Role of Panchamahabhoota in Development of Garbha and Gestational Abnormalities

Abstract

Being close to the nature has helped Ayurveda to develop the principles which are time-tested. The unique concept of commonness between the cosmos and human body is the strength of Ayurveda. The presence of the five elements such as prithvi, jala, teja, vayu and akasha in all the dravya can be deduced from the verse, ‘sarvam dravyam panchabhoutikam’. The body is said to be anitya (temporary) as it undergoes some apoptotic changes each moment. To replenish the lost bodily element, human is dependent on the diet. Ahara being pancabhautika, replenishes the the body to maintain dhatusamyata. A living body has had intrauterine as “garbha” and extrauterine life in the form of “shaddhatuja purusha”. Pancamahabhoota play significant role in garbha avastha in designing the anatomy and physiology of the body. Anatomical or physiological abnormalities seen during or post labour are also attributed to the pancamahabhoota. This works throws light on the role of the five elements in maintaining the normalcy or causing any abnormality in a garbha which may eventually form the base of Ayurveda genetics.