Translational Value of Basic Principles of Ayurveda: A Review Article

Abstract

Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of medicine, is founded on core principles such as Tridosha (the three bio-energies), Agni (digestive/metabolic fire), Dhatu (body tissues), Mala (waste products), Prakriti (individual constitution), and Panchamahabhuta (five elements). These concepts offer a holistic understanding of health and disease. Modern research increasingly finds correlations between Ayurvedic concepts and biomedical physiology – for example, the Tridosha of Vata, Pitta, and Kapha align with aspects of neurological function, metabolism, and structural integrity, respectively. Digestive fire (Agni) corresponds to enzymatic and microbial metabolism crucial for energy balance. The seven Dhatu(plasma, blood, muscle, fat, bone, marrow/nerve, and reproductive tissue) reflect sequential tissue nourishment and homeostasis. Integrating Ayurveda with modern medicine has shown promise in personalized and preventive care. For instance, Prakriti based stratification is supported by genetic and epigenetic studies: distinct Prakriti types exhibit differential gene expression, metabolic profiles, and DNA methylation patterns¹. Figure 1 illustrates how Ayurvedic constitutional types cluster by genomic markers (genome-wide SNPs). Likewise, ayurgenomics combines traditional Prakriti assessment with omics data to guide individualized therapy. Ayurvedic practices – including tailored diets, herbal formulations, and detoxification (Panchakarma) – can enrich modern clinical protocols for chronic diseases, stress management, and public health. This review synthesizes classical principles and contemporary evidence, highlighting tables and figures that map Ayurvedic concepts to biomedical correlates (Table 1). Bridging these paradigms may foster integrative approaches and novel research, ultimately enhancing healthcare by marrying time-tested wisdom with scientific rigor ².