Have you ever wondered why some people stay energetic while others tire easily? Why certain diets or lifestyles work for some but not for others? The answer lies in your Prakriti — your unique Ayurvedic constitution.
In this post, let’s explore what Prakriti is, how it’s assessed, its types, and why it plays a vital role in Ayurvedic treatment and daily wellness.
Originally published in July 2013. Last updated on July 14, 2025.
Kerala, the lush green land of coconut trees and ancient Vaidyas, is globally famous as the cradle of Ayurveda. One of its greatest treasures is Keraliya Panchakarma — a unique form of Ayurveda’s powerful detox and rejuvenation system. For centuries, people from India and around the world have visited Kerala to experience these authentic Panchakarma therapies using pure herbs, medicated oils, and time-tested techniques.
In Sanskrit, Panchakarma means “five actions.” It refers to a series of natural cleansing and rejuvenating treatments that remove toxins (Ama), balance the Doshas (Vata, Pitta, Kapha), and restore health at the deepest level.
Kerala developed its own unique methods — known as Keraliya Panchakarma — by blending classical texts with local herbs, climate, and cultural traditions.
Originally published in July 2013. Last updated on July 13, 2025
Introduction
Ayurveda, the ancient system of holistic medicine from India, explains that everything in the universe — living or non-living — is made up of five fundamental elements known as Panchamahabhootha. Understanding these five elements helps us comprehend how nature influences the human body, mind, and health.
In this article, we’ll explore what Panchamahabhootha means, the unique qualities of each element, and how these form the basis of Ayurvedic principles and daily life.
“Man is the epitome of the universe. Within man, there is as much diversity as in the world outside. Similarly, the world outside is as diverse as human beings themselves.”
— Charaka Samhita
Originally published in June 2013. Last updated on July 5, 2025
By Dr. Rimin Razak
Plantar Fasciitis is a painful inflammatory condition of the plantar fascia — the thick connective tissue that runs across the sole of the foot, connecting the heel bone (calcaneus) to the toes. It supports the arch of the foot and absorbs impact while walking or standing.
Excess strain on this fascia leads to inflammation, weakening, swelling, or even microtears, causing intense heel pain, especially in the anterior portion of the heel. This condition is common among middle-aged individuals, athletes, or anyone who spends extended time on their feet. It’s also referred to as “Policeman’s Heel.”
Originally published in June 2013. Last updated on July 5, 2025.
By Dr. Rimin Razak
Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner before starting any therapy.
Ayurveda is not just a system of medicine to treat disease—it is a vast science that teaches the meaning of nature, life, and harmonious living. Known as the "Science of Life" or "Science of Nature," Ayurveda emphasizes living in tune with nature to maintain balance and well-being.
In Ayurveda, treatment is primarily categorized into two types:
Kapha Dosha is one of the three fundamental bodily humors (doshas) described in the ancient Ayurvedic system of medicine. It represents the elements of water and earth, providing structure, lubrication, and stability to the body and mind.
In Ayurveda, the ancient system of natural healing, the human body is governed by three fundamental energies or Doshas – Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. These are derived from the five great elements (Pancha Mahabhuta): Earth (Prithvi), Water (Apas), Fire (Tejas), Air (Vayu), and Ether (Akasha).
Among these three doshas, Pitta Dosha plays a crucial role in regulating body heat, metabolism, digestion, and intelligence. It represents the combination of Agni (Fire) and Jala (Water) elements and is responsible for all forms of transformation in the body.
Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of natural healing, conceptualizes
human physiology through three biological energies or Doshas — Vata, Pitta, and
Kapha. Each dosha represents a combination of elemental energies and governs
specific physical and mental functions.
Among these, Vata Dosha is considered the most powerful. It governs all
forms of movement in the body and mind — from breathing and circulation to
nerve impulses and thought processes. It is known as the “King of Doshas”
because it initiates and directs the other two doshas.
📅 Originally published in June 2013. Last updated on June 23, 2025.
Ayurveda, the ancient system of natural healing originating in India, is built upon the foundational principle of Tridosha—the three primary energies or bio-elements that govern all physiological and psychological processes in the body and mind. These three doshas are known as Vata, Pitta, and Kapha.
According to Ayurvedic philosophy, the health of an individual depends on the balance of these doshas. An imbalance in any of them leads to disease or discomfort, while harmony among them brings health, stability, and happiness.
“When your digestion is strong, your body thrives. When it's weak, imbalance begins.” — Ayurvedic Wisdom
📅 Originally published in June 2013. Last updated on June 21, 2025.
Digestive health is the foundation of overall well-being in Ayurveda. Unlike modern medicine, which often focuses only on symptoms like acidity, constipation, or IBS, Ayurveda views digestion holistically—connected to mind, energy, and immunity.
At the center of Ayurvedic digestive theory is Agni (digestive fire). When Agni is balanced, digestion is smooth, nutrient absorption is optimal, and toxins (Ama) do not accumulate. When Agni is weak or irregular, it can lead to a wide variety of disorders—physical and mental.
🌿 Introduction to Ayurveda: The Science of Life
Ayurveda, often referred to as the Science of Life, is one of the oldest holistic healing systems in the world. Rooted in Indian tradition and practiced for over 5,000 years, Ayurveda promotes health and wellness by balancing the body, mind, and spirit through natural methods such as diet, herbs, lifestyle routines, and therapies.
What is Ayurveda?
The term Ayurveda is derived from two Sanskrit words:
So, Ayurveda literally means “the knowledge of life.” It provides practical guidance on how to live a long, healthy, and balanced life through natural means, focusing on prevention rather than just treatment.
🧬 Historical Background
Ayurveda originated in ancient India and was passed down orally by sages before being recorded in texts such as the Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, and Ashtanga Hridaya. These classical Ayurvedic scriptures contain detailed insights into anatomy, herbal medicine, surgery, dietetics, mental health, and spiritual practices.
🔁 The Core Principles of Ayurveda
Ayurveda believes that health is a result of harmony between the body, mind, and soul. It is based on a few key principles:
1. The Tridosha Theory
According to Ayurveda, all individuals are composed of a unique combination of three doshas (biological energies):
Everyone has a dominant dosha or a combination known as their Prakriti (body constitution). Imbalance among these doshas is believed to cause disease.
Related article: Tridosha Theory according to Ayurveda.
2. The Dhatus and Malas
3. Agni (Digestive Fire)
Agni governs digestion and transformation. A strong Agni means good health; weak Agni leads to accumulation of Ama (toxins), which is the root of many diseases.
🧘 Ayurvedic Lifestyle and Health Practices
Ayurveda emphasizes daily habits and seasonal routines for maintaining health. Some of its core practices include:
✔️ Dinacharya (Daily Routine)
A structured daily routine improves digestion, sleep, and mental clarity:
✔️ Ritucharya (Seasonal Routine)
Different seasons impact dosha balance. Ayurveda suggests adjusting diet and lifestyle with each season to maintain health.
🌿 Ayurvedic Treatments
Ayurveda uses a wide range of natural treatments to restore balance:
These therapies are customized according to individual needs, dosha imbalances, age, and environment.
🌍 Ayurveda in the Modern World
With growing awareness about the side effects of modern medicine, people worldwide are turning toward Ayurveda as a safe, time-tested alternative. Many countries now recognize Ayurveda as a complementary medical system, and research continues to validate its benefits for chronic diseases, mental health, and preventive care.
🌟 Benefits of Ayurveda
✍️ Final Thoughts
Ayurveda teaches us to live in harmony with our inner nature and the external environment. In today’s fast-paced world, its holistic principles offer a path to balance, mindfulness, and long-term health. Whether you’re dealing with chronic illness or simply seeking a better lifestyle, Ayurveda offers practical, gentle solutions backed by centuries of wisdom.
🖋️ About the Author
This article is written by Dr. Rimin Razak an Ayurvedic doctor and content creator and wellness blogger at Vaidya Veekshan. Explore more natural health insights and Ayurvedic wisdom on the blog.
