The Seven Dhatus (Tissues) in Ayurvedic Medicine

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The Seven Dhatus (tissues) in Ayurvedic

Medicine
The seven dhatus are the seven tissues of the body. In English they are plasma, blood, muscle, fat, bone,
marrow / nerve, and reproductive tissue. In Sanskrit, they are rasa, rakta, mamsa, medas, asthi, majja,
and shukra respectively. These are the structures that make up the body. However, like most concepts in
vedic literature, they are much more than their one-dimensional definitions. They are integral to
understanding the relationships of the tissues in the body, and they are sites that doshas enter when they
cause disease. An understanding of the seven dhatus is important to understanding pathology; what goes
wrong in the body. When a dosha enters a dhatu, a proper understanding of the dhatu helps the
practitioner predict the symptoms that will manifest and provides clues to the best treatment.
Rasa Dhatu: A Closer Look at Plasma from the

Ayurvedic Perspective
Advanced Ayurvedic Theory
Rasa dhatu refers to the primary waters of the body. The word rasa means sap, juice, or liquid. In the
physical body, rasa refers directly to the plasma, or non cellular portion of the blood; the lymph, and
interstitial fluids. As watery secretions, rasa dhatu relates indirectly to breast milk and menstrual fluid.
Rasa is more than fluid, it is nourishment. Sugar and nutrients mix with the plasma and are carried by
vyana vayu to all of the tissues of the body. As such, when rasa dhatu is healthy, a person feels satiated.
The satisfaction one feels is both physical and psychological.
Physical satisfaction is the sense of health and well-being that every cell experiences when it is well
nourished. Psychological satisfaction is the feeling that our most basic needs have been met. As a result,
there is a solid foundation for healthy psychological growth. With physical and psychological
satisfaction, the foundation is set to be of service to society and fulfill ones dharma.
The rasa dhatu, being made up of the element water, has similar qualities. It is cold, heavy, moist, soft,
stable, smooth, flowing, cloudy, gross and dull. These qualities are very similar to kapha dosha, which
is made up of water and earth. Thus, the health of rasa dhatu plays an important role in determining the
health of kapha dosha. In the formation of the dhatus, kapha is the mala (waste product) produced by
the formation of rasa dhatu.
When rasa dhatu is depleted, the qualities of kapha and water diminish. The skin becomes dry and
rough, dryness in the bowels produces constipation and dry mucous membranes lose their ability to
resist disease, becoming fertile ground for infections. In addition, the secretion of breast milk is
diminished in nursing mothers and menstrual flow becomes scanty. In the mind, nothing seems right.
There is growing dissatisfaction that cant be easily satiated by changes in the environment.
It is vata and pitta doshas that are the cause of rasa dhatu depletion. Vata dosha, made up of air and
ether, enters the rasa dhatu and dries it out. Pitta dosha, made up primarily of fire, enters the rasa dhatu
and burns it out. Activities that reduce rasa dhatu are those that increase vata and pitta doshas. Activities
such as excessive travel, talking too much, and being very busy as well as diet that lacks in water and
oils increase vata dosha. Pitta dosha increases due to a lifestyle that is too highly focused, competitive,
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The Seven Dhatus (tissues) in Ayurvedic Medicine https://www.ayurvedacollege.com/book/export/html/558
and intense, as well as from a diet that is too spicy hot. Thus, a lifestyle that increases vata or pitta
dosha decreases the rasa dhatu resulting in dissatisfaction in the mind and the consequences of dryness
in the body.
Then rasa dhatu is in excess, the qualities of water and kapha dosha increase. Excess leads to water
retention, swelling, and mucous formation in the body. In women, menstrual flow becomes heavier and
lasts longer. The mind becomes dull, cloudy and sluggish, and it lacks luster. The mind is happy but that
happiness is superficial. It is dependent upon retaining the material objects of satisfaction.
It is kapha dosha that increases the rasa dhatu, and the rasa dhatu that increases kapha dosha. The two
are inseparable. It is the water element that feeds both of them. Kapha dosha increases when a person
becomes too lazy or quiet and when the diet is too moist and heavy.
In the subtle body, the qualities of water flow through Svadhishthana chakra and ida nadi, bringing
about deeper feelings and drives, such as desire, compassion, and love. When rasa dhatu is healthy,
these feelings and drives are well balanced within the constitutional nature of the individual. As rasa
dhatu becomes depleted, the flow of watery qualities through the nadi and chakra decreases, resulting in
a decrease in these feelings and drives. When rasa dhatu is in excess, these feelings and drives increase.
However, as they increase beyond their constitutional balance, they become tainted by the attachments
and desires of the ego.
Healing rasa dhatu means restoring the proper quantity and quality of water. The proper quantity is
based upon the constitutional tendency of the individual. Those with more kapha in their constitution
will naturally have more rasa dhatu. This makes depletion less likely and excess more likely. Those with
more of a vata or pitta constitution tend to have a naturally lower amount of rasa dhatu and are more
susceptible to depletion. Those with a pitta nature tend to have a little more rasa than those with a vata
nature, as pitta dosha naturally contains some water.
The quantity of rasa dhatu depends upon fluid intake. While it is logical that water itself would build the
rasa dhatu, this is not entirely true. Rasa is more than water; it is the water that carries dissolved
nutrients. Salt and sugar are the most important of these nutrients. Salt, in addition to its many
physiological functions, helps retain water in the body. Sugar is the primary nutrient of the body. As a
result, taking juice is the best way to replenish rasa. Rasa is also replenished through the intake of sap-
type fluids, such as maple syrup and agave nectar. Thus, herbal teas that are sweetened with these
substances are much better than water alone in rebuilding rasa dhatu.
The quality of the rasa dhatu is dependent upon the health of agni, or digestion. Rasa dhatu is produced
from the digestion of food and liquid. Food and liquid are initially digested in the digestive system and,
according to Ayurvedic theory, turned into ahara rasa, a milky substance similar to chyle. This fluid is
then further digested within the sleshma dhara kala by the rasagni. The health of this fire determines the
quality of rasa produced. When the rasagni is ideal, healthy rasa dhatu is produced along with minimal
kapha dosha. In other words, transformation is efficient and there is little waste product produced.
When the rasagni is low, the efficiency of the transformation is reduced. The quantity of rasa produced
is actually greater but it is of poor quality. In addition, excessive waste is produced so kapha dosha
increases. When the rasagni is too high, it efficiently converts ahara rasa to rasa dhatu, but also burns up
some of the rasa dhatu that is being produced. Thus, a smaller amount of rasa dhatu is produced and
there is deficiency. There is also minimal waste. Therefore, kapha dosha is reduced.
The state of rasagni is dependent upon jatharagni--the main digestive fire. If jatharagni is healthy, so too
will be the rasagni. In order to determine the health of the rasagni it is necessary to observe the results
of digestion--the rasa dhatu. The rasa dhatu can be observed by evaluating the state of the mucous
membranes of the body as well as the quantity and quality of any breast milk or menstrual fluid
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produced.
It is easiest to observe the mucous membranes by looking inside the mouth, at the lips, or at the eyes. If
the membranes are dry, red or inflamed or if the lips are cracked, then rasa dhatu is depleted. The state
of the skin also tells about the state of rasa. When rasa dhatu is severely diminished, sweating is
decreased and the skin becomes dry and cracked. If the cause of the depletion is due to rasagni being
too strong, there will be signs of excess heat, such as burning and redness of the membranes. This is due
to an increase in pitta dosha. If the cause of depletion is due to vata dosha, it will have been caused by
an insufficient intake of appropriate fluids along with a fluctuating, unstable agni. There is simply not
enough fluid to build adequate rasa dhatu and, due to the variable nature of rasagni, that conversion is
poor. On the other hand, if the mucous membranes are excessively moist and mucousy, the skin is
excessively moist, or menstrual fluids and breast milk are produced in excess, then rasagni is low and
rasa and kapha dosha are in excess.
In order to raise the state of jatharagni and rasagni and lower the amount of rasa being produced, it is
important to take in hot spices such as ginger, cumin, and black pepper. These should be taken while
reducing the amount of salty and sweet fluids in the diet. In order to lower the state of jatharagni and
rasagni and increase the amount of rasa being produced, it is important to takes in heavy, harder to
digest foods such as fats and oils. These foods are classified as having a sweet taste and include many
nuts and meats. Nuts contain large amounts of oils and meats contain salty juice (animal rasa and rakta).
Food should be cooked in a large amount of ghee and other oils, as well. These foods should be taken
with an appropriate, but not excessive, amount of spice. The bitter taste also reduces rasagni. However,
when rasa dhatu is already depleted, it should not be used; it has a drying nature.
In summary, rasa dhatu provides the body and mind with sustenance. It is the sap that runs through the
vessels of our bodies. It is important to take good care of it and assure that life is satisfying.
Rakta Dhatu: A Closer Look at Blood from the

Rakta dhatu refers to the primary fire of the body. The word rakta means colored as well as reddened.
Depending upon its usage, it can also mean impassioned. Each of these meanings has important
implications from the perspective of health and healing. In the physical body, rakta refers directly to the
blood, specifically the red blood cells, and indirectly to the tendons and the bile.
Rakta dhatu is more than blood. It is the carrier of the fire that invigorates the body and mind. As such,
when rakta dhatu is healthy, a person feels energized with a healthy passion for life. When rakta dhatu is
in excess, heat in the body increases, the tissues of the body experience inflammation, and the mind
experiences greater intensity and sharper focus. When rakta dhatu is deficient, the heat in the body
decreases and the tissues of the body become cold and stiff while the mind loses its sharpness and focus.
The rakta dhatu, being made up primarily of the element fire, has similar qualities. It is hot, light, dry,
hard, unstable, rough, flowing, clear, subtle and sharp. These qualities are very similar to pitta dosha
which is made up of mostly fire and a little water. Thus, the health of rakta dhatu plays an important
role in determining the health of pitta dosha. In the formation of the dhatus, pitta dosha is the mala
(waste product) produced by the formation of rakta dhatu. Rakta dhatu also has a special relationship to
the liver. The liver is the site of origin of the raktavaha srota, which is the channel through which the
unstable form of rasa (posya rasa dhatu) must pass prior to the formation of rakta. When the rakta dhatu
is overheated, so too is the posya rasa dhatu. As a result, the liver and spleen become overheated and
possibly enlarged. This is what occurs during hepatitis.
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When rakta dhatu is depleted, the qualities of pitta dosha and fire diminish. A person feels cold, the skin
loses its luster becoming pale or dusty gray, and coldness causes the body to hold on to heat by
becoming constipated and by reducing urination and sweat. In the mind, depletion of the rakta dhatu
leads to dullness, and difficulty processing and understanding new information. This often leads to
confusion and misunderstandings.
When the rakta dhatu is in excess, the qualities of pitta dosha and fire increase. A person feels warmer.
As heat builds up in the body, the body tries to release the heat. This occurs in several ways. One way is
through the skin. Vasodilatation brings blood to the surface in order to cool it off. This makes the skin
appear redder. At first, the skin takes on a nice luster but if the heat continues to build, rashes develop.
Vasodilatation may also be seen in the eyes which also become reddened. The body tries to release the
excess heat along with the malas of the body. The frequency of bowel movements increases and the
stools may become loose. The frequency of urination also increases. The most noticeable sign of the
body trying to reduce excess heat, however, is often experienced as an increase in sweat. If the excess
heat can not be adequately removed, it will result in burning sensations within the mucous membranes
and eventually inflammation and fever. As the heat spreads, any tissue or organ can be affected.
It is vitiation of the pitta dosha that causes the rakta dhatu to increase. This is often a confusing concept
as pitta dosha, being light, depletes the rest of the dhatus. Pitta dosha, however, increases the rakta dhatu
due to their similar natures. The fire of pitta increases the fire of the rakta dhatu. An increase in the
rakta dhatu results in feeling warmer and more intense. Lifestyle factors that increase the rakta dhatu are
those that increase pitta dosha such as intellectual study, focus and exercise as well as a diet that is too
hot and spicy. While pitta dosha vitiation usually increases the rakta dhatu when it goes on for too long
or becomes too intense, it will eventually burn out the dhatu. This results in a decrease in the dhatu. The
body becomes unable to hold onto the heat feels cold and becomes easily fatigued. Most practitioners
equate this with a vata imbalance. However, it is the result of burn out.
When the rakta dhatu has increased, all of the activities of the body become more intense. In women,
menstrual flow intensifies becoming very heavy but only for a few days. A persons mood intensifies
and small things seem very important. Ones sense of dharma intensifies but the imbalance leads to a
state of mind in which the end justifies the means. Thus, integrity is often compromised for the sake of
accomplishment. As heat builds throughout the body, there is joint and skin inflammation, redness of
the eyes and even the blood vessels themselves become inflamed. Fever is possible. Many of these
symptoms occur within the family of Rheumatic or Connective Tissue Disorders. These diseases result
in an auto-immune response that generates inflammation. It is the pitta dosha that increases the rakta
dhatu and the rakta dhatu that increases the pitta dosha. The two are inseparable. Thus, whenever pitta
dosha is vitiated, the rakta dhatu must be treated and visa versa.
Vata vitiation results in a decrease of the rakta dhatu. The light nature of vata dosha can reduce the red
blood cells count. The cold nature of vata dosha reduces the fire-carrying capacity of the rakta dhatu. As
a result of depletion, the body becomes both cold and fatigued. Activities that reduce the rakta dhatu are
those that vitiate vata dosha such as irregular eating habits and skipping meals. These habits result in
malabsorption and malnutrition.
Vitiation of kapha dosha has an interesting effect on the rakta dhatu. Due to its heavy and gross nature,
kapha dosha increases the rakta dhatu. This may result in a greater number or size of the red blood cells.
However, due to the cold nature of kapha dosha, the quantity of heat carried by the rakta dhatu
decreases. Thus, the patient experiences a lack of energy (sluggishness) as well as a feeling of being
cold. Lifestyle factors that vitiate kapha dosha within the rakta dhatu include laziness, a lack of exercise,
a disinterest in intellectual exploration and a diet that is bland.
In the subtle body, the qualities of fire flow through the manipura chakra and the pingala nadi bringing
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about strong and intense drives and feelings including: passion, focus, reason and logic. The state of the
rakta dhatu is tied to the flow of prana through these energetic channels. When rakta dhatu is healthy,
these feelings and drives are well balanced within the constitutional nature of the individual. As rakta
dhatu becomes depleted the flow of fiery qualities through the nadi and chakra decrease and there is a
decrease in these feelings and drives. When rakta dhatu is in excess, these feelings and drives increase.
However, as they increase beyond their constitutional balance, they become tainted by the attachments
and the desires of the ego.
Healing the rakta dhatu means restoring the proper quantity and quality of fire in the body and mind.
The proper quantity is based upon the constitutional tendency of the individual. Those with more pitta
in their constitution will naturally have more rakta dhatu. This makes depletion less likely and excess
more likely. Those with more of a vata constitution tend to have a naturally lower amount of rakta dhatu
and are most susceptible to depletion. Those with a kapha constitution tend to have an adequate quantity
of rakta dhatu. However, the dhatu tends to be of poorer quality.
The quantity and quality of rakta dhatu depends upon the intake of the fire element. Food must first be
digested by the main digestive fire (jatharagni). This produces ahara rasa which is then digested by
rasagni to produce rasa dhatu and its related tissues. A portion of the rasa dhatu is then digested by the
raktagni to produce rakta dhatu and its related tissues. When rakta agni is functioning properly and
when it has received adequate rasa for transformation, the rakta produced will be of an ideal quantity
and of the highest quality. When the raktagni is low, a greater amount of rakta is produced. However,
this is of poor quality. This occurs when kapha is vitiated. When raktagni is too high, less rakta is
produced but it is supercharged in the sense that it is very hot. This is what occurs when pitta is vitiated.
When raktagni is variable, too little rakta is produced and it is of poor quality. This is what occurs when
vata dosha is vitiated. Thus, the care of the rakta dhatu is dependent upon the health of raktagni. Since
the health of the rakta agni is partially dependent upon the health of jatharagni, attention must be paid to
both agnis in order to restore health.
In order to evaluate the health of the rakta dhatu, the blood should be evaluated. The red blood cell
count tells of the quantity of rakta dhatu that is present. Cellular morphology and the levels of
hemoglobin are indicators of its quality. Of course, not all ayurvedic practitioners have the ability to
order blood tests or have been trained to read them. And, even if they were, blood tests alone are
insufficient to tell the health of the rakta dhatu as the dhatu is more than blood. Some imbalances do not
show up in the blood tests but can be observed in other ways. Examination of the rakta dhatu should
include an examination of the complexion of an individual, palpation of the liver for size and tenderness
and observation of the sclera of the eyes for red or yellow discoloration. The tendons of the body should
be palpated and the practitioner should inquire if there is a history of tendonitis. The tendons are an
upadhatu of the formation of the rakta dhatu. Tendonitis is one indicator of pitta vitiation within the
rakta dhatu. While taking the case history, the practitioner should also inquire as to whether there is a
recent history of abnormal bleeding from any part of the body. When pitta enters the rakta dhatu,
bleeding in the body tends to increase. While many of these indicators are found in the late stages of
rakta dhatu vitiation by pitta dosha, the earliest indicator is often just feeling warmer than usual or
becoming more sensitive to heat.
Mamsa Dhatu: A Closer Look at the Muscles

from the Ayurvedic Perspective
The term "mamsa dhatu" literally means "flesh" or "meat," but in Ayurveda it refers to the muscles of the body. In the
physical body, mamsa dhatu refers directly to the muscles and indirectly to the ligaments and skin, which are upadhatus
formed as the unstable form of rakta dhatu (posaka rakta) is converted to mamsa dhatu.
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Mamsa dhatu is more than muscle; it is the provider of strength, courage, fortitude, and self-confidence. It is also the
vehicle through which we express ourselves. When healthy, our muscles work in a modest fashion to express the needs and
desires of the ego, while also available to express the creative inspiration of the Divine. In other words, our flesh (body) is
the expressive vehicle of both the jivatman (that part of our soul that identifies with the ego) and the paramatman (that
part of our soul that identifies with the Divine).
Muscle is built from earth and fire, and is then motivated by air. Earth provides the substance from which the bulky
structure of muscle is made, and fire ignites the engine that directs its focus and action. Muscle is a highly metabolic
tissue. While earth and fire play their fundamental roles in building the tissue, it is air that inspires and initiates its
motion.
In order to produce healthy mamsa dhatu, adequate earth must be consumed through the diet. Earth element is found in
large amounts within grains, nuts, meats and legumes. Consumption alone, however, is not enough to build mamsa dhatu.
The earth element must be properly digested so that its qualities can be reused to build mamsa dhatu. Thus, jatharagni
(main digestive fire) must be healthy, as well as the mamsagni--the agni which transforms posaka rakta dhatu into mamsa
dhatu. While the function of the mamsagni is partially dependent upon jatharagni (the health of all secondary agnis
depend on jatharagni), mamsagni itself is affected directly by exercise. The more a person exercises, the stronger
mamsagni becomes.
When mamsagni is too low, and there is adequate earth taken into the body, muscle and other tissues form but they are of
low quality. As such, they are hard but proportionately weak. These muscles can do little work relative to their size. When
mamsagni is too high, and there is adequate earth taken into the body, the muscles that form will be lean and strong but
prone to inflammation. When mamsagni is balanced, the earth that is taken in will be converted to muscle that is healthy
and capable of large amounts of work without injury.
In the event that there is not enough earth element present to generate mamsa dhatu, then the body tissues that are
formed will always be inadequate regardless of the state of mamsagni. However, if mamsagni is strong, the body will
become very lean, the tissue formed will be prone to inflammation, and eventually, if there is not enough earth to sustain
the muscles, the agni itself will begin to devour the mamsa dhatu and there will be muscle wasting.
Udana vayu is the force that inspires the contraction of muscle so that work (expression) can be accomplished. When
mamsa dhatu is healthy, work is generated in a balanced and healthy manner. In the sattvic individual (one with a pure
consciousness), the work generated is an expression of the Divine will. In the rajasic and tamasic individual (one with a
distracted or ignorant consciousness), the work generated is an expression of personal will or ego.
Mamsa dhatu, made up of earth and fire, has the following qualities: hot, heavy, dry, hard, unstable, rough, dense, cloudy,
gross, and sharp. These qualities are similar to a combination of pitta and kapha doshas and, as such, these doshas play the
greatest role in its development and health. A balanced kapha dosha provides for proper structure and a balanced pitta
dosha for proper metabolic function. Disturbances in these doshas are responsible for alterations of form and function.
The amount of muscle and the thickness of the skin and ligaments depend upon a persons constitution. People with a vata
prakruti have minimal amounts of muscle and thin skin and ligaments even when healthy and balanced. Those with a pitta
nature have moderate muscular formation along with a moderate thickness of the skin and ligaments. Individuals with a
kapha nature have larger muscle mass with thicker skin and ligaments. Regardless of the dosha, the tissues are healthy if
they are consistent in formation with the doshic balance of the individual and are tone and supple.
Vitiation of kapha dosha in the mamsavaha srota (channel that carries posaka rakta dhatu) results in low mamsagni. This
results in excessive mamsa dhatu formation but the tissue formed is hard and inflexible. In addition, the upadhatus
(secondary tissues) are similarly affected. Thus, the skin and ligaments of the body become thicker, harder, and tighter.
Psychologically, self-confidence is quiet and strong but the motivation and courage to take action is lacking.
Vitiation of pitta dosha in the mamsavaha srota results in high mamsagni. This results in less mamsa dhatu formation
though the tissue formed is strong and lean. Skin and ligaments also become thinner and all three are prone to
inflammation and injury. Psychologically, there is strength of will along with the courage to take chances and move
forward. Self-confidence is high. This is not necessarily as good as it sounds. Remember that pitta vitiation is an imbalance.
Thus, the sense of confidence and strength that is present is driven by the ego. It is the confidence and strength of will
that often results in injury and inflammation within the mamsa dhatu from pushing too hard.
Vitiation of vata dosha in the mamsavaha srota results in a variable mamsagni. This also results in minimal tissue
formation, and the tissue formed is weak. In addition, the skin and ligaments become thinner and prone to injury. Vata
vitiation within the mamsa dhatu is responsible for the greatest number of challenges within the tissues surrounding the
joints of the body. Psychologically, a lack of mamsa dhatu results in a lack of emotional strength, courage and self-
confidence. This creates timidity, along with physical and emotional fragility.
Summary of the Effects of Dosha Vitiation on the Mamsa Dhatu
Vata Pitta Kapha
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Tissue Minimal Minimal to Moderate Excessive
Muscle form and Weak and prone to injury Strong, but prone to Hard and inflexible
function inflammation
Psychological Emotional fragility, low self-confidence High self-confidence, strong Quiet self-confidence,
will lacking in courage
In the subtle body, the health of the mamsa dhatu is directly dependent upon the flow of prana through muladhara,
manipura and vishuddha chakras. Through muladhara chakra, the prana that carries the qualities of the earth element
flows allowing us to feel grounded and anchored to our bodies, and to the body of planet earth. Proper tissue development
is dependent upon a healthy connection to the mother Earth. The prana that carries the qualities of the fire element flows
through manipura chakra, igniting the metabolic functions of the body and mind increasing will and motivation. The role
of vishuddha chakra is less important in mamsa development but quite important as regards the proper use of the dhatu.
Vishuddha chakra is the home site of udana vayu, the force that inspires the muscles to act and, in doing so, express
ourselves.
Only when the doshas are in a healthy state of balance is it possible to utilize the mamsa dhatu at the highest level. A
healthy body allows for the complete fulfillment of dharma. Doshic disturbances of the body, disturbing the mamsa dhatu,
interfere with ones ability to serve.
Healing the mamsa dhatu means restoring the proper quantity and quality of earth and fire in the body and mind. The
proper quantity is based upon the constitutional tendency of the individual. Those with more kapha in their constitution
will naturally have more mamsa dhatu. This makes depletion less likely and excess more likely. Those with more of a vata
constitution tend to have a naturally lower amount of mamsa dhatu, and are the most susceptible to depletion. Those with
a pitta nature tend to have a moderate quantity of mamsa dhatu and are prone to depletion secondary to excessive fire.
In order to evaluate the health of the mamsa dhatu, the muscles, ligaments, and skin should be evaluated. Visual
inspection allows for a quick assessment of muscular development. Palpation of the muscles provides an indicator of tone.
Palpation of the ligaments and the joint capsule may reveal tenderness due to either vata or pitta vitiation. Vata vitiation
within the mamsa dhatu results a low pain threshold and high pain sensitivity. This tissue surrounding the pain will feel cool
to the touch. Pitta vitiation within the mamsa dhatu produces pain as well but the tissue surrounding the pain will feel
warm and may appear reddened. Kapha vitiation rarely produces pain, but the muscles will be taught and motion will be
limited. The tissue may feel fluidic or boggy. The skin should be evaluated for excessive dryness, red rashes, and fluidity
reflecting vata, pitta, and kapha doshas respectively.
Once the mamsa dhatu is vitiated, it is important for treatment to be as specific as possible. While general lifestyle
treatments that pacify the vitiated dosha are important, the more specific the treatment is, the more successful the
outcome will be.
Proper Treatment of the Mamsa Dhatu
When kapha has entered the mamsa dhatu and mamsavaha srota, the best treatment is reducing the quantity of heavy
foods and increasing agni in order to enhance muscle metabolism. Heavy foods such as nuts, grains, meats and legumes
should be minimized and lighter foods such as vegetables and seeds should be increased. The pungent taste is the best
taste, as it reduces mamsa dhatu and increases agni. Thus, foods should be prepared accordingly, and oral supplementation
with hot spicy herbs such as the trikatu combination is appropriate. Exercise is the surest way to increase mamsagni and
reduce the dhatu, but only if food intake is minimized. Aerobic exercise is best. If a patient lifts weights, then light
weights should be lifted with many repetitions as the joints move through their full range of motion. Additional time in the
sun is also supportive. Yoga asana to improve flexibility and heating pranayamas are also recommended.
When pitta has entered the mamsa dhatu and mamsavaha srota, the best treatment is to reduce the strength of jatharagni
and mamsagni. Jatharagni is reduced through the intake of cooling foods such as milk, butter, bitter vegetables, wheat,
and oats. The best taste for a quick effect is the bitter taste, as it quickly reduces all agnis. The sweet taste, however, is
better for the long-term management of high agni. Because it is heavy, its effects are longer lasting. Being moist, the
sweet taste also provides protection against the heat. Thus, muscle or ligament inflammation responds quickly to bitter
herbs such as kutki, gentian, and barberry. Long-term treatment and prevention of future inflammation can be better
accomplished through the use of licorice root, shatavari, or slippery elm. These herbs, being rejuvenative, also help
restore the injured tissue. Exercise should be completely avoided as this increases mamsagni. Once inflammation is
resolved, however, exercise can slowly begin but only in proportion to the amount of earth element that requires digestion.
Excessive time in the sun should be avoided. Pranayama practices that are cooling should be practiced. Cooling forms of
yoga asana may be practiced as soon as the inflammation is reduced.
When vata has entered the mamsa dhatu and mamsavaha srota, the best treatment is to stabilize jatharagni and mamsagni
and increase the intake of the earth element in proportion to the strength of agni. Stabilization is accomplished through
the formation of regular daily routines particularly those surrounding eating and sleeping habits. Earth element is
increased through the intake of heavier foods such as grains, meats, nuts, and legumes. In order to support and stabilize
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agni, warm spices should be taken, but not those that are very hot. The best tastes are sweet and sour as they contain
earth element. The sour taste, containing fire element, is even more beneficial as it has a long-term stabilizing effect on
agni. When the sweet taste is utilized, it should be warmed with spices to add fire. For example, when sweet herbs such as
ashwagandha, shatavari, licorice, and slippery elm are used, they should be mixed with warmer spices such as ginger,
cumin, or cinnamon. Exercise may be performed, but only in proportion to the amount of earth element that is in need of
digestion. Thus, more exercise can be recommended so long as more nourishment is provided. Pranayama practices that
balance agni, such as alternate nostril breathing, are beneficial. Yoga asana may also be practiced, but should be
restorative to the physical and energetic systems of the body.
In summary, a healthy mamsa dhatu is necessary to do the work of life. In order to keep it healthy, it is important to know
ones prakruti and vikruti and then to take the appropriate actions that are necessary to restore balance.
Medas Dhatu: A Closer Look at Fat from the

Psychology and the Medas Dhatu
Medas dhatu refers to the fatty tissues of the body. While the term can literally be translated to mean fat,
conceptually it means the concentrated waters of the body. In the physical body, in addition to body fat
the medas dhatu relates to sebum (skin oil) and the greater and lesser omentums, which are its upadhatu.
These tissues are the primary storage sites for excess body fat in the abdomen. Medas dhatu is formed
as posaka mamsa dhatu flows into the medo dhara kala and is digested by the medagni. The waste
products produced by the formation of medas dhatu are the skin secretions of sweat and sebum.
Medas dhatu is built primarily from the water element and secondarily from earth. The presence of
water reveals the nourishing nature of fatty tissue. The presence of earth reveals its role in stabilizing
the functions of the body and mind. Medas dhatu has a counterproductive relationship with the
remaining elements. As it fills the empty space of ether, it reduces inspiration. In excess, this results in a
closed mind. It also acts as an obstacle to air, slowing down the movements of the body. In excess, it
creates lethargy. It also suppresses fire, reducing metabolic activity. In excess, digestion becomes
sluggish and all dhatus begin to increase. However, for these same reasons, it is protective against
conditions of excess ether, air and fire.
In order to produce healthy medas dhatu, adequate earth and water must be consumed through the diet.
Consumption alone does not guarantee that healthy medas will be formed. The two elements must be
properly digested so that their qualities can be used to build body fat. Thus, jatharagni (main digestive
fire) must be healthy. If it is not healthy, rather than forming healthy medas dhatu, these same foods will
produce ama and toxify the body and mind.
Pathology and the Medas Dhatu
When kapha vitiates the medovaha srota and medo dhara kala, the medagni becomes low. As a result,
the qualities of earth and water taken into the body are digested slowly, causing a greater amount of
fatty tissue to form. The tissue formed is of low quality. While the excess quantity produces weight
gain, the low quality clogs the channels of the body, obstructs body motion, stagnates circulation, and
leads to greater emotional attachments.
When pitta vitiates the medovaha srota and medo dhara kala, the medagni becomes too high. As a
result, the qualities of earth and water are burned up quickly, leading to little medas production. The
medas that is produced is of high quality, but there is simply not enough to provide protection, stability,
and deep nourishment. This results in weight loss and the body and mind becomes dry, fragile, hard, and
depleted.
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When vata vitiates the medovaha srota and medo dhara kala, the medagni becomes variable. The
qualities of earth and water that have been consumed are irregularly digested. Less medas dhatu is
produced and it is of poor quality. Once again there is weight loss and the body becomes dry, fragile,
hard, and depleted. The poor quality of the tissue produced contributes to irregular deposits of fat with
the walls of the arteries, and the body and mind become hard.
Psychology and the Medas Dhatu
Medas dhatu is more than the fatty and oily tissues of the body. It plays an important role in our
capacity to love and be loved. You may recall that the health of the rasa dhatu plays an important role in
the capacity of a person to feel satisfied. This satisfaction, however, is fragile and dependent upon being
constantly fed. For this reason it is often short lived. The medas dhatu, being a concentrated form of
rasa, deepens and stabilizes this feeling. When the medas dhatu is healthy, there is a deeper and longer
lasting satisfaction that is less easily disturbed, providing a solid foundation for love.
The psychological aspect of medas dhatu is closely related to the functions of the majjavaha and
samjnavaha srotas. The role of medas dhatu within the majjavaha srota is to protect the nervous system
from excessive stimulation and in doing so keep the body calm. In the samjnavaha srota, a subtle
channel located in the heart that connects individualized consciousness with the divine, a much more
subtle form of medas protects consciousness from the intensity of the light of pure awareness.
As medas dhatu and kapha dosha increase, the majjavaha srota becomes sluggish and less responsive.
As neurological responses slow, so too does thought and the mind appears dull. The samjnavaha srota
becomes cloudy, reducing awareness. As a result, the mind gets wrapped up in the dramas of attachment
such as dependency, clinging, and desire. Love becomes conditional and takes the form of deep
attachment.
As medas dhatu and kapha dosha decrease, the majjavaha srota becomes excessively excitable. The
samjnavaha srota (channel of consciousness) becomes extraordinarily clear, but also fragile. The light of
pure awareness also becomes irritating and agitating. This occurs as vata or pitta dosha reduces medas
dhatu. As a result, the mind gets wrapped up in fear, anxiety, or anger. Love becomes difficult to feel
and when it is experienced, it is intense but fragile. In this state, the emotional heart is easily hurt and it
is difficult to recover from feelings of betrayal or the grief of loss.
In the subtle body, the health of the medas dhatu is directly dependent upon the flow of prana through
the muladhara and svadhishthana chakras. Through muladhara chakra, prana carries the qualities of the
earth element throughout the subtle body, creating the feeling of being grounded and stable. Through
svadhishthana chakra, prana carries the qualities of water affecting our capacity to desire and experience
pleasure through the senses. Therefore medas dhatu, related to the flow of water is the physical
manifestation of sensory desire. Strong sensory desire brings about increased medas dhatu (body fat).
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In the sattvic individual, kapha is in a balanced state with agni, and only a healthy amount of high
quality medas is produced and stored. In addition, there is proper flow of prana through the muladhara
and svadhishthana chakras. Earth and water are balanced for the constitution. Psychologically, the
unencumbered heart sees clearly by the divine light without being blinded or agitated by it. The
foundation for love is not only established, it becomes unconditional. Excessive or deficient medas
dhatu is a consequence of a rajasic or tamasic consciousness leading the mind into the dramas of
samsara (worldly existence) and away from the doorstep of unconditional love.
Evaluating the Medas Dhatu
In order to evaluate the health of the medas dhatu, visual examination of the physical body is necessary.
When medas dhatu is healthy, the body has an appropriate amount of body fat, the skin and hair are
neither too oily nor dry, and the voice is melodious and soft. Excessive medas dhatu reveals itself as
excessive soft tissue, particularly in the abdomen. In addition, the skin and hair will be excessively
moist and oily and the voice may become obstructed by oily phlegm. Deficient medas dhatu is observed
as minimal body fat exposing the articulations of the body and the ribs. The face may appear gaunt. In
addition, the skin and hair will be dry and there may be deeps cracks over the lips and on the tongue.
The voice may crack often or become piercing, whiney, or high pitched.
Proper Treatment of the Medas Dhatu
Healing the medas dhatu means restoring the proper quantity and quality of water and earth in the body
and normalizing the flow of these qualities through the chakras. The proper quantity varies with the
constitution of the individual. Those with more kapha in their constitution will naturally have more
medas dhatu. This makes depletion less likely and excess more likely. Those with more of a vata
constitution tend to have a naturally lower amount of medas dhatu and are the most susceptible to
depletion. Those with a pitta nature tend to have a moderate quantity of medas dhatu and are prone to
depletion only when exposed to excessive heat or when affected by a vata imbalance.
When kapha has entered the medas dhatu and medovaha srota, the best treatment is reducing the
quantity of heavy foods and increasing agni in order to enhance fat metabolism. Fatty foods such as nuts
and fatty meats should be minimized and lighter foods such as vegetables and seeds should be
increased. The pungent and bitter tastes reduce medas dhatu. Of the two, the pungent taste is best as it
also increases agni. Thus, foods should be prepared accordingly and oral supplementation with hot
spicy herbs such as the trikatu combination is helpful. Exercise, including vinyasa yoga practice along
with exposure to the sun and saunas, increases medagni and reduces the medas dhatu. Heating
pranayamas such as kapalabhati and surya bhedana also reduce the medas dhatu. Bija mantras such as
ham, yam, and ram are beneficial as they increase the dry and light qualities that reduce medas. Patients
should also avoid excessive sleep.
When pitta has entered the mamsa dhatu and mamsavaha srota, the best treatment is to reduce the
strength of jatharagni and medagni. Jatharagni is reduced through the intake of cooling foods such as
milk, butter, bitter vegetables, wheat, and oats. The best taste for a quick effect is the bitter taste. The
bitter taste is very reducing, and therefore ideal when there is infection. Bitter herbs are stronger than
foods and include kutki, gentian, and neem. However, because the bitter taste is reducing, it will lower
the quantity of medas in the body. Thus, if the patient is in a state of depletion, the sweet taste is best as
it is both cool and nourishing. Sweet herbs that reduce agni include shatavari, slippery elm, and licorice.
The bija mantra vam is best, as it cools and increases the qualities of the water element.
When vata has entered the medas dhatu and medovaha srota, the best treatment is to stabilize jatharagni
and medagni, and then slowly increase the intake of the water and earth elements as agni becomes
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stronger and more stable. Stabilization is accomplished through developing regular daily routines
particularly those surrounding eating and sleeping. Earth element is increased through the intake of
heavier foods such as grains, meats, nuts, and legumes. In order to support and stabilize agni, warm
spices should be taken, but not those that are very hot. Examples include fennel, fresh ginger, and
fenugreek. The best taste is the sour taste, as it increases and stabilizes the fire while nourishing the
body. The sweet taste builds medas dhatu but should be taken with warm spices to assure that agni is
strong enough to digest it. For example, when sweet herbs such as ashwagandha, shatavari, licorice, and
slippery elm are used, they should be mixed with warmer spices such as ginger, cumin, or cinnamon.
Exercise should be minimized in the depleted patient. Pranayama may be practiced in proportion to the
patients state of ojas. Alternate nostril breathing is best. Yoga asana may also be practiced but should
be restorative to the physical and energetic systems of the body. The best bija mantras to chant are lam
and vam, which increase the qualities of earth and water respectively. Patients should be supported to
sleep well and if necessary a little longer than usual until balance is restored.
In summary, a healthy medas dhatu leads to a body that acts like a well oiled machine and a heart that is
capable of love and devotion. In order to keep it healthy, it is important to know ones prakruti and
vikruti and then to take the appropriate actions to restore balance.
Asthi Dhatu: A Closer Look at the Bones from

the Ayurvedic Perspective
Asthi means bone. The asthi dhatu gives solid structure to the body. In the physical body, asthi dhatu is formed as posaka
(unstable) medas dhatu flows into the purisha dhara kala and is digested by the asthiagni. In addition to the formation of
the bones of the body, teeth are formed through this process and are thus the upadhatu (secondary tissue) of the
production of asthi dhatu. The waste products (malas) of this metabolic process are the hair and nails.
The purisha dhara kala is the membrane that holds the asthi agni. Purisha means feces. The term is also used to describe
the large intestine as in the purishavaha srota. Here lies an important clue of the relationship between health of the large
intestine and that of the bones. The large intestine is the home site of vata dosha. The close relationship between these
two tissues reveals the susceptibility of the bones to vata disorders. When there is pathology in the large intestine (gas,
constipation), the pathology is transferred to the bones which become more porous and air filled. Such is the case of
osteoporosis.
Bones are made up of a solid structure organized as a matrix. This matrix can be visualized as the letter X. The lines that
form the letter are solid and made of earth. The space between the lines is filled with air. Thus, bones create a solid but
light structure, allowing the body to easily move. Long bones have a hollow core that is filled with hematopoietic tissue
called the marrow. This is an aspect of the majja dhatu.
When the asthi agni is low, asthi dhatu is produced in excess. When this occurs, the tissue produced is denser. Those with a
kapha nature, having lower agni, produce thicker and denser bones. Those with a pitta nature, having higher agni, produce
bones that are not as dense, but are more metabolically active. This can lead to narrowing and weakness in the bones, as
well as inflammation if pitta becomes vitiated. Those with a vata nature, having a variable agni, produce less asthi dhatu,
and that which is produced is of poorer quality. It is thinner and more fragile.
In order to produce healthy asthi dhatu, adequate earth and air must be consumed in the proper balance through the diet.
Earth is present in sweet foods such as grains and nuts and astringent foods such as beans. Air is present in bitter and
pungent foods such as most vegetables. Consumption alone does not guarantee that healthy asthi will be formed. The two
elements must be properly digested so that their qualities can be used to build bones. Thus jatharagni (main digestive fire)
must be healthy. If it is not healthy, rather than forming healthy bones these same foods will produce ama and toxify the
body and mind.
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Pathology and the Asthi Dhatu
Bone pathologies can be simple or complex. Vata vitiation leads to weak or fragile bones that become osteoporotic and
fracture easily. Pitta vitiation leads to bone infections (osteomyelitis) and inflammation. Kapha vitiation leads to
excessively thick, dense bones. Other diseases of the bones are more complicated. Osteoarthritis is a combined vata-kapha
condition in which vata (age, motion and stress) is responsible for provoking growth in an irregular fashion leading to bone
spurs. Rheumatoid arthritis is a sannipatika condition whereby vata pushes kapha to cause irregular bone growth. Vata fans
the flames of pitta causing inflammation and bone destruction. Ama is also present. Osteoblastic bone cancer is a
sannipatika condition whereby vata simultaneously pushes kapha (bone growth) and fans the flames of agni within the
affected tissue, creating a high metabolic state for growth. Osteoclastic bone cancer has a dual dosha pathology whereby
vata combines with pitta resulting in a high metabolic state that destroys bone tissue.
Psychology and the Asthi Dhatu
Asthi dhatu is more than the structural tissues of the body. On a psychological level, it is what allows people to stand up
for themselves within the world. Ones stature is not a function of size but quality. When the asthi dhatu is weak, so is
ones ability to stand solid in the face of adversity or controversy. This should not be mistaken as courage. It is
steadfastness. It is the ability to be unwavering in ones convictions. When the asthi dhatu is healthy, there is a healthy
confidence in ones ideas, decisions, and beliefs. As the asthi dhatu increases and becomes excessive, the qualities of the
earth element increase and a person becomes overly attached, obstructive, and stubborn. It becomes difficult to move or
shift directions. When the asthi dhatu is deficient, the qualities of the earth element decrease and there is little
attachment, causing a person to shrink to the background, flowing with the will of others. Kapha dosha is responsible for
excesses in asthi dhatu. Vata dosha is responsible for deficiencies. Short term pitta imbalances do not greatly affect the
psychological aspect of the asthi dhatu. However, long term vitiation burns out the dhatu resulting in deficiency.
In the subtle body, the health of the asthi dhatu is dependent upon the flow through the muladhara chakra. Prana flowing
through this chakra carries the qualities of the earth element throughout the subtle body and creates a solid sense of self.
The flow of prana through anahata and vishuddha chakras is also important. Through these chakras, the qualities of air and
ether are circulated respectively. As the flow of prana increases through these chakras, so too do their respective
elemental qualities and this results in a weakening of the asthi dhatu both physically and psychologically.
Evaluating the Asthi Dhatu
As you cannot assess the health of the asthi dhatu directly except through medical testing, it is necessary to assess the
asthi dhatu via the upadhatus and malas of its production. Thus, by examining the hair, nails, and teeth the practitioner
can infer the state of the asthi dhatu.
When the asthi dhatu is deficient, hair density becomes scant. Hair loss may be distributed throughout the scalp or in
patches. In addition, palpation of the nails reveals that they have become thin and break easily. The teeth will appear
crooked or become darker (gray) than usual. These findings are consistent with deficiency due to vata vitiation.
When the asthi dhatu is in excess, hair density becomes full. In addition, the nails are thick and the teeth are large,
straight, and white. These are the signs of kapha vitiation within the asthi dhatu. However, these findings are more
difficult to discern than deficiency, because a person with a kapha prakruti will also exhibit these same findings. Thus,
secondary signs of kapha vitiation should also be observed, especially those within the digestive system, such as sluggish
digestion and the mind such as stubbornness. When these findings are present in addition to dense hair, thick nails, and
white teeth it can be assumed that kapha has entered the asthi dhatu.
When pitta has entered the asthi dhatu, the teeth and nails will become a pale shade of yellow and the hair will lose its
color and turn gray. Over time, the nails will become weaker and the hair may fall out as deficiency sets in due to burn
out.
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Proper Treatment of the Asthi Dhatu
Healing the asthi dhatu means restoring the proper quantity and quality of earth and air in the body and normalizing the
flow of these qualities through the chakras. The proper quantity varies with the constitution of the individual. Those with
more kapha in their constitution will naturally have strong asthi dhatu. This makes depletion less likely and excess more
likely. Those with more of a vata constitution tend to have a naturally lower amount of asthi dhatu and are the most
susceptible to depletion. Those with a pitta nature tend to have a moderate quantity of asthi dhatu, and are prone to
depletion only when exposed to excessive heat for an extended period or when affected by a vata imbalance.
Diet and the Asthi Dhatu
When vata dosha has entered the asthi dhatu, the best treatment is to increase the quantity of earth element in the diet.
Earth is found in the largest amount in sweet tasting foods such as grains, meats, nuts, and bones and to a lesser degree in
root vegetables. It is not found to any significant degree in fruits or leafy green vegetables. Thus, these should be
deemphasized in the diet.
When kapha dosha has entered the asthi dhatu, the best treatment is to decrease the quantity of earth element and
increase the quality of the air element. Foods that are high in air include most fruits and leafy green vegetables. Note that
excessive fruit may aggravate the watery aspect of kapha and so caution should be taken. The pungent and bitter tastes
are best for increasing the qualities of air in the body. Thus, increasing the use of spices is important. In general, the diet
should be light.
When pitta has entered the asthi dhatu, it is important to decrease the quality of the fire element. Thus, the diet should
be cool and deemphasize hot spices and cooked oils. Cooling foods that also nourish asthi dhatu such as whole milk, wheat,
and other grains should be taken. Beans may be taken if they are digested well and gas does not form.
Exercise, Yoga and the Asthi Dhatu
Exercise increases the asthi agni supporting the formation of high quality boney tissue. Care should be taken when
exercising however as weakness in the asthi dhatu makes the bones more likely to fracture. Thus, when significant
weakness is present, the patient should begin with mild weight bearing exercises. Walking is a healthy place for most
patients to begin. However, in the most severe situations as often occurs in the elderly, it may be best to begin with a
reduced weight bearing exercise such as water aerobics. As time goes on exercise can become more weight bearing and
may be practiced for longer periods of time. Weight bearing exercises are particularly beneficial for the spinal column,
hips and legs but do not benefit the wrists and shoulder. Additional exercises that place stress on these joints are also
important. A properly designed yoga practice can place appropriate stress on each of the joints of the body strengthening
the asthi dhatu while providing the additional benefits of deep relaxation and mindfulness.
Meditation, Chanting and the Asthi Dhatu
Meditation for spiritual realization increases the qualities of the ether element in the body and mind. Thus, meditation for
healing the asthi dhatu must be modified. Meditation while sitting on the floor creates a closer connection with the earth
and is better than in a chair. Attention on the muladhara chakra and its connection to the earth also supports building the
qualities of the earth element. Visualization of earth energy entering from the base of the spine during meditation and
being circulated by the muladhara chakra creates a greater sense of feeling grounded and steady. This supports asthi
dhatu. The mantra of the Muladhara chakra is lam. Quietly chanting lam with attention on muladhara chakra enhances the
qualities of earth in the body and mind.
Meditations that increase ether and air are beneficial when asthi dhatu is in excess and the earth element is too strong. Air
fills the space created by ether, and this purifies the asthi dhatu. Meditations on the anahata chakra and vishuddha chakras
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and chanting their respective bija mantras; yum and hum increase the qualities of air and ether respectively.
Herbs and the Asthi Dhatu
Several herbs are beneficial for treating bone weakness (osteoporosis) and support healing due to fractures. These
conditions are most commonly due to vata dosha vitiation. For these conditions comfrey, oatstraw and amalaki are all
excellent. Comfrey has long been used for supporting the healing of bones following fracture. It is cooling and moist and
balances vata and pitta doshas. Oatstraw is a cool tonic that also balances vata and pitta and has been shown to stimulate
bone growth. Amalaki, an outstanding general tonic for the body, is also traditionally used to support bone development.
Bhringaraj is an important herb that can be used for both tonification of the bones and purification. It is most beneficial
for pitta dosha. Guggul and kutki are two herbs that are specific for purification of the bones and best for treating kapha
dosha in the asthi dhatu.
In summary, a healthy asthi dhatu leads to strong bones capable of carrying us though our lifetime. They allow for motion
when movement is necessary, and steadiness in the face of adversity. In order to keep the dhatu healthy, it is important to
know ones prakruti and vikruti and then to take the appropriate actions to restore balance.
Majja Dhatu: A Closer Look at the Nervous

System from the Ayurvedic Perspective
Majja means marrow, as in bone-marrow (asthi-majja). However, the term has become synonymous with nervous system,
which is encased within bone like bone marrow. The skull is the casing of the brain. The vertebrae are the casing of the
spinal cord. While the brain and spinal cord make up the central nervous system, the majja dhatu is associated with the
entire nervous system. The nervous system and the bone marrow are treated as homologous structures in ayurveda.
In the physical body, majja dhatu is formed as posaka (unstable) asthi dhatu flows through the majjavaha srota into the
majja dhara kala and is digested by the majjagni. In addition to the formation of the marrow, the sclera and the sclerotic
fluids of the eye are formed. These are the upadhatus of the production of majja dhatu. The waste products (malas) of this
metabolic process are eye secretions.
The health of the majja dhatu is dependent upon the state of the majjagni residing within the majja dhara kala. When the
kala is infiltrated by vata dosha, agni becomes variable. When it is infiltrated by pitta dosha, agni typically become
increased. When kapha dosha infiltrates the kala, agni becomes low. The state of agni determines the quantity and quality
of the tissues that are formed.
Kapha dosha vitiation complex of the kala results in excessive tissue formation, though it is of low quality. Majja dhatu
(nervous system) becomes denser and thicker, resulting in slower movement of nerve impulses (prana). This is observable
in the mind as slower processing of sensory information and in the body as slower response times. Should kapha dosha
increase further, not only might it slow down the flow of prana, it may block or obstruct its flow entirely. This results in
aberrant flow. Symptoms of aberrant pranic flow secondary to a blockage mimic those of vata dosha, and are often
misdiagnosed as a primary vata imbalance.
Pitta dosha vitiation results in minimal to moderate tissue formation. The tissue formed is highly efficient. Prana moves
effectively through the nervous system. Processing and response times are quick. However, when pitta dosha increases too
much, the tissue formed becomes overly heated and prone to inflammation and excessive metabolism. Inflammation
results in neuritis. Excessive metabolism results in burning out the protective structures surrounding and within the nerves.
Examples include deterioration of the myelin sheath, as occurs in multiple sclerosis, and post viral syndromes. Within the
brain, neurological structures may burn out as well. This occurs in some cases of Parkinsons disease and dementia.
Vitiation of vata dosha results in irregular tissue formation and the tissue that is formed is of low quality and fragile. Prana
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may move excessively or irregularly. When formation is minimal the stabilizing factors within the nerve are diminished and
prana move quickly without restraint. Reactions are often sudden, too quick and not measured. Thus they may be
dramatic. When formation is irregular, prana may also move in an irregular manner, appearing at times to be excessive and
other times deficient. This results hyperactivity or hypoactivity. In addition, motion may be jerky, as occurs in tics and
some tremors. Long term vata imbalance ultimately results in drying and thinning of the tissues of the nervous system,
resulting in an inability of prana to move effectively. This appears to be a kapha imbalance as flow of prana is deficient.
However, its inability to move is not due to obstruction but damaged structure. Discerning this condition from a primary
kapha condition requires observing the broader effects of the dosha upon the body.
In order to produce majja dhatu the primary elements that must be taken in the proper balance are air and water. The
balance of air regulates the flow of nerve impulses. Water provides a counter balance to air, protecting the nerve against
excessive motion and agitation. The brain as well the myelin that surrounds the structure of the nerve consists largely of
fat. It is composed primarily of the element water and has kapha-like characteristics.
Pathology and the Majja Dhatu
Following accumulation and aggravation in the mahavaha srota (digestive system), the doshas overflow into the rasa and
raktavaha srotas before relocating into the majjavaha srota and majja dhatu. While any dosha can relocate into the majja
dhatu, pathologies of the nervous system are termed Vata Vyadhi, meaning a disease of vata nature. Thus, nerve
pathologies cause symptoms commonly associated with vata, such as pain and alterations of motion. Even still, vata dosha
is not always the cause of the problem. Vitiation of pitta dosha leads to inflammation and over a long period of time can
burn out the myelin and nerve tissue. Vitiation of kapha dosha may slow down nerve conduction, decrease the rate of
processing information or cause blockages resulting in the aberrant flow of nerve impulses. Ama further complicates the
condition when present.
Psychology of the Majja Dhatu
On a psychological level, majja provides our sense of fulfillment, filling the void that we experience within. When majja
dhatu is healthy, there is a sense of fullness and completion. When deficient, there exists a hollow feeling of emptiness. In
excess, there is the feeling of stagnation that comes with being too full. Neither the body nor mind wants to move or work.
There is a loss of motivation.
In the subtle body, the majja dhatu is dependent upon the flow of prana primarily through svadhisthana and anahata
chakras. Through these chakras the qualities of water and air circulate respectively.
Evaluating the Majja Dhatu
The state of the majja dhatu may be assessed in many ways. While the nerves themselves can not ordinarily be seen, their
function can be easily tested using standard Western neurological tests. Without western medical training, the health of
the majja dhatu can also be inferred by observing the quantity of exudate produced from the eyes in the morning, the
color of the sclera, and the general luminosity of the eyes. This latter criterion is based on the subtle perception of the
practitioner.
Exudate that is dry and crusty is indicated of vata dosha imbalance. A large quantity of oily or mucousy exudate is
indicative of a kapha imbalance. Yellow exudate which may be a little oily is indicative of the involvement of pitta dosha.
Evaluation of the color of sclera is important as well. A dark, dull, gray indicates that vata has become vitiated. A yellow
sclera indicates that pitta is vitiated. A dull white sclera indicates that kapha is vitiated.
In observing the general luminosity of the eyes, a decrease in luminosity indicates the kapha has become vitiated. The eyes
appear cloudy and dull. Interest is present but processing occurs slowly. An increase in luminosity is indicative of pitta
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vitiation. The eyes appear to intensely interested, deeply engaged and too highly focused. Vitiation of vata dosha causes
the eyes to appear vacant, lacking in attention and real interest.
Proper Treatment of the Majja Dhatu
Healing the majja dhatu means restoring the proper balance of the qualities of water and air within the dhatu. This
process begins with taking the qualities of the elements in through the senses and then properly digesting them. While
dietary intake is always the most important factor in healing the physical body, the nervous system is particularly sensitive
to input from all of the other senses as well.
Diet and the Majja Dhatu
When vata dosha has entered the majja dhatu the best treatment is to increase the quantity of water element in the diet.
Water is found in the largest amounts in moist, oily foods and in those that are the most nourishing. Milk and ghee are the
two most important substances. Milk and ghee restore deficient majja dhatu. Milk should always be taken warm with spices
added to assure proper digestion. Ghee may be added to the milk or to other foods. In order to maximize the oily quality,
the four fats are often recommended. The four fats are: ghee, bone marrow, sesame oil and muscle fat. Either ghee by
itself or the four fats may be utilized as an anupama for the intake of herbs that nourish the majja dhatu.
When pitta dosha has entered the majja dhatu, the best treatment is to cool the dhatu utilizing the sweet taste. The
sweet taste is not only cool but also nourishing. Once again, increasing milk and ghee consumption are outstanding choices
for dietary treatment. However, sesame oil should not be taken, as it is too warming for regular use. Although the bitter
taste is also cooling and pacifies pitta dosha, it should be used with caution as it can reduce the dhatu and aggravate vata
dosha.
When kapha dosha has entered the majja dhatu, the best treatment is to increase the flow of prana and decrease the
qualities of water utilizing the bitter and pungent tastes. Raw vegetables, particularly leafy greens are best. In general the
diet should be very light and dry and foods should be well spiced. Fasting is often appropriate and patients with a kapha
imbalance may fast on light vegetables juices taken with spices for several days to a week.
Exercise, Yoga, and the Majja Dhatu
The flow of prana is directly related to the motion of the body and the mind. As motion increases, so does the flow of
prana. Thus, when vata is vitiated in the majja vata, patients should not engage in activities that involve significant
movement such as running, tennis, racquet ball and so on. Slower activities such as swimming and yoga better support the
healing process. As there are many forms of asana, slower and gentler approaches are best. However, if the imbalance is
severe, patients should avoid all activity. Slower approaches to activities are also best for pitta dosha when it settles in the
majja dosha. Slower, gentler approaches are cooling as well as stabilizing.
When kapha dosha is vitiated in the majja dhatu activity should be increased. Mindful movements are always preferred in
Ayurveda. As such, yoga is the favored approach. Of course, benefit can also be gained from other mindful activities, such
as running. However, mindfulness is difficult to achieve during competitive games such as tennis and racquetball. Asana
practices that are more active and flowing are preferred over gentle, slower practices.
Meditation, Chanting, and the Majja Dhatu
The goal of yoga, according to the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, is union with the divine through bringing stillness to the flow of
prana in the mind and body. For this purpose, meditation is the most important and effective tool. As the movement of the
mind becomes more focused the flow of prana becomes slower and more directed toward the object of meditation.
Traditionally, the object is divine consciousness. One side effect of this process is stress reduction. Stress reduction and a
calmer mind support the healing of vata imbalances within the majja dhatu. Thus patients with vata type neurological
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disorders should meditate. However, those patients who are too depleted should use caution as excessive meditation
increases the light quality and brings about greater purification.
Meditation is strongly recommended when pitta or kapha doshas are the causative factor in the condition. Note however
that when kapha is the causative factor meditation must be balanced with activity. Meditation without the proper balance
of activity will cause those with a kapha imbalance to become more lethargic decreasing the flow of prana and
compromising the quality of the meditative experience. Singing kirtan and chanting generally increases vata dosha and
decreases kapha dosha, though specific mantras may alter this effect. When vata is strongly vitiated it is best to minimize
vocal expression. When kapha is vitiated, it is best to increase vocal expression. The bija mantra yum increases the flow of
the qualities of air through the anahata chakra. The bija mantra vum increases the flow of the water qualities through
svadhisthana chakra.
Herbs and the Majja Dhatu
When vata has entered the majja dhatu, the patient should be given herbs with a tonifying and sedating action. Among the
best of these herbs are ashwagandha and shankhpushpi. Other beneficial herbs when combined properly include jatamansi
and bala.
When pitta has vitiated the majja dhatu, the best herbs are cooling and sedating. Among the best herbs are brahmi,
shankhpushpi, and kapikachhu. Brahmi is best when ama is present, as its light and bitter nature will not increase ama.
Shankhpushpi and kapikachhu are best when no ama is present as they are heavier and moist. Other beneficial herbs
include: skullcap, vidari kanda, chrysanthemum flower, St. Johns Wort, and oatstraw.
When kapha enters the majja dhatu, the patient should be given herbs with light, mobile qualities that purify the tissue.
One of the most renowned herbs for this is calamus. Other beneficial herbs include bayberry, tulsi, and sage.
Lifestyle and the Healing of the Majja Dhatu
Lifestyle is the primary cause of disease and its correction is the most important component of its cure. Nowhere is this
more obvious than when the majja dhatu has become vitiated. When vata is vitiated, the patient should get more rest and
avoid stressful situations. Travel should be minimized. Daily routines should be established that are practiced with
consistency. It is best if a friend is nearby to provide added support and ease the burdens of daily life. When pitta is
vitiated, the patient should get more rest.
It is particularly important to avoid conflict and competition. The patient should be educated to understand that excessive
focus will overheat the nervous system. Thus, activities that are lighthearted and fun should be encouraged. When kapha is
vitiated, an active lifestyle is called for that includes less sleep and greater engagement in the world. Spontaneity should
be supported. Regular routines should be adopted so long as those activities are active and engaging.
Shukra Dhatu: A Closer Look at Reproductive

Tissue from the Ayurvedic Perspective
Shukra means bright, pure, and radiant. It can also mean the essence of something. In Ayurveda, the term is commonly
used to describe both the male semen and the female egg, as they contain the essence of all of the other dhatus (tissues)
of the body. Shukra is the seventh and final dhatu in the dhatus formation cycle. A person who has healthy shukra has a
brightness of confidence, with eyes and skin that seem to radiate light. A sensitive individual can perceive this light.
Others may notice it as luster or may simply feel the strength and confidence of the one who possesses it.
At times, two distinct terms are used to describe the male and female seed. Shukra universally applies to sperm, but can
also apply to the entire makeup of semen. Artava is the equivalent term used to mean ovum. However, artava also refers
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to the menstrual blood, a product of rasa dhatu. Thus, shukra is the best term to describe the factor that nourishes both
the male and female reproductive tissues.
In the physical body, shukra dhatu is formed as posaka (unstable) majja dhatu flows through the shukra vaha srota into the
shukra dhara kala and is digested by the shukragni. While some texts, such asCharaka, say there is no waste product of the
formation of shukra dhatu, others state that the waste product formed is genital waste called smegma. Unlike the other
dhatus, there is no unstable form of shukra dhatu to be digested and transformed into another dhatu. Shukra is the end of
the line in the dhatu transformation cycle. There is, however, an aspect of shukra dhatu that undergoes a different type of
transformation called sublimation. From the sublimation of shukra, ojas is formed, and ojas then becomes a part of every
dhatu, providing it with strength and stability. The journey from rasa to ojas is a cycle that takes six days according to
vaidya Charaka and one month according to vaidya Sushruta.
The health of shukra is dependent upon the state of shukragni. When the kala housing the agni is vitiated by vata dosha,
agni becomes variable, resulting in a low quantity of poorly formed tissue. In men, sperm count may be low and there may
be a decrease in motility. In women, the formation of the egg and its response to the hormones that trigger development
and ovulation may be compromised. When the kala is vitiated by pitta dosha, quantity is also lowered and the resulting
tissue becomes overheated, resulting in possible inflammation in the ovaries and testes and other tissues associated with
the shukra vaha srota. When the kala is vitiated by kapha dosha, the quantity of shukra increases but it is of poor quality.
While in men sperm count will be normal or increased, motility may be decreased. In women, there may be obstructions to
the development of the ovum or its release. This is one cause of ovarian cysts.
In order to produce shukra dhatu, the primary element that must be consumed is water. Water is the primary nourishment
of the body and of the dhatus, and shukra is its most refined form. Other dhatus that are predominant in the water
element are the rasa and medas dhatus. The rasa dhatu is closest to actual water though rasa, meaning juice, contains
many dissolved micronutrients within plasma, lymph and interstitial fluids. Medas dhatu is more refined and stores the
energy of water as body fat. Body fat is a semi-solid mix of water and earth. The water of shukra dhatu is the essence of
these other waters. Only the most highly nourishing foods contain the essence of water, and only proper digestion liberates
it as shukra. Foods that have a high shukra potential are unctuous (slimy) and include milk, meat juice, ghee, and nuts.
Pathology and the Shukta Dhatu
While any dosha can overflow from the mahavaha srota and enter into the shukra dhatu and shukra vaha srota, damage to
the dhatu and srota are most commonly caused by vata dosha. A vata-vitiating diet and lifestyle dries out the shukra dhatu
and its related fluids, resulting in infertility. The dhatu and srota are also damaged by suppressing sexual desire. Within
modern Western society there is much confusion and insecurity surrounding sexual expression. Due to the mind-body
relationship, there is little doubt that this affects the health of the related organs.
Psychology and the Shukra Dhatu
On a psychological level, shukra dhatu is related to the ability to sustain creativity. When the dhatu is healthy, there is a
natural creative instinct and an ability to see the creative act through to completion. When the dhatu is deficient, there
may still be a creative instinct, but the ability to follow it through to completion lessens. Thus, creative endeavors and
completion of creative projects is a challenge. This is typical of vata psychology and becomes more of a challenge as vata
becomes more and more vitiated. When the dhatu is in excess, it can actually block the creative instinct. However, any
creativity that does arise is likely to be slowly and steadily manifested. This is the nature of kapha psychology and becomes
greater as kapha becomes vitiated. In the person with a more pitta nature, the heat that enters the dhatu brings passion
into their creative pursuits. When it is vitiated, pitta can burn out the creative instinct and the ability to follow through.
Evaluating the Shukra Dhatu
In men, the shukra dhatu can be directly assessed via examination of the ejaculate. The main factors to observe are color,
volume, sperm count, and motility. Color and volume can be easily observed with the eye. Count and motility must be
observed microscopically.
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Observation of the color of the ejaculate reveals various shades of white. A gray shade reveals that vata is predominant
within the dhatu. Yellow indicates that pitta is predominant and a pale white color is indicative of kapha. Observation of
quantity reveals the largest volume in those with a kapha nature and the lowest in those with a vata nature.
Upon microscopic examination, a low sperm count with low motility indicates a greater likelihood of vata vitiation though
this can be found with pitta vitiation as well. A normal sperm count with low motility is more commonly a sign of kapha
imbalance.
In women, direct examination of the shukra dhatu requires an examination of the ovaries. This is most commonly
performed utilizing diagnostic ultrasound, though other tests may be employed. The health of the shukra dhatu can also be
inferred by the regularity of menstrual cycle. An irregular menstrual cycle is indicative of vata dosha vitiation in the shukra
dhatu and associated ovulatory disorders. Most disorders of the female reproductive system are due to vata dosha vitiation.
Pitta disorders may be revealed through an intense menstrual flow. Kapha disorders may be reveals through a long and
mucousy discharge. However, these findings are not specific to the shukra dhatu and indicate only that the doshas have
vitiated the artava vaha srota (channel of the female reproductive system).
Proper Treatment of the Shukra Dhatu
Healing the shukra dhatu entails both proper nourishment and the proper management of sexual energy. As most conditions
of the shukra dhatu are caused by depletion of the dhatu secondary to vata vitiation, tonification is the most common
treatment approach. However, excessive dhatu due to vitiation of kapha dosha requires proper purification.
Diet and the Shukra Dhatu
For the management of depletion due to vata or pitta dosha in the shukra dhatu, a proper diet is one that assures that the
foods taken in are nourishing enough to rebuild the shukra dhatu. Sweet tasting foods such as milk, ghee and nuts are
among the best for providing this nourishment. While each of these is ideal for vata dosha, care should be taken in the
management of pitta dosha, as nuts tend to be warming. Each of these foods, being heavy, must be properly digested;
otherwise they will result in ama formation. For the management of kapha in the shukra dhatu, a purifying diet
emphasizing the bitter and pungent taste is best.
Herbs and the Shukra Dhatu
In order to tonify the shukra dhatu, a category of herbs called vajikaranas or shukralas are best. Vajikaranas build sexual
energy and shukralas build the semen. These terms are often interchangeable and, in the West, they are typically called
aphrodisiacs and reproductive tonics respectively. Some of the best reproductive tonics are ashwagandha, vidari kanda,
bala, gokshura, shatavari, and wild yam. Shatavari and wild yam are specific for women. Ashwagandha is specific for men.
Even still, at times, all of these herbs are used for both men and women. These herbs can be used for depletion caused by
either vata or pitta in the shukra dhatu when used in proper combinations. In order to maximize the potency of the
medicines, they are best prepared in the form of a medicated ghee and then added to warm whole milk along with spices
to assist digestion.
For the management of kapha in the shukra dhatu, purifying herbs include cloves and pippali. These excite sexual energy
in the short term and reduce it in the long term. Two other important herbs are kushta and katphala. These have the
quality of shukra-shodana (purifiers of the sexual energy and organs) when taken regularly. All of these reduce kapha in the
shukra dhatu.
Lifestyle and the Healing of the Shukra Dhatu
When any dosha has vitiated the shukra dhatu, it is important to examine the patients lifestyle. Here lie the clues to the
cause of the condition, as well as the most important aspects of treatment. Regardless of the dosha at cause, all patients
should be encouraged to develop healthy and steady routines. Steady routines are important to all three doshas, as vata
dosha is king among them in the cause of all reproductive disorders. In addition, when vata dosha is vitiated, patients
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should be encouraged to rest more often. When pitta dosha is vitiated, patients should be discouraged from intense or
competitive activities and allowed to rest more often. When kapha dosha is vitiated, patients should be encouraged to
increase their exercise and activity level.
Proper Management of Sexual Energy
There is a lot of confusion and misconception about what constitutes the proper management of sexual energy. There is no
doubt, however, that its proper management is important to ones well-being. Charaka named brahmacharya as one of the
three pillars of life, along with proper diet and rest. Brahmacharya means celibacy, and it is generally agreed that celibacy
properly practiced leads to the longest and healthiest life. However, it is also agreed that those who are strong can engage
in sexual activity with no negative consequence to their health. Thus, it can be understood that it is not sexual activity
that weakens a person but rather a weak person is weakened further by sexual activity. In this person, sexual energy must
first be restored. This is the process of vajikarana therapy.
Ayurveda does not place a strong emphasis on morality as a function of sexual expression. Nor does Ayurveda have a
preference for a monastic or celibate lifestyle. Rather, the degree to which a person engages in sexual activity is a function
of the health of the shukra dhatu and a persons dharma.
If the dharma of a person lies within the world as a householderone who gets married and has a familythen sexual
expression is a natural and healthy part of a relationship. Two partners who are healthy should engage in sexual activity for
the purposes of producing offspring and for the purposes of opening their hearts to each other and the divine. Care should
be taken that the sexual activity does not become excessive.
If the dharma of a person lies outside the world as a spiritual monk, then sexual expression is forbidden. This is not an
issue of morality, but one of practicality. For the monk, building up ones shukra is necessary for its transmutation into
ojas. High levels of ojas are necessary for performing intense spiritual practices.
The most common question I am asked is how much sex is appropriate for the householder. The answer lies in the state of a
persons shukra. When shukra is abundant and the resulting ojas is strong, and one is involved in a loving relationship,
healthy sexual expression brings great joy and intimacy as well as offspring. Excessive sexual expression is that amount in
which the signs of low shukra or low ojas become apparent. There is exhaustion, a loss of luster and a lack of creativity or
an ability to sustain creative endeavors. Those with low shukra should refrain from sexual activity until the shukra is
restored. There is no magic formula for the restoration of shukra. It is always being produced as a part of the digestion of
the foods we eat. For restoration to occur, it must be produced faster than it is expelled. Abstinence provides for the
quickest restoration.
Those with a kapha nature have the greatest constitutional tendency to be able to sustain sexual energy and can generally
have more sex without creating depletion. Those with a vata nature tend to have lower levels of shukra and thus their
interest in sex is highly variable and they should be more careful. Those with a pitta nature, having some water in their
constitution, have more moderate tendencies though there is much passion within their actions.
In general, the stronger the practices of raja yoga (asana, pranayama, meditation), the less sexual activity a person should
engage in, as their practices require high levels of shukra and strong ojas.
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The Seven Dhatus (Tissues) in Ayurvedic Medicine

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The Seven Dhatus (tissues) in Ayurvedic Medicine https://www.ayurvedacollege.

The Seven Dhatus (tissues) in Ayurvedic

Rasa Dhatu: A Closer Look at Plasma from the

Rakta Dhatu: A Closer Look at Blood from the

Mamsa Dhatu: A Closer Look at the Muscles

Summary of the Effects of Dosha Vitiation on the Mamsa Dhatu

Vata Pitta Kapha

Tissue Minimal Minimal to Moderate Excessive

Proper Treatment of the Mamsa Dhatu

Medas Dhatu: A Closer Look at Fat from the

Pathology and the Medas Dhatu

Psychology and the Medas Dhatu

Evaluating the Medas Dhatu

Proper Treatment of the Medas Dhatu

Asthi Dhatu: A Closer Look at the Bones from

Pathology and the Asthi Dhatu

Psychology and the Asthi Dhatu

Evaluating the Asthi Dhatu

Proper Treatment of the Asthi Dhatu

Diet and the Asthi Dhatu

Exercise, Yoga and the Asthi Dhatu

Meditation, Chanting and the Asthi Dhatu

Herbs and the Asthi Dhatu

Majja Dhatu: A Closer Look at the Nervous

Pathology and the Majja Dhatu

Psychology of the Majja Dhatu

Evaluating the Majja Dhatu

Proper Treatment of the Majja Dhatu

Diet and the Majja Dhatu

Exercise, Yoga, and the Majja Dhatu

Meditation, Chanting, and the Majja Dhatu

Herbs and the Majja Dhatu

Lifestyle and the Healing of the Majja Dhatu

Shukra Dhatu: A Closer Look at Reproductive

Pathology and the Shukta Dhatu

Psychology and the Shukra Dhatu

Evaluating the Shukra Dhatu

Proper Treatment of the Shukra Dhatu

Diet and the Shukra Dhatu

Herbs and the Shukra Dhatu

Lifestyle and the Healing of the Shukra Dhatu

Proper Management of Sexual Energy

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