Ayurveda Diet - Prakriti

The concept of body constitution (Prakriti) is unique to Ayurveda. The word ‘Prakriti’ means ‘nature’ or ‘constitution’ of an individual, which includes the body, mind and soul.

The body of an individual is made up of 3 doshas (functional units) such as Vata, Pitta and Kapha The proportion of these units are not the same and is specific for each individual. Of the three doshas, the predominant one forms the ‘prakriti’.

The ‘prakriti’ of a person is formed during the conception of the individual. This is determined by various factors like the body constitution of our parents, food habits of the mother, and climatic condition at the time of conception etc. So one or two doshas becomes predominant in our body and that forms our constitution. This predominance of a particular dosha does not produce any abnormality, as it is inherently present in our body.

Just as its poison does not affect a poisonous snake, our dosha does not affect us. We should know our ‘prakriti’ in order to mould our diet and life style accordingly.

The constitutional purpose provides an insight into the deeper functioning of an individual. When we know our prakriti it is possible to understand the kinds of foods, fruits, herbal medicines, emotions, thoughts, climates, colors or activities that are suitable for us. Further more, this helps us to become aware of the diseases we may become prone to, and to follow a preventive lifestyle.

Medindia has attempted to help you to find your body type, for you to develop a suitable diet and life style.

Submitted by: Dr. Gayatri ganesh B.A.M.S

Edited by: Dr. Reeja Tharu