Concept of Ojas with Relevancy of Physiological Properties

Abstract

In the human body, metabolic activity is performed by Tridosha (functional entity and vitiating substances), Sapta Dhatus (seven tissue levels) and Malas (waste products). In addition to this, Ojas is considered as Dhatu & the essence of all Dhatus, which is present in every compartment of the body. Its quality is homologous to Kapha (lubricating and protective substance). Strength and body protecting phenomenon are governed by certain substances. It lies in Hridaya (heart). Its Varna (color) is like Ghee (cowghee), it is Madhura (sweet) in Rasa (taste) and its Gandha (smell) is like Laaja (fried rice) in heated sand. It provides glistering, shining, strength and protection of the body from diseases. Improper diet and lifestyle vitiate the Ojas and produce different diseases. To understand Ojas from Ayurvedic perspective, functions, vitiated state and present scenario in modern scientific parameters and biochemical markers, Ojas related material and also commentaries on these texts related to Ojas, have been collected from Charak Samhita, Susruta Samhita, Astangasangraha, Ashtang Hridaya, Bhava Prakasha, Sharangadhara Samhita, Bhela Samhita, Ayurvedic Journals, Ayu related to body protecting system and also from certain modern books and journals. Ojas is categorized on the basis of function and quality. From the modern point of view, it is understood that energy producing substances such as carbohydrate, plasma, lymph nodes, seminal fluids, gastrointestinal secretion, reticuloendothelial cell, immunoglobulin’s, electrolyte and protein B, D provide immunity to a higher extent. There are three stages of vitiation - Visransa, Vyapada & Kshaya (vitiated state of Ojas). Pandu, Agantuja Unmad, Madatyay, Jwar & Prameha are having Ojas vitiation.

Keywords: Dhatu, immunity, Kapha, Ojas, Rasayana

Cite this Article

Prasad M. Concept of Ojas with Relevancy of Physiological Properties. Journal of AYUSH: Ayurveda, Yoga,Unani, Siddha and Homeopathy. 2015; 4(1): 30–38p.