Foundations of Ayurvedic Diagnosis

The Three Doshas, Seven Dhatus, and Three Malas form the fundamental pillars of understanding an individual’s health in Ayurveda. These concepts are meticulously explained by the Acharyas in the classical Samhitas.

While times have evolved and modern lifestyles have transformed, the ancient Ayurvedic wisdom remains profoundly relevant. It enables us to assess the body’s internal balance and gain a deep insight into the root cause of imbalances.

Pulse Reading: A Deeper Diagnostic Tool

Nadi Pariksha (Pulse Reading) is not just a diagnostic tool—
it is a gateway to understanding the individual at a deeper physical, mental, and emotional level.

Through the pulse, we gather subtle information about:

• The balance or disturbance in Doshas
• The strength and condition of Dhatus (tissues)
• The functioning of Malas (waste systems)
• Mental and emotional well-being

This comprehensive understanding forms the foundation for personalized treatment protocols, covering herbs, diet, Marma, yoga, and emotional healing.

The Five Elements of Ayurvedic Diagnosis

“Understanding the whole being, not just the disease.”

1. Darshana (Observation)

“What the eyes reveal, the body reflects.”
The practitioner observes the patient’s physical features — skin, eyes, posture, tongue, nails, and overall demeanor. These signs give insight into doshic imbalance, vitality, and signs of disease.

2. Sparshana (Palpation & Touch)

“The body speaks through sensation.”
This includes pulse reading (Nadi Pariksha), skin temperature, palpation of the abdomen or marma points, and tactile signs of discomfort. It helps assess the state of organs, doshas, and vital energy.

3. Prashna (Questioning)

“A detailed history reveals the hidden cause.”
Through thoughtful questioning, the practitioner gathers information about the patient’s diet, lifestyle, emotions, sleep, digestion, and elimination. This reveals the root cause (Nidana) of imbalance.

4. Nadi Pariksha (Pulse Diagnosis)

“The pulse is the mirror of the inner self.”
By feeling the pulse at specific points, the practitioner detects the balance of Vata, Pitta, and Kapha, organ health, and subtle emotional states. It is a key tool for precise, personalized treatment planning.

5. Mala & Dhatu Pariksha (Examination of Waste & Tissues)

“What leaves the body reflects what’s within.”
Evaluation of Malas (urine, stool, sweat) and Dhatus (body tissues) helps assess the functioning and nourishment of the body. Any irregularity gives clues about deeper imbalances and metabolic strength (Agni)

The Five Stages of Disease Formation – Samprapti (Pathogenesis)

“Disease doesn’t arise suddenly — it evolves through stages.”

1. Sanchaya (Accumulation)

“The beginning of imbalance.”
One or more Doshas begin to accumulate in their natural sites due to improper diet, lifestyle, or seasonal factors.
Example: Heaviness, mild bloating, sluggishness.

2. Prakopa (Aggravation)

“The imbalance intensifies.”
The accumulated Dosha(s) become more active and aggravated. Symptoms become more noticeable.
Example: Burning (Pitta), pain (Vata), congestion (Kapha).

3. Prasara (Spread)

“Overflow beyond original site.”
The aggravated Doshas overflow from their primary locations and begin to spread through the Srotas (channels) of the body.
This stage may still be reversible with timely care.

4. Sthana Samshraya (Localization)

“The weak spot becomes the target.”
Doshas lodge in a weakened or vulnerable area (due to genetic, past, or lifestyle reasons), interacting with Dhatus (tissues).
This is where specific diseases begin to take shape.

5. Vyakti (Manifestation)

“The disease fully expresses itself.”
Now, signs and symptoms are clearly visible. The disease has a name, structure, and form.
This is often when most people seek help — but Ayurveda aims to prevent it reaching this stage.

Understanding Samprapti helps in reversing the disease from its root — not just managing symptoms.