Review of the Concept of Ashayapakarsha & Its Utility in Ayurveda

Ayurveda, The Ancient Veda of life i.e. states that Sharira is comprised of Dosha, Dhatu, Mala and Indriya.1 Nidan (causative factors), Tridoshas, Dushya (Dhatu, Upadhatu and Mala) and Agni are the essential elements for the commencement of a vyadhi. A unique kind of Principle that falls under Dosha Bheda Hetu is Ashayapakarsha, mentioned elaborately by Acharya Charak. Nidan, the external vitiating factor, along with Dosha and Dushya, even if limited in number, the manifested diseases are innumerable because of variation in the Samprapti (pathogenesis). Although, the progression of a disease is not guaranteed by the mere existence of Nidan, Dosha and Dushya. The progression of a vyadhi is merely variable as it depends on the number of the factors. Sometimes when these factors are present in a vitiated condition then also disease may not occur or occurs late or occurs with few symptoms or symptoms are present in a subtle form. Hence a detailed study of the this unique concept of Ashayapakarsha will aid a better understanding regarding the samprapti of vyadhi, its vighatan and planning the treatment accordingly.