Saara In Ayurveda: A Narrative Review Of Physical And Psychological Attributes

Abstract

Introduction: Sāra Parīkṣā (assessment of tissue excellence) is described under Daśavidha Parīkṣā (tenfold patient examination) in Ayurveda as an important method for evaluating an individual’s health status and susceptibility to disease. Sāra refers to the qualitative excellence of the body tissues (Dhātus), reflecting both physical and psychological strength. Classical texts describe eight types of Sāra—skin (Tvak), blood (Rakta), muscle (Māṃsa), adipose tissue (Meda), bone (Asthi), bone marrow (Majjā), reproductive tissue (Śukra), and vitality essence (Ojas)—each identified by specific clinical features (Lakṣaṇas).

Materials and Methods: This study is a narrative literary review based on classical Ayurvedic texts, Vedic literature, and standard Sanskrit lexicons, including Śabdakalpadruma, Amarakośa, and the Monier-Williams Sanskrit Dictionary. Descriptions of Sāra and its defining characteristics were systematically analyzed and interpreted.

Results: Each type of Sāra presents distinct physical traits and psychological tendencies. These characteristic features assist in assessing tissue strength, endurance, vitality, and mental disposition. The analysis highlights the clinical relevance of Sāra in evaluating overall constitutional strength.

Discussion: A clear understanding of Sāra characteristics provides a structured framework for assessing physical strength (Bala) and mental resilience. Integrating classical descriptions with lexical interpretations enhances conceptual clarity and supports more precise clinical assessment in Ayurvedic practice.