3. Herbal Remedies
Herbs like Ashwagandha, Guduchi, and Triphala act on specific Ashraya-Ashrayi relationships, promoting overall health.
Clinical Application
Clinical application of Ashraya Ashrayi Bhava can be interpreted in two perspectives, namely in the disease process and treatment modality. Ashraya and Ashrayi are mutually dependent. When Dosha becomes vitiated, it will subsequently vitiate the Dhatu and Mala, leading to a broad spectrum of diseases; for instance, when Pitta and Kapha levels rise or fall, their corresponding Dhatu will also change in the same manner. However, Vata and Asthi present an exception. Vata and Asthi are inversely correlated; that is, when Vata exacerbates, the Asthi Dhatu diminishes. In the disease process, Ashrayi influences Ashraya either in terms of Dravyataha, Gunataha, or Karmataha. By comprehending this interrelation, we can deduce the relative fluctuations in the Dosha and Dushya by monitoring the transformations occurring within them. Any alteration in one will manifest similarly in the other, excluding the case of Asthi and Vata. 'Asthi Marutayoho Na Evam.' indicates that Vata and Asthi are inversely proportionate.
Example for Vata: Vataja Aahara Vihara results in Vata Dosha Vriddhi, which subsequently enhances the Vayu Mahabhoota located in Asthi, causing Asthi Kshaya.
Example for Pitta: The symptomatology of various diseases resulting from Dushta Rakta and Pitta arises due to the Ashraya Ashrayi Bhava of Rakta and Pitta. In Raktapitta, Pitta escalates due to Nidana and transfers to Rakta, as both share a similar Yoni, namely Teja Maha Bhoota; its heat augments the Dravata of Rakta Dhatu, consequently leading to Pitta Vriddhi. Thus, the vitiation of Pitta affects the Rakta Dhatu.
Example for Kapha: In Prameha Samprapthi, the Bahudrava Sleshma first vitiates Meda, which occurs due to Samana Guna.
Principle of Ashraya Ashrayi Bhava also aids in comprehending Kriyakala. Kriyakala stage develop in accordance with Ashraya-Ashrayi Bhava. Recog. this would facilitate understand transformation occurring within Kriyakala & its stage, thereby allowing for quicker identification of disease.
In Chikitsa, medications that augment or diminish the Ashrayi also modify the respective Ashraya, with the exception of Asthi and Vata. For instance, Vata is aggravated by Ruksha, Tikta, Katu, Kashaya, Apatarpana, and Langhana, but these same factors reduce Asthi.
Vata is pacified by Snigdha, Madhura, Amla, Lavana, and Brhmana; however, these elements contribute to the Asthi Dhatu. Since Pitta-Rakta and Kapha-Rasa, Mamsadi Dhatu are directly proportional, medications or Dravyas that increase or decrease one will likewise increase or decrease the other, thus treatment should be devised accordingly.
Discussion
The connection between Dosha and Dhatu can be comprehended by their resemblance in the Panchabhoutik structure. For Pitta-Rakta, Kapha-Rasa, and Mamsadi Dhatus, both Gunas and Karmas are alike, thereby establishing the Ashraya - Ashrayi relationship.
However, for Vata and Asthi, the Gunas are contrasting, leading to their opposing Karmas, as previously clarified, Vata-Asthi are inversely related. In the occurrence of disease, the Ashrayi influences the Ashraya; that is, when Vata becomes vitiated, Asthi is the most vulnerable Dhatu, and the same is true for other Ashraya and Ashrayi pairs. Nonetheless, Ashrayi Dushti does not always lead to Ashraya Dushti. The consideration of Khavaigunya is crucial in this context.
Conclusion
The concept of Ashraya-Ashrayi Bhav is a cornerstone of Ayurvedic philosophy, offering profound insights into the dynamics of health and disease. By understanding the interactions between substratum and residing entities, Ayurveda provides a holistic approach to maintaining balance and harmony in the body, mind, and spirit.
This timeless principle continues to guide practitioners in diagnosing diseases, devising treatment strategies, and promoting preventive care. Its relevance in modern medicine highlights the universal applicability of Ayurveda’s wisdom, making it an invaluable resource for achieving holistic wellbeing.
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