Triphala act on specific Ashraya-Ashrayi relationships, promoting overall health Clinical Application Clinical application of Ashraya Ashrayi Bhava can be interpreted in two perspectives, namely in the disease process and treatment modality. Ashraya and Ashrayi are mutually dependent. When Dosha becomes vitiated, it will subsequently vitiate the Dhatu and Mala , leading to a broad spectrum of diseases; for instance, when Pitta and Kapha levels rise or fall, their corresponding Dhatu will also change in the same manner. However, Vata and Asthi present an exception. Vata and Asthi are inversely correlated; that is, when Vata exacerbates, the Asthi Dhatu diminishes. In the disease process, Ashrayi influences Ashraya either in terms of Dravyataha , Gunataha , or Karmataha By comprehending this interrelation, we can deduce the relative fluctuations in the Dosha and Dushya by monitoring the transformations occurring within them. Any alteration in one will manifest similarly in the other, excluding the case of Asthi and Vata 'Asthi Marutayoho Na Evam .' indicates that Vata and Asthi are inversely proportionate Example for Vata: Vataja Aahara Vihara results in Vata Dosha Vriddhi , which subsequently enhances the Vayu Mahabhoota located in Asthi , causing Asthi Kshaya Example for Pitta : The symptomatology of various diseases resulting from Dushta Rakta and Pitta arises due to the Ashraya Ashrayi Bhava of Rakta and Pitta . In Raktapitta , Pitta escalates due to Nidana and transfers to Rakta , as both share a similar Yoni , namely Teja Maha Bhoota ; its heat augments the Dravata of Rakta Dhatu , consequently leading to Pitta Vriddhi . Thus, the vitiation of Pitta affects the Rakta Dhatu Example for Kapha : In Prameha Samprapthi , the Bahudrava Sleshma first vitiates Meda, which occurs due to Samana Guna Principle of Ashraya Ashrayi Bhava also aids in comprehending Kriyakala . Kriyakala stage develop in accordance with Ashraya-Ashrayi Bhava . Recog this would facilitate understand transformation occurring within Kriyakala & its stage, thereby allowing for quicker identification of disease In Chikitsa , medications that augment or diminish the Ashrayi also modify the respective Ashraya , with the exception of Asthi and Vata . For instance, Vata is aggravated by Ruksha , Tikta, Katu, Kashaya, Apatarpana , and Langhana , but these same factors reduce Asthi Vata is pacified by Snigdha, Madhura, Amla, Lavana , and Brhmana ; however, these elements contribute to the Asthi Dhatu . Since Pitta-Rakta and Kapha- Rasa , Mamsadi Dhatu are directly proportional, medications or Dravyas that increase or decrease one will likewise increase or decrease the other, thus treatment should be devised accordingly Discussion The connection between Dosha and Dhatu can be comprehended by their resemblance in the Panchabhoutik structure. For Pitta-Rakta, Kapha- Rasa , and Mamsadi Dhatus , both Gunas and Karmas are alike, thereby establishing the Ashraya - Ashrayi relationship However, for Vata and Asthi , the Gunas are contrasting, leading to their opposing Karmas , as previously clarified, Vata-Asthi are inversely related In the occurrence of disease, the Ashrayi influences the Ashraya ; that is, when Vata becomes vitiated, Asthi is the most vulnerable Dhatu , and the same is true for other Ashraya and Ashrayi pairs Nonetheless, Ashrayi Dushti does not always lead to Ashraya Dushti . The consideration of Khavaigunya is crucial in this context Conclusion The concept of Ashraya-Ashrayi Bhav is a cornerstone of Ayurvedic philosophy, offering profound insights into the dynamics of health and disease. By understanding the interactions between substratum and residing entities, Ayurveda provides a holistic approach to maintaining balance and harmony in the body, mind, and spirit This timeless principle continues to guide practitioners in diagnosing diseases, devising treatment strategies, and promoting preventive care. Its relevance in modern medicine highlights the universal applicability of Ayurveda’s wisdom, making it an invaluable resource for achieving holistic wellbeing Surbhi B et al. Ashraya Ashrayi Bhava J Ayu Int Med Sci 2025 ; 10 ( 2 ) 223

[Find the meaning and references behind the names: Williams, Deva, Murthy, Motilal, Prakashan]

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