Role of tridosh in shvasan prakriya

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Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: Role of tridosh in shvasan prakriya
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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Author:

Himanshu Sahu, Geetu Rathour and C. A. Ghatge


World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research:

(An ISO 9001:2015 Certified International Journal)

Full text available for: Role of tridosh in shvasan prakriya

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

Doi: 10.20959/wjpr202315-29474

Copyright (license): WJPR: All rights reserved


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Summary of article contents:

Introduction

The paper discusses the significance of respiration, referred to as "shvasan prakriya" in Ayurvedic terms, which consists of two primary phases—Nishvas (inspiration) and Uchchhvas (expiration). The authors highlight how Ayurveda recognizes the role of Prana vayu and Udana vayu in regulating the respiratory process. Proper functioning of these vital forces, along with the associated bodily elements, is crucial to maintain life. The authors further explore ancient Ayurvedic perspectives on respiration and draw parallels with modern physiological principles.

The Role of Prana Vayu in Respiration

Prana vayu is the vital energy responsible for taking in essential elements from the environment, such as air, food, and water. It plays a crucial role in the process of respiration by facilitating the act of inspiration. This energy primarily resides in the head and chest, influencing various organs involved in respiration. When inhaled, external prana (pure air) stimulates the muscles of respiration, including the diaphragm and abdominal muscles, leading to the expansion of the chest cavity and the act of inhalation. Effective functioning of Prana vayu is fundamental; any obstruction can lead to respiratory issues like asthma, illustrating its critical role in sustaining life and vitality.

The Importance of Udana Vayu

In contrast to Prana vayu, Udana vayu governs the act of expiration. It is responsible for expelling deoxygenated air and subtle, gaseous waste generated during metabolism. Located in areas such as the nose, pharynx, chest, and abdominal organs, Udana vayu plays a vital role in maintaining the body's acid-base balance and removing carbon dioxide. Dysfunction in Udana vayu can lead to various health issues, including cyanosis and impaired cognitive functions, highlighting its importance in the coordinated action of breathing. This interplay between Prana and Udana vayu underscores the delicate balance required for optimal respiratory health.

Integrating Doshas with Respiratory Physiology

The paper emphasizes the connection between the three doshas—Vata, Pitta, and Kapha—and their roles in the respiratory system. Specifically, Sadhak pitta is linked with mental functions, promoting cognitive abilities and emotional stability, while Avalambaka kapha supports the chest and heart functions, providing the necessary moisture for optimal airflow and organ protection. Abnormalities in these doshas can negatively affect both physical and mental health, further illustrating how integrated Ayurvedic principles can enhance our understanding of the respiratory process. This interconnectedness reinforces the holistic view of health advocated in Ayurveda.

Conclusion

Respiration, as described in the paper, is essential for life and well-being, executed through the harmonious functioning of Prana vayu and Udana vayu, along with the overall balance of doshas. The ancient Ayurvedic wisdom offers valuable insights into the mechanisms of respiration, emphasizing its active and passive phases. Understanding these principles not only highlights the importance of maintaining respiratory health but also demonstrates the relevance of Ayurveda in contemporary health discussions. Ultimately, disturbances in respiration can lead to profound consequences for overall health, underscoring the significance of this life-sustaining process.

FAQ section (important questions/answers):

What are the two phases of respiration according to Ayurveda?

The two phases of respiration in Ayurveda are Nishvas (inspiration) and Uchchhvas (expiration). Prana vayu controls inspiration by dilating the chest, while Udana vayu is responsible for the process of expiration.

How does Prana vayu contribute to respiration?

Prana vayu plays a vital role in respiration by helping to take in beneficial elements like air, food, and water. It stimulates muscles involved in respiration, thereby enabling the chest to expand and facilitating the inspiration process.

What is the significance of Udana vayu in respiration?

Udana vayu is responsible for expiration, allowing the body to expel deoxygenated air and waste gases. It also plays a role in maintaining functions like speech and energy regulation, impacting mental and physical health.

What is the relationship between Tridosh and respiration?

The Tridosh, consisting of Vata, Pitta, and Kapha, significantly impacts various bodily functions including respiration. Specifically, Prana and Udana vayu are critical components in managing the respiratory process and overall vitality.

What organs are primarily involved in the shvasan prakriya?

The organs involved in shvasan prakriya include the nose, mouth, trachea, bronchi, and lungs. These organs facilitate the passage of air during the processes of inspiration and expiration.

What can happen if respiration gets disturbed?

When respiration is disturbed, various bodily elements suffer, leading to severe consequences. Critical areas, especially the heart and brain, may stop functioning, potentially resulting in death.

Glossary definitions and references:

Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Role of tridosh in shvasan prakriya”. 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) Prana (Pran):
Pran refers to the vital energy derived from oxygen absorbed into the body. It is necessary for sustaining life, supporting metabolic processes, and ensuring overall health. Proper respiration is key to maintaining an adequate supply of Pran.

2) Vayu:
Vayu represents the principle of movement and is one of the fundamental concepts in Ayurveda. It is associated with air and the motion of various physiological processes. In the context of respiration, Vayu plays a crucial role in the inhalation and exhalation processes, facilitating the exchange of gases.

3) Pranavayu (Prana-vayu):
Prana-vayu is a specific type of Vayu that governs the intake of vital energy through respiration. It is responsible for inspiration and controls the flow of Prana to the body’s various cells, ensuring that oxygen is available for metabolic processes and sustaining life functions.

4) Udana:
Udana refers to the life force responsible for the process of expiration in Ayurveda. It is considered to play a vital role in expelling used air and metabolic waste from the body. The proper functioning of Udana ensures that the body maintains a balanced state of health.

5) Udanavayu (Udana-vayu):
Udana-vayu is the specific type of Vayu associated with the act of exhalation. It counteracts the inward flow of Prana while facilitating the removal of waste gases such as carbon dioxide. Udana-vayu plays a key role in regulating respiratory efficiency and overall vitality.

6) Kapha:
Kapha is one of the three doshas in Ayurvedic medicine that embodies the elements of water and earth. It is responsible for structure, stability, and lubrication in the body. Kapha supports vital organs and maintains moisture necessary for respiratory and digestive systems, contributing to overall health.

7) Activity:
Activity in the context of Ayurveda refers to the dynamic processes of the body, including metabolic functions, muscle activities, and organ interactions. These activities depend on the balance of doshas and the efficient functioning of Prana and Vayu, essential for maintaining health and vitality.

8) Srotas (Shrotas):
Srotas are the channels or pathways in the body through which essential substances like Prana, nutrients, and waste products flow. In Ayurveda, they are crucial for maintaining physiological balance and health. Proper function of Srotas is necessary for efficient respiration and metabolism.

9) Pitta:
Pitta is one of the three doshas in Ayurveda, composed of the elements of fire and water. It governs metabolic processes, digestion, and transformation in the body. Pitta is essential for managing energy and the functions related to the brain, heart, and respiration.

10) Rakta:
Rakta denotes blood in Ayurvedic terminology and is considered one of the vital dhatus (tissues). It plays a significant role in the transportation of Prana and nutrients throughout the body. Rakta is fundamental for sustaining life and ensuring cellular functioning.

11) Sahu:
Sahu is the surname of the primary author of the article and refers to Himanshu Sahu, who contributed to the research and writing on the Ayurvedic perspective of respiration. His work underlines the integration of traditional and modern understandings of respiratory physiology.

12) Life:
In Ayurveda, life is viewed as a delicate balance of physical, mental, and spiritual elements. Prana is considered the essence of life, necessary for sustaining bodily functions. The proper regulation of Vata, Pitta, and Kapha is essential for maintaining a healthy, vibrant life.

13) Prakriya (Prakriye):
Prakriya refers to the process or method by which a particular function is executed. In this context, it relates to the physiological processes of respiration, including both inspiration and expiration, emphasizing the systematic approach taken in Ayurveda to understand bodily functions.

14) Avalambakakapha (Avalambaka-kapha):
Avalambaka-kapha is a specific type of Kapha located in the thoracic region, providing support and strength to the organs involved in respiration, including the heart and lungs. It plays a protective role, ensuring proper functioning and stability in respiratory processes.

15) Avalambaka:
Avalambaka refers to the supportive aspect of Kapha that sustains and protects vital organs. This Kapha helps maintain the structural integrity of organs such as lungs and heart, ensuring effective respiratory function and overall stability in bodily processes.

16) Buddhi:
Buddhi denotes intellect or higher cognition in Ayurveda. It is linked to the functioning of Sadhaka Pitta and plays a crucial role in mental clarity, decision-making, and understanding. A balanced Buddhi contributes to a healthy mind and body.

17) Dravya:
Dravya refers to substances or materials in Ayurveda. It encompasses elements that are ingested or utilized by the body for nourishment and energy. Understanding Dravya is essential for the application of Ayurvedic principles in diet and health.

18) Nature:
Nature signifies the environment from which vital elements are absorbed into the body. In Ayurveda, a connection to natural elements is essential for health, as it encompasses air, food, and water, which are crucial for sustaining life and health.

19) Fire:
The fire, or Agni, is a powerful concept in Ayurveda that signifies metabolic transformation and energy. It is essential for digestion, nutrient absorption, and maintaining overall health, emphasizing the need for a balanced Agni for optimal bodily functions.

20) Raktadhatu (Rakta-dhatu):
Rakta-dhatu refers to the blood tissue in Ayurveda, responsible for transporting nutrients, Prana, and waste products throughout the body. It is essential for supporting bodily functions, maintaining vitality, and ensuring overall health by sustaining the life force.

21) Hridaya (Hrdaya):
Hridaya refers to the heart in Ayurvedic texts, regarded as the center of consciousness and life. It plays a pivotal role in the circulatory system and is intertwined with emotional and mental wellbeing, affecting respiratory health and vitality.

22) Disease:
Diseases represent the disturbances in the physiological and psychological balance of an individual. In Ayurveda, disease classification and treatment aim to restore balance among the doshas, rejuvenate tissues, and promote harmony in the body and mind.

23) Dosha (Dosa):
Dosha refers to the three fundamental biological energies (Vata, Pitta, Kapha) in Ayurveda that govern physical and mental processes. A balance among these doshas is essential for health. Disharmony can lead to disease and is a central focus of Ayurvedic practice.

24) Kriya:
Kriya means action or process in Ayurveda, referring to the physiological functions and activities of the body. Understanding Kriya is vital for addressing health issues and maintaining balance, as it encompasses all bodily functions, including digestion, respiration, and circulation.

25) Dhatu:
Dhatu refers to the seven bodily tissues in Ayurveda that are essential for sustaining life and health. They include Rasa (plasma), Rakta (blood), Mamsa (muscle), Meda (fat), Asthi (bone), Majja (marrow), and Shukra (reproductive tissue).

26) India:
India is the origin of Ayurveda, an ancient system of medicine that emphasizes holistic health and balance. It incorporates spiritual, physical, and emotional wellbeing, deeply rooted in the cultural and historical context of the Indian subcontinent.

27) Shri (Sr, Sri):
Shri is an honorific title used in Indian culture, often denoting respect or reverence. In the context of this article, it signifies the institution or authors' esteemed position within Ayurvedic education and practice.

28) Vata:
Vata is one of the three doshas in Ayurveda, representing air and space elements. It governs movement, communication, and neurological functions. Balance of Vata is critical for overall health, impacting respiration, digestion, and the nervous system.

29) Human body:
The human body in Ayurveda is viewed as a complex system composed of doshas, dhatus, and srotas. Each part interacts and impacts the overall health, requiring a balance for optimal functioning. Understanding this system is key to Ayurvedic diagnosis and treatment.

30) Substance:
Substance refers to the materials that make up the human body and the nutrients necessary for sustaining life. In Ayurveda, identifying and understanding different substances, including food and medicine, is essential for creating a holistic treatment plan.

31) Vitiation (Vitiated):
Vitiated refers to the disturbance or imbalance in a dosha or physiological process, leading to health issues. In Ayurveda, understanding the causes and effects of vitiation is crucial for determining appropriate treatments to restore balance and promote well-being.

32) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is an ancient Indian system of medicine focused on maintaining health and preventing disease through a holistic approach. It emphasizes the balance of mind, body, spirit, and environment, using natural treatments and lifestyle changes for optimal health.

33) Medha (Medhas):
Medha refers to understanding, intellect, or cognitive capacity in Ayurvedic thought. It is linked to Sadhaka Pitta and plays an important role in mental clarity, decision-making, and learning. Maintaining Medha is essential for cognitive health.

34) Asthi (Ashthi):
Asthi is one of the seven dhatus in Ayurveda, representing the bone tissue. It provides structural support and strength in the body. Healthy Asthi is essential for physical stability, mobility, and the overall integrity of bodily functions.

35) Mamsa (Mamsha):
Mamsa refers to muscle tissue in Ayurveda and is one of the seven dhatus. It provides strength, mobility, and support to the body. Healthy Mamsa is vital for physical activity, movement, and overall bodily functions.

36) Majja:
Majja refers to the bone marrow and nervous tissue in Ayurveda. It plays a crucial role in producing blood cells and supporting neural functions. Healthy Majja is essential for maintaining vitality, immunity, and the nervous system's integrity.

37) Death:
Death is viewed as a natural part of the life cycle in Ayurveda, marking the end of physical existence. The Ayurvedic perspective emphasizes preparing for death by maintaining health, balance, and spiritual growth throughout life to ensure a peaceful transition.

38) Birth:
Birth is celebrated as a significant event in Ayurveda, embodying the commencement of life. Ayurveda encourages practices that promote the health of the mother and newborn to ensure a healthy start, emphasizing the importance of prenatal care and balanced doshas.

39) Rasa (Rasha):
Rasa refers to the plasma and the first of the seven dhatus in Ayurveda. It represents nourishment and hydration in the body, vital for carrying nutrients and supporting overall health. Rasa plays an essential role in maintaining bodily fluids and homeostasis.

40) Food:
Food is regarded as a primary source of nourishment from an Ayurvedic viewpoint. The quality, quantity, and type of food consumed significantly impact the body's doshas and overall health, making it essential to choose foods that promote balance and vitality.

41) Bronchial asthma:
Bronchial asthma is a respiratory condition characterized by inflammation of the airways, leading to difficulty in breathing. In Ayurveda, it is often associated with vitiation of Vata and Kapha doshas, requiring a holistic approach to restore balance and improve respiratory function.

42) Sadhakapitta (Sadhaka-pitta):
Sadhaka-pitta is a subtype of Pitta located in the heart and brain, responsible for intellect and mental processes. It governs cognitive functions, emotional balance, and decision-making, playing a vital role in maintaining mental health and psychological stability.

43) Sharngadhara (Sarngadhara, Sharnga-dhara):
Sharngadhara refers to an ancient Ayurvedic text that outlines principles of health, disease, and therapeutic practices. The text contributes to historical knowledge of Ayurveda, illustrating the relationship between bodily functions, doshas, and maintaining health.

44) Accumulation (Accumulating, Accumulate):
Accumulated refers to the buildup of substances or waste products in the body that disrupt proper physiological functions. In Ayurveda, understanding accumulation is important for diagnosing and treating conditions resulting from imbalances in doshas or Srotas.

45) Vatadosha (Vatadosa, Vata-dosha):
Vata-dosha is one of the three doshas in Ayurveda, characterized by qualities of dryness, lightness, and mobility. An imbalance in Vata can lead to various health issues such as anxiety, respiratory disorders, and digestive problems, emphasizing the need for balance.

46) Discussion:
Discussion refers to the examination and analysis of topics related to health and Ayurveda. It provides an opportunity to explore concepts, research findings, and clinical practices, facilitating a deeper understanding of the relationships between doshas, health, and treatment methodologies.

47) Similarity:
Similarity denotes the common characteristics or relationships between concepts in Ayurveda. Understanding similarities between various physiological processes or conditions helps in applying Ayurvedic principles effectively and aids in diagnosing and treating imbalances in the body.

48) Phupphusa:
Phupphusa refers to the lungs in Ayurvedic context, vital organs for respiration. The health of Phupphusa is essential for efficient gas exchange, ensuring that oxygen is supplied to the body and waste gases are expelled, playing a crucial role in maintaining overall vitality.

49) Pratiloma (Prati-loma):
Pratiloma refers to processes or actions that move in opposition to the natural flow or direction, particularly concerning the respiratory mechanism. This term is often associated with the function of Udana-vayu, emphasizing the importance of understanding the dynamics of respiratory actions.

50) Kshavathu (Ksavathu):
Kshavathu implies the act of sneezing in Ayurvedic terminology. Sneezing plays a role in respiratory health by clearing irritants from nasal passages, showcasing how the body maintains balance and function through natural reflexes and actions.

51) Shthivana (Sthivana):
Shthivana refers to stability or steadiness in Ayurveda. It emphasizes the importance of maintaining a stable environment within the body for optimal functioning and health, highlighting the significance of balance among the doshas and physiological processes.

52) Knowledge:
Knowledge is fundamental to Ayurvedic practice, encompassing understanding of health principles, treatment methodologies, and the intricacies of human physiology. In Ayurveda, acquiring knowledge is essential for practitioners to effectively diagnose and treat health issues based on individual dosha balances.

53) Sanskrit:
Sanskrit is an ancient language of India and the language in which many Ayurvedic texts are written. It holds historical significance in preserving medicinal knowledge, philosophy, and cultural practices, providing insight into the fundamental principles of Ayurveda.

54) Science (Scientific):
Science encompasses the systematic study of nature and natural phenomena. In Ayurveda, scientific inquiry complements traditional approaches, providing evidence-based insights that enhance understanding and efficacy in health practices and treatments.

55) Indriya (Imdriya):
Indriya refers to the senses or sensory organs in Ayurveda. They play a crucial role in how individuals perceive the world and interact with their environment. Balanced functioning of Indriya is vital for maintaining mental clarity and intelligent response to stimuli.

56) Anuloma:
Anuloma refers to processes that move in accordance with the natural flow, particularly concerning inhalation and positive physiological functions. Understanding Anuloma helps in appreciating the harmony required within bodily functions for maintaining health.

57) Samhita:
Samhita refers to collections of ancient texts that compile knowledge on various subjects, including Ayurveda. These texts serve as foundational works that guide practitioners in understanding medicinal principles, herbal remedies, and holistic health practices.

58) Prasuti:
Prasuti refers to a branch of Ayurveda concerned with obstetrics and gynecology, focusing on childbirth and maternal health. It encompasses practices and knowledge essential for ensuring safe and healthy reproduction throughout women's lives.

59) Sadhaka:
Sadhaka refers to the Pitta associated with intellect and the mental processes involved in understanding and reasoning. It plays a significant role in cognitive functions and emotional regulation, underscoring the importance of mental balance in overall health.

60) Kledana:
Kledana refers to a concept in Ayurveda related to moisture or fluid retention in the body. It is important for maintaining hydration and homeostasis within tissues, thus contributing to overall health and functional optimization of bodily systems.

61) Anxiety:
Anxiety is a condition resulting from an imbalance among the doshas, particularly Vata and Pitta. It manifests as psychological stress and physical symptoms, highlighting the need for integrated approaches in Ayurveda for managing mental health through lifestyle and dietary modifications.

62) Tantra (Tantrism, Tamtra):
Tantra refers to a system of practices and philosophies derived from ancient Indian traditions, often pertaining to rituals and meditative techniques. In Ayurvedic context, it highlights the interconnectedness of body, mind, and spirit in the pursuit of holistic health.

63) Purana:
Purana refers to ancient texts that encompass mythological stories, traditions, and philosophical teachings in Indian culture. In Ayurveda, Puranas may provide context and framework for understanding the historical significance and practices within the discipline.

64) Shvasa (Svasa, Svasha):
Shvasa translates to 'respiration' or 'breathing' in Ayurveda. It encompasses both inspiration and expiration, fundamental processes that sustain life and underline the importance of balanced inhalation and exhalation for optimal health.

65) Brihat (Brhat):
Brihat refers to the collection of foundational Ayurvedic texts, contributing to a deeper understanding of Ayurveda. They serve as essential references encompassing various aspects of health, treatment, and the theoretical underpinnings of Ayurvedic medicine.

66) Vishnu (Visnu):
Vishnu is a principal deity in Hindu mythology, often associated with preservation and protection of life. In Ayurvedic literature, references to Vishnu may symbolize the nurturing forces of nature and the interconnectedness of life and health.

67) Nasika (Nashika):
Nasika refers to the nose in Ayurvedic terms. It is the organ crucial for inhalation and olfactory functions, playing a significant role in respiration and overall sensory perception, emphasizing the importance of nasal health.

68) Udgara:
Udgara refers to the act of expelling air, often associated with exhalation in Ayurvedic principles. It highlights the significance of releasing waste gases and maintaining the balance necessary for effective respiration.

69) Shuddha (Suddha):
Suddha translates to 'pure' in Ayurveda, often referring to the quality of air or substances that are devoid of impurities. Maintaining Suddha conditions is essential for health, particularly in terms of respiration and overall bodily functions.

70) Marma:
Marma refers to specific anatomical locations in Ayurveda that are critical for health, often correlated with vital energy. Understanding Marmas is essential in therapies, as they play a significant role in the body's healing processes.

71) Udaka:
Udaka pertains to water in Ayurvedic terminology, representing one of the five elements. Water plays a vital role in maintaining bodily moisture, hydration, digestion, and overall health, emphasizing the importance of balancing this element within the body.

72) Tamas:
Tamas symbolizes darkness or ignorance in Ayurvedic philosophy and affects mental clarity and awareness. This concept underscores the necessity of mental vigilance and balance among the doshas to achieve optimal cognitive and emotional health.

73) Trayi:
Trayi refers to the three foundational texts of Ayurveda comprised of Charaka, Sushruta, and Vagbhata. These texts form the basis of Ayurvedic knowledge and address various dimensions of medicine, philosophy, and health practices.

74) Water:
Water is considered a fundamental element in Ayurveda. It is crucial for bodily functions, hydration, and the transportation of nutrients. Maintaining an adequate balance of water within the body is essential for both physical health and metabolic processes.

75) Blood:
Blood or Rakta in Ayurveda is a vital dhatu that circulates through the body, delivering oxygen and nutrients to tissues. It is central to supporting life and maintaining vitality, representing one of the key components in overall health.

[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 79]

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Discover the significance of concepts within the article: ‘Role of tridosh in shvasan prakriya’. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:

Dhatu, Udanavayu, Pranavayu, Sadhakapitta, Avalambakakapha, Respiratory system, Pranavaha Srotas, Ayurvedic scholar, Sadhak pitta, Respiratory problems.

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