Role of Heredity in the Determination of Deha Prakriti

Describes health and disease through an individualized approach, where Deha Prakriti plays a central role. Deha Prakriti refers to the inherent psycho- physical constitution of an individual, determined at the time of conception and remaining unchanged throughout life. Classical Ayurvedic texts emphasize that Prakriti is primarily governed by hereditary factors such as Beeja, Beeja- Bhaga and Beeja- Bhag avayava, along with the predominance of Doshas during fertilization. These concepts highlight the importance of parental contribution in shaping structural, physiological, and psychological traits. Modern medical science explains heredity through genetics, where genes transmitted from parents influence physical appearance, metabolism, immunity, and disease susceptibility. Recent scientific studies have demonstrated associations between Ayurvedic Prakriti types and genetic polymorphisms, giving rise to the emerging field of Ayur genomics. This integrative discipline attempts to bridge traditional ayurvedic wisdom with contemporary genetic science to support personalized medicine. The present review explores the role of heredity in the determination of Deha Prakriti by critically analysing classical ayurvedic literature and correlating it with modern genetic concepts. The review discusses the ayurvedic understanding of hereditary transmission, the role of Doshas in Prakriti formation, genetic determinant of constitution traits, and epigenetic influences. Emphasis is laid on understanding how inherited traits influence metabolism, immunity, and disease predisposition. This integrative approach provides a strong conceptual framework for personalized healthcare, early disease prediction, and preventive strategies. The review concludes that Deha Prakriti can be considered an ancient constitutional phenotype deeply rooted in hereditary mechanisms, comparable to modern genetic and epigenetic determinants.