Pancha Mahabhuta in Ayurveda: Understanding and Practical Applications

The concept of Pancha mahabhuta principle is widely accepted in Ayurveda. All the available dravyas can be used as medicine but it requires proper logic and reasoning, also this is possible only after deep understanding of pancha mahabhutas as it forms the foundation base of all other siddhantas. In Ashtanga Hridaya it is mentioned that “इति भूतमयो देहः” (Ah.Sh 3/8). Human body is Panchabhautika and the food we eat is also Panchabhautika. (Cha su 26/10). Symmetrical properties of Mahabhutas gives nutrition to corresponding symmetrical organs of body. Susrutacharya has mentioned as Pancha mahabhutas are the supreme power. Without the involvement of them the treatment is not possible(Su.Sha.1/13). Though, Ayurveda is having similar views with Darshana shastras like Vaisheshika, Sankhya etc. in many aspects, but the concept of Pancha mahabhuta in Ayurveda is moulded in such a way that, it becomes helpful in Nidana and Chikitsa, thereby fulfilling its aim of dhatusamya. Keywords Pancha mahabhuta, Ayurveda, Susrutacharya, Vaisheshika, Sankhya, Darshana