Abstract
In Ayurveda, the human Body’s physiology is centered around the balance of Dosha, Dhatu, and Mala. which are considered the functional elements of our body’s Functions. Tridoshas, which means three subtle energies that regulate bodily processes, while Sapta Dhatus, which means seven structural substances that provide support and strength. These seven Dhatus are Rasa (Plasma), Rakta (Blood), Mamsa (Muscle), Meda (Fat tissues), Asthi (Bones and Cartilages), Majja (Bone marrow), Shukra (Reproductive tissues such as Sperm and eggs). These Dhatus not only constitute the body’s physical structure but are also essential in nourishing the body, enabling circulation, supporting organs, facilitating reproduction, and maintaining the body’s overall stability. In this article, we will discuss this in detail.
Introduction
The word ‘Dhatu’ is derived from the word “Dha” by adding suffix “Tun”. It means one that sustains and nourishes. At the time of fertilization Purush beejha (Sperm) and Stree Beeja (Ovum), with the presence of Jeeva (Soul) results in the beginning of new life. Ayurveda believes that the Garbha (fetus) attains its development in the mother’s womb through the influence of the Pancha Mahabhuta (five elements) and gradually differentiates into various cell types. A single fertilized egg (ovum) transforms and develops into an embryo, later becoming a fetus, infant, child, and eventually an adult.
Ayurveda identifies seven Dhatus (vital tissues) that form the foundation of the body, providing nourishment, growth, and structural integrity. These Dhatus are similar to major tissues recognized by modern science, and they play a crucial role in maintaining body functions and structure. The Dhatus are maintained within the body’s boundary, protected by the skin externally and the mucous membranes internally. Each Dhatu has a corresponding Updhatu (sub-component), which strengthens and supports the body. Though Updhatus contribute to the body’s strength, they do not nourish the tissues like the Dhatus.
Ayurveda emphasizes that proper digestion and diet are vital for healthy tissue renewal. Once food is properly digested, tissue building begins, starting with the Rasa Dhatu (plasma) and sequentially nourishing other tissues. Any imbalance in one tissue affects the others. The Rasa Dhatu is rich in nutrients and distributes them to the subsequent Dhatus, nourishing even the deepest tissues.
The seven Dhatus are:
- Rasa Dhatu: Plasma and lymph
- Rakta Dhatu: Blood tissue
- Mamsa Dhatu: Muscle tissue
- Meda Dhatu: Adipose (fat) tissue
- Asthi Dhatu: Bone tissue
- Majja Dhatu: Bone marrow
- Shukra Dhatu: Reproductive fluids (semen)
These Dhatus form the body’s structure and support various physiological functions. The integrity and stability of the body depend on the proper functioning of these Dhatus.
The process of cell differentiation and development continues throughout an individual’s life, both before and after birth, to maintain health. Stem cells, which are undifferentiated cells, play a significant role in this differentiation. There are two main types of stem cells: embryonic stem cells (ES) and adult stem cells. The concept of stem cells aligns with Ayurveda’s Dhatu Siddhanta (the theory of tissue formation and differentiation). Research on stem cells, especially in regenerative medicine, draws parallels with this ancient wisdom.
External factors such as stress, chemicals, diseases, and environmental influences can affect cellular functioning. However, cells adapt to these challenges to continue their functions. As we age, cellular changes occur, but Ayurveda offers Rasayana (rejuvenation) therapy as a way to counteract the effects of aging and maintain vitality.
1. Rasa Dhatu
Rasa dhatu is the first dhatu in the body that gets its nourishment from the Ahara Rasa. Ahara rasa is the nutrients of food after digestion.
Time taken for the formation
Rasa dhatu (Plasma) is formed in the body within 24 hours.
Elemental Composition
Jala (Water) Mahabhuta is present in Rasa Dhatu.
Site
तस्य हृदयं स्थानम् । स हृदयात् चतुर्विंशति धमनीः अनुप्रविश्य उर्ध्वगाः दश,
दश च अधोगामिन्यः चतस्त्र तिर्यग्गाः कृत्स्नं शरीरं अहः अहः तर्पयति’ ।
Ancient Reference – Su.Su. 14/3
The heart is the main site of Rasa Dhatu. Twenty-four Dhamanis (Small channels or vessels) Originating from the heart are considered the Primary location of the Rasavaha Srotas. The Rasa Vaha Srotas, which is responsible for the transportation and circulation of the Rasa dhatu (Nutritive fluids or Plasma) have their origin in the heart and the dhamanis emerging from it. Thus, the heart and the vessels branching out from it serve as the main site for the rasa dhatu and its transport.
Quantity
The Normal quantity of rasa Dhatu according to Acharayas are 9 Anjali (Putting both Hands together). Anjali Praman is the ancient method to measure the volume of various human body fluids.
Qualities
The Quality of rasa dhatu is similar to Kapha. It has qualities of Drava (Liquidity), Snigdha (Unctuous), Sara (Flowing nature), Manda (Sluggish), Pichila (Slimy). The Color of Rasa dhatu is White like Kapha.
Functions
प्रीणनं जीवनं लेपः स्नेहो धारणपूरणे । गर्भोत्पादः च धातूनां श्रेष्ठ कर्म क्रमात् स्मृतम्’ ।
Ancient Reference – Ash.Hr.Su. 11/4
Preenana (satisfaction) and Raktapushti (nourishment of the blood tissue) are key functions of rasa dhatu. Preenana refers to supplying adequate fluids to every cell in the body. Just as a dried plant becomes revitalized when it receives water, similarly, all Dhatus (bodily tissues) become physiologically active through the preenana function of rasa dhatu. This explains why, in clinical practice, treatments like oral rehydration therapy or intravenous fluid transfusion are used to address dehydration. Dehydration is a condition of rasa kshaya (depletion of rasa dhatu), which often results from vomiting or diarrhea.
The formation and proper function of rasa dhatu directly influence the health of rakta dhatu (blood tissue), as the Dhatus are interconnected. Therefore, the optimal metabolism of rasa dhatu leads to the nourishment (Rakta Pushti) and proper formation of Rakta dhatu.
Updatus (Secondary Tissues) Of Rasa Dhatu
Updhatu (Secondary Tissues) of Rasa dhatu are Stanya (Breast milk) and Raja (Menstrual Fluid)
Mala (Waste Product) of Rasa Dhatu
According to Acharyas Kapha and Lasika (Unctuous fluid which oozes from wounds) are the Mala (Waste products) of Rasa dhatu.
Rasa Sarata Symptoms
तत्र स्निग्धश्लक्ष्णमृदुप्रसन्नसूक्ष्माल्पगम्भीरसुकुमारलोमा सप्रभेव च त्वक् साराणाम् ।
सा सारता सुखसौभाग्यैश्वर्योपभोगबुद्धिविद्यारोग्यप्रहर्षणानि आयुष्यत्वं च आचष्टे ।
Ancient Reference – Cha. Vi. 8/103
The Person Who possesses Uttam rasa sarata (Optimal quality of rasa) has soft and smooth skin. The hairs (Loma) on the skin are fine, thin, Sparse, and deeply rooted. Such an individual is blessed with happiness, wisdom, prosperity, good health, and long life. They typically do not experience skin ailments, and if they do, then these conditions are easily treated.
Increased Rasa Dhatu Symptoms
- Cause: Excessive Consumption of Cold, Heavy, Oily, and sweet food along with high stress can increase Rasa Dhatu.
- Symptoms: Nausea (Utkleda), and excessive salivation (Praseka) are the signs of an increased Rasa dhatu.
- Treatment: The recommended treatment involves Fasting (Langhana) and consumption of dry and Light foods.
Decreased Rasa Dhatu Symptoms
- Causes: Fasting, Dry and Light foods, excessive exertion, Traveling,and insufficient sleep.
- Symptoms: Dry Skin, Shortness of breath (Dyspnoea), emaciation, Difficulty in speaking, and excessive thirst.
- Treatment: Brimhana Therapy which includes nourishing foods like wheat, ghee, and dairy products, and abundant sweet and sour liquids, such as fruit juices and meat soups, to restore and replenish the rasa dhatu.
2. Rakta Dhatu
Rakta Dhatu is the second dhatu formed from Ahara rasa. It indicates Red colour of the tissues
Time Taken For The Formation
According to Acharya Sushruta, the Time taken in the formation of Rakta dhatu is 5 days.
Elemental Composition
Rakta Dhatu is primarily composed of the dominance of Agni Mahabhuta (Fire element) along with the influence of all other Mahabhutas (Earth, Water, Air, and space). It has specific characteristics, including a distinctive odor (vistrata), liquidity (dravata), red color (raga), pulsation (spandanam), and lightness (laghuta) that allows it to circulate. These qualities arise from the combination of the Prithvi, Jala, Teja, Vayu, and Akasha elements, respectively.
Site
शोणितवहानां स्रोतसां यकृत् मूलं प्लीहा च ।
Ancient Reference – Cha.Vi. 5/8
Metabolism
तेजो रसानां सर्वेषां मनुजानां यदुच्यते । पित्तोष्मणः स रागेण रसो रक्तत्वमृच्छति ।।
Ancient Reference – Cha.Chi. 15/18
According to Charaka, rasa dhatu is initially colorless and contains the nutrients of the seven dhatus. When this liquid, which is white in color, enters the raktavaha srotas (channels responsible for blood circulation) in the liver and spleen, it acquires a red color due to the action of Ranjaka pitta.
Quantity
The volume of Rakta is described as eight anjali. One anjali is the amount of substance that can be held in the cupped palms of an individual when joined together. This measurement varies according to the individual/ (1anjali=16 tola =5120ml).
Qualities
To explain the color of rakta dhatu (blood), it is often compared to various naturally occurring red substances. Thus, the blood that flows from the body is described as being red, similar to the indragopa (a red insect) commonly seen during the rainy season, or blackish-red like lac, a small bright red fruit like gunja, or even yellowish-orange red like gold.
The red hues of gunja and lac are used to illustrate the color of human blood, establishing a link between the color of the skin and the color of blood. For individuals with darker skin, the blood is compared to the color of lac, while in those with lighter skin, the blood appears as a darker red.
According to Astang Sangraha
- Mildly sweet with a slight salty flavor,
- Neutral in temperature (neither hot nor cold),
- Does not leave stains on fabric
Functions
The primary function of rakta dhatu is to support the body and sustain life. It plays a crucial role in distributing prana (vital life force) to every dhatu and cell within the body. The air inhaled during respiration becomes the vital prana, which, when combined with rakta dhatu, is delivered to all organs, tissues, and cells to facilitate their physiological functions.
Prana is the essential energy required for the body to function, and without it, survival is not possible. Rakta dhatu serves as the conduit for this life-sustaining energy. Thus, life is dependent on the proper functioning of rakta dhatu. Any disruption in blood flow, such as hemorrhage or blockage, can jeopardize life. Rakta brings color, vitality, and nourishment to the body. It fills the tissues, providing health and sensory perception.
Nourishment of the dhatus: Both rasa and rakta dhatu circulate throughout the body, delivering essential nutrients to various tissues.
Rakta Sarata Symptoms
Individuals with uttama rakta dhatu sarata (optimal quality of blood) exhibit the following characteristics:
- The ears, eyes, oral cavity, tongue, palms, soles, nails, forehead, and penis all appear red.
- These organs have a lustrous and glossy appearance.
- Such individuals are typically very attractive.
- They may struggle to endure physically demanding work or hot climates.
- They possess intelligence, happiness, and a naturally beautiful presence.
Updatus (Secondary Tissues) of Rakta Dhatu
During the metabolic process and formation of rakta dhatu, tendons (kandara) and blood vessels (sira) are generated as byproducts of metabolism (Upadhatu).
Mala (Waste Product)
According to Acharyas, Pitta (Bile of the liver) is the Mala (Waste products) of Rakta dhatu.
Increased Rakta Dhatu Symptoms
- Causes: Intake of Oily, Pungent food, due to hot climate ralta dhatu increases.
- Symptoms: Redness in skin and eyes, engorgement of blood vessels.
Decreased Rakta Dhatu Symptoms
- Causes: Improper diet and Malnutrition
- Symptoms: Roughness of skin, Cracks in skin, Desire for cold things, collapse of veins and loss of complexion.
3. Mamsa Dhatu
Mamsa Dhatu is the third dhatu and it is nourished by Ahara Rasa.
Time Required For Formation Of Mamsa Dhatu
Mamsa dhatu is formed on the 20th day
Elemental Composition
Mamsa Dhatu consists of Prithvi (Earth) Mahabhuta.
Metabolism
रक्तं मांसपुष्टि (करोति) जीवयति च ।
Ancient Reference – Su.Su. 15/5
Poshaka mamsa dhatu is produced during the metabolism of poshya rakta dhatu. Therefore, the formation of mamsa dhatu is dependent on the rakta dhatu.
Quantity
The amount of the unctuous portion of muscles or muscle fat (vasa) is described as three anjali. One anjali is the volume that can be contained in the space formed by joining both palms together.
Qualities
Mamsa dhatu is somewhat cool, dense, and oily.
Functions
Mamsa dhatu’s important function is Lepana. It gives shape to the body parts and it sticks to the bones, helping in locomotor activities.
Updatus (Secondary Tissues)
Twacha and Vasa (Muscle fat) are Updatus of Mamsa Djatu.
Mala (Waste Product)
Kha-mala that is waste excreted from the cavities like Ear, Eyes,Nose,Mouth and genital Organ.
Mamsa Sarata Symptoms
In individuals who possess mamsasara, the temples, forehead, nape, eyes, cheeks, jaws, neck, shoulders, abdomen, armpits, chest, arms, legs, and joints are firm, dense, and well-covered with mamsa dhatu. The bones are not visible as they are concealed beneath the layer of mamsa dhatu.
Such individuals are characterized by qualities like forgiveness, patience, non-greediness, prosperity, wisdom, happiness, courtesy, humility, good health, strength, and longevity.
Increased Mamsa Dhatu Symptoms
- Cause: Overconsumption Of Sweet, heavy, and oily foods and lack of physical activity.
- Symptoms: Excessive body weight, looseness in areas like the buttocks, cheeks, arms, and thighs are signs of mamsa vriddhi.
Decreased Mamsa Dhatu symptoms
- Cause: Consumption of Dry, light food and overexertion.
- Symptoms: Eye muscle fatigue, emaciation in areas like the cheeks and buttocks, and joint pain (arthralgia).
4. Medo Dhatu
Medo dhatu is the fourth dhatu formed and nourished by ahara Rasa.
Time Required For Formation Of Medo Dhatu
Medo dhatu is formed on the 15th day.
Elemental Composition
According to Acharya Charak Medo dhatu is made up of Jala Mahabhuta.
Metabolism
तथा मांसपोषणकालादुत्तरकालं मेदः पोषको रसभागो मेदः पोषयतीत्यादि |
Ancient Reference – Dalhan on Su.Su. 14/10
Once mamsa dhatu is nourished, the ahara-rasa (nutrient essence from food) subsequently nourishes medo dhatu (fat tissue).
Quantities
The amount of the Medo Dhatu is described as three anjali. One anjali is the volume that can be contained in the space formed by joining both palms together.
Qualities
Medo dhatu is Oily, smooth, heavy, and stable.
Function
मेदः स्नेहस्वेदौ दृढत्वं पुष्टिमस्थ्नां च
Ancient Reference – Su.Su. 15/5
- The primary role of medo dhatu is to moisturize each cell in the body.
- It regulates the production of sweat.
- It offers strength and vitality to the body.
- It helps to balance the dryness caused by Vata.
- Adequate nourishment of medo dhatu ensures the body attains its proper shape.
- Medo dhatu functions as a cushion or shock absorber for the body.
- Medo dhatu helps protect the body from extreme temperatures, whether cold or hot.
- During periods of starvation, the body can derive energy from medo dhatu.
- Another crucial role of medo dhatu is its involvement in asthiposhan (nourishment of bones).
Updatus (Secondary Tissues)
Sanayu Is the Updhatu of Medo dhatu.
Mala (Waste Products)
Sweat is the mala (Waste product) of medo dhatu.
Medo Sarata Symptoms
A person with excellent Meda Sarata (quality of fat tissue) has a smooth, radiant complexion and a melodious voice. Their eyes appear moist and oily. Such individuals have an abundance of moisture in their hair, nails, lips, urine, feces, and teeth. They are often blessed with wealth, influence, happiness, pleasure, and generosity. However, they are delicate and unable to endure physical strain, as they cannot withstand demanding work.
Increased Mamsa Dhatu Symptoms
- Cause: Excessive consumption of sweet, oily, and heavy foods, along with a lack of physical activities.
- Symptoms: Fatigue, shortness of breath, and the sagging of areas such as the buttocks, breast, and abdomen, due to the accumulation of excess medo dhatu.
- Treatment: Hot, light, and dry foods, along with strenuous exercise and medications like Triphala Guggulu and Yogaraja Guggulu, help reduce medo dhatu.
Decreased Medo Dhatu symptoms
- Cause: Less consumption of sweet, oily, and heavy foods.
- Symptoms: Symptoms of medo kshaya include numbness (supti) in the waist region, enlargement of the spleen, and emaciation of the body. Due to the depletion of medo dhatu, the spleen may become palpable.
- Treatment: To treat medo kshaya, it is recommended to consume foods that are heavy, oily, and sweet, along with adequate rest and oil massages.
5. Asthi Dhatu
Asthi Dhatu is the 5th dhatu and the hardest dhatu in the body.
Time Required For Formation
According to Acharya Sushruta, Asthi dhatu is formed on the 20th day.
Elemental Composition
Although all five Mahabhutas are present, asthi (bone) primarily exhibits the dominance of Prithvi (earth) and Vayu (air) Mahabhutas.
Metabolism
The asthi dhatu (bone tissue) is derived from its precursor, meda dhatu (adipose tissue). The nourishing components of meda dhatu and the constituents of the nutrient fluid (ahara rasa) are transformed into asthi dhatu through the action of metabolic factors known as asthi dhatvagni. The agni mahabhuta (fire element) and vayu mahabhuta (air element) play a key role in the hardening and roughening of the bones by influencing the prithvi mahabhuta (earth element) components present in meda dhatu.
Qualities
Due to the dominance of prithvi mahabhuta, asthi dhatu (bone) becomes strong, rough, dry, and hard. The influence of vayu, agni, and prithvi elements further contributes to the dryness, roughness, and hardness of the bones.
Types of Asthi
- Nalakasthi – Long bones
- Kapalasthi – Flat bones
- Mandalakar Asthi – Vertebrae
- Ruchakasthi – Teeth
- Tarunasthi – Cartilage
Functions
अभ्यन्तरगतैः सारैः यथा तिष्ठन्ति भूरुहाः अस्थिसारैः तथा देहा ब्रियन्ते देहिनां ध्रुवम्|
Ancient Reference – Su.Sha. 5/21
- Asthi dhatu provides structural support to the body, maintaining an upright posture.
- All soft tissues like Mamsa (muscle), sira (veins), and Snayus (ligaments) are located around the bones. The Snayus connects the skeletal muscles to the bones, functioning as anchors, allowing muscles to contract and relax.
- Asthi dhatu forms the skeletal framework of the body, with its role being compared to the hard core of a tree’s bark.
- Asthi dhatu serves to protect vital organs; for example, the skull shields the brain, and the ribs protect the lungs and heart.
- Majja poshana (nourishment of bone marrow) is an essential function of asthi dhatu.
Updatus (Secondary Tissues)
According to Sharangadhara, teeth are considered the Upadhatus (byproducts) of asthi dhatu.
Mala (Waste Products)
Nails and Hairs are waste products of Asthi dhatu.
Asthi Sarata Symptoms
महाशिरःस्कन्धं बृहदंतहन्वस्थिनखम् अस्थिभिः
Ancient Reference – Su.Su. 35/16
According to Sushruta, individuals with asthi sara (strong bone tissue) have prominent and larger features, such as the head, shoulders, teeth, nails, bones, and mandibles.
Increased Asthi Dhatu Symptoms
Symptoms: Excessive bones, such as the cervical spine or calcaneal spur (Adhyasthi), and overcrowding of teeth (Adhidanta) are symptoms of asthi vriddhi (bone growth).
There is a close relationship between asthi dhatu and Vata dosha. This connection is referred to as the ‘ashrayashrayi sambandha’, meaning they are mutually dependent on each other.
Decreased Asthi Dhatu Symptoms
- Causes: Excessive Vata has a reciprocal effect on asthi dhatu, meaning that an imbalance of Vata can lead to asthi kshaya, causing rarefaction or thinning of bones (often seen in osteoarthritic changes). The impact of asthi kshaya can also be observed in the waste products of asthi dhatu, such as nails, hair, and teeth.
- Symptoms: Painful joints, bone pain, hair loss, brittle nails, and weak, unhealthy teeth are common symptoms of asthi kshaya (bone depletion).
- Treatment: Triphala Guggulu, Yogaraja Guggulu, oil massages, and basti therapy are highly effective in treating asthi kshaya.
6. Majja Dhatu
Majja dhatu is the sixth dhatu nourished from Ahara Rasa. It is situated deep within the bone.
Time Required For Formation
According to Acharya Sushruta Majja Dhatu is formed on the 25th day after the formation of Ahara Rasa.
Elemental Composition
There is dominance of Jala (Water) and Prithvi (Earth) Mahabhuta In Majja Dhatu.
Metabolism
अस्थि मज्ज्ञः पुष्टिं च (करोति)|
Ancient Reference – Su.Su. 15/5
The oiliness of Majja dhatu seeps through the porous bone tissue and gathers in the bone cavity. After the action of Dhatu agni of Majja ,Stable Majja dhatu is formed.
Quantities
The Amount of Majja dhatu is described as One Anjali. One anjali is the volume that can be contained in the space formed by joining both palms together.
Qualities
It is heavy and sticky.
Functions
मज्जा स्नेहं बलं शुक्रपुष्टि पूरणमस्थ्नां च करोति ।
Ancient Reference – Su.Su. 15/5
- The primary function of Majja Dhatu is to provide filling, as it occupies the cavities inside the bones and regulates Vata Dosha.
- Being an unctuous tissue, Majja Dhatu helps in lubricating the body.
- The nourishment of Shukra Dhatu is a function of Majja Dhatu. Poshaka Shukra Dhatu is produced during the metabolism of Majja Dhatu.
Mala (Waste Products)
Oily Substance from Faeces, eyes, and skin is a waste product of Majja Dhatu.
Majja Sarata Symptoms
मृङ्गा बलवन्तः स्निग्धवर्णस्वराः स्थूलदीर्घवृत्तसन्धयश्च मज्जसाराः ।
ते दीर्घायुषो बलवन्तः श्रुतवित्तविज्ञानापत्यसम्मानभाजश्च भवन्ति ।
Ancient Reference – Cha.Vi. 8/110
A person with the finest quality of Majja Sarata possesses soft skin and a strong body. Their complexion is oily, and their voice is sweet. The joints are large, long, and rounded. Such a person is blessed with longevity, strength, intelligence, wealth, creativity, a love for children, and earns respect in society.
Increased Majja Dhatu Symptoms
The symptoms of an excess of Majja Dhatu include body and eye heaviness, along with the formation of painful nodules at the interphalangeal joints (Arunshi).
Decreased Majja Dhatu Symptoms
Osteoporosis (Asthi Soushirya), dizziness, and fainting are the symptoms of Majja Kshaya.
7. Shukra Dhatu
Shukra dhatu is the last Dhatu that is nourished by Ahara Rasa.
Time Required For Formation
It takes 30 days to form Shukra Dhatu from Ahara Rasa.
Elemental Composition
There is a dominance of Jala Mahabhuta in Shukra dhatu.
Site
Ayurveda views Shukra as being distributed throughout the body, much like how the entire sugarcane is permeated with its juice. The entire curd is composed of ghee, which becomes visible after churning.
Quantities
Shukra dhatu is in ½ Anjali Pramana
Qualities
स्फटिकाभं द्रवं स्निग्धं मधुरं मधुगन्धि च ।
शुक्रमिच्छन्ति केचित्तु तैलक्षौद्रनिभं तथा|
Ancient Reference – Su.Sha. 2/11
- The smell of Shukra Dhatu resembles honey or oil and is not irritating. When Shukra Dhatu is vitiated, its odor changes.
- The color of Shukra Dhatu can be white, or resemble oil or honey. Freshly voided Shukra Dhatu is white, but within 3 to 10 minutes, it liquefies and becomes transparent. Vitiated Shukra Dhatu may turn red, yellow, or blue.
- Shukra Dhatu is soft, slimy, and liquid. Due to these qualities, it can traverse the vagina and unite with the ovum.
- The heaviness (Gurutva) of Shukra Dhatu is crucial for ejaculation. Its heaviness and liquidity enable it to flow in a downward direction.
- Due to its coldness, Shukra Dhatu does not produce any burning sensations when it comes in contact with the vaginal epithelium.
‘Snigdham ghanam picchhilam cha madhuram cha avidahi cha
Retah shuddham vijaniyat shvetam sphatikasannibham’
Cha.Chi. 30/14
Functions
शुक्रं धैर्यं च्यवनं प्रीतिं देहबलं हर्षं बीजार्थञ्च |
Ancient Reference – Su.Su. 15/15
Bravery, determination, attraction to the opposite sex, physical strength, sexual pleasure, and reproduction are the essential functions of Shukra Dhatu.
Updhatu (Secondary Tissues)
- According to Sharngadhara Samhita, Ojas is the Upadhatu of Shukra Dhatu
- According to Charaka Samhita, Shukra Dhatu is the purest of all the tissues, and therefore, it does not have any Upadhatus.
Mala (Waste Products)
स्वाग्निभिः पच्यमानेषु मलः षटसु रसादिषु न शुक्रे पच्यमानेऽपि हेमनीवाक्षये मल:
Ancient Reference – Dalhan on.Su.Su. 14/10
Shukra Dhatu is considered a pure tissue. Sushruta has compared Shukra Dhatu to pure gold, which, when heated and purified thousands of times, leaves no residue. Similarly, Shukra Dhatu is processed by Agni and does not produce any waste products.
However, according to Sharngadhara Samhita, mustaches, body hair, and acne are considered waste products of Shukra Dhatu.
Shukra Sarata Symptoms
सौम्याः सौम्यप्रेक्षिणश्च क्षीरपूर्णलोचना इव प्रहर्षबहुलाः स्निग्धवृत्तसारसमसंहतशिखरदशनाः प्रसन्नस्निग्धवर्णस्वराः श्राजिष्णवः महास्फिचश्च शुक्रसाराः ते स्त्रीप्रियोपभोगाः बलवन्तः सुखैश्वर्यारोग्यवित्तसम्मानापत्यभाजश्च भवन्ति।
Ancient Reference – Cha.Vi. 8/109
A person with excellent Shukra Sara has a highly attractive and reassuring personality. Their eyes are captivating, appearing as though filled with milk. Such a person possesses strong sexual vitality. The voice of a Shukra Sara individual is soft and melodious. Their complexion is fresh and smooth, with radiant skin. Shukra Sara individuals have a broad pelvis (maha sphik) and their teeth are rounded, compact, smooth-edged, white, straight, and strong.
Increased Shukra Dhatu Symptoms
There Are symptoms like Enhanced Libido, and Seminal Concretions.
Decreased Shukra Dhatu Symptoms
There are symptoms like discomfort or pain in the penis and testes, Erectile dysfunction, premature or delayed ejaculation, Ejaculation of semen mixed with blood and abnormal semen discharge.
Treatment
- Rich, oily, and sweet foods stimulate the production of Shukra dhatu.
- Milk quickly contributes to the formation of Shukra dhatu.
- Foods such as milk, ghee, eggs, and black gram (urad dal) are considered beneficial for promoting Shukra.
- Herbs and substances like ashwagandha, musk, and saffron also support the development of Shukra.
Ojas
Ojas is considered as the eighth dhatu. Ojas is considered as the vital essence of all bodily tissues (Dhatus) in Ayurveda. It Represents the strength and vitality that sustain life. Ojas is a fundamental principle that plays a crucial Role in maintaining overall health and Immunity, protecting the body from diseases, and preserving physical and mental well-being. It is regarded as a unique force in Ayurveda, one that supports life and ensures resilience against external and internal stressors.
Formation Of Ojas
येनौजसा वर्तयन्ति प्रीणिताः सर्वजन्तवः ।
यदृते सर्वभूतानां जीवितं नावतिष्ठते ।
यत्सारमादौ गर्भस्य यत्तद्गर्भरसाद्रसः ।
संवर्तमानं हृदयं समाविशति यत्पुरा ।
यस्य नाशात्तु नाशोऽस्ति धारि यद् हृदयाश्रितम् ।
यच्छरीररसस्नेहः प्राणा यत्र प्रतिष्ठिताः ॥
Ancient Reference – Cha.Su. 30/9-11
During conception, ojas is the vital essence of Shukra and Artava, referred to as Garbha rasa. This Garbha rasa is a nourishing fluid that sustains the developing embryo. In Ayurvedic embryology, it is believed that the fetal heart begins to form in the fourth month of pregnancy. Once the heart is formed, the ojas that nourishes the embryo flows into the heart, initiating the fetus’s cardiac activity. The ojas that nourishes the embryo and enters the fetal heart is considered the Para type of ojas of the embryo.
The destruction of this Para ojas leads to the death of the fetus.
Conclusion
In the sequence of origin, nourishment, and development of the Dhatus, the essence of food (ahara rasa) gives rise to rasa dhatu (the plasma). From the nourishing portion of rasa dhatu, the essence of rasa is formed, and the nourishment of Rakta dhatu (blood) occurs. Similarly, from the nourishing portion of Rakta dhatu, the essence of Rakta is formed, and the nourishment of Mamsa dhatu (muscles) follows, and so on. Throughout this process, distinct forms of Oja (vital essence) and bala (strength or vitality) are produced. This can also be viewed as a collective Oja and bala, which contributes to improving the body’s resistance to diseases (Vyadhikshamatva).
