A PHYSIOLOGICAL PERSPECTIVE ON DHATU POSHANA NYAYA – A REVIEW

*Dr. Bharat Bhushan, Dr. Sudhi Kaushal, Dr. Manikusum

ABSTRACT

Introduction: Ayurveda, an ancient medical science, encompasses centuries of experience in patient care. The great Ayurvedic Acharyas have meticulously observed, conceptualized, and documented numerous theories and principles. In the modern era, it is essential to reinterpret and validate these foundational concepts through contemporary scientific understanding. Among the Traya Upasthambha—Ahara (diet), Nidra (sleep), and Brahmacharya (celibacy)—Ahara holds the foremost importance. The nature of the food consumed, its metabolic conversion, and cellular assimilation play a pivotal role in maintaining both physical and mental well-being. This process is described in classical Ayurvedic texts as Dhatu Poshana Nyayai, the principle governing the nourishment and transformation of body tissues. This review aims to elucidate the concept of Dhatu Poshana Nyaya in relation to modern physiological mechanisms such as cellular metabolism and material transport across membranes. Materials and Methods: The term Nyaya was explored through Ayurvedic Nighantus and online databases. The findings were then compared and correlated with modern physiological concepts for a better scientific understanding. Discussion: Modern research explains the mechanisms of active and passive transport in cellular physiology. In passive transport, substances move along concentration or electrochemical gradients, akin to drifting with a river’s current, and include processes such as diffusion and osmosis. In contrast, active transport involves the movement of substances against these gradients, comparable to swimming upstream, and requires energy expenditure. This energy-driven process is further classified into primary and secondary active transportii. Conclusion: The nourishment and development of Dhatus (body tissues) is a continuous process that begins in the embryonic stage and continues throughout life. The Ahararasa, the vital essence of digested food, serves as the primary source of nutrition for all Dhatus, which are nourished sequentially from Ahararasa to Shukra Dhatu. The entire dietary intake is first digested by Jatharagni in the Amashaya (stomach), initiating the process of Dhatu formation and sustenance.

Keywords: Dhatu Poshana, Dhatu Poshana Nyaya, Metabolic Transformation, Nutrients.