PHYSIOLOGICAL UNDERSTANDING OF PANCHA PITTA

Abstract

Ayurveda considers dosha dhatu mala the root factor for a living body. Their normal functions maintain homeostasis in the living body, and their imbalance leads to disease. The word pitta is derived from the root word “Tap santape”, which refers to “Heat”. In the body, Agni and Pitta are considered identical entities. So, Pitta dosha can be one such body entity that helps in the “Biotransformation” by which the energy is produced. It is concerned with the process of conversion, consumption and any other changes that are taking place in the body. Acharya Sushruta was the first person to talk about Pancha pitta as Agni. All the sciences and philosophies, in one way or another, are searching for the ultimate truth of life. Health is essential to keep a person fit for work. Describing the healthy (swastika), Sushruta says the balance between various physical entities, Dosha, Dhatu, Mala, Agni, Atma, and Kendriya Manas, is necessary, where the Agni plays a prime role in maintaining the normalcy of all these entities. Acharya Sushruta was the first person to talk about Pancha pitta as Agni. Acharya Charaka classifies Pitta based on its different functions.