Disease incidence and its assorted components- an ayurvedic standpoint

Glossary definitions and references:

Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Disease incidence and its assorted components- an ayurvedic standpoint”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.

1) Dosha (Dosa):
In Ayurveda, 'Dosha' refers to the three fundamental bodily humors—Vata, Pitta, and Kapha—that govern the physical and mental processes of the body. Dosha imbalances are believed to be the root cause of disease. The text emphasizes the significance of balancing the Doshas to maintain health.

2) Dhatu:
Dhatus are the bodily tissues described in Ayurveda, contributing to the structural framework of the body. There are seven Dhatus, and they support functions such as growth and immunity. Proper nutrition and metabolic processes maintain the balance and integrity of Dhatus.

3) Disease:
In Ayurveda, disease is termed 'Vyadhi' and is perceived as the result of Samoorchana—an amalgamation of vitiated Doshas and Dushyas. It can occur due to improper Agni (digestive fire), leading to Ama (toxins) and functional disturbances in the body's channels (Srotas).

4) Mala:
Malas are waste products generated during the metabolic processes in the body. They are generally excreted as urine and feces. However, Malas also play some structural roles and their vitiation can contribute to disease.

5) Srotas (Shrotas):
Srotas are channels in the body that facilitate the internal transport and circulation of nutrients and waste products. They are essential for metabolic exchanges and maintaining homeostasis. Blockages or dysfunctions in Srotas can lead to disease.

6) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is an ancient Indian science of medicine and health, derived from philosophies preached by Lord Brahma. It focuses on balancing Doshas, Dhatus, and Malas, while considering both physical and psycho-philosophical aspects, to achieve a state of health called Swastha.

7) Dushya (Dusya):
Dushyas are the bodily elements that can be vitiated by Doshas, including Dhatus, Upadhatus, and Malas. The vitiation of Dushyas leads to the manifestation of disease, as they interplay with Doshas in the pathogenic process.

8) Agni:
Agni refers to the digestive fire responsible for the transformation of food into essential bodily substances. It exists at different levels, such as Jatharagni (digestive fire in the stomach) and Dhatwagni (tissue metabolism). Impaired Agni (Mandagni) can cause disease.

9) Sama (Shama):
The term 'Sama' in Ayurveda signifies balance. For instance, 'Sama Dosha,' 'Sama Dhatu,' and 'Sama Agni' denote balanced states of Doshas, tissues, and digestive fire, respectively. Maintaining Sama is crucial for health.

10) Sthira:
Sthira, in the context of Ayurveda, refers to the stable and established nature of Dhatus or Doshas in the body. Nutritive elements derived from food contribute to Sthira dhatus, maintaining the equilibrium necessary for health.

11) Jatharagni (Jathara-agni):
Jatharagni is the digestive fire in the stomach and intestines that transforms food into Poshak (nutritive) elements. Proper functioning of Jatharagni is essential for producing balanced Doshas and Dhatus. Impairment (Mandagni) can lead to disease.

12) Substance:
[see source text or glossary: Substance]

13) Upadhatu:
Upadhatus are secondary tissues generated during the metabolic processes of the main Dhatus. They also contribute to structural and functional aspects of the body. Vitiation of Upadhatus by Doshas can have pathological effects.

14) Indriya (Imdriya):
Indriyas refer to the sensory organs or faculties responsible for perceiving the external world. The health of Indriyas is linked to the overall mental and emotional well-being described in Ayurvedic texts.

15) Manas (Mano, Manash):
Manas signifies the mind or mental faculties in Ayurveda. It plays a critical role in balancing emotions and thoughts, contributing to psycho-philosophical health. Disturbances in Manas are considered in disease treatment.

16) Mana:
[see source text or glossary: Mana]

17) Food:
Food is considered the primary source of nutrients for the formation of Doshas and Dhatus. Proper digestion and metabolic conversion of food through Agnis are crucial for maintaining health.

18) Agnidushti (Agnidusti, Agni-dushti):
Agnidushti signifies the dysfunction or impairment of digestive fire (Agni). Such dysfunction can occur at different levels, leading to Ama (toxins), improper Dosha production, and ultimately disease.

19) Vatapitta (Vata-pitta):
Vata, Pitta, and Kapha are the three Doshas in Ayurveda. Vata governs movement, Pitta regulates transformation and digestion, and Kapha is responsible for structure and cohesion. These need to be balanced for health.

20) Science (Scientific):
Ayurveda is considered a scientific approach to health, despite its philosophical basis. It uses detailed principles for diagnosing and treating imbalances in Doshas, Dhatus, and Malas that lead to disease.

21) Samagni (Sama-agni):
Sama-agni denotes balanced or proper functioning of the digestive fire. Balanced Agni ensures correct digestion and metabolism, preventing the formation of Ama and other detrimental substances.

22) Evolution:
Understanding the evolution of disease is crucial in Ayurveda. It involves studying the progression of Dosha vitiation, tissue damage, and the role of Agni, Srotas, and other factors to develop an effective treatment plan.

23) Tridosha (Tridosa, Tri-dosha):
Tridosha refers to the three primary Doshas: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. These three Doshas govern all bodily functions and must be kept in balance to maintain health and prevent disease.

24) Mandagni (Manda-agni, Mamdagni):
Mandagni denotes low or impaired digestive fire. It leads to improper digestion and metabolism, resulting in the formation of Ama and improperly processed Dhatus, ultimately causing various diseases.

25) Mandata:
Mandata refers to the decreased potency or dullness of Agni at any level, such as Jatharagni or Dhatwagni. This impaired potency contributes to improper digestion and metabolic processes.

26) Gujarat:
Gujarat is referenced as the location of the Shri Gulabkunverba Ayurved Mahavidyalaya, where some of the authors of the article are affiliated, indicating the academic context of the research.

27) Krishna (Krsna):
Krishna Ayurved Medical College in Vadodara is mentioned as the affiliated institution of one of the authors, suggesting the academic and research contributions in the field of Ayurveda.

28) Tantra (Tamtra, Tantrism):
Agad Tantra is one of the eight branches of Ayurveda, dealing primarily with toxicology and related treatments. It is mentioned in the context of the author's departmental affiliation.

29) Brahma:
Lord Brahma is cited as the divine source who preached the science of Ayurveda. This connects the historical and philosophical origins of Ayurvedic practices to ancient tradition and theology.

30) Vyadhin (Vyadhi):
Vyadhi in Ayurveda refers to disease and is described as the result of the mixing or intermingling of vitiated Doshas and Dushyas. Proper understanding of Vyadhi is crucial for effective treatment.

31) Kriya:
[see source text or glossary: Kriya]

32) Pitta:
Pitta is one of the three Doshas in Ayurveda, governing metabolism, digestion, and transformation processes in the body. It needs to be balanced alongside Vata and Kapha to maintain health.

33) Kapha:
Kapha is one of the three Doshas, responsible for the structural and cohesive aspects of the body. It provides stability and lubrication. Imbalances in Kapha can lead to various diseases.

34) Chaya:
[see source text or glossary: Chaya]

35) Mutra:
Mutra, or urine, is one of the Malas (waste products) excreted from the body. Proper elimination of Mutra is necessary for maintaining the body's internal balance and health.

36) Desha (Desa):
Desha refers to the geographical or environmental factors considered in Ayurveda when diagnosing and treating diseases. It influences the body's response and the effectiveness of treatments.

37) Bhava:
Mansika Bhavas refer to the mental states or emotions considered in Ayurvedic diagnosis and treatment. Balanced mental states contribute to overall health, while imbalances can lead to various ailments.

38) Ayus (Ayush):
Ayush is referenced in the journal's title ‘AYUSHDHARA’, indicating a focus on traditional Indian medicine, including Ayurveda and allied health systems.

39) Ritu (Rtu):
Ritu refers to the seasons, which are important in Ayurveda for their influence on Dosha balance and disease occurrence. Seasonal changes dictate dietary and lifestyle adjustments for maintaining health.

40) Atman (Atma):
Atma refers to the soul or self in Ayurvedic philosophy. Its contentment (PrassanaAtma) is a crucial aspect of health, reflecting the holistic approach that includes mental and spiritual well-being.

41) Shri (Sri, Sr):
Shri is a respectful prefix used for institutions or persons, such as Shri Gulabkunverba Ayurved Mahavidyalaya in Gujarat. It signifies reverence and respect.

42) Vata:
Vata is one of the Tridoshas in Ayurveda, responsible for movement and communicative functions within the body. It regulates the nervous system, circulation, and waste elimination, among other functions.

43) Kala:
Kala refers to time, an important factor in Ayurveda affecting the body's functions and the progression of diseases. Specific times or periods influence Dosha balance and treatment efficacy.