Changes

Concept of analytical knowledge: The concept of analytical knowledge or detailed knowledge of the body elements that is described here is very much similar to the concept of systems biology in contemporary science.

Concept of analytical knowledge: The concept of analytical knowledge or detailed knowledge of the body elements that is described here is very much similar to the concept of systems biology in contemporary science.

Systems biology studies biological systems by analyzing them (biologically, genetically, or chemically), by monitoring the gene, protein, and informational pathway responses, integrating these data and ultimately, formulating mathematical models that describe the structure of the system and its response to individual variations. Systems biology does not investigate individual genes or proteins one at a time. Rather, it investigates the behavior and relationships of all of the elements in a particular biological system while it is functioning. Thus, the systems biology theory understands the importance of the constituent units of the body as well as their networking. (Timothy Galitski, 2001)[1]  

Systems biology studies biological systems by analyzing them (biologically, genetically, or chemically), by monitoring the gene, protein, and informational pathway responses, integrating these data and ultimately, formulating mathematical models that describe the structure of the system and its response to individual variations. Systems biology does not investigate individual genes or proteins one at a time. Rather, it investigates the behavior and relationships of all of the elements in a particular biological system while it is functioning. Thus, the systems biology theory understands the importance of the constituent units of the body as well as their networking. (Timothy Galitski, 2001)[1]  

A simple example that can illustrate System biology approach is of sickle cell anemia. This disease is caused by a single point mutation at position 6 of the β-chain of hemoglobin, which changes hemoglobin’s oxygen affinity and promotes polymerization under hypoxic conditions. However, individuals with sickle cell disease can present with variety of symptoms which include hemolysis, inflammation, cell adhesion and end-organ ischemia-reperfusion injury and infarction. Patients also experience intermittent painful episodes due to acute vascular obstruction. (Mack KA) [2] There are many reasons for these different clinical manifestations, including the presence of other genes modifying the disease modifying genes (e.g., hemoglobin F). Hence, this example indicates that the knowledge of single gene is not sufficient to understand the disease. There is need to consider other genes or in other words other constituents of the body.  (verse 3)  

A simple example that can illustrate System biology approach is of sickle cell anemia. This disease is caused by a single point mutation at position 6 of the β-chain of hemoglobin, which changes hemoglobin’s oxygen affinity and promotes polymerization under hypoxic conditions. However, individuals with sickle cell disease can present with variety of symptoms which include hemolysis, inflammation, cell adhesion and end-organ ischemia-reperfusion injury and infarction. Patients also experience intermittent painful episodes due to acute vascular obstruction. (Mack KA) [2] There are many reasons for these different clinical manifestations, including the presence of other genes modifying the disease modifying genes (e.g., hemoglobin F). Hence, this example indicates that the knowledge of single gene is not sufficient to understand the disease. There is need to consider other genes or in other words other constituents of the body.  (verse 3)  

Definition of sharira and disequilibrium in body elements:

 

==== Definition of sharira and disequilibrium in body elements ====

 

The consciousness manifested in the body is because of the soul. Since the soul does not have any dwelling place, the word bhuta is added to the term chetana sthana in the text.

The consciousness manifested in the body is because of the soul. Since the soul does not have any dwelling place, the word bhuta is added to the term chetana sthana in the text.

Dhatus are derived from the mahabhuta and the body represents the union of these dhatus in specific proportions. Hence, maintenance of these proportions becomes important for the maintenance of health. Any change in the quantity of individual dhatu, thereby disturbing the relative proportion of the other dhatu results in ill health. A minor change in proportion results in discomfort while the major change destroys the body completely i.e. it can lead to death. It is important to note here that the change in proportion should be manifested and it should produce klesha (discomfort) and/or vinasha (destruction) to consider it significant.

Dhatus are derived from the mahabhuta and the body represents the union of these dhatus in specific proportions. Hence, maintenance of these proportions becomes important for the maintenance of health. Any change in the quantity of individual dhatu, thereby disturbing the relative proportion of the other dhatu results in ill health. A minor change in proportion results in discomfort while the major change destroys the body completely i.e. it can lead to death. It is important to note here that the change in proportion should be manifested and it should produce klesha (discomfort) and/or vinasha (destruction) to consider it significant.

A change in proportion of these dhatus can be due to circadian, seasonal variations etc. Sometimes the change can also occur due to dietary or behavioural changes. For example, increase in the quantity of shukra (one among the seven structural elements) by consumption of milk. However, this kind of change is transitory in nature. To differentiate this transitory state of disequilibrium, the term gamana has been suffixed to the term vaishamya (any increase or decrease beyond the normal range). This indicates that the vaishamya has to be long standing.

A change in proportion of these dhatus can be due to circadian, seasonal variations etc. Sometimes the change can also occur due to dietary or behavioural changes. For example, increase in the quantity of shukra (one among the seven structural elements) by consumption of milk. However, this kind of change is transitory in nature. To differentiate this transitory state of disequilibrium, the term gamana has been suffixed to the term vaishamya (any increase or decrease beyond the normal range). This indicates that the vaishamya has to be long standing.

Sometimes a change in proportion of these dhatus can also be seen without discomfort and destruction.  

Sometimes a change in proportion of these dhatus can also be seen without discomfort and destruction.  

For example,  

For example,  

1) The effects of aphrodisiacs by which there is an increase in the quantity of shukra and  

#The effects of aphrodisiacs by which there is an increase in the quantity of shukra and  

2) The increase in dhatus of a child along with the increase of its age.  

#The increase in dhatus of a child along with the increase of its age.  

 

In both of these examples, there is no discomfort or destruction. This type of interpretation is not valid as an increase in dhatus of a child is owing to its age, which is natural and does not exceed the desired quantity at the given age of the individual. Even the increase of shukra by the administration of aphrodisiacs does not cause any disease and therefore, this increase should be considered as within the normal range.

In both of these examples, there is no discomfort or destruction. This type of interpretation is not valid as an increase in dhatus of a child is owing to its age, which is natural and does not exceed the desired quantity at the given age of the individual. Even the increase of shukra by the administration of aphrodisiacs does not cause any disease and therefore, this increase should be considered as within the normal range.

In the seventh chapter of this section, we would see that the average quantity of dhatu is described in terms of anjali pramana (a measurement by joining palms of both hands). In spite of the description of these quantities one has to depend on the signs and symptoms of aggravation and diminution of dhatu as they are not available directly for measurement. Therefore, the maximum increase of shukra which does not produce a disease should be considered as the limit of the normal range of this dhatu and vaishamya should be diagnosed when abnormal symptoms will get manifested.

In the seventh chapter of this section, we would see that the average quantity of dhatu is described in terms of anjali pramana (a measurement by joining palms of both hands). In spite of the description of these quantities one has to depend on the signs and symptoms of aggravation and diminution of dhatu as they are not available directly for measurement. Therefore, the maximum increase of shukra which does not produce a disease should be considered as the limit of the normal range of this dhatu and vaishamya should be diagnosed when abnormal symptoms will get manifested.

Some scholars opine that sometimes the increase or decrease can be physiological (prakrita). They cite the example (Cha. Su 17/45-46) that the diminution of kapha aggravates vata and further draws the pitta which is in its normal state from its site and makes it circulate through the body to produce pain in the sites of its circulation. In this case, even though the pitta dosha is in its normal state, it causes discomfort in the body because of external factors (paratantra prakopa/ashayapakarsha gati).  

Some scholars opine that sometimes the increase or decrease can be physiological (prakrita). They cite the example (Cha. Su 17/45-46) that the diminution of kapha aggravates vata and further draws the pitta which is in its normal state from its site and makes it circulate through the body to produce pain in the sites of its circulation. In this case, even though the pitta dosha is in its normal state, it causes discomfort in the body because of external factors (paratantra prakopa/ashayapakarsha gati).  

This statement is not convincing because in another verse of the same chapter (Cha. Su 17/62), the author has described three different states of dhatu viz. increase, decrease and normalcy along with their diagnostic criteria. In its normal state, a dhatu does not produce any kind of discomfort or destruction. Also, a disease is defined as the result of the imbalance of dhatus and the normal state of these dhatus is described to constitute the health. (Cha. Su 9/4)

This statement is not convincing because in another verse of the same chapter (Cha. Su 17/62), the author has described three different states of dhatu viz. increase, decrease and normalcy along with their diagnostic criteria. In its normal state, a dhatu does not produce any kind of discomfort or destruction. Also, a disease is defined as the result of the imbalance of dhatus and the normal state of these dhatus is described to constitute the health. (Cha. Su 9/4)

The correct understanding of the verse (Cha. Su 17/45-46) therefore should be that if the pitta in its normal state, when carried by the aggravated vata, circulates in the body, and gets mixed up with the pitta of other places, and then actually there is an increase in local pitta of those places, this increased state of pitta is in fact responsible for the cause of symptoms/disease.

The correct understanding of the verse (Cha. Su 17/45-46) therefore should be that if the pitta in its normal state, when carried by the aggravated vata, circulates in the body, and gets mixed up with the pitta of other places, and then actually there is an increase in local pitta of those places, this increased state of pitta is in fact responsible for the cause of symptoms/disease.

Even when dhatus are in their normal states before they come in contact with the aggravated dosha, their equilibrium gets disturbed after the interaction with dosha. The manifestation of diseases, therefore, is possible only when dhatu are either increased or decreased due to this interaction and the consequent imbalance.

Even when dhatus are in their normal states before they come in contact with the aggravated dosha, their equilibrium gets disturbed after the interaction with dosha. The manifestation of diseases, therefore, is possible only when dhatu are either increased or decreased due to this interaction and the consequent imbalance.

Factors responsible for increase and decrease of body elements:

==== Factors responsible for increase and decrease of body elements ====

 

A factor which is responsible for the increase of one dhatu will at the same time reduce the dhatu of opposing properties. For example, milk increases kapha and shukra and at the same time, reduces vata etc. which are of opposing properties. With this view, the authors have used a verb bhavatah, which is dvivachana (changes are happening in two dhatus).  

A factor which is responsible for the increase of one dhatu will at the same time reduce the dhatu of opposing properties. For example, milk increases kapha and shukra and at the same time, reduces vata etc. which are of opposing properties. With this view, the authors have used a verb bhavatah, which is dvivachana (changes are happening in two dhatus).  

Cow’s urine and kapha dosha share similar physical properties i.e. both are liquid. Still cow’s urine reduces kapha because of differences in other attributes, viz. katu (pungent), ushna (producing heat in the body), ruksha(dry, desiccating) etc. Thus, it can be inferred that more than the physical nature (jati),the attributes (guna) are responsible for the increase or decrease of dhatu, and to reiterate this, the term guna has been added as a suffix to viparita (opposite) in the text.

Cow’s urine and kapha dosha share similar physical properties i.e. both are liquid. Still cow’s urine reduces kapha because of differences in other attributes, viz. katu (pungent), ushna (producing heat in the body), ruksha(dry, desiccating) etc. Thus, it can be inferred that more than the physical nature (jati),the attributes (guna) are responsible for the increase or decrease of dhatu, and to reiterate this, the term guna has been added as a suffix to viparita (opposite) in the text.

The concept explained here is simultaneous changes happening in two or more dhatus having mutually opposite attributes. An etiological or causative factor can cause an increase or decrease in different body elements disturbing the equilibrium. It is possible that the introduction of the etiological or causative factor may be catalyzing a cascade of events either independent or related to the dhatu bringing changes in them. This concept can be further understood by the concept of “cross-organ talks” explained in modern medicine. When there is change in status of any organ, there can be changes seen even in the distant organs through cellular networks.  For example, adipose tissue is an endocrine organ. The tissue produces and secretes a wide range of mediators regulating adipose tissue function in an auto-/paracrine manner and important distant targets, such as the liver, skeletal muscle, the pancreas and the cardiovascular system. The enlargement of adipocytes leads to adipose tissue dysfunction and a shift in the secretory profile with an increased release of pro-inflammatory adipokines in metabolic disorders such as obesity. Adipose tissue dysfunction has a central role in the development of insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases. (Romacho T). [3]

The concept explained here is simultaneous changes happening in two or more dhatus having mutually opposite attributes. An etiological or causative factor can cause an increase or decrease in different body elements disturbing the equilibrium. It is possible that the introduction of the etiological or causative factor may be catalyzing a cascade of events either independent or related to the dhatu bringing changes in them. This concept can be further understood by the concept of “cross-organ talks” explained in modern medicine. When there is change in status of any organ, there can be changes seen even in the distant organs through cellular networks.  For example, adipose tissue is an endocrine organ. The tissue produces and secretes a wide range of mediators regulating adipose tissue function in an auto-/paracrine manner and important distant targets, such as the liver, skeletal muscle, the pancreas and the cardiovascular system. The enlargement of adipocytes leads to adipose tissue dysfunction and a shift in the secretory profile with an increased release of pro-inflammatory adipokines in metabolic disorders such as obesity. Adipose tissue dysfunction has a central role in the development of insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases. (Romacho T). [3]

Objective of therapy:

 

==== Objective of therapy ====

 

Medicines bring dhatus to normalcy only when administered in appropriate regimen (dose, duration, concomitant medicine/vehicle etc.)  Further, they should be administered only till the dhatu is in an imbalanced state. Medicines administered without taking into account these factors do not produce adequate results.  

Medicines bring dhatus to normalcy only when administered in appropriate regimen (dose, duration, concomitant medicine/vehicle etc.)  Further, they should be administered only till the dhatu is in an imbalanced state. Medicines administered without taking into account these factors do not produce adequate results.  

For simultaneous reduction of aggravated kapha and increase of reduced pitta, dravya having katu rasa (pungent taste) is used. If they are administered, beyond a desired effect then there will be increase in pitta and reduction of kapha from their normal level resulting again in imbalance.

For simultaneous reduction of aggravated kapha and increase of reduced pitta, dravya having katu rasa (pungent taste) is used. If they are administered, beyond a desired effect then there will be increase in pitta and reduction of kapha from their normal level resulting again in imbalance.

Medicines need to be used appropriately (samayaka avacharyamana) in terms of (dose, duration, concomitant medicine/vehicle etc.). The use of yukti pramana can help to understand the scope of samyaka in a given situation at a given point in time. These are the pharmacotherapeutics principles of clinical pharmacology in ayurveda.   

Medicines need to be used appropriately (samayaka avacharyamana) in terms of (dose, duration, concomitant medicine/vehicle etc.). The use of yukti pramana can help to understand the scope of samyaka in a given situation at a given point in time. These are the pharmacotherapeutics principles of clinical pharmacology in ayurveda.   

The major focus of administering therapies for the cure of diseases as well as maintenance of health is to bring about the balance of dhatu which results into alleviation of diseases. Rasayana therapy which is administered for promotion of the strength of a healthy individual is primarily aimed at maintaining the equilibrium of dhatu and further improving them qualitatively. So the ultimate objective of Ayurveda is to establish the equilibrium of dhatu. (Ca.Su.1/53). In healthy persons, although dhatus are in a state of equilibrium, rasayana and vajikarana therapies are given to maintain this state of equilibrium. Even the selection of dietary articles should be done with this objective in mind.  

The major focus of administering therapies for the cure of diseases as well as maintenance of health is to bring about the balance of dhatu which results into alleviation of diseases. Rasayana therapy which is administered for promotion of the strength of a healthy individual is primarily aimed at maintaining the equilibrium of dhatu and further improving them qualitatively. So the ultimate objective of Ayurveda is to establish the equilibrium of dhatu. (Ca.Su.1/53). In healthy persons, although dhatus are in a state of equilibrium, rasayana and vajikarana therapies are given to maintain this state of equilibrium. Even the selection of dietary articles should be done with this objective in mind.  

The term satmyasamadnyata means the food preparations which are consistently wholesome at all times and which exclude the preparations that are wholesome only when taken habitually (abhyasa) but not otherwise. The wholesomeness of substances is to be considered in terms of rasa and guna.

The term satmyasamadnyata means the food preparations which are consistently wholesome at all times and which exclude the preparations that are wholesome only when taken habitually (abhyasa) but not otherwise. The wholesomeness of substances is to be considered in terms of rasa and guna.

Consumption of food preparations dominated by one type of rasa may produce imbalance of dhatu and then it becomes necessary to counterbalance the changes by following regimens having opposite effects. For example, when a person eats food dominated by madhura (sweet) taste then kapha dosha gets aggravated and hence, he should follow regimens like exercise that produce opposite effects i.e. reduce kapha. It is needless to say that even such regimens should not be taken in excess.(7)

Consumption of food preparations dominated by one type of rasa may produce imbalance of dhatu and then it becomes necessary to counterbalance the changes by following regimens having opposite effects. For example, when a person eats food dominated by madhura (sweet) taste then kapha dosha gets aggravated and hence, he should follow regimens like exercise that produce opposite effects i.e. reduce kapha. It is needless to say that even such regimens should not be taken in excess.(7)

Guidelines for sustaining equilibrium:

 

==== Guidelines for sustaining equilibrium ====

 

The concept has been explained with an example of obese individuals. For them, activity contrary to their “usual” place would be to sleep in an arid zone, activity contrary to time would be to exercise in spring season, and activity contrary to their make up or constitution would be to exercise at late nights.

The concept has been explained with an example of obese individuals. For them, activity contrary to their “usual” place would be to sleep in an arid zone, activity contrary to time would be to exercise in spring season, and activity contrary to their make up or constitution would be to exercise at late nights.

The concept of indulging in food and activities contrary to the environmental conditions and constitutions of an individual is a part of swasthavritta vidhi. This has been described in (Cha.Su. 7/50, Cha. Vi. 5/23 and Cha.Su.26/8). Interestingly, the samprapti (pathogenesis) of rajayakshma includes all the above mentioned conditions as etiological factors. It would be worth exploring whether compliance/adherence to swasthavrutta vidhi can prevent development of rajayakshma. (8)

The concept of indulging in food and activities contrary to the environmental conditions and constitutions of an individual is a part of swasthavritta vidhi. This has been described in (Cha.Su. 7/50, Cha. Vi. 5/23 and Cha.Su.26/8). Interestingly, the samprapti (pathogenesis) of rajayakshma includes all the above mentioned conditions as etiological factors. It would be worth exploring whether compliance/adherence to swasthavrutta vidhi can prevent development of rajayakshma. (8)

Increase and decrease in body elements:

 

==== Increase and decrease in body elements ====

The nature of food ingredients that either increase or decrease dhatus is described. Only physical factors follow the above mentioned principles. Other factors like intellect etc. do not increase or decrease.  

The nature of food ingredients that either increase or decrease dhatus is described. Only physical factors follow the above mentioned principles. Other factors like intellect etc. do not increase or decrease.  

A substance may be either identical totally (i.e., similar in all respects (including form)) or have partial similarities (in terms of majority of qualities). Yogindranath says that the former refers to dravya while the latter is gunasamanya. For example, meat is identical to mamsa dhatu (one of the seven structural elements or dhatus) completely and hence the intake of meat increases mamsa dhatu. Shukra and milk, on the other hand, are not identical with each other but the major qualities of semen are predominantly found in milk. For example, both of them are liquid in nature. Hence, the habitual use of milk increases semen although to a lesser extent as compared to meat’s increasing mamsa dhatu.

A substance may be either identical totally (i.e., similar in all respects (including form)) or have partial similarities (in terms of majority of qualities). Yogindranath says that the former refers to dravya while the latter is gunasamanya. For example, meat is identical to mamsa dhatu (one of the seven structural elements or dhatus) completely and hence the intake of meat increases mamsa dhatu. Shukra and milk, on the other hand, are not identical with each other but the major qualities of semen are predominantly found in milk. For example, both of them are liquid in nature. Hence, the habitual use of milk increases semen although to a lesser extent as compared to meat’s increasing mamsa dhatu.

Such increase or decrease of dhatu by similar or dissimilar food ingredients takes place only when they are taken habitually. Occasional intake of such food does not cause any such effect.

Such increase or decrease of dhatu by similar or dissimilar food ingredients takes place only when they are taken habitually. Occasional intake of such food does not cause any such effect.

Attributes:

 

The twenty attributes represent ten pairs of mutually opposite attributes. For example, effects of substances having one pair of such mutually contradictory attributes, viz. guru and laghu are described. These specific attributes directly take part in increase and decrease of dosha and body tissues.   

==== Attributes ====

 

The twenty attributes represent ten pairs of mutually opposite attributes. For example, effects of substances having one pair of such mutually contradictory attributes, viz. guru and laghu are described. These specific attributes directly take part in increase and decrease of dosha and body tissues.  

   

Samanya is considered in view of guna (attributes) as well as jati (form). For example the properties and form of meat are similar to Mamsa dhatu. Therefore meat can be used in condition of depletion of mamsa. This is applied also in cases, where form is different but properties are similar, such as milk to shukra. We already discussed about the effect of mamsa on mamsa dhatu. The immature foetus in the form of egg etc. is a conglomeration of all dhatus. Hence, the mother’s consuming a chicken egg would promote all the dhatus of her foetus. Karma (activities) here includes sedentary habit, anxiety etc.  

Samanya is considered in view of guna (attributes) as well as jati (form). For example the properties and form of meat are similar to Mamsa dhatu. Therefore meat can be used in condition of depletion of mamsa. This is applied also in cases, where form is different but properties are similar, such as milk to shukra. We already discussed about the effect of mamsa on mamsa dhatu. The immature foetus in the form of egg etc. is a conglomeration of all dhatus. Hence, the mother’s consuming a chicken egg would promote all the dhatus of her foetus. Karma (activities) here includes sedentary habit, anxiety etc.  

Factors responsible for strength:

 

==== Factors responsible for strength ====

 

The child is characterized by two fundamental facts- development and growth. Development refers to the increase of functional capacity in perfect form resulting from production of specialised tissues from unspecialised ones.

The child is characterized by two fundamental facts- development and growth. Development refers to the increase of functional capacity in perfect form resulting from production of specialised tissues from unspecialised ones.

Growth means increase in the size of various parts and organs of the body by multiplication of cells and intercellular components during the period commencing from fertilization to physical maturity. Changes in size are outcomes of three underlying cellular processes: (a) an increase in cell number or hyperplasia; (b) an increase in cell size or hypertrophy; and (c) an increase in intercellular substances or accretion. Hyperplasia, hypertrophy and accretion all occur during growth. This increase in body size is limited by predetermined constitutional and hereditary factors. It is however influenced by exogenous factors like diet, climate, race, environment etc.[4]

Growth means increase in the size of various parts and organs of the body by multiplication of cells and intercellular components during the period commencing from fertilization to physical maturity. Changes in size are outcomes of three underlying cellular processes: (a) an increase in cell number or hyperplasia; (b) an increase in cell size or hypertrophy; and (c) an increase in intercellular substances or accretion. Hyperplasia, hypertrophy and accretion all occur during growth. This increase in body size is limited by predetermined constitutional and hereditary factors. It is however influenced by exogenous factors like diet, climate, race, environment etc.[4]

Effect of season:

 

==== Effect of season ====

 

During the year, there are periods of more rapid growth when growth rate is three times greater than the time of slowest growth. These periods of growth rate are synchronized with the seasons, and most rapid growth occurs in spring. (Marshall,1971)[5] Climate is also affected by high altitude, where people exposed to lower oxygen saturation in the air have a shorter stature.(Eveleth PB,1990).[6]

During the year, there are periods of more rapid growth when growth rate is three times greater than the time of slowest growth. These periods of growth rate are synchronized with the seasons, and most rapid growth occurs in spring. (Marshall,1971)[5] Climate is also affected by high altitude, where people exposed to lower oxygen saturation in the air have a shorter stature.(Eveleth PB,1990).[6]

Effect of nutrition:

 

Malnutrition results in failure to grow, involving both weight and height. Increased growth hormone secretion occurs in protein malnutrition, presumably inducing mobilization of the remaining fat tissue. On the other hand, growth hormone levels are decreased in calorie malnutrition. When malnutrition is corrected, the affected children soon recover, and when this reversal occurs at a young age, most children will attain a complete remission in height and weight to equal their siblings before puberty. (Henriette A,1993)[7] Effect of stress:

==== Effect of nutrition ====

 

Malnutrition results in failure to grow, involving both weight and height. Increased growth hormone secretion occurs in protein malnutrition, presumably inducing mobilization of the remaining fat tissue. On the other hand, growth hormone levels are decreased in calorie malnutrition. When malnutrition is corrected, the affected children soon recover, and when this reversal occurs at a young age, most children will attain a complete remission in height and weight to equal their siblings before puberty. (Henriette A,1993)[7]  

 

==== Effect of stress ====

 

Acute stress elicits a burst of growth hormone secretion, but chronic exposure to stress such as is caused by psychosocial deprivation suppresses growth hormone secretion, resulting in failure to grow. Once the stress is removed, growth hormone secretion rapidly returns to normal and then there is a period of catch-up growth. Postnatal growth is affected by nutrition, socioeconomic factors, disease, urbanization, psychosocial stress, and physical activity. There is a complex interaction among these different factors, and periods of retardation can be compensated by ensuing catch-up growth if the adverse factors are remedied. (Henriette A,1993)[7]Excellence of mind:

Acute stress elicits a burst of growth hormone secretion, but chronic exposure to stress such as is caused by psychosocial deprivation suppresses growth hormone secretion, resulting in failure to grow. Once the stress is removed, growth hormone secretion rapidly returns to normal and then there is a period of catch-up growth. Postnatal growth is affected by nutrition, socioeconomic factors, disease, urbanization, psychosocial stress, and physical activity. There is a complex interaction among these different factors, and periods of retardation can be compensated by ensuing catch-up growth if the adverse factors are remedied. (Henriette A,1993)[7]Excellence of mind:

The sympathetic nervous system regulates the function of the immune system primarily via adrenergic neurotransmitters released through neuronal routes. Neuroendocrine regulation of immune function is essential for survival during stress or infection and to modulate immune responses in inflammatory disease. Glucocorticoids are the main effector end point of this neuroendocrine system and, through the glucocorticoid receptor, have multiple effects on immune cells and molecules.(Webster JI,2002)[8]. (13)

The sympathetic nervous system regulates the function of the immune system primarily via adrenergic neurotransmitters released through neuronal routes. Neuroendocrine regulation of immune function is essential for survival during stress or infection and to modulate immune responses in inflammatory disease. Glucocorticoids are the main effector end point of this neuroendocrine system and, through the glucocorticoid receptor, have multiple effects on immune cells and molecules.(Webster JI,2002)[8]. (13)

Factors responsible for transformation of food:

 

==== Factors responsible for transformation of food ====

 

Ahara parinamakara bhava (factors responsible for the process of digestion) should be considered in both the ways i.e. prakrita and vikrita. Food consumed in the appropriate manner (by considering ahara parinamakara bhava) leads to the production of param sukshma ahara rasa which in turn leads to good health. Conversely, improperly formed ahara rasa may in turn become the cause for the production of various diseases.(15)

Ahara parinamakara bhava (factors responsible for the process of digestion) should be considered in both the ways i.e. prakrita and vikrita. Food consumed in the appropriate manner (by considering ahara parinamakara bhava) leads to the production of param sukshma ahara rasa which in turn leads to good health. Conversely, improperly formed ahara rasa may in turn become the cause for the production of various diseases.(15)

The ahara which has undergone the complete digestion process only is able to provide nutrition to the body. (Cha.chi 15/5). Improperly formed ahara rasa (not having undergone the proper digestion process) cannot do the nourishment of dhatu. (16)

The ahara which has undergone the complete digestion process only is able to provide nutrition to the body. (Cha.chi 15/5). Improperly formed ahara rasa (not having undergone the proper digestion process) cannot do the nourishment of dhatu. (16)

Fetal development:

 

==== Fetal development ====

 

According to contemporary science, it has been observed that after the formation of the zygote, the cells further divide and form into a ball of cells called blastocyst. Once this blastocyst reaches the uterus, it buries itself in the uterine wall. The blastocyst sticks tightly to the wall of the uterus and receives nourishment from the mother's blood. Further the embryonic cells multiply and start to take on specific functions. This is called differentiation. Blood cells, kidney cells, and nerve cells all develop. Simultaneously the brain, spinal cord, heart and gastrointestinal tract begin to develop. Further the arm, leg buds, cranial nerves, main vessels, lungs and other begin to develop. [9, 10]

According to contemporary science, it has been observed that after the formation of the zygote, the cells further divide and form into a ball of cells called blastocyst. Once this blastocyst reaches the uterus, it buries itself in the uterine wall. The blastocyst sticks tightly to the wall of the uterus and receives nourishment from the mother's blood. Further the embryonic cells multiply and start to take on specific functions. This is called differentiation. Blood cells, kidney cells, and nerve cells all develop. Simultaneously the brain, spinal cord, heart and gastrointestinal tract begin to develop. Further the arm, leg buds, cranial nerves, main vessels, lungs and other begin to develop. [9, 10]

Hence it may be appropriate to accept Dhanvantari’s view that all the organs start developing simultaneously. (21)

Hence it may be appropriate to accept Dhanvantari’s view that all the organs start developing simultaneously. (21)

The presently accepted cephalopelvic position correlates well to the position of the foetus explained in the classics.(22)

The presently accepted cephalopelvic position correlates well to the position of the foetus explained in the classics.(22)

Modern embryology supports that the fetal blood flows through villi in which the capillaries are covered only by fetal tissue. It bathes directly in the intervillous space in a pool of flowing maternal blood. The transfer, processing and synthesis of nutrients under the influence of maternal, fetal and placental hormones is carried by various parts of the placenta through several modes. Lipid soluble molecules such as respiratory gases, anesthetic agents, several drugs and unconjugated bilirubin cross easily by penetrating the cell membrane.  Small water soluble molecules such as urea and water also cross easily by diffusion or osmosis. A specific carrier molecule facilitate transfer of glucose. Specific carrier mediated processes are carried to transport most amino acids, calcium, potassium and phosphorous from mother to fetus. This consumes energy leads to active transport leading to higher concentration in fetal than in maternal plasma. IgG, iron and vitamin B12 are transported by means of a receptor mediated mechanism into the fetal circulation. Any changes in the rate of blood flow hardly affect permeability of lipid insoluble substances. . Their passage is ‘membrane limited’ and control of their transfer is largely by a change in placental tissue carrier mechanisms. Large increases in placental blood flow as gestation proceeds are important so that the transport of respiratory gases can be increased to meet the needs of the growing fetus. This mechanism of transport is similar to upasneha and upasweda nyaya described in this chapter. [11] (23)

Modern embryology supports that the fetal blood flows through villi in which the capillaries are covered only by fetal tissue. It bathes directly in the intervillous space in a pool of flowing maternal blood. The transfer, processing and synthesis of nutrients under the influence of maternal, fetal and placental hormones is carried by various parts of the placenta through several modes. Lipid soluble molecules such as respiratory gases, anesthetic agents, several drugs and unconjugated bilirubin cross easily by penetrating the cell membrane.  Small water soluble molecules such as urea and water also cross easily by diffusion or osmosis. A specific carrier molecule facilitate transfer of glucose. Specific carrier mediated processes are carried to transport most amino acids, calcium, potassium and phosphorous from mother to fetus. This consumes energy leads to active transport leading to higher concentration in fetal than in maternal plasma. IgG, iron and vitamin B12 are transported by means of a receptor mediated mechanism into the fetal circulation. Any changes in the rate of blood flow hardly affect permeability of lipid insoluble substances. . Their passage is ‘membrane limited’ and control of their transfer is largely by a change in placental tissue carrier mechanisms. Large increases in placental blood flow as gestation proceeds are important so that the transport of respiratory gases can be increased to meet the needs of the growing fetus. This mechanism of transport is similar to upasneha and upasweda nyaya described in this chapter. [11] (23)

Kalayoga is interpreted as ‘attainment of proper time’ e.g. development of body in adolescence (seventeen years of age and onwards). The seasons of the year are also considered. Swabhava means the invisible factor of nature. Avighata is the absence of inhibiting factors such as excessive sexual act, mental stress etc. Avighata to ahara and thus interprets in restricted sense as ‘non-antagonism of dietary factors’. (12)

Kalayoga is interpreted as ‘attainment of proper time’ e.g. development of body in adolescence (seventeen years of age and onwards). The seasons of the year are also considered. Swabhava means the invisible factor of nature. Avighata is the absence of inhibiting factors such as excessive sexual act, mental stress etc. Avighata to ahara and thus interprets in restricted sense as ‘non-antagonism of dietary factors’. (12)

Inhabitants of certain places like Sindh are strong by nature. This is because of the specific characteristics of those places. Birth in such countries makes the individuals strong. Similarly, in certain seasons like hemanta and shishira, people generally gain strength, and birth in such seasons makes the individual strong. Moderate climate when there is no excess heat and cold and which is pleasant also promotes the strength of the individual.  

Inhabitants of certain places like Sindh are strong by nature. This is because of the specific characteristics of those places. Birth in such countries makes the individuals strong. Similarly, in certain seasons like hemanta and shishira, people generally gain strength, and birth in such seasons makes the individual strong. Moderate climate when there is no excess heat and cold and which is pleasant also promotes the strength of the individual.  

Mind also has control over the body. (Cha.Sha. 4/ 36). If the individual is mentally strong, then his body will also be quite strong. Some people are also endowed with a strong physique because of their virtuous actions in their past lives. Habitual performance of exercise is also known to promote the strength of an individual.(13)

Mind also has control over the body. (Cha.Sha. 4/ 36). If the individual is mentally strong, then his body will also be quite strong. Some people are also endowed with a strong physique because of their virtuous actions in their past lives. Habitual performance of exercise is also known to promote the strength of an individual.(13)

Eight factors to be kept in mind for the administration of food in appropriate manner are described in first chapter of vimana sthana(Cha.Vi. 1/21-22). Balanced use of these eight factors regarding diet is considered as samayoga. (14)

Eight factors to be kept in mind for the administration of food in appropriate manner are described in first chapter of vimana sthana(Cha.Vi. 1/21-22). Balanced use of these eight factors regarding diet is considered as samayoga. (14)

Ushma takes part directly in the digestion of food and the remaining factors take part indirectly. Vata transports food to the site of agni to facilitate and stimulate digestion (Cha.Chi.15/6,17). (Cha.Chi.15/17). Apart from this, specific time is required to complete the digestive process. The detail process of digestion and metabolism is described in fifteenth chapter of chikitsa sthana(Cha. Chi.15/6-11).(15)

Ushma takes part directly in the digestion of food and the remaining factors take part indirectly. Vata transports food to the site of agni to facilitate and stimulate digestion (Cha.Chi.15/6,17). (Cha.Chi.15/17). Apart from this, specific time is required to complete the digestive process. The detail process of digestion and metabolism is described in fifteenth chapter of chikitsa sthana(Cha. Chi.15/6-11).(15)