REVISITING TRIGUNAS IN AYURVEDA: PHILOSOPHICAL FOUNDATIONS AND THERAPEUTIC APPLICATIONS

Abstract

Ayurveda is the ancient and first science which has identified importance of the healthy mind in healthy body. The definition of Swastha (healthy person) in Ayurveda consists of balanced state of Doshas, Agni, Dhatus, Malas and also Prasannata (happiness) of Atma (soul), Indriyas (sense/motor organs) along with Prasannata of Manas (mind). Healthy and happy mind is the prerequisite of health according to Ayurveda. Sattva, Rajas and Tamas are the Trigunas which were adapted from Sankhya Shastra to Ayurveda. In Ayurveda, they were first described by Charaka. They are also called as Mahagunas by Sharangdhara. Sattva, Rajas, Tamas are main governing elements of mind, they are responsible for mental functioning in humans. Along with the functioning of mind also they play important roles in many aspects of life. To understand mental regulation in Ayurvedic perspective, study of Trigunas is essential. This review revisits multi-dimensional nature of Trigunas ranging from cosmic creation (Sushruti Utpatti), manifestations on human mind to therapeutic applications while treating some psychosomatic conditions.