A Conceptual Review of Prakriti in Classical Ayurvedic Texts

Prakriti represents the innate nature of an individual. It determines various physical, physiological, and psychological attributes such as body structure, appearance, strength, metabolism, digestion, and mental tendencies. In Ayurveda, Prakriti reflects the natural predominance of the three doshas - Vata, Pitta, and Kapha in an individual. Any deviation from this natural state of dosha balance (Prakriti) is termed as disease (Vikrti). Since every activity, diet, and medicine influences the body’s doshas, it is essential to choose one’s lifestyle and diet according to one’s Prakriti. Unlike the modern medical system, which emphasizes a generalized approach to health, Ayurveda advocates a personalized system of healthcare, tailored to maintain the dosha equilibrium unique to each individual. This review explores the classical understanding of prakriti and discusses its relevance in the context of modern scientific research and personalised medicine.