Panchmahabhootas

इह हि द्रव्यम् पंच महाभूतात्मकं | (अ. सं. सू . 17/3)

Ayurveda states that everything in the universe including the human body is made up of five basic elements (Panchmahahootas) namely Akash (Ether), Vayu (Air), Agni (Fire), Jal (Water) and Prithvi (Earth).

Their existence is evident from the characteristics they showcase. Each mahabhoot has unique characteristics which help a doctor/Ayush Registered Medical Practitioner in diagnosis and treatment of ailments.

Categories of all worldly articles:

• Aakashiya: Those predominant in Akash (Ether)
• Vayaveeya: Those predominant in Vayu (Air)
• Agneya: Those predominant in Agni (Fire)
• Jaleeya: Those predominant in Jal (Water)
• Parthiva: Those predominant in Prithvi (Earth)

Each mahabhoot has a characteristic feature: apratighata (untouchable), chalatva (movement), dravatva (fluidity) and kharatva (roughness) respectively.

Panchmahahootas exist in balanced proportions in the form of three doshas (humors) and seven dhatus (basic tissues) , thereby carrying out all functions of the body ranging from intake of food to excretion of poop. They also form an essential part of the shad rasas (6 tastes) which when consumed in the correct proportion and order provide nourishment to the dhatus, thereby restoring health.

The clinical application of this particular principle is widely accepted in Ayurveda and other traditional medical systems across the globe.

Do not self medicate. Always consult a doctor.