E-ISSN:2456-3110

Review Article

Psychological Diseases

Journal of Ayurveda and Integrated Medical Sciences

2025 Volume 10 Number 3 MARCH
Publisherwww.maharshicharaka.in

Correlation of Tarpak Kapha and Majjavaha Srotas with Cerebrospinal Fluid and Psychological Diseases

Mahajan S1*, Meena RR2
DOI:10.21760/jaims.10.3.50

1* Shivam Mahajan, Post Graduate Scholar, Department of Kriya Sharir, Madan Mohan Malviya Government Ayurved College, Udaipur, Rajasthan, India.

2 Rekh Raj Meena, Lecturer, Department of Kriya Sharir, Madan Mohan Malviya Government Ayurved College, Udaipur, Rajasthan, India.

Background: Ayurveda emphasizes the balance of Dosha, Dhatu, and Srotas for overall health. Among these, Tarpak Kapha and Majjavaha Srotas are pivotal for mental well-being and show a strong resemblance to the functions of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in modern medicine.

Objective: This article aims to establish a connection between Tarpak Kapha, Majjavaha Srotas, and CSF while exploring their implications in psychological disorders, offering a holistic perspective on mental health.

Methods: A comprehensive analysis of Ayurvedic texts, modern scientific literature, and clinical findings was conducted to draw a correlation between traditional concepts and modern physiology.

Results: The protective and nourishing role of Tarpak Kapha parallels CSF's cushioning and metabolic functions. Similarly, Majjavaha Srotas align with neural networks influenced by CSF. Dysfunction in these systems is linked to depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, and neuro degenerative diseases.

Conclusion: Integrating Ayurvedic insights with neuroscience offers a more profound understanding of psychological disorders and lays the foundation for innovative therapeutic approaches.

Keywords: Ayurveda, Tarpaka Kapha, Cerebrospinal fluid, Srotas, Majjavaha

Corresponding Author How to Cite this Article To Browse
Shivam Mahajan, Post Graduate Scholar, Department of Kriya Sharir, Madan Mohan Malviya Government Ayurved College, Udaipur, Rajasthan, India.
Email: 		Mahajan S, Meena RR, Correlation of Tarpak Kapha and Majjavaha Srotas with Cerebrospinal Fluid and Psychological Diseases. J Ayu Int Med Sci. 2025;10(3):332-337.
Available From
https://jaims.in/jaims/article/view/4483/

Manuscript Received Review Round 1 Review Round 2 Review Round 3 Accepted
2025-02-09 2025-02-24 2025-03-04 2025-03-14 2025-03-24
Conflict of Interest Funding Ethical Approval Plagiarism X-checker Note
None Nil Not required 11.64

© 2025 by Mahajan S, Meena RR and Published by Maharshi Charaka Ayurveda Organization. This is an Open Access article licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ unported [CC BY 4.0].

J Ayu Int Med Sci 2025;10(3)332
Download PDFBack To ArticleIntroductionAim and ObjectivesMaterials and MethodsDiscussionConclusionReferences
Shivam Mahajan et al. An overview of Kitibha Kushtha (Psoriasis)

Introduction

Ayurveda, with its holistic approach to health, defines mental well-being as a balance of the mind, body, and spirit. Central to this framework are Tarpak Kapha and Majjavaha Srotas, which play crucial roles in maintaining cognitive and emotional stability.

These concepts bear striking similarities to cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in modern physiology. CSF, a clear fluid surrounding the brain and spinal cord, serves as a protective cushion and facilitates metabolic exchange within the central nervous system.

Disruptions in CSF dynamics have been implicated in a variety of psychological and neurodegenerative conditions. Similarly, imbalances in Tarpak Kapha and blockages in Majjavaha Srotas are associated with mental disturbances in Ayurvedic medicine.

Exploring these parallels not only deepens our understanding of mental health but also provides a framework for integrative management strategies.

Aim and Objectives

1. To provide detailed insights into the Ayurvedic concepts of Tarpak Kapha and Majjavaha Srotas.
2. To correlate these concepts with the structure and function of cerebrospinal fluid.
3. To analyze their role in psychological disorders.
4. To highlight the potential of integrative approaches in mental health management.

Materials and Methods

1. Classical Ayurvedic Texts: Primary references were drawn from Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, and Ashtanga Hridaya.

2. Scientific Literature: Peer-reviewed studies on CSF physiology, neural pathways, and psychological disorders were analyzed.

3. Correlational Analysis: Theoretical and functional parallels between Tarpak Kapha, Majjavaha Srotas, and CSF were established through an integrative framework.

4. Case Studies: Ayurvedic treatment approaches for psychological disorders were reviewed to provide clinical relevance.

Discussion

Tarpak Kapha

Tarpak Kapha, a subtype of Kapha, resides in the Mastishka (brain) and is essential for nourishment, lubrication, and stability of the mind.

Functions

  • Provides nourishment to the brain and sensory organs.[1,2]
  • Supports cognitive functions like memory and emotional resilience.[3]
  • Maintains lubrication of neural pathways, facilitating smooth signal transmission.[4]
  • Imbalance Symptoms: Anxiety, restlessness, memory deficits, and insomnia.[5]

Majjavaha Srotas

Majjavaha Srotas are channels responsible for the formation, distribution, and functioning of Majja Dhatu (neural tissues and bone marrow).

Functions

  • Facilitate cognitive stability and emotional well-being.[6]
  • Maintain the integrity of the nervous system by ensuring optimal flow of Majja Dhatu.[7]
  • Regulate the removal of metabolic waste through CSF pathways.[8]
  • Imbalance Symptoms: Neurological deficits, lack of coordination, & psychological disturbances.[9]

Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF)

CSF is a clear, protective fluid that cushions the brain and spinal cord, while also facilitating metabolic exchange.[10]

Functions:

  • Provides mechanical protection, preventing trauma.[11]
  • Nourishes the brain and removes metabolic waste.[12]
  • Regulates intracranial pressure and supports neural signaling.[13]
  • Disorders Associated with Dysfunction: Depression, schizophrenia, neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.[14,15]

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Shivam Mahajan et al. An overview of Kitibha Kushtha (Psoriasis)

Composition: Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is a clear, colorless liquid that surrounds the brain and spinal cord.

It plays a vital role in protecting the central nervous system (CNS), ensuring its chemical stability, and transporting nutrients. Its composition is carefully regulated to maintain proper brain and spinal cord function. Here’s a breakdown of its key components:

1. Water

CSF is predominantly made up of water, accounting for about 99% of its volume. This water acts as a medium to dissolve and transport nutrients, electrolytes, and waste products.

2. Electrolytes

Electrolytes in CSF help maintain electrical signaling and balance fluid levels within the CNS.

Sodium (Na⁺): Found in concentrations of 135–145 mEq/L, sodium is critical for maintaining fluid balance and supporting nerve impulses.

Potassium (K⁺): Present at 2.5–3.5 mEq/L, it regulates neuronal excitability.

Chloride (Cl⁻): Found in 120–130 mEq/L, it supports electrical neutrality and fluid balance.

Calcium (Ca²⁺): With a concentration of 1.2–1.4 mEq/L, calcium aids in nerve signaling and enzyme activation.

Magnesium (Mg²⁺): Present at 2.0–2.5 mEq/L, magnesium stabilizes cellular energy (ATP) and supports enzymatic reactions.

3. Proteins

CSF contains small amounts of proteins, about 15–45 mg/dL. These proteins include:

Albumin, which helps maintain osmotic pressure.

Immunoglobulins (e.g., IgG), which contribute to immune defense.

Transferrin, which is involved in iron transport.

4. Glucose

Glucose concentration in CSF is usually around 40–70 mg/dL, which is roughly two-thirds of glucose level in blood. Glucose is key energy source for neurons & glial cells, supporting brain activity.

5. Amino Acids

CSF also carries essential amino acids, which are critical for neurotransmitter synthesis and energy production. For example:

Glutamate and GABA: These are major excitatory and inhibitory neurotransmitters, respectively.

Tryptophan: A precursor for serotonin, which regulates mood and sleep.

6. Lipids

Though present in minimal amounts, lipids in CSF are essential for maintaining neuronal membranes and myelin.

7. Vitamins

Certain vitamins are dissolved in CSF to support brain health:

Vitamin C: Found at ~1.0–1.3 mg/dL, it acts as an antioxidant and protects neurons.

Vitamin B12: Present in trace amounts, it is vital for maintaining myelin and supporting DNA repair.

8. Enzymes

CSF contains enzymes like:

Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH): Indicates metabolic activity & can signal tissue damage when elevated.

Acetylcholinesterase: Breaks down acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter.

9. Hormones

CSF carries hormones like melatonin and cortisol, which regulate sleep cycles and stress responses.

10. Waste Products

The fluid also removes waste products from brain metabolism, such as:

Lactic Acid: A byproduct of anaerobic metabolism, typically found at 10–22 mg/dL.

Urea: A nitrogen waste product, normally around 10–20 mg/dL.

11. Cells

Healthy CSF contains very few cells:

White Blood Cells (WBCs): Typically, 0–5 cells/μL, mainly lymphocytes.


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An increase can indicate infection or inflammation. Red Blood Cells (RBCs): Normally absent, their presence suggests trauma or bleeding in the CNS.

12. pH

CSF has a slightly acidic pH of around 7.33. This helps maintain optimal conditions for enzymes and nerve cell function.

Why the Composition Matters

The precise composition of CSF is essential for the brain and spinal cord to function correctly. Any imbalance can signal underlying health issues. For instance:

Increased white blood cells or protein might indicate infections like meningitis.

Reduced glucose levels can point to bacterial infections or tumors.

Elevated lactate may suggest oxygen deprivation in the brain.

This balance makes CSF a window into CNS health, and its analysis is a critical tool for diagnosing neurological and systemic conditions.

Correlation:

Functional Similarity: The nourishing and stabilizing role of Tarpak Kapha closely mirrors the functions of CSF.

Pathways: Majjavaha Srotas align with CSF circulation and neural pathways, emphasizing their role in maintaining mental stability.

Pathology: Disruptions in CSF dynamics, akin to imbalances in Kapha or obstruction in Srotas, manifest as psychological disorders.

The composition of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) closely correlates with the Ayurvedic concepts of Tarpak Kapha and Majjavaha Srotas, both of which are deeply associated with nourishment, lubrication, and the optimal functioning of the central nervous system (CNS). By exploring these connections, we can understand how CSF embodies the properties and roles described in Ayurveda for these entities.

1. Water: The Foundation of Tarpak Kapha

CSF: Composed of about 99% water, CSF serves as a medium for transporting nutrients, electrolytes, and waste while cushioning brain and spinal cord.

Tarpak Kapha: As a subtype of Kapha, Tarpak is responsible for nourishing and lubricating the brain and sensory organs. The high water content of CSF reflects Tarpak Kapha's role in maintaining hydration and providing a stable environment for mental and sensory functions.

Correlation: Just as Tarpak Kapha ensures a well-lubricated and balanced mind, the water content of CSF protects and sustains the CNS, acting as a physical and biochemical cushion.

2. Electrolytes: Supporting Cognitive and Neural Stability

CSF: Contains sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium, and chloride ions, which regulate nerve conduction, osmotic balance, and neuronal excitability.

Majjavaha Srotas: Described in Ayurveda as the channels that transport and support Majja Dhatu (bone marrow and nervous tissue), these pathways ensure proper nerve function. The electrolytes in CSF directly influence nerve signaling, reflecting the activity of Majjavaha Srotas.

Correlation: The role of CSF electrolytes in transmitting nerve impulses aligns with the function of Majjavaha Srotas in enabling communication between neurons, emphasizing harmony and balance in the nervous system.

3. Proteins: Nourishment and Immune Protection

CSF: Proteins like albumin and immunoglobulins in CSF contribute to nutrient transport and immune defense. Though minimal compared to plasma, these proteins are crucial for maintaining CNS health.

Tarpak Kapha: Known for its nourishing and protective qualities, Tarpak Kapha aligns with the protective & reparative functions of proteins in CSF.

Correlation: The nourishing nature of CSF proteins mirrors Tarpak Kapha’s role in providing sustenance to the brain and protecting it from degeneration or infections.

4. Glucose: Energy for the Nervous System

CSF: Glucose levels in CSF serve as a primary energy source for neurons and glial cells, supporting cognitive and neural activity.


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Tarpak Kapha: This subtype of Kapha provides stability and sustains mental functions, much like glucose energizes brain activity.

Majjavaha Srotas: Glucose in CSF reflects the metabolic support that Majjavaha Srotas offer to the nervous tissue, enabling efficient neural communication.

Correlation: The energy provided by CSF glucose parallels the sustaining role of Tarpak Kapha in mental health and the nourishment provided by Majjavaha Srotas to the nervous system.

5. pH Balance: Maintaining Homeostasis

CSF: With a pH of ~7.33, CSF provides an optimal environment for enzymatic activity and nerve function.

Tarpak Kapha: Its cooling and stabilizing nature reflects the pH-balancing role of CSF, ensuring mental calmness and stability.

Correlation: The slight acidity of CSF mirrors Tarpak Kapha’s ability to regulate and stabilize the mind and senses, preventing hyperactivity or imbalance.

6. Enzymes: Detoxification and Metabolism

CSF: Enzymes like lactate dehydrogenase and acetylcholinesterase play a role in metabolic activity and neurotransmitter regulation.

Majjavaha Srotas: These Srotas not only nourish but also regulate the cleansing of neural pathways, aligning with the detoxification role of CSF enzymes.

Correlation: The enzymatic activity in CSF reflects Majjavaha Srotas’ function in maintaining neural health and removing waste products, ensuring efficient signaling.

7. Cells and Immune Surveillance

CSF: Normally, CSF contains a few white blood cells (0–5 cells/μL), which help monitor and protect the CNS from infections.

Tarpak Kapha: Its protective and stabilizing nature corresponds to the immune surveillance carried out by CSF cells.

Correlation: Just as CSF cells protect the CNS, Tarpak Kapha safeguards the mind and senses, promoting resilience against external or internal disturbances.

8. Hormones and Waste Removal: Dynamic Roles of CSF

CSF: It carries hormones like cortisol and melatonin, which regulate stress and sleep cycles, while also removing waste products such as lactate and urea.

Majjavaha Srotas: These channels are involved in maintaining the functional balance of Majja Dhatu and facilitating the removal of impurities.

Correlation: The transport of hormones and waste management by CSF mirrors the dual role of Majjavaha Srotas in regulating and cleansing neural tissues.

The cerebrospinal fluid serves as the physical and biochemical counterpart of Tarpak Kapha and Majjavaha Srotas, combining nourishment, protection, and regulation. Tarpak Kapha's lubricating and stabilizing properties align with the hydrating and nutrient-rich nature of CSF, while Majjavaha Srotas’ role in supporting and detoxifying neural tissues reflects CSF's contribution to CNS health.

Together, these Ayurvedic and modern perspectives highlight the intricate relationship between ancient wisdom and contemporary science in understanding the human body.

Psychological Disorders

Depression and Anxiety: Linked to reduced Tarpak Kapha and impaired CSF production, leading to imbalances in serotonin and dopamine levels.[16,17]

Schizophrenia: Disrupted Majja Dhatu and blocked Majjavaha Srotas resemble modern understandings of dopaminergic dysregulation.[18]

Neurodegenerative Disorders: Deficient CSF production or Kapha imbalance contributes to Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.[19]

This integrative analysis highlights that the protective and nourishing role of Tarpak Kapha is analogous to CSF's functions. Similarly, Majjavaha Srotas are aligned with neural circuits and pathways influenced by CSF. Disorders like anxiety, depression, and schizophrenia reflect imbalances in these systems. Ayurvedic treatments, such as Nasya (medicated nasal drops), Shirodhara (oil therapy), and herbs like Brahmi and Ashwagandha, show promise in restoring balance and alleviating symptoms.[20]


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Modern science validates these approaches, showing that interventions targeting CSF dynamics and neuroinflammation can significantly improve mental health outcomes.

Conclusion

This study underscores the profound connection between Tarpak Kapha, Majjavaha Srotas, and CSF. Understanding these parallels bridges ancient wisdom and modern neuroscience, offering holistic solutions for psychological disorders. This approach emphasizes prevention, personalized care, and innovative therapeutic strategies for mental health.

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