A review on the beeja, beejabhag and beejabhagavayav

the idea’s of genetics in ayurveda

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Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: A review on the beeja, beejabhag and beejabhagavayav
The WJPR includes peer-reviewed publications such as scientific research papers, reports, review articles, company news, thesis reports and case studies in areas of Biology, Pharmaceutical industries and Chemical technology while incorporating ancient fields of knowledge such combining Ayurveda with scientific data.
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Subtitle: the idea’s of genetics in ayurveda

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Author:

Dr. Dattatrya G. Parde, Dr. Laxmikant G. Thakare and Dr. Vidya S. Ingole


World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research:

(An ISO 9001:2015 Certified International Journal)

Full text available for: A review on the beeja, beejabhag and beejabhagavayav

Source type: An International Peer Reviewed Journal for Pharmaceutical and Medical and Scientific Research

Doi: 10.20959/wjpr201818-13573

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Summary of article contents:

Introduction

Ayurveda, a traditional Indian system of medicine, has insights into genetics that predate modern scientific understandings. This ancient practice, informed by rich textual traditions, offers concepts akin to contemporary ideas in genetics, such as inheritance, evolution, and the classification of individuals based on genetic traits. Despite the absence of the term "Genetics," Ayurvedic texts extensively discuss concepts like Beeja (germ cells), Beejabhag (chromosomes), and Beejabhgavayav (genes), along with ideas related to fertilization, congenital diseases, and therapeutic practices aimed at preventing genetic disorders.

Concept of Prakriti

One of the most important concepts in Ayurveda is that of Prakriti, which refers to an individual's innate constitution. This concept is akin to genetic predispositions that influence health, personality, and physical characteristics. Prakriti is determined at the time of conception through the combination of sperm and ovum, referred to as Sukra and Sonita. It categorizes individuals based on the balance of the three doshasVata, Pitta, and Kapha— which correspond to different physical and mental attributes. Understanding Prakriti can provide valuable insights in clinical settings, allowing practitioners to tailor treatments to an individual's unique constitution and genetic background.

Eugenic Principles in Ayurveda

Ayurveda also emphasizes eugenic principles aimed at promoting healthy reproduction. Scholars like Susruta have prescribed guidelines regarding the optimal age for conception and advised against consanguineous marriages to reduce the risks of congenital abnormalities. The Ayurvedic texts advocate for careful consideration of both maternal and paternal health, suggesting that the physiological condition of parents significantly impacts the offspring's health. This reflects an understanding of how genetic and environmental factors can influence the vulnerability to inherited diseases, aligning with modern genetic principles that recognize the importance of parental health and age in the genetic makeup of children.

Concept of Genetic Diseases

Ayurvedic literature details various congenital and hereditary disorders, highlighting how defects in the germ cells (sperm and ovum) can lead to genetic diseases. Conditions such as diabetes mellitus (Prameha) and congenital structural abnormalities are documented, reflecting an early recognition of the genetic component in these diseases. The texts suggest that congenital diseases stem from the vitiation of Sukra and Sonita, linking the implications of genetics directly to health outcomes. Such discussions underscore Ayurveda's holistic approach to patient care, recognizing the interplay of factors that contribute to inherited conditions.

Conclusion

Ayurveda reveals a sophisticated understanding of genetic principles long before the advent of modern genetics. The concepts of Prakriti, eugenic practices, and the acknowledgment of genetic diseases illustrate an integrated approach to health that emphasizes prevention and personalized treatment. To fully appreciate and validate these ancient insights in today’s scientific framework, further systematic studies are needed. This integration could enhance our understanding of genetics’ role in health and disease, bridging traditional knowledge with contemporary scientific inquiry.

FAQ section (important questions/answers):

What is the significance of Ayurveda in understanding genetics?

Ayurveda recognizes genetic principles through concepts like Beeja, Beejabhag, and Prakriti, discussing inheritance, mutations, and congenital diseases long before modern genetic science advanced.

How does Ayurveda define the concept of Prakriti?

Prakriti refers to an individual's constitution determined at conception, influencing physical and mental attributes. It categorizes people based on the dominance of Vata, Pitta, and Kapha doshas.

What factors influence the Prakriti of a fetus according to Ayurveda?

Factors affecting Prakriti include ancestral lineage, seasonal conditions, maternal diet, and the qualities of the Mahabhutas which together shape the genetic constitution of the fetus.

How does Ayurvedic literature address congenital diseases?

Ayurvedic texts link congenital diseases to defects in the seeds (sperm and ovum) and underscore the influence of parental health, diet, and past life actions on offspring quality.

What are the eugenic principles mentioned in Ayurveda?

Ayurveda outlines eugenic principles advising optimal ages for conception, avoiding consanguineous marriages, and implementing specific routines for mothers to improve offspring quality.

What role does inheritance play in Ayurveda's concepts of genetics?

Inheritance in Ayurveda is discussed through factors derived from parents, emphasizing the significance of maternal and paternal contributions to the physical, mental, and emotional traits of offspring.

Glossary definitions and references:

Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “A review on the beeja, beejabhag and beejabhagavayav”. 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) Prakriti (Prakrti):
Prakriti refers to the inherent nature or constitution of individuals in Ayurveda, influencing their physical and mental characteristics. It is determined at conception through the combination of sperm and ovum and plays a significant role in health, disease, and personalized treatment in Ayurvedic practices.

2) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is an ancient Indian system of medicine that integrates holistic health practices, including diet, lifestyle, and herbal treatments. It emphasizes balance within the body and nature's elements, aiming to foster well-being and prevent disease through individualized approaches based on one's constitution.

3) Disease:
In Ayurveda, disease (Vyadhi) is understood as an imbalance in the body's natural state. The causes can be dietary, environmental, genetic, or lifestyle-related. Ayurvedic treatments focus on restoring balance through herbs, diet modification, and therapies tailored to the individual's Prakriti and doshic imbalances.

4) Dosha (Dosa):
Dosa refers to the three fundamental physiological energies (Vata, Pitta, Kapha) in Ayurveda that govern bodily functions. An imbalance or vitiation of these dosas can lead to health issues. Understanding one's dominant dosha helps in diagnosing and customizing treatments for optimal health.

5) Medicine:
Medicine in Ayurveda encompasses herbal remedies, dietary practices, and lifestyle adjustments aimed at promoting health and treating ailments. It is guided by the principles of balance in the body's energies and seeks to address the root causes of disease rather than just symptoms.

6) Pitta:
Pitta is one of the three dosas responsible for metabolism, transformation, and digestion in Ayurveda. It governs bodily heat, energy production, and complex biochemical processes. Imbalances in Pitta can lead to conditions such as inflammation and digestive disorders.

7) Kapha:
Kapha is the bodily dosha related to structure, stability, and lubrication. It is associated with elements of earth and water. A balanced Kapha promotes vitality and resilience, while an excess can lead to weight gain, sluggishness, and respiratory issues.

8) Science (Scientific):
Science in the context of Ayurveda refers to the systematic study and validation of its principles and practices. It aims to bridge traditional knowledge with contemporary research, fostering a broader understanding and application of Ayurvedic methods in modern medicine.

9) Evolution:
Evolution in the context of Ayurveda refers to the development of life and organisms based on eternal principles defined in ancient texts. Ayurvedic philosophies incorporate ideas from various schools of Indian thought, suggesting a complex interplay of physical and spiritual factors in evolution.

10) Vata:
Vata is the dosha that governs movement and communication in the body, associated with air and ether elements. It controls bodily functions such as circulation, respiration, and elimination. An imbalance can cause anxiety, irregular digestion, and joint issues.

11) Male:
Male refers to one of the two biological sexes, crucial in Ayurvedic concepts of reproduction and progeny. Ayurvedic texts detail the roles of male and female reproductive contributions (Sukra for males), considering factors like temperament and health in conception.

12) Birth:
Birth in Ayurveda is approached as a significant event influenced by various factors including the health, diet, and emotional state of the parents. Ayurvedic practices aim to ensure a healthy conception and delivery through proper regimen and lifestyle adjustments.

13) Drug:
In Ayurveda, the term drug typically refers to herbal medicines and formulations used for treatment. The selection of drugs is based on understanding the patient's doshic balance and individual constitution, emphasizing natural and holistic healing practices.

14) Knowledge:
Knowledge in Ayurveda is accumulated over millennia, encompassing theories of health, disease, and treatment. It includes practical wisdom regarding diet, herbs, and lifestyle, and is considered essential for guiding individuals towards optimal health through personalized approaches.

15) Vitiation (Vitiated):
Vitiated refers to the condition of being impaired or disturbed, particularly concerning dosas in Ayurveda. It reflects an imbalance that can lead to disease, necessitating corrective measures to restore health and function within the body.

16) Marriage:
Marriage in the Ayurvedic context is significant for its implications on hereditary health. The principles advocate for compatible unions to minimize genetic disorders and ensure healthy offspring through the consideration of factors like caste and family background.

17) Purity:
Purity relates to the quality of being free from contaminants or impurities, emphasized in Ayurvedic practices. It involves both physical cleanliness and ethical standards, crucial for maintaining health and preventing disease, particularly regarding diet and daily routines.

18) Nagapura (Naga-pura):
Nagpur is a city in India where significant Ayurvedic education and practice occur. It is home to institutions that teach traditional medicine, contributing to the preservation and promotion of Ayurveda, helping integrate it into modern healthcare systems.

19) Shukra (Sukra):
Sukra refers to the male reproductive fluid or semen in Ayurveda, crucial for conception. The health of Sukra is believed to influence the health of progeny, linking the quality of parental influences to genetic outcomes and congenital conditions.

20) Human body:
The human body in Ayurveda is viewed as a complex interplay of dosas, dhatus (tissues), and malas (waste products). Its well-being hinges on maintaining the balance of these elements, emphasizing both physiological and psychological aspects of health.

21) Mutation:
Mutation in Ayurveda is understood as a change affecting the genetic material, linked to hereditary traits and disease manifestation. An ayurvedic perspective considers the influence of diet, environment, and lifestyle on genetic stability across generations.

22) Avyakta:
Avyakta means unmanifested or potential state in Ayurveda, referring to the primordial condition from which all creation emerges. It signifies the beginning of evolution and the underlying consciousness that catalyzes the manifestation of physical forms and life.

23) Shonita (Sonita):
Sonita refers to the ovum or female reproductive element in Ayurveda. Its role in conception is complementary to Sukra, and its health is considered vital for producing healthy offspring, thus linking maternal health to genetic outcomes.

24) Family:
Family plays a crucial role in Ayurveda, where lineage and genetic heritage influence health and predisposition to certain conditions. Ayurvedic principles advocate for awareness of familial health histories to inform treatment and preventive strategies.

25) Blood:
Blood in Ayurveda is seen as a vital fluid (Rasa) that nourishes the body and carries vitality. Its quality and composition can significantly affect overall health, linking blood characteristics to the doshas and individual health profiles.

26) Study (Studying):
Study involves the systematic exploration and understanding of Ayurvedic principles, including its insights into genetics, health practices, and disease prevention. This ongoing effort is crucial for integrating ancient wisdom into contemporary healthcare models and research.

27) Vayu:
Vayu represents the element of air in Ayurveda, corresponding to the Vata dosha. It governs movement and physiological processes in the body, playing a key role in digestion, respiration, and circulation, with its balance critical to overall health.

28) Diet:
Diet in Ayurveda is tailored to support the individual's constitution (Prakriti) and health needs. Foods are classified based on their qualities, effects on doshas, and overall impact on the body, emphasizing the importance of nutrition in maintaining balance.

29) Garbhashaya (Garbhasaya, Garbha-ashaya):
Garbhasaya refers to the uterus, the site of fetal development in Ayurveda. Its health and condition are considered crucial factors for successful conception and the birth of healthy children, stressing the need for maternal care before and during pregnancy.

30) Mahabhuta (Maha-bhuta):
Mahabhuta denotes the five great elements (earth, water, fire, air, space) that constitute all matter in the universe, including the human body. Understanding these elements is fundamental in Ayurveda for diagnosing imbalances and promoting healing through natural therapies.

31) Substance:
Substance encompasses the various materials and elements utilized in Ayurvedic practices, including herbs, minerals, and animal products. The correct identification and application of these substances are key to effective treatment and maintaining health and balance.

32) Prasakta:
Prasakta refers to the purity or suitability of individuals in specific contexts, especially regarding their lineage, family background, and health conditions. It signals the importance of these factors in determining the potential for producing healthy offspring in Ayurveda.

33) Activity:
Activity in Ayurveda pertains to the various movements and functions of the body governed by the dosas. It emphasizes the need for balanced lifestyle activities to ensure the smooth operation of physiological functions and promote overall health.

34) Relative:
Relative in the Ayurvedic context involves understanding the interconnectedness of various factors, including family ties, genetic predispositions, and environmental influences that can affect individual health and hereditary conditions across generations.

35) Samhita:
Samhita refers to ancient Ayurvedic texts that compile knowledge, theories, and practices related to health, disease, and treatment. These scriptures serve as foundational references for practitioners, guiding therapeutic approaches and understanding Ayurvedic principles.

36) Prameha:
Prameha denotes diabetes and refers to a group of metabolic disorders characterized by excessive urine and other symptoms. Ayurveda categorizes it into various types, emphasizing the involvement of hereditary and lifestyle factors in its management.

37) Quality:
Quality refers to the characteristics or attributes of substances, including foods and medicines, considered in Ayurveda. The focus is on understanding how these qualities influence doshic balance, health, and the effectiveness of treatments.

38) Kushtha (Kustha):
Kustha refers to a category of skin disorders in Ayurveda, often linked to vitiation of dosas. Ayurvedic texts detail its causes and treatments, reflecting the understanding of skin health as a manifestation of underlying imbalances in the body.

39) Vatika:
Vatika pertains to conditions or diseases exacerbated by the Vata dosha. Ayurvedic practices aim to identify signs and symptoms of Vataka diseases, guiding treatments that focus on alleviating Vata imbalances to restore health.

40) Nature:
Nature relates to the inherent characteristics of individuals and the environment in Ayurveda. Understanding an individual’s nature, including genetic and environmental influences, is fundamental to tailoring effective health practices and treatments.

41) Indian:
Indian refers to the rich cultural and historical context from which Ayurveda originates. It encompasses traditional practices, philosophical ideas, and the holistic understanding of health and medicine inherent in the Indian subcontinent's approach to well-being.

42) Food:
Food in Ayurveda is more than mere sustenance; it is seen as a vital source of energy and health. Ayurvedic dietary guidelines emphasize the importance of balance, quality, and digestion, encouraging foods that align with one’s dosha and health status.

43) Life:
Life in Ayurveda encompasses the holistic view of existence, emphasizing the interplay between physical health, mental well-being, and spiritual fulfillment. It seeks to understand and optimize life through balance, health, and self-awareness.

44) Past life:
Past life in Ayurvedic philosophy is considered to have implications for one’s current health and circumstances, associating karmic influences with hereditary conditions. This belief underscores the importance of addressing both present and historical factors in health management.

45) Sushruta-samhita (Susruta-samhita):
Susruta-samhita is an influential ancient text in Ayurveda, attributed to Susruta, emphasizing surgical techniques, anatomy, and the treatment of ailments. It serves as a crucial resource for practitioners, outlining both foundational and advanced medical practices.

46) Kaphapitta (Kapha-pitta):
Kapha-pitta refers to a specific type of constitution in Ayurveda that combines traits of both Kapha and Pitta dosas. Understanding this constitution helps tailor treatments and lifestyle recommendations that address the unique balance of these energies in individuals.

47) Vatapitta (Vata-pitta):
Vata-pitta describes a Ayurvedic constitution wherein both Vata and Pitta dosas are prominent. This duality influences both physical and mental characteristics, and personalized treatment approaches are developed to harmonize these energies for optimal health.

48) Satyayuga (Satya-yuga):
Satyayuga denotes the age of truth in Hindu philosophy, representing a time when human conduct is governed by righteousness and virtue. It is believed to influence health and well-being throughout generations, shaping genetic inheritances and cultural practices.

49) Antarvedi (Antar-vedi, Amtarvedi):
Antarvedi is a region in India representing cultural and historical significance, where traditional Ayurvedic practices are preserved and practiced. Its context contributes to the understanding and application of Ayurveda in addressing local health needs.

50) Ahamkara (Ahankara, Aham-kara):
Ahamkara signifies the concept of self-identity or ego in Ayurveda, representing the aspect of consciousness that shapes an individual's perception and experiences. Its balance impacts mental health and emotional well-being, thus influencing overall health.

51) Prakriya (Prakriye):
Prakriya refers to the methodologies or techniques used in Ayurvedic practice for treatment. It emphasizes the structured approaches undertaken to diagnose and manage health conditions, ensuring that therapies are effective, personalized, and aligned with Ayurvedic principles.

52) Shleshmala (Slesmala):
Slesmala relates to conditions or diseases linked to the Kapha dosha. Similar to Vatika, it indicates disorders resulting from Kapha imbalances, requiring interventions that focus on resolving excess accumulation and enhancing vitality.

53) Language:
Language signifies the communication tool through which Ayurvedic knowledge is transmitted. The clarity and precision in language used in ancient texts are crucial for understanding medicinal principles, treatment methodologies, and the intricate philosophical concepts present in Ayurveda.

54) Pregnant:
Pregnant denotes the state of carrying a developing fetus, considered pivotal in Ayurveda for both maternal and fetal health. Guidelines outline essential care, diet, and practices to foster optimal outcomes for mothers and their offspring.

55) Sanskrit:
Sanskrit is the ancient language of many Ayurvedic texts, providing a rich linguistic heritage for expressing complex concepts and practices. Mastery of Sanskrit is essential for studying classical texts and accurately interpreting Ayurvedic principles.

56) Kshetra (Ksetra):
Kshetra refers to the field or substrate in which the seed (Beeja) acts for creation. In Ayurvedic terms, it embodies the mother's womb, emphasizing the importance of a healthy environment for the growth and development of offspring.

57) Pittala:
Pittala refers to conditions or diseases resulting from Pitta dosha imbalances. It highlights symptoms associated with heat and metabolic disruptions, guiding treatment strategies focused on cooling and balancing heat within the body.

58) Samkhya (Sankhya, Shankhya):
Sankhya, often interchangeable with Samkhya, underscores a philosophical approach that analyzes the nature of existence and consciousness. It articulates fundamental principles applicable in Ayurveda, shaping ideas regarding health, disease, and the physical world.

59) Tridosha (Tridosa, Tri-dosha):
Tridosa represents the foundational Ayurvedic theory encompassing the three dosas (Vata, Pitta, Kapha). Each dosha encapsulates unique qualities and functions, and understanding their dynamics is crucial for diagnosing health issues and tailoring effective treatments.

60) Jainism:
Jainism, as a philosophical system, offers insights into ethics, non-violence, and the interconnectedness of life. Its principles intersect with Ayurvedic practices, emphasizing harmony with nature and holistic approaches to health and well-being.

61) Species:
Species refer to distinct biological groups characterized by shared traits. In an Ayurvedic context, the concept relates to understanding human diversity in health, genetics, and the unique influences that particular characteristics may bring to treatment and health strategies.

62) Sattva (Shattva):
Sattva represents purity, harmony, and clarity in Ayurveda, influencing mental and emotional well-being. It is one of the three gunas (qualities) that play a role in shaping individual temperament, behaviors, and overall health.

63) Sahaja (Saha-ja):
Sahaja denotes congenital or hereditary conditions in Ayurveda, emphasizing the impact of genetic factors on health, personality, and susceptibility to disease. Understanding Sahaja helps in determining preventative and therapeutic measures in Ayurvedic practice.

64) Rasaja (Rasa-ja):
Rasaja refers to chyle or the nutritive fluid derived from digested food that nourishes the body. It is critically linked to health in Ayurveda, contributing to tissue formation, vitality, and overall well-being.

65) Satmya:
Satmya signifies the concept of compatibility or suitability of foods and activities to an individual's constitution. It underscores the importance of personalized approaches in diet and lifestyle for enhancing health and well-being in Ayurveda.

66) Purusha (Purusa):
Purusa represents the conscious aspect of an individual in Ayurveda; the eternal self or soul. Understanding Purusa is central to Ayurvedic philosophy, linking physical existence to spiritual awareness and health.

67) Vyadhin (Vyadhi):
Vyadhi refers to disease or ailment in Ayurveda, representing a state of imbalance or dysfunction. Identifying the root causes of Vyadhi is essential for creating effective treatment plans that restore health and harmony within the individual.

68) Doshaja (Dosha-ja, Dosaja):
Dosaja pertains to conditions or imbalances stemming from the dosas (Vata, Pitta, Kapha). Understanding Dosaja helps practitioners identify specific health issues and tailor treatments to restore doshic balance, ensuring holistic care.

69) Desire:
Desire in Ayurvedic philosophy reflects the motivations and preferences influencing behavior and health. Recognizing the role of desire is crucial in promoting emotional well-being and can inform treatments aimed at mindfulness and mental balance.

70) Manas (Mano, Manash):
Manas refers to the mind in Ayurveda, influencing thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. It underscores the connection between mental health and physical well-being, advocating for holistic approaches that address both aspects in treatment.

71) Kriya:
Kriya denotes actions or practices in Ayurveda, emphasizing the significance of intentional behavior in health management. It encompasses therapeutic actions, lifestyle choices, and rituals that contribute to maintaining balance and well-being.

72) Nyaya:
Nyaya represents the philosophy of logic and reasoning in Hindu traditions, influencing Ayurvedic practices and interpretations. It emphasizes critical thinking and rational approaches to understanding health conditions and developing effective treatments.

73) Mahat:
Mahat refers to the great intellect or consciousness in Ayurveda, from which all existence derives. It signifies the higher state of awareness that influences health and spirituality, interlinking the physical and metaphysical realms.

74) Vayas:
Vayas relates to age in Ayurvedic context and acknowledges its importance in health and disease manifestations. Different life stages correspond to varying doshic influences and health needs, requiring tailored approaches for each age group.

75) Vidya:
Vidya signifies knowledge or wisdom, representing the understanding applied in Ayurveda to promote health. It encompasses both theoretical and practical knowledge essential for practitioners in diagnosing and treating ailments effectively.

[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 93]

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Discover the significance of concepts within the article: ‘A review on the beeja, beejabhag and beejabhagavayav’. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:

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