vata, pitta & Kapha- Mystery decoded
- Dr. Yashaswini Bharadwaj
- Mar 9, 2024
- 3 min read
The terms Vata, Pitta, and Kapha are commonly heard but not always fully understood. For instance, expectoration during coughing is often referred as kapha, although it cannot reach the actual meaning of the word. While arthritis is commonly associated with Vata, Vata itself is not synonymous with arthritis. So, what exactly are these terms?
Vata-Pitta-Kaphas are not just one specific thing. They are the combination of qualities (guna) and actions (karma) that appear in various parts of the body. The dynamics of these sets of qualities function in harmony, supporting one another and driving our physical and mental processes through their continuous interplay. These amalgamations or sets are referred to as Doshas. Despite their simplicity in nomenclature, the concepts of Vata, Pitta, and Kapha carry profound implications. This triad theory stands as a remarkable contribution to humanity, seamlessly melding the realms of physics, chemistry, and biology.
Guna: Understanding any entity involves grasping its guna- the inherent qualities or attributes. Water, for instance, can exhibit various temperatures and physical forms like being state of an icecube or steam or as running water, yet chemically remains consistent as H2O. However, the qualities of all these forms would vary. Likewise soil can physically look the same allover but a change in the proportion of its contents like iron or calcium may change its properties and applicability. Hence the term ‘guna’ would consider both its physical, chemical and biological constitution primarily from the perspective of its applicability. Nature's elements, be it plants, trees, food, medicines, animals, birds, water, wind, light, or even the human body and mind, are all recognizable through their distinct qualities or Gunas. Guna or property is the way we perceive and understand any matter. These properties are meticulously dissected and expounded upon through thorough analysis and logical reasoning to render them practically applicable. Delving into these principles reveals profound insights and logical frameworks that transcend contemporary scientific understanding.
Modern science primarily adopts a Reductionistic approach of breaking down matter into its elemental components for study. This method is excellent in the study of physics, chemistry and in laboratory settings but is inadequate in the realm of biological sciences and real-life scenarios. Organisms are in constant flux with their external environment and dont necessarily match the outcome seen in the standard conditions of laboratory frameworks. Nature's boundless diversity and the corresponding adaptations in our bodies reflect evolutionary strategies honed over centuries. Many factors including the environment a person lives in, food, soil, water, air and sunlight all contribute to this intricate tapestry. Thus, a ‘holistic’ comprehension of science that transcends mere chemical compositions is imperative.
This ‘holistic science’, as exemplified in Ayurveda, presents theories that are universally applicable, focusing on the entire individual while dissecting essential elements. It stands as a noble practice aimed at safeguarding the well-being of the healthy and alleviating illness by harmonizing external and internal influences through the lens of guna-karma.
"The Significance of Three": The number 3 holds a distinct significance. While 1 brings individuality, and 2 represents balance, it takes 3 to fulfils a minimum requirement to represent the unpredictable dynamics of the universe. The concept of the three Doshas stems from the manifestation of the 5 Mahabhutas, emphasizing the perpetual transformations and diversity inherent in nature. The 5 Mahabhutas constitute a visible aspect of the 3 Mahagunas: Sattva, representing illumination; Rajas, embodying motion;
and Tamas, symbolizing mass and inertia. These three great qualities are not tangible substances but rather form the elemental basis of all material compositions. Even the Mahabhutas themselves are comprised of varying combinations of these fundamental Mahagunas. Ayurveda leverages this Ternary logic, derived from the amalgamation of the 5 Mahabhutas. While traditional Chinese medicine operates on dualistic principles and Western medicine, rooted in Greek and Unani traditions, adheres to a logic of 4, Ayurveda's Tridosha theory is revered for its stability and practicality. Homeopathy, originating in 18th-century Germany, also pays homage to this triadic theory.
Comments