Abstract

DOSHA DHATU MALA MULAM HI SARIRAM AND HOMEOSTASIS: A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF AYURVEDIC AND MODERN PHYSIOLOGICAL PARADIGMS

Dr. Shahul Hameed M.*, Dr. Venu S., Dr. Brinda G. M.

Abstract

The classical Ayurvedic concept“Dosha Dhatu Mala Mūlam Hi Śarīram” describes that the human body is fundamentally sustained by three essential components—Dosha (functional regulatory principles), Dhatu (structural and metabolic tissues), and Mala (physiological waste products). This concept forms the base of Kriya Śarīra (Ayurvedic physiology).[1,2] In modern biomedical science, the principle of homeostasis explains the maintenance of internal constancy through coordinated regulatory mechanisms, ensuring stability of the internal environment.[6,8] Although Ayurveda and modern physiology arise from different conceptual foundations, both frameworks emphasize equilibrium as the basis of health and survival. This review critically examines the Ayurvedic triad and correlates it with the modern physiological concept of homeostasis. The analysis suggests that Doshas may be interpreted as integrative regulatory systems, Dhatus correspond to structural and metabolic substrates, and Malas represent essential excretory mechanisms. Disease manifestation in both paradigms is primarily attributed to disturbance of equilibrium. A comparative understanding of these concepts may provide scope for integrative physiological research and holistic healthcare strategies.

Keywords: Dosha, Dhatu, Mala, Kriya Śarīra, Homeostasis, Integrative physiology, Ayurveda.