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Contents 1.
Introduction
2.
Review of Literature i.
Ayurvedic Review
ii.
Modern Review
iii.
Prakratri Review
1-2 3-25
3.
Materials and Methods
26-28
4.
Observations and Result
29-72
5.
Discussion
73-91
6.
Summary and Conclusion
92-95
7.
Bibliography
i-xi
Acknowledgement This work is reflection of the rays of mercy from almighty, with whose shower of blessing this task ventured without any hindrance. With a deep sense of devotion I bow and pray to the feet of Baba Vishwanatha. Who blessed me to get an opportunity to study in this holy city Kashi especially in Banaras Hindu University. My infinite gratitude and great reverence to Pt. Madan Mohan Malviyaji, who has established this multi dispciplinary Institute. With great pleasure and a deep sense of gratitude I wish to acknowledge the immense and invaluable help of all my distinguished teachers and dear colleagues whose constant guidance and inspiration made this thesis of mine to come into shape. Words fall short in expressing my deep sense of gratitude and profound thanks to my learned teacher and guide Dr.N.S.Tripathi, MD (AY), Ph.D, Assistant Professor, Department of Kriya Sharir, Faculty of Ayurveda, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University. His invaluable suggestions and constant guidance has been a source of encouragement for me and enabled me to complete the work. I venerate him and wish that his blessings will remain with me throughout my life. I am immensely grateful to my learned Co-supervisor Dr. P. S. Byadgi Assistant Professor, Department of Vikriti Vigyan, Faculty of Ayurveda, IMS, BHU. He has very affectionately extended his learned suggestions from time to time which were also the source to update knowledge regarding this field. His attitude makes me more enthusiastic during period of my study. It is a pleasing privilege for me to express my sense of gratitude and respect to Dr. Sangeeta Gehlot , Associate Professor and Head, Department of Kriya Sharir for her valuable suggestions and evaluations during research work. I am sincerely grateful to my teacher Dr. Kishor Patwardhan, Assistant Professor Department of Kriya Sharir IMS, BHU, Varanasi for his valuable suggestions and evaluations during research work. I am sincerely grateful Dr. B.M. Singh, Associate Professor and Head, Department of Bala Roga IMS, BHU, Varanasi. I also owe my regards to Dr A.C.Kar, Head Department of Vikriti Vigyana for his kind permission to carry out investigations. This work would not have come to an end without the help and guidance of Dr. Girish Singh as he helped me out with many problems regarding different aspects. It is my great pleasure to acknowledge indebtness to all teachers of PG and UG for encouragement and inspiration. I feel happy and lucky to express my profound sense of gratefulness to an enthusiastic, affectionate, inspiring Dr.Sushma Tiwari, whose emotional support and guidance helped me a lot in accomplishment of the present study. I am also thankful to all my seniors, especially Dr. Piyush Tripathi, Dr.Rahul Banker, for their support during my thesis work. I offer my sincere thanks to my friends Dr. Kavita Patel, Dr.K.B.Singh, Dr. Shiv Shanker Pathak, Dr. Naveen Chauhan, Dr. Amit Gupta and my juniors Dr. Sunil Chaudhary, Dr. Himanshu , Dr. Mahesh, Dr Ravi Shukla, Dr. Rapolu Sunil, I offer my sincere thanks to my loving students of batch 2009 and all students of 2010 batch for participating and co-operated me in completing this study. No work can reach up to the excellency without the moral support of family members. I feel short of words when I record my gratitude to my grandmother. I am highly indebted to my father Shri Mahesh Singh, my mother Smt. Sheela Singh and my uncle Shri S.B.singh. They have played a key role in moulding thoughts toward higher studies with constant enthusiastic and affectionate push. A warm heartily my affections for my life mate Dr. Nitu Singh, whose attitude ever helped me to sail through many troublesome situations. Words cannot express my feelings for her kind support during my thesis work. My happiness is multiplied many folds as I think of my family that stood by me at all times and each and every member of who has been my source of inspiration. I thank my Loving and caring family members Mr Rajesh Singh, Smt Seema Singh, Mr R.P.Singh, Smt Rekha Singh, Akhilesh Singh, Ragini Singh because without their patience, encouragement and painstaking efforts, achieving this goal would have been a much difficult task for me. And of course I am very thankful to my younger brother Amod singh for his support in this work. I am very much thankful to loving baby Arpit ,Angel, Kuhu for their minted support during this work.
I am also thankful to the entire laboratory staff, Department of Vikriti Vigyana for their support during research work. I extend my thanks to Mr Imran Khan, Neelam Gupta, Dulare Ji, Sohan Ji, Shiv mohan Ji and all the members of Kriya Sharir Department for their help and co-operation during my study. I want to express my thanks to Mr. Mukesh kumar for his helping and co-operative attitude. At last but not least I want to express my feeling and gratitude to all my well wishers.
Dated: Place: Varanasi
Dr. Pramod Kumar Singh
INTRODUCTION Ayurveda, a system of medical science is based on many centuries of experience in medical practice. Ayurvedic medicine system originated in the early civilizations of India some 3,000-5,000 years ago, making Ayurvedic medicine the oldest existing medicinal system in the world. Ayurveda is considered as "The Science of Life" and it engross the care of physical, mental and spiritual health of human beings. Ayurveda is not only limited to body or physical health but also gives a comprehensive knowledge about spiritual, mental and social health. Thus Ayurveda is a qualitative, holistic science of health and longevity, a philosophy and system of therapeutic that curing the body as well as mind. The two principle objectives of Ayurveda are maintenance of health in healthy individual and cure of disease in diseased persons. According to Ayurvedic principle, there are strong correlation between body, mind, and consciousness. Therefore, the concept of health must address all of these aspects. The best preventive medicine and support of the natural healing process is a diet and lifestyle specific to once constitutional needs along with seasons and cycles of nature. Tridosha is considered as basic humors which are responsible for health and diseased condition. Beside this, there is description of different roga (disease) which occur in a particular season and their treatment for maintenance of health along with this pathya-apathya is indicated. Ayurvedic literature emphasizing the ritucharya, greater importance is given to ahara and vihara according to particular ritu, time of vitiation of doshas as per season and time of pacification of doshas along with this importance of daily regimen for a particular season is also described. Season has been defined as the natural periods in which the year is divided, which vary by weather conditions, daylight hours and temperature. The seasons result from the earth's axis being tilted to its orbital plane; it deviates by an angle of approximately 23.5 degrees. Hence at any given time during summer or winter, one part of the planet is more straight exposed to the rays of the sun . This exposure alternates as the earth revolves in its orbit. Therefore, at any given time in spite of season the northern and southern hemispheres experience opposite seasons. The effect of axis tilt is recognizable from the change in day length, and altitude of the sun throughout a year. Nature has blessed us with the different types of the seasons. These seasons have great influences on human beings. Seasons leave an impact on the doshas due to ups and downs in temperature, humidity and all other climatic factors. Human beings are in a continuous struggle against the ever changing environmental conditions to maintain optimum health throughout the day and in all seasons of the year. The survival of the human body depends on the continuous interaction in between the internal environment and external factors. When this interaction is in a state of equilibrium the human being enjoys health and when this fails either due to innate deficiency or hostile environmental factors, the balance is disturbed and leads to diseases or disharmony. Environmental factors include the nature of the land, water and various atmospheric phenomenons such as temperature, humidity, wind, rain, snow etc. All these factors are continuously changing. The influence of the solar cycle, or the time it takes for the earth to complete one orbit around the sun, can be divided into two equal periods, each of which begins and ends with the winter and summer solstice. Ayurveda recognizes these two periods, calling them dakshinayana (southern movement) and uttarayana (northern movement), each corresponding to the shift in the position of the earth relative to the sun. Weather also changes according to season. These changes in the atmosphere affect all living beings. Some changes are beneficial, while others are harmful. In order to achieve maximum benefits from the good qualities of the atmosphere and protection from the bad effects, Ayurveda has prescribed certain guidelines about diet and life style called seasonal regimen i.e ritucharya According to ayurveda year is divided in to six seasons (ritu), in which three seasons shishira, vasanta and greeshma is known as aadana (uttarayan) when the sun takes north way course. Other three seasons varsha, sharada … (1)
and hemanta is considered as visarga with the sun following its southern course. Visarga is saumya due to predominance of soma (moon).On the other hand aadana is agneya due to predominance of agni.The human being experiences debility in beginning of visarga and end of aadana kala, medium strength in mid of visarga and mid of aadana kala, maximum strength in end of visarga and beginning of aadana kala. Variations of doshas take place in various seasons, age, day and night etc.which slightly influences the body physiological functions. Accumulation, exacerbation and pacification of vata, pitta and kapha occurs in respective seasons i.e. kapha is aggravated in spring (mid February to mid June), pitta in summer (mid June to mid October) and vata in autumn and winter (mid October to mid February). One who follows seasonal regimens never suffers from severe disorder caused by seasonal influences. Different types of diseases are influenced by different seasons. For example fever (kaphaj jwara) aggravates during autumn. The fever arising in spring and autumn can be treated easily. Pittaja jwara get aggravated in spring, vataja jwara in rainy season. In kapha dominating jwara (in spring) fasting is indicated. The intelligent physician should treat the patient of fever in autumn and spring taking in to consideration of potency and weakness of doshas. Prakriti is defined as inherent characteristic property of individual refers to the genetically determined physical and mental makeup and is determined by sperm and ovum; season and condition of uterus, food and regimens of the mother and nature of five great elements comprising the fetus. Seven varieties of physical constitution are described namely vatta, pitta, kapha, vata-kapha, vata-pitta, vatta-kapha and sannipataja. These can be diagnosed by using various physical, physiological and psychological characteristic. Blood group is also determined genetically. Different researches suggest the relation of blood group and disease occurrences e.g. recently it was considered that the life expectancy of the holders of the blood group O is less than that of other blood groups, and generally blood group O individuals are more prone to various diseases. But present researches are not sufficient
to explain the influence of season on different blood group individuals.Some
researchers (mainly in western countries) have tried to find out some physiological variations in different season but no effort has been made to access the physiological variations according to prakriti. Keeping the above facts in mind present study entitled “study of physiological variations in young healthy individuals in different Ritus (seasons) with special reference to Prakriti” has been designed to find out the possible physiological variations in healthy individuals of different prakriti groups. The study may throw some ray of hope to understand physiological variations among different prakriti individuals in respect to seasonal variations. Present study was conducted on 54 young healthy volunteers (age 18-30years) for observing the different physiological variations in three different seasons. Prakriti of all the volunteers were assessed based on the proforma designed by our department to understand various prakriti. It is found that all the volunteers are grouped under vataja (vata-pittaja and vata-kaphaja), pittaja (pitta-vataja and pitta-kaphaja) and kaphaja (kapha-vataj and kapha-pittaja) based on the fulfillment of predominant criteria mentioned against each prakriti. We do not know any large scale monitoring studies on potential seasonal differences in various prakriti and blood groups. The present study has been carried out in three seasons namely January-February (shishira ritu), MayJune (greeshma ritu) and September- October (sharad ritu). Comparison between prakriti and blood group in various seasons has not been presented previously. We hypothesize that considerable physiological variations observed among pittaja and kaphaja prakriti in comparison to vataja prakriti in all the three seasons. Thus, the influence of seasonal variations may affect pittaja and kaphaja prakriti individuals at a faster rate than vataja prakriti individuals. Furthermore, we hypothesize that influence of seasons on blood groups A, B and O is greater than AB blood group. … (2)
REVIEW OF LITERATURE Since ancient time, Ayurveda is the science of life. The aim and objectives of Ayurveda is of two fold. 1.
Prevention of health in healthy individual.
2.
Cure of the disease in diseased person.
To fulfill the first aim different Acharayas have described dincharya, ritucharya, sadvritta etc. In Brihatrayi there is separate description / chapters for ritucharya. So It is relevant to review the description available in the ayurvedic text books in relation to “Study of physiological variations in young healthy individuals in different Ritu (season) with special reference to Prakriti”. Ritu ( ri+tu,kit) means- mausam , yugararbha, nischit kala , artava, ritusrava , garbhadhan ke liye upayukta kala ( VS Apte Dictionary ). Any settled point of time, fixed time, time appointed for any action, right or fit time, kala, season, the menstrual discharge, the time after the course (M.M.Willams Dictionary). Kala is considered as year as well as the status of patient, year is divided into two, three, six, twelve or even more according to the nature. For the purpose of evacuation therapy this is divided as hemanta (early winter), greeshma (summer) and varsha (rainy) season, characterized by cold, heat and rain. In between them pravrit (early rain), sharad (autumn) and vasanta (spring) ritu are also described (Ch.S.Vi.8/125).This division is made for specific purpose of elimination of doshas. Each season consists of two month, in this way year is divided into six seasons, out of them magha-falguna make shishira (late winter), chaitra-vaishakh make vasanta (spring), jyestha-ashadha make greeshma (summer), shravan-bhadrapada make varsha (rainy season), ashwina-kartika make sharad and margshirsha-pausha make hemanta (early-winter) (Ch.S.Su.6/4), (Su.S.Su.6/6), (A.S.Su.4/5), (A.H.Su.3/1-3). These divisions have been made for normal condition and origin of rasas. Kashyapa has mentioned five seasons (Ka.S.Sha.1/1). Hindi month
Predominance of Rasa
Shishira (Jan-Feb)
Ritu
magha-falguna
tikta
Vasanta (March-April)
chaitra-vaishakh
kashaya
Greeshma (May-June)
jyestha-ashadha
katu
Varsha (July-Aug)
shravan-bhadrapada
amla
Sharad (Sep-Oct)
ashwina-kartika
lavana
Hemanta (Nov-Dec)
margashisha-pausha
madhura
During commentary on Ch.S.Vi.8/25, chakrapani has elaborated division of year as two types i.e. uttarayana and dakshinayana; three types as winter, summer and rain, six types according to season, twelve types according to months, twenty four types according to fortnight (paksha). Charaka has described that various types of diet leads to promotion of strength and complexion if one knows the wholesomeness according to different season depend on behavior and diet regimens (Ch.S.Su.6/3).
VISARGA AND AADANA KALA According to Ayurveda year is divided in to six seasons, in which three seasons shishira, vasanta and greeshma are known as aadana (uttarayan) when the sun takes north way course. Other three seasons varsha, sharad and hemanta is considered as visarga with the sun following its southern course (Ch.S.Su.6/4), (A.S.Su.4/5-6). Visarga is saumya due to predominance of soma (moon).On the other hand aadana is agneya due to predominance of agni. Thus the sun, the wind and the moon are responsible for appearance of time, season, rasa, dosha
… (3)
and bodily strength to the nature (Ch.S.Su.6/5). Sushruta has also described visarga (releasing) and aadana (receiving) karma of soma and sun (Su.S.Su21/8) respectively.
BALA (STRENTH) DURING VISARGA AND AADANA KALA The human being experience debility in beginning of visarga and end of aadana kala, medium strength in mid of visarga and mid of aadana kala, maximum strength in end of visarga and beginning of aadana kala (Ch.S.Su.6/4-8) (Ka.S.Khi.7/5-6). Similar description is also available in Ashtanga Sangraha (A.S.Su.4/5-8). For explanation of this verse Charaka has described that during aadana kala sun draws up unctuous portion of nature and due to drying by sharp and rough wind, roughness is produced in shishira, vasanta and greeshma in progressive order. Due to getting tikta, kashaya and katu rasa (having roughness), causes weakness in human being. While in varsha, sharad and hemanta seasons moon is having unhindered strength, as a result of heavily water, temperature of nature having been cool down. The amla, lavana and madhura rasa increases which leads to support of strength in human being (Ch.S.Su.6/6-7) (Su.S.Su.5/7) (A.H.Su.3/6). In Ashtanga Hridaya, it is mentioned that during sheetakala the strength of individual is maximum during vristi(rainy) and ghana ( hot) season, it is minimum and in remaining seasons, strength is moderate (A.H.Su.3/7).
HEMANTA RITUCHARYA Ritucharya means ‘mode of living in different season’ Describing hemanta ritucharya Charaka has mentioned that in strong person the agni becomes stronger and capable of consuming even those articles which are heavy in nature and quantity. When winter begins one should avoid/ minimize vata increasing factors, light food and drinks, intake of cold drink and strong wind (Ch.S.Su.6/9-18).
SHISHIRA RITUCHARYA Hemanta and shishira ritu have minor difference (shishira has more roughness). Hence regimen of hemanta is applicable to shishira also (Ch.S.Su.6/19-21). Mild massaging of body, wrestling with the trained wrestlers to half of its strength is advised (A.H.Su.3/9-10). Butter milk (takra) has been recommended in cold (shishira and hemanta) season (Su.S.Su.45/87).
VASANTA RITUCHARYA During Vasanta ritu (spring) due to strong rays of sun, vitiation of accumulated kapha causes many diseases. Hence during this season evacuating procedures like vomiting etc. should be applied. Diet which is heavy, sweet, sour, fatty and sleeping during day time should be avoided. For the duration of vasanta one should use exercise, medicated smoking (dhumpana), gargle & bath with warm water (Ch.S.Su.22/26).
GREESHMA RITUCHARYA During greeshma (summer) ritu sun draws up moisture of nature that’s why sweet, cold, liquid, fatty food and drinks are useful. Day sleep may be advised. Wine is indicated in small quantity with plenty of water or should be avoided. Excessive salt, sour, pungent, hot things, physical activity and sexual intercourse should be avoided (Ch.S.Su6/27).
VARSHA RITUCHARYA During varsha ritu (rainy season), due to earth vapour, humidity and amla paka of water, digestion becomes poor and vata is aggravated. During this period one should use diet having predominance of sour, salted and fatty articles, and should eat old barley wheat and rice. Use of food and drink mixed with honey is also indicated. Person
… (4)
should avoid cold drink, day sleep, dews, river water, physical exercise, exposure to sun and sexual intercourse (Ch.S.Su.6/33-40). After doing purification aasathapana vasti is advised in varsha ritu (A.H.Su.3/45).
SHARAD RITUCHARYA Due to dominance of pitta in sharad one should advice to take sweet, light, cold, slightly bitter and pitta pacifying food, drinks and hansodaka (type of water). Ghee medicated with bitter drugs, purgative and bloodletting is advised. During sharad ritu fat, oil, dew, meat of aquatic and marshy animals, alkali, curd, day sleep and exposure to eastern wind should be avoided (Ch.S.Su.6/41-48). Harita has also described six types of ritu (season) i.e. varsha, sharad, hemanta, shishira, vasanta and greeshma, and characteristics of different seasons has been described (Ha.S.Ps.4/63). The aggravation, accumulation and pacification of doshas according to season is mentioned in 5th chapter (Ha.S.Ps.5/50,51). Curd’s (dadhi) characteristics, its indications and contraindications in different seasons have been also described (Ha.S.Ps.8/40-49). Buttermilk (takra) should not be taken in hot season and autumn (Ha.S.Ps.8/45).In rainy season, dreams seen after noon take six months to manifest its effect (Ha.S.Ds.2/3-4). In this way what one should use and avoid in every season is described in different Samhita. Person who follows this regimen in each season never suffers from severe disorder caused by seasonal factors (Su.S.Utt.64/35). In Ashtanga Hridaya, it is mentioned that habit of using all six rasas daily is ideal for maintenance of health, excluding during special season when rasas referred to respective season should be taken more (A.H.Su.3/54) (A.S.Su.4/60). In Ashtanga Sangraha during description of ritucharya, it is mentioned that the rules and regimen described for each season is meant only for healthy person (A.S.Su.4/62). The effect of day and night on body has been also mentioned in Ashtanga Sangraha (A.S.Su.11/64-68).
EXERCISE (VYAYAM) ACCORDING TO SEASON Sushruta has mentioned to practice exercise only up to half of the strength daily. Exercise is especially beneficial during sheeta and vasanta seasons (Su.S.Chi.24/46-47). Vagbhatta has explained that in sheeta and vasanta seasons individuals should practice exercise up to half of the strength while in rest of the seasons one should practice it minimally (A.H.Sh.2/11-12).
RITUSANDHI Time of seven days at the end and commencement season is known as ritusandhi. During this period regimen of previous season should be discontinued gradually and that of subsequent season should be adopted gradually (A.H.Su.3/58-59) (A.S.Su.4/61).
YAMDANSTRA Sharangadhara has mentioned that movement of sun from one stellar constellation to other makes for the six seasons during which tridosha undergo accumulation, aggravation and pacification (Sha.S.Pkh.2/24). The relationship between ritu and rashi is established by Sharangadhara (Sha.S.Pkh.2/25,26).The last eight days of kartika and the first eight days of agahana is described as yamdanstra kala, during this period it is advised to strictly follow seasonal regimen and should take small quantities of food(Sha.S.Pkh.2/29).
TRIDOSHA AND SEASON Charaka has mentioned that one should evacuate accumulated doshas in first month of vasanta (spring),varsha (rainy season) and sharad (autumn). After who have got body oleated, fomented should administer emetic, purgative and enema; and after that one who knows time should administer rasayana and aphrodisiac preparation, so that dhatus having been stabilized in normal condition and diseases do not arise(Ch.S.Su.7/46-50).On commenting on this verse … (5)
Bhattar-Harishachandra has slightly different opinion as he intepretated ‘sahasya’ as the form of’ saha’ and thus takes kartika instead of margashirsa in autumn. This view is also supported by Vagbhata. Chakrapani and Gangadhara has suggested the later month of spring, rainy and autumn season for evacuation. Sushruta also has also mentioned that kapha should be eliminated in spring while pitta in autumn and vata in rainy season prior to emergence of disorder (Su.S.Su.6/38). It is also described that day and night also shows features of year; as forenoon having features of spring, mid day like summer, in after noon those of early rains, in early night like rainy season, midnight those of autumn and at dawn like early winter. This day night also follows the pattern of accumulation, aggravation and pacification of doshas (Su.S.Su.6/14). Charaka has divided bala as sahaja, kalaja and yuktikrita bala. Yuktikritabala is due to division of season and different stages of life (balyavastha, yuvavastha, vridhavastha)(Ch.S.Su.11/36). Charaka has also described trividha rogayatan (causes of disease), which consist of excess of specific character of indriya, karma and kala (season) and also deficient occurrences and perverted occurrence of indriya, karma and kala (Ch.S.Su.11/37,42)(A.H.Su.1/34,35). Tridoshas are described as tristambha (vata, pitta and kapha) of body, but accumulation, vitiation and pacification of vata, pitta and kapha occurs in different season (Ch.S.Su.17/114) (Su.S.Su.6/12,13) (Su.S.Su21/22,25) (A.S.Su.21/913) (A.H.Su.12/24)
(Sha.S.Pkh.2/27,28) (K.S.Khi.7/4-15). This conditioning is expected by effect of
season. In brief these three doshas destroy, sustain and maintain the body when they are abnormal and normal respectively (A.H.Su.1/6).Predominance of doshas has been also described during last (predominance of vata), middle (predominance of pitta) and first periods (predominance of kapha) of life (A.S.Su.1/25). Dosha
Chaya
Prakopa
vata
greeshma
varsha
Prasamana sharad
pitta
varsha
sharad
hemanta
kapha
shishira
vasanta
greeshma
RELATION BETWEEN BLOOD AND SEASON Blood plays important role in homeostasis of body. During sharad ritu (autumn) blood becomes naturally impure (Ch.S.Su.24/10) (Sha.S.Ukh.12/24). Gangadhara commented on this verse and said that the defect of blood means abnormality in its normal composition, diminution or aggravation. Sushruta has stated that in cloudy, wind and cold weather blood become thick and not comes out or comes in small quantity on shiravedha (bloodletting).
CHARACTERISTICS OF RAIN WATER ACCORDING TO SEASON The characteristics of fresh rain water have been also described in Ayurveda e.g. rain water of autumn season is indicated even in delicate person and king. (Ch.S.Su27/203-208)(Ha.S.Ps.7/19-28)(Ka.S.Khi.23/1-4). Sushruta has described that in rainy season or in spring water of rain should be used as it has great merit. He has also recommended that in autumn season all types of water may be used because of being purified. Water of lake and tank should be used in early winter. In spring and summer water from well or waterfall should be used. Water from shallow well, old tank and lake should not be taken in early rain (Su.S.Su.45/8). Doshas and seasons should be kept in mind during intake of different rasas (Su.S.Chi.24/102). In rainy and autumn season water should be taken in small quantity, during winter and spring hot water and in summer cold water should be taken as desired; sidhu and arishta should be taken in winter and spring. Cooled milk after boiling is advised in summer. In early rain meat soup, vegetarian soup in rainy season and in autumn cold water should be taken. These regimens have been described for healthy and in diseased it should be based on conditions of doshas and food taken (Su.S.Chi.24/103-106). Harita has also described the characteristics of water fallen with rain along with indications and contraindications (Ha.S.Ps.7/19-28). … (6)
SNEHAPAN ACCORDING TO SEASON Ghrita is indicated in sharad (autumn), vasa and majja in vaishakh and taila in pravrit ritu. Sneha should not be taken in seasons of extreme cold and hot. (Ch.S.Su.13/18) (A.H.Su.16/11-14) (Ka.S.Su.22/10) (A.S.Su25/15-16). Sushruta has advised to take sneha in pravrit, sharad and vasanta (Su.S.Chi.24/107).One who has predominance of vata-kapha and in cold season sneha should be taken in day time. While in hot season and in abundance of vata-pitta it should be taken in night (Su.S.Chi.31/22) (Su.S.Chi.37/51) (Sha.S.Ukh.1/16). If these indications are not followed it may lead to different complications (Su.S.Ch.31/23). Sharangadhara has also advised that sneha can be given with food during summer(Sha.S.Ukh.2/19).
SEASON AND PURIFICATION The season having common character (sadharana ritu) is important because evacuation therapy such as emesis etc. should be applied in these seasons, due to moderate cold, heat and rain the season having common character are most convenient and unharmful to body and drugs. While due to excessive cold, heat and rain other seasons are inconvenient and harmful to body and drug. Therefore the evacuation therapy like emesis etc. are stopped in season ending with early winter, summer and rainy season except in case of emergency, in emergency therapy should administer carefully after modifying the seasonal effects by artificial means (Ch.S.Vi.8/126-127)(A.H.Su.13/3336)(A.S.Su.23/9-11).Sharangadhara has advised that emesis and purgation therapies should be done in sharad, vasanta or pravrit seasons(Sha.S.Ukh.3/1). The physician should manage evacuating remedy taking into account of season in case of healthy person and in disease according to morbidity (Ch.S.Si.6/6).
NASYA KARMA & SEASON Nasyakarma (time for nasal medication) is also indicated according to season as Vagbhata has advised to take nasyakarma in forenoon during autumn and spring season, during mid day in cold season, during evening in summer, and during rainy season when there is cloud free atmosphere (A.H.Su.20/13-15)(A.S.Su.29/15). It is also mentioned that anjana should also be used according to seasons (Sha.S.Ukh.13/73)(A.S.Su.32/16).
EFFECT OF VISHA (POISON) ACCORDING TO SEASON At some stage in description of visha (poison) it is mentioned that due to watery source it gets liquified and flows like jaggery in rains and then it is destroyed by emergence of agastya constellation in sky and turn into mild in action after rainy season (Ch.S.Chi.23/7-8).Chakrapani has suggested that origin of poison from water indicates its aggravation in rainy season and its pacification by water.
BANDHA (BANDAGE) AND SEASON Sushruta has described that bandage should be removed on third day in early and late winter and in spring while in autumn, summer and rainy season it should be done on second day (Su.S.Su.5/40) (A.S.Su.38/45).
RELATION OF AGNI KARMA AND SEASON Agni karma (cauterization), an important measure in shalyakarma (surgery) advised in all seasons except autumn and summer(Su.S.Su.12/5).
RAKTA VISHRAVAN ACCORDING TO SEASON Rakta-vishravana (blood-letting) is also contraindicated in conditions like cloudy weather, cold and direct exposure to wind; because blood being thick and does not come out (Su.S.Su.14/28) (Su.S.Sh.8/7). If blood-letting performed in too hot season and after excessive sudation it may lead to massive blood flow which can give rise to … (7)
headache, defect in vision, convulsion, burning sensation, hemiplagia, localized disorder etc. which finally may leads to death. Therefore blood-letting should be performed in moderate season (Su.S.Su.14/31).Suitable time for vein puncture are during rainy season in sunny day, in summer when heat is least and in noon throughout winter. Sharngadhara has advised bloodletting in sharad to be free from skin disease (sha.s.ukh.12/2). Sharngadhara has contraindicated bloodletting during cold season, very hot season, before sudation therapy and after excessive sudation (Sha.S.Ukh.27/29). There is description of aggravation, accumulation and pacification of doshas according season in different ayurvedic literatures. By aggravation of doshas produces needling pain, movement of wind in bowels, acidity, thirst etc. (Su.S.Su.21/27). This can be used as diagnostic tools in treatment. The physician who follows the method based on time etc. steadily eliminates the group of disorders (Su.S.Su.35/50).
TIME OF FOOD TAKEN ACCORDING TO SEASON During season in which night is longer one should take food consisting of plenty of its contraries in morning itself. In longer day one should take food prescribed in that season in afternoon. In which season day and night are of equal duration one should take food in evenly divided in day and night (Su.S.Su.46/468-470).
COLLECTIONS OF MEDICINES ACCORDING TO SEASON Charaka has mentioned that one should obtain the fruits grown in proper time, mature rasa and potency, relished with sun, air, shade, and water in respective season (Ch.S.Ra.Pada.1/37). In second pada he has also mentioned bhallataka should be taken in jyestha and asadha month.
RELATION OF DISEASE AND SEASON In different samhita there is description of different diseases which are influenced by season. Fever (kaphaj jwara) aggravates during autumn (Ch.S.Ni.1/27).The natural fever arising in spring and autumn can be treated easily. Pittaja jwara get aggravated in spring, vataja jwara in rainy season. In kapha dominating jwara (in spring) fasting is indicated. The intelligent physician should treat the case of fever in autumn and spring taking in consideration of potency and weakness of doshas (Ch.S.Chi.3/40-41). In vasanta ritu kaphaja disease, during sharad ritu pittaja and in duration of varsha ritu mainly vataja disease takes place (Ch.S.Shi.30/309).During rainy season, autumn and spring fever arising from vata, pitta , kapha respectively are natural while other are unnatural and difficult to cure (A.H.Ni.2/50-52)(A.S.Ni.1/51)(Ma.Ni.2/55).In rainy season vata produces fever supported by pitta and kapha, in autumn season pitta produces fever supported by kapha. So if patient does not take any food there is no harm, fever in vasanta (spring) due to kapha is supported by vata and pitta (A.S.Ni.1/51-53),(Ma.Ni.2/56-57). In rainy season, one who dips into water infected by putrifications of insects, urine, feces etc. or drinks dirty, poisoned or fresh water is attacked by external disorder (like skin disease) and internal disorders (like udara-roga) etc; they are caused respectively by bath and drinking (PV Sharma’s commentary on Su.S.Su.45/9-19 ). The commencement and exacerbation of all fever happen at their particular time when the dosha causing fever is predominant i.e. particular period of the day, night, season ,digestion of food etc (A.H.Ni.2/22-23).
KALPA (FORMULATIONS) ACCORDING TO SEASON Different kalpa (formulations) for purgation is described according to season and some other formulations are prescribed for all season (Ch.S.K.7/56-64). Different types of virechana kalpa (purgatives) according to season is also described (A.H.Ks.2/24-28). Six different mukhalepa kalpa according to season is also described in Ashtanga Hridaya (A.H.Su.22/19-21). … (8)
Bhavaprakash has described haritaki like a mother. It is mentioned that for better result haritaki should be taken with different anupana in different seasons (D.G.Vi.by P.V Sharma).
PRAKRITI Prakriti is made up of two word ‘Pra’ means ‘beginning’ or ‘commencement’ or ‘source of origin’ and ‘kruthi’ means ‘to perform’ or ‘to form’. Thus prakriti means ‘natural form’ or ‘original source’ or ‘original form’. Predominance of doshas decides prakriti of human beings in intra uterine life. Prakriti is considered as sum total of morphological, physiological and psychological traits in human beings. Prakriti of a man has genetic as well as acquired aspect, the genetic aspect depends upon shukra and shonita (Su.S.Sha.4/36) and acquired constitution develops in relation to environmental factors like climate, season, time factor, age, race, familial inheritance(Ch.S.In.1/5). Prakriti can never be changed throughout life. Due to these factors different types of prakriti have been described. Prakriti of a person is not only dependent on shukra and shonita, but also dependent on the kala, dietetic regimen, behavior of mother, nature of garbhasaya as well on the mahabhutas (C.S.Vi. 8/95). Vagbhata has also mentioned that prakriti is dependent not only on shukra and shonita but also on diet and behavior of the pregnant woman, nature of garbhasya and kala (A.H.Sha. 3/83). Qualitative and quantitative predominance of dosha from birth to death is called as prakriti. Prakriti is decided in intra uterine life according to predominance of doshas. Prakriti plays important role during prognosis and treatment of diseases. Vata prakriti is considered as heena among all the types of prakriti because individuals of vata prakriti are very susceptible to different kind of diseases.
DETERMINATION OF PRAKRITI Dominant doshas during union of shukra and shonita determines prakriti of an individual (Su.S.Sh.4/62). Kashyapa has explained that identical type of prakriti of human being is formed from embryonic life because fetus is nourished by mother. These prakriti are of three types having predominance of vata, pitta and kapha as pillars (Ka. S.Su.18/6-8). In Ayurvedic literature there is description of many factors which take part in determination of prakriti as well as development of fetus. Six bhava i.e. matraja, pitraja, aatmaja, satmyaja, rasaja and satvaja are described as determinant in development of human personality, (Ch.S.Sha.3/3) (Su.S.Sha.3/31). Charaka and Vagbhata have also described some factors which plays important role in prakriti determination these factors are; jatiprasakta (racial peculiarities), kulaprasakta (familial predisposition), deshanupatini (demographic), kalanupatini (seasonal effect), vayonupatini (natural changes according to age), pratyatmaniyata (personal habits and individuality, idiosyncrasy) (Ch.S.In.1/5)(A.S.Sha.8/17).Factors described by Vagabhata are shukra (sperm), shonita (ovum), kala (time or season), garbhasya prakriti (condition of uterus), mata aahar (diet of mother) and mata vihara (behavior of mother) and pancha mahabhuta (A.H.Sha.3/83). Defect of sex gamete (sperm and ovum) ,action associated with soul, status of uterus, time, food and regimen of mother are factors affecting fetus. All of these factors vitiate dosha and this vitiation results in impairment of shape, color, sensory and motor organ of fetus (Ch.S.Sha.2/29).
TYPES OF PRAKRITI (A)DOSHAJA PRAKRITI Different ayurvedic acharya’s have described seven types of sharirika prakriti according to combinations of doshas which includes ekadoshaja (due to singe dosha), dvidoshaja(due to combination of two doshas) and … (9)
samaprakriti (due to combination of all three doshas) (Su.S.Sha.4/61)(Ch.S.Vi.895)(A.H.Sha.3/83). Bhela has mentioned sannipataja prakriti instead of samaprakriti ( Bhe.S.Vi. 4). (B)BHAUTIKA PRAKRITI According to panch mahabhutas five types of prakriti have been also described which are vayu, agni,and jala prakriti are just the same as the vata, pitta, and kapha sub types of doshaja Prakriti. Body of a person of parthiva sharira is sthira, vipula and he is sahamashila in his temperament, the person of nabhas sharira is pavitra, dirghayu and the aperture of their nose ear etc. is larger in size (Su.S.Sha.4/79). (C)JATYADI PRAKRITI According to charaka, prakriti is also divided as follows (i)
(D)
(E)
(F)
Jati Prasakta
(ii)
Kula Prasakta
(iii)
Deshanupatini
(iv)
Kalanupatini
(v)
Vayonupatini
(vi)
Pratyatmaniyatatva
Kashyapa classified prakriti on the basis of yuga. (i)
Prakriti of a person born in kritayuga was narayana type.
(ii)
Prakriti of a person born in tretayuga was of ardh narayan type.
(iii)
Prakriti of a person born in dwaparayuga was of kaishka type.
(iv)
Prakriti of person born in kaliyuga was of pradnaptipisheeta type.
MANAS PRAKRITI (i)
Satvaja(shudha)
(ii)
Rajas
(iii)
Tamas
OTHER CLASSIFICATIONS Another classification of prakriti is neurogenic, vasogenic and histogenic based on of relative preponderance
of three principle neurotransmitters namely acetylcholine catecholamine and histamines respectively and very much correspond with vatika , paittika and kaphaja (Udupa et al 1975). Sheldon et al (1940) has described Ectomorphy = cerebrotonia = Vattika, mesomorphy = somatotonia = Paittika; Endomorphy = viscerotonia = Kaphaja Prakriti
QUALITY ASSESSMENT OF PRAKRITI Charaka has mentioned that the ekadoshaja prakriti is rare and persons having these prakriti can be sick while person having samdoshaja prakriti should be healthy (Ch.S.Su.7/40). Shushruta has explained that: ‘the insect born in the poison does not die due to its own poison and in the same way; dosha that is dominant according to one’s prakriti does not harm the individual’ (Su.S.Sh.4/78). While commenting on Shushruta, Dalhana has stated that there are two types of dominance of dosha: (1) prakrita (2) vaikrita. Doshas that are dominant at the time of prakriti formation are prakrita in nature, so they do not harm the individual (Dalhana’s commentary on Su.S.Sha.4/62). Chakrapani has explained that utkatata of dosha is of three types i.e heena , madhyama and uttama . If utkatatata of dosha at the time of prakriti formation is ‘heena,’ it will not harm the individual. Vagbhata has mentioned that the person having vata, pitta and kapha predominance are said to be inferior, average and superior correspondingly (A.H.Su.1/27). Kashyapa suggested that individuals of sama prakriti are always healthy and of vatika etc. always remain ill (Ka.S.Su. 18).
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DEHA PRAKRITI Deha prakriti or doshaja prakriti denotes the psycho physiological typology founded on principal of tridosha. Tridosha are not just group of symptoms, but they represent definite natural process that take place inside the body. The vata, pitta and kapha are the essential factor for human organism (Su.S.Su. 21/23). The
deha prakriti (body
constitution) of persons is named according to the dominance of doshas. In some individual vata, pitta and kapha are in state of equilibrium, while some individuals are dominated by vata, some by pitta and some by kapha from the time of conception.
CHARACTERISTICS OF DIFFERENT TYPES OF DEHA PRAKRITI: In different literatures characteristics of different types of deha prakriti is described.(Garudapurana 1/168/3235) (Agnipurana utt. page no. 1833) (Ch.S.Vi. 8/96-98)(Su.S.Sha.4 /66) (A.H.Sha.3/84-103)(Sha.S.Pkh.6/2022)(Bhe.S.vi.4)(Ha.S.Ps. 5/17-22). Charaka has described the features of prakriti based on the attributes (guna) of a dosha whereas Sushruta has described the characteristics of prakriti on the basis of morphological, behavioral and other aspects. The dehaprakriti (body constitution) of persons is named according to the dominance of doshas. View of Charaka on prakriti assessment is methodical and scientific than other samhitas. Charaka has given more emphasis on the physical characteristic although psychological have been also mentioned.
Sushruta and
Vagbhata have described similarity of prakriti with the nature of different animals and description of dreams is found in relation to prakriti (Su.S.Sha.4/63-74).
FEATURE OF VATA PRAKRITI INDIVIDUALS Charaka describes that vata is ruksha, laghu, chala, bahu, sheeghra, sheeta, parusha and vishada. Due to ruksha guna individuals of vata prakriti are having ruksha and emaciated body. Their voice is ruksha and of low intensity, manda and jarjar. Owing to chala guna there is much movement in joints, bones, eyebrows, chin, tongue, head, shoulders and extremities. Due to having bahu guna vata prakriti individuals are talkative, and are having prominent veins spread all over body. Owing to sheeghra guna these individuals are quick initiative in nature, easily become upset, memorize and forget things easily, having short term memory, prone to disease. They cannot bear excessive cold. They are often having tremors, stiffness in body. Due to parusha guna these individual shows excessive roughness in their body parts like hairs, nails, teeths, mouths, hands etc. They are having cracked body organs and sounds are often produced from their joints. Vata prakriti persons are of low body strength, having low life span and less number of progenies. (Ch.S.Vi.8/98). Sushruta has described that the duration of sleep in vata pakriti persons is less than other prakriti individuals. They are also much interested in cold objectives, have cracked body organs, rough hairs, nails, and teeth. Having emaciated body, unsteady mind, are talkative in nature, and having less patience. Also having non pleasant look, hate others and are having qualities of goat, rabbit, camel, dog, crow and donkey (Su.S.Sha.4/63-66). Emaciated and tall body, eyes round shaped slightly remain open during sleep, take frequent large meals. Seeing dream of wandering on the mountains, residing on trees, moving in the sky, desire (in behavior) of music, humor, hunting and gambling ,desire of sweet, sour, salty and hot food. Behavior resembles with animals such as the dog, jackal, camel, vulture, rat and crow (A.H.Sha.3/84-89). Sushruta has described that habit of nail biting, ungrateful, impatient with fickle friendship are the features of vata prakriti persons (Su.S.Sha.4/64-65).
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FEATURES OF PITTA PRAKRITI: Pitta prakrIti individuals are courageous, having too much hunger, consume more food and can bear the sadness and difficulty. Joints and muscles of pitta prakriti persons are soft and loose and they produce excessive sweat, urine and faeces due to having drava guna. Because of visra guna they produce excessive bad odour from their body. Due to katu and amla guna of pitta these individuals having less quantity of semen, having less sexual power and less number of offspring as well as having medium body strength and knowledge (Ch.S.Vi.5/97). Sushruta has mentioned that pitta prakrti individuals are having excessive sweat and give out foul smell from the body. Body organs are yellowish and soft and their nails, eyes, tongue, lips, palate, palm and sole are copper colored. There is premature graying of hairs, alopecia and early wrinkling of skin, having excessive hunger, thirst, become easily irritated and are impatient. These individuals are intelligent and are informal speakers and seeing dream of enlightening things. These individuals have medium body strength and medium life span. They are having similar the features like those of snakes, owl, cat, monkey, lion and mongoose (Su.S.Sha. 4/68-70). Vagbhata has described that pitta prakriti individuals are having fair complexion, warm body, liking for sweet, astringent, bitter, cold food. They have mentioned also features of pittala as disliking for sunlight, eyes become red quickly by anger, drinking wine and exposure to sun light, feel comfort in cool. During sleep these individuals see dreams of flowers like kankara and palasha forest, fire meteors, lightening/thunder bolts, bright sunrays. Good behavior, clean, loving to dependents is feature of individuals having pittala prakriti. Their behavior look like animals like tiger, bear, ape and cat (A.H.Sha.3/90-95). Pitta is having ushna, teekshna, drava, visra, amla, and katu gunas. Because of ushna guna individuals of pitta prakriti do not like hot environment, have bright skin texture excessive moles. They feel more hunger and thirst, having premature graying and fall of hairs and wrinkling of skin. Their hair are soft and of kapila varna, as a result of teekshna guna of pitta.
FEATURES OF KAPHA PRAKRITI Kapha having snigdha, slakshna, mridu, madhura, sara, sandra, manda, stimita, guru, sheeta, picchila and accha guna. Due to snigdha guna, kapha prakriti individuals are having smooth body organs, as a result of mridu guna, they are good looking, and are of fair complexion. Owing to madhura guna, kapha prakriti individuals have good sexual capacity and copious quantity of shukra dhatu, having high number of progeny. Individuals are having well nourished body organs due to Sandra guna. Owing to manda guna, kapha prakriti individuals are having low initiative power and low activity, take low amount of diet. Individuals are not very intense to initiate work, having slow and steady gait due to stimita guna. Owing to sheeta guna, they have reduced hunger, thirst, sweating and low body temperature. Because of picchila guna individuals are having compact body joints and are having good body strength. As a result of accha guna these individuals having good looking eyes, face and body parts. Kapha prakriti individuals having very good body strength, ojas, calm and longer life spans (Ch.S.Vi.8/96). Person of kapha prakriti predominant constitution posses color of any one of durva (green grass), indivara (white lily) nishtrimsha (durva grass), arisataka (round soapnut) sharkanda. They have good looking face, having proportionate body, keen on eating sweet materials, grateful and courageous .They have their voice similar to the thundering of clouds or roaring of lion. They often dream of ponds, lakes, rivers and whitish things. They have good body physique, body strength and sound knowledge and have good ability to tolerate sorrow and troubles. They have the qualities like Brahma, Rudra, Varuna, horse, elephant, ox and Garuda (Su.S.Sha.4/71-75).
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Sushruta has described some other characteristics of kaphal prakriti these are long arms, long forearm, big and elevated chest, large and white shining eyes, black curly hairs, Liking for astringent, bitter, pungent, hot and dry food, consume food in less quantity and still remain strong. Watching of clouds in dreams, reservoirs of water full of lotus and rows of bird, sleeps more. Do not cry much in childhood. These individuals are Grateful, shows fast friendship, delayed acquisition, good memory, precise in choosing sentences and words and having predominance of sattvaguna (Su.S.Sha.4/74-75).
PANCHABHAUTIKA PRAKRITI According to the dominace of mahabhutas Sushruta has described five types of prakriti. pavana, dahana, and toya prakriti are due to dominance of vayu, agni and jala mahabhuta correspondingly. Individuals having prakriti due to the dominance of prithvi and akasha mahabhuta are having big and porous body respectively (Su.S.Sha.4/79).
MANAS PRAKRITI The psyche is of three types shudha, rajas and tamas. The shudha prakriti is said to be devoid of defects due to having beneficial fraction, where as rajas and tamas are defective because of fractions of agitation. (A) SHUDHA PRAKRITI Shudha prakriti is of seven types. (I) BRAHMYA SATVA 1.
Purity, love for truth and self controlled.
2.
Power of discrimination, material and spiritual knowledge.
3.
Power of exposition, reply and memory.
4.
Devoid of passion, anger, greed, ego, ignorance, jealousy, dejection and intolerance.
5.
Favorable disposition equally for all creatures (Ch.S.Sha.4/36).
(II) ARSA SATVA 1.
Devotion to sacred rituals, study, sacred vows, oblation, and celibacy.
2.
Devoted to guests.
3.
Freedom from pride, ego, attachments, hated, ignorance, greed and anger.
4.
Intellectual excellence and eloquence.
5.
Endowed with power of understanding and retention (Ch.S.Sha.4/36).
(III) AENDRA SATVA 1.
Lordship and authoritative speech.
2.
Performance of sacred rituals.
3.
Bravery, strength magnificent and impressive appearance.
4.
Freedom from mean acts.
5.
Fore sightedness.
6.
Devotion of virtuous act, earning of wealth and proper satisfaction of desires (Ch.S.Sha.4/36).
(IV) YAMYA SATVA 1.
Observance of propriety of action.
2.
Acting in opportune moment.
3.
Non-violability.
4.
Readiness for initiating action.
5.
Memory and lord ship. … (13)
6.
Freedom from attachment, envy, hatred and ignorance (Ch.S.Sha.4/36).
(V) VARUNA SATVA 1.
Bravery, patience, purity and dislike for impurity.
2.
Observance of religious rites.
3.
Fondness for aquatic sports.
4.
Aversion for mean act.
5.
Exhibition of anger and pleasure in proper place (Ch.S.Sha.4/36).
(VI) KAUBERA SATVA 1.
Possession of position, honor, luxuries and attendants.
2.
Constant liking for virtual acts, wealth and satisfaction.
3.
Purity.
4.
Liking for pleasure in recreation
5.
Manifest anger and favor (Ch.S.Sha.4/36).
(VII) GANDHARVA SATVA 1.
Fondness for dancing, singing, music and praise.
2.
Expertness in poetry, stories, historical narrations and epics.
3.
Constant fondness for scents, garlands, unguents, apparels, association of women and passion (Ch.S.Sha.4/36).
(B) RAJASIKA PRAKRITI Six types of rajasika prakriti have been described in Charaka Samhita. (I) ASURA SATVA 1.
Bravery, cruelty, envy, lordship, movement in disguise, terrifying appearance and ruthlessness.
2.
Indulgence in self-praise (Ch.S.Sha.4/37).
(II) RAKSHASA SATVA 1.
Intolerance, constant anger, violence at weak points, cruelty, gluttonous habit and fondness for non- vegetarian foods.
2.
Excessive sleep and physical exertion.
3.
Envious disposition (Ch.S.Sha.4/37).
(III) PAISACH SATVA 1.
Gluttonous habit.
2.
Fondness for women.
3.
Liking for staying with women.
4.
Unclear habit, disliking for cleanliness.
5.
Cowardice and terrifying disposition.
6.
Resorting to abnormal diet and regimen (Ch.S.Sha.4/37).
(IV) SARPA SATVA 1.
Bravery when wrathful disposition and timid otherwise.
2.
Sharp reaction.
3.
Excessive indolence.
4.
Walking, talking, food and resorting to other regimens with a fearful disposition (Ch.S.Sha.4/37).
(V) PRETA SATVA 1.
Excessive desire for food. … (14)
2.
Troublesome conduct, behavior and management.
3.
Enviousness.
4.
Action without discrimination, excessive greediness (Ch.S.Sha.4/37).
(VI) SHAKUNA SATVA 1.
Attachment with passion.
2.
Constantly indulged in food and pass time.
3.
Unsteady, ruthlessness and unacquisitiveness (Ch.S.Sha.4/37).
(C) TAMASIKA PRAKRITI Three types of tamasika prakiti has been described. (I) MATSYA SATVA 1.
Cowardice, unwise, greediness for food, unsteadiness, constant passionate and anger.
2.
Fondness for constant movement and desire for water (Ch.S.Sha.4/38).
(II) PASHAVA SATVA 1.
Forbidding disposition.
2.
Lack of intelligence.
3.
Hateful conducts.
4.
Excessive sexual indulgence and sleep (Ch.S.Sha.4/38).
(III) VANASPATYA 1.
Idle, indulgence food, deficiency of all the intellectual faculties and devoid of body action.
2.
Ignorance is common feature among all the types of tamas satva (Ch.S.Sha.4/38-39).
RELATION OF PRAKRITI WITH STATE OF AGNI There are four types of agni according to intensity such as teekshna (intense), mand (mild), sama (regular) and vishama (irregular). Among them, the vishamagni can tolerate all sort of improper regimens while mild one has got the contrary characters. The samagni gets affected by improper regimen but otherwise remains normal, the vishamagni has got the character contrary to samagni. These four types of agni are found in four types of persons. The person having normal constitution with vata, pitta and kapha in equilibrium have samagni. In person having vatika constitution have vishamagni. Person of paitika constitution have teekshnagni. Persons having kapha prakriti have mandagni.
IMPORTANCE OF KNOWLEDGE OF PRAKRITI The importance of prakriti examination in patient as well as in healthy has been greatly emphasized in ayurveda. Charaka has mentioned that person should follow different regimen according to prakriti (Ch.S.Su.7/41). Sushruta and Kashyap have suggested that patient should be treated by the physician according to prakriti of a person (Su.S.Sha.4/96) (Ka.S.Su.18/11). The Prakriti is determined by heredity, family, age, climate, season, periodic factor, and idiosyncrasy. These factors are responsible for individual variation among persons (Ch.S.In.1/5). Prakriti pariksha and satvapariksha are the components of dashavidha pariksha (Ch.S.Vi.8/94).The clinical and therapeutic utility of the knowledge of prakriti has been vibrantly described by the Charaka, where the detailed regimen that is to be followed by different dosaja prakriti individuals and treatment according predominance of doshas is mentioned (Ch.S.Vi.6/1518). Prakriti is not changeable; if it changes it indicates death of an individual within six months (A.H.Sha.5/64). Prakriti has prime importance in both healthy and diseased persons i.e. importance of prakriti in prescribing dietary regimen and life style management in healthy individuals and treatment point of view in diseased individuals.
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1.
By understanding the constitution of every individual, we can advice which type of food and drink and what type of job and exercise are suitable.
2.
Prakriti is also important for preventive measures for example the kapha prakriti persons can be advised more exercise, laghu aahara and they should avoid divaswapna, whereas vataja prakriti persons are advised to take nutritious and heavy food (guruahara), less exercise and can enjoy divaswapna. In this way by adopting dincharya and ritucharya healthy person can maintain their health.
3.
By prakriti examination susceptibility of disease can be expected as kaphaja persons are more prone to kaphaja vikara . Similarly pitta and vata prakrti persons are more prone to pittaja and vataja vikara respectively.
4.
Prakriti should also be kept in mind during management, for examples in amaja vyadhi like jvara we can
5.
Much of the drug associated adversities can be prevented through the application of prakriti in identification of
adopt langhana chikitsa in kaphaj individuals, whereas in case of vataja person langhana should be avoid. possible drug sensitivity in an individual. This can also be valuable in choosing the right medicine for right person to work in best hormony. 6.
Through examination of prakriti prognosis of disease can be made easily.
In this way we can understand the importance of prakriti to maintain the health of healthy individuals and in treatment of diseased person.
RECENT ADVANCES Some reasherches have proposed
that every basic constitution has an associated identification organ, a
measured property or marker, a soma and some psyche general tendencies suggesting specific behavior or recurrent conduct. Three basic extreme genopsycho-somatotypes or birth constitutions are enunciated: mesomorphic or andrus (pitta), endomorphic or thymus (khapa), and ectomorphic or thyrus (vata). The method further predicts that male andrus constitution across races shares similarities in androgen (An) nuclear receptor behavior, whereas thymus constitutions are mainly regulated by T-cells (Tc) nuclear receptor behavior. Moreover, it suggests that thyrus constitutions share similarities in thyroxine (Th) nuclear receptor behavior (Rizzo-Sierra CV 2011). Study by Ghodke Y and Joshi K(2009) observed correlations between CYP2C19 genotypes and prakriti with fast and slow metabolism being one of the major distinguishing and differentiating characteristics and suggested significant impact on phenotype-genotype correlation, drug discovery, pharmacogenomics and personalized medicine. Prasher B, Negi S(2008) have found that Individuals from the three most contrasting constitutional types show striking differences with respect to biochemical and hematological parameters and at genome wide expression levels. Biochemical profiles like liver function tests, lipid profiles and hematological parameters like hemoglobin showed differences
between different
prakriti.
Functional
categories
of
genes
showing
different
expression
among prakriti types were significantly enriched in core biological processes like transport, regulation of cyclin dependent protein kinase activity, immune response and regulation of blood coagulation. An imperative enrichment of housekeeping, disease related and hub genes were observed in these intense constitution types. Patwardhan B & Bodeker G(2008) showed relationship between HLA alleles and prakriti typing, and concluded that the findings of a genetic basis for both Ayurvedic and Traditional Chinese medicine classifications indicate a commonality between Asia's great medical traditions in their diagnostic typologies and a genetic basis for Asian traditional medicine's theory of discrete and discernable groupings of psycho-physiologic differences.
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Patwardhan B and Kalpana J 2005 showed the complete absence of the HLA DRB1*02 allele in the vata type and of HLA DRB1*13 in the kapha type are significant. HLA DRB1*10 had higher allele frequency in the kapha type than in the pitta and vata types. Phenotypic and genotypic relationship is suggested by them. On the basis of recent studies it may concluded that prakriti is probably a deciding factor for morphological, physiological and psychological traits present in human beings. This is decided on the basis of dominant genotypic and phenotypic characters.
SEASON Season has been defined as the natural periods in which the year is divided, which vary by weather conditions, daylight hours and temperature (Tucker and Gilliland, 2007). A season is a division of the year, marked by changes in weather, ecology and hours of day light. Seasons result from the yearly revolution of the earth around the sun and the tilt of earth axis relative to the plane of revolution (Khavrus, V 2010). In temperate and Polar Regions, the seasons are marked by changes in the intensity of sunlight that reaches the earth's surface (David Thomson 1995). The seasons result from the earth's axis being tilted to its orbital plane; it deviates by an angle of approximately 23.5 degrees. Hence at any given time during summer or winter, one part of the planet is more straight exposed to the rays of the sun . This exposure alternates as the earth revolves in its orbit. Therefore, at any given time in spite of season the northern and southern hemispheres experience opposite seasons. The effect of axis tilt is recognizable from the change in day length, and altitude of the sun throughout a year. Seasonal weather differences between hemispheres are further caused by the elliptical orbit of earth. Earth reaches closest to the sun in January and it reaches farthest point from the sun in july. Even though the effect this has on earth's seasons is minor, it does noticeably soften the northern hemisphere's winters and summers. In the southern hemisphere, the opposite effect is observed. Seasonal weather changes also depend on factors such as proximity to oceans or other large bodies of water, currents in those oceans and other oceanic cycles and prevailing winds (David Thomson 1995). The northern hemisphere is exposed to more direct sunlight in May, June and July because the hemisphere faces the sun. The southern hemisphere is exposed to more direct sunlight in November, December and January because it faces the sun. The tilt of the earth causes the sun to be higher in the sky during the summer months which increases the solar flux. On the other hand due to seasonal lag, June, July and august are the hottest months in the northern hemisphere and December, January and February are the hottest months in the southern hemisphere. In temperate and subpolar regions, generally four calendar based seasons are accepted that is spring (vernal), summer (estival), autumn (autumnal) and winter (hibernal). However, ecologists are increasingly using a six season model for temperate climate regions that includes pre-spring (prevernal) and late summer (serotinal) as distinct seasons along with the traditional spring (vernal), summer (estival), autumn (autumnal) and winter (hibernal). In other tropical areas a three way division into hot, rainy, and cool season is used.In some parts of the world, special "seasons" are loosely defined based on important events such as a hurricane season, tornado season or a wildfire season. In
the hindu
calendar,
there
are
six
seasons
(ritu).
These
are vasanta (spring),
greeshma (summer), varsha (monsoon) and sharada (autumn), hemanta (pre-hibernal), shishira (winter). There is a lot of literature devoted to the impact of variable climate on human well-being.
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IMPACT OF WEATHER ON HUMAN MORTALITY AND WELL-BEING 1.
Weather has a deep effect on human health and wellbeing. It has been demonstrated that weather is associated with changes in birth rates and sperm counts with outbreaks of pneumonia, influenza and bronchitis, and is related to other morbidity effects linked to pollen concentrations and high pollution levels (Kalkstein, L. S., and K. M. Valimont 1987).
2.
Temperature extremes (both hot and cold) appear to increase mortality, although there is disagreement about which sex, age group, or race seems to be most affected.
3.
Low relative humidities in winter appear to be directly related to frequencies of various illnesses and mortality.
4.
Winter snowfall accumulations appear to correspond with periods of high mortality.
5.
Rapid changes in the weather often induce a series of negative physiological responses from the body. Extremes of hot weather appear to have a more substantial impact on mortality than cold wave episodes
(Kalkstein, L. S., and Valimont K. M. 1987). The importance of influential role of weather on human health cannot be ignored. Reports of large increases in mortality during heat and cold waves are usual; for example, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) estimated that 1,327 fatalities in the United States were directly attributed to the 1980 heat wave; fatalities in Missouri alone accounted for over 25% of the total excess deaths (U.S. Department of Commerce, 1980). During a heat wave in 1963, more than 4,600 deaths above a computed mean occurred in June and July in the eastern United States (Schuman et al., 1964). The impact of weather on human well-being goes beyond mortality; even birth rates and sperm counts appear to be affected by meteorological phenomena (C alot and Blayo, 1982; Tjoa et al., 1982; White, 1985), (Kalkstein, L. S., and K. M. Valimont 1987). Morbidity attributed to pneumonia, influenza, bronchitis, and probably many other illnesses is also weather related (White, 1985). Humidity has an important effect on mortality as it contributes to the body's ability to cool itself by evaporation of perspiration. Humidity has also a significant influence on morbidity in the winter because cold, dry air leads to excessive dehydration of nasal passages and the upper respiratory tract and increased chance of viral and microbial infection. (Kalkstein, L. S., and K. M. Valimont. 1987)
THE IMPACT OF TEMPERATURE ON MORBIDITY AND MORTALITY The impact of temperature on morbidity and mortality can be assessed at both the seasonal and daily level. The variability in occurrence of various illnesses is linked to some extent expected seasonal trends in temperature (Persinger, 1980), although significant year-to-year variation may occur. Medical disorders such as bronchitis, peptic ulcer, adrenal ulcer, glaucoma, goiter, eczema and herpes zoster are related to seasonal variations in temperature (Tromp, 1963). Heart failure (most often myocardial infarction) and cerebrovascular accidents represent two general mortality categories that have been correlated many times with ambient monthly temperatures (Persinger, 1980). Complications from these disorders can be expected at higher temperatures since the body responds to thermal stress by forcing blood into peripheral areas to promote heat loss through the skin. This increases central blood pressure and encourages constriction of blood vessels near the core of the body. However, increased in heart disease are also noted at very cold temperatures as well. Strong negative correlations have been found between winter temperature and deaths in certain North American, northern Asian, and European countries (Persinger, 1980). Katayama and Momiyama-Sakamoto (1970) reported that countries with smaller seasonal temperature ranges show steeper regression lines in temperature mortality correlations than countries with greater temperature ranges.
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Maximum death rates in warmer countries are found at below normal temperatures, and in cooler countries similar temperatures will produce no appreciable rise in mortality.
IMPACTS OF HOT WEATHER Much of the temperature mortality research has concentrated on heat and cold wave episodes. It appears that hot weather extremes have a more considerable impact than cold, and many "heat stress" indices have been developed to assess the degree of impact (Q uayle and Doehring, 1981; Kalkstein, 1982; Steadman, 1984). Daily fluctuations in temperature can increase mortality rates by up to 50% in certain cities. This has been corroborated in a detailed study of New York City mortality where large increase in total and elderly mortality occurred during the 1980 heat wave( Kalkstein and Davis 1985).Most research indicates that mortality rates during extreme heat vary with age, sex and race. Oechsli and Buechley (1970) found that mortality rates during heat waves increase with age. This is also supported by the work of Bridger et al., 1976, and Jones et al., 1982.
IMPACT OF COLD WEATHER A lot of studies support that mortality rates increase during periods of cold weather. In most cases, total mortality is about 15% higher on an average winter day than on an average summer day (National Center for Health Statistics, 1978). The impact of cold on human well-being is highly variable. Not only cold weather is responsible for direct causes of death such as hypothermia, influenza, and pneumonia, it is also a factor in a number of indirect ways like death and injury from falls, accidents, carbon monoxide poisoning and house fires are all partially attributable to cold (U.S. Department of Commerce, 1984) According to another research the metabolic and temperature response to mild cold were investigated in summer and winter in a moderate oceanic climate. Subjects were 10 women and 10 men, aged 19–36 years and BMI 17–32 kg/m2. Metabolic rate (MR) and body temperatures were measured continuously in a climate chamber. The average metabolic responses during cold exposure, measured as the increase in kJ/min over time, was significantly higher in winter as compared to summer. The temperature response was comparable in both seasons. The metabolic response in winter was significantly related to the response in summer. Total heat production during cold exposure was inversely related to the temperature response in both seasons. ( Van Ooijen et al. 2004).
HYPOTHERMIA Hypothermia occurs when the core body temperature falls below 35 degree centigrade (Centers for Disease Control, 1982). Certain region of the population appears more predisposed to hypothermia than others. Most sufferers are of the following categories: the elderly, newborns, the unconscious, alcoholics and people on medications (Fitzgerald and Jessop, 1982; Lewin et al., 1981; Hudson and Conn, 1974; Bristow et al., 1977; Massachusetts General Hospital, 1982). As well, malnourishment, inadequate housing, and high blood ethanol levels increase the occurrence of hypothermia (Centers for Disease Control, 1982). Sex and race appear to be related to susceptibility to hypothermia. Nonwhite elderly men generally represent the highest risk group, while white women comprise the lowest risk group (Rango, 1984; Centers for Disease Control, 1982). Women are less susceptible to hypothermia; they are more susceptible to peripheral cold injuries such as frostbite (Graham and Lougheed, 1985). Age appears to have still greater impact upon hypothermia sensitivity than gender, and the elderly display the highest mortality rates of all groups. Vasoconstriction and shivering, two primary cold adaptive measures, appear to be reduced in many elderly persons (Collins et al. 1977; Collins and Easton et al. 1981; Wagner et al., 1974).
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ADAPTATION It appears that adaptation to cold temperatures can occur through repeated exposures. Men who had bathed in 15 degree centigrade water for one-half hour over nine consecutive days before a trip to the Arctic showed less signs of cold-induced stress than non-treated men. There appears to be a cold-adaptive mechanism influencing mortality as well (Radomski and Boutelier 1982). Kalkstein, 1984 showed that a lag time of two to three days exists between the offending cold weather and the ultimate mortality response. Deaths did not necessarily rise on the day of the coldest temperatures, but in many cases, the sharpest increases were noted three days after the coldest weather occurred. A similar lag time was not noted after extremely hot summer days; the contact appears more immediate in summer.
EFFECT OF HUMIDITY Humidity has an important impact on mortality since it influences the body's ability to cool itself by means of perspiration’s evaporation. In addition, humidity affects human comfort, and the perceived temperature by humans is largely dependent upon atmospheric moisture content (Persinger, 1980). Humidity has also a significant influence on morbidity in the winter because cold, dry air leads to excessive dehydration of nasal passages and the upper respiratory tract and increased chance of viral and microbial infection. (Kalkstein, L. S. and K. M. Valimont. 1987). Days with low relative humidities appear to increase mortality most dramatically (Kalkstein 1986). The effects of low humidity can be especially dramatic in winter, when low moisture content induces stress upon the nasal pharynx and trachea. When very cold, dry air passes through these organs, warming occurs and air temperatures in the pharynx can reach 30degree Fahrenheit. The ability of this warmer air to hold moisture increases considerably and moisture is extracted at a remarkable rate from the nasal passages and upper respiratory tract, leading to excessive dehydration of these organs (Richards and Marriott, 1974). It increases the chance of microbial or viral infection since a rise in the viscosity of bronchial mucous appears to reduce the ability of the body to fight offending microorganisms that may enter the body from the atmosphere. In the summer, high moisture content during hot periods can diminish the body's ability to evaporate perspiration, possibly leading to heat stress. Recent weather/mortality models developed for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration indicate that dew point temperature is directly related to mortality in several eastern cities when temperatures are very hot (Kalkstein, 1985). Study by Persinger 1975 indicates that mental well-being may also be influenced by summer relative humidity. . Fast changes in temperature are likely to produce a number of physiological changes in the body. Rapid drops may affect blood pH, blood pressure, urination volume, and tissue permeability (Persinger, 1980). A Canadian Climate Center study (1981) found that migraine was most likely to occur on days with falling pressure, rising humidity, high winds, and rapid temperature fluctuations.
EFFECT OF SUNSHINE & CLOUD The reduction of solar radiation by cloud cover may also have effects on well-being. By increasing the brightness level, the autonomic nervous system is affected by constriction changes in the eye pupil. According to Persinger (1980), this increases the rate of physical activity and leads to a general feeling of well-being. Wolfe (1981) noted that the sun's rays cause chemical changes in neurotransmitter or hormone synthesis in the brain, perhaps stimulating production of the hormone epinephrine, which stimulates the mind and body. On the other hand, very low light intensities are often associated with states of relaxation, tiredness, and sleepiness.
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There is a great need to enumerate a large extent of the subjective and insightful information that has been published on climate/mortality relationships. Weather and health relationships should be uncovered in the near future considering the huge amount of mortality and morbidity data presently available from the National Center for Health Statistics, the Centers for Disease Control, and other agencies, more precise. Possibly one of the greatest challenges and areas of future research is determining the necessary cost to society to prevail over climate stress. Changes in interior environments may be needed to conquer potential direct climate change impacts on living and working environments. Indirect impacts (e.g., the loss of productivity resulting from new climate conditions and increased insurance costs) have not been estimated. These impacts indirectly associated with human health/climate stress that remains important areas of research.
RECENT ADVANCES IN THE STUDY OF SEASONAL VARIATIONS Seasonal variation is measured in terms of an index, called a seasonal index. It is an average that can be used to compare an actual observation relative to what it would be if there was no seasonal variation. An index value is attached to each period of the time series within a year. The eating habits of workers may vary according to the season of the year and corresponding work schedule. Some study aiming at verifying the changes in their diet in summer and winter, as well as the nutritional status of work fixed shifts, was conducted. The distribution during the 24 hours in the quantity of calories and macronutrients ingested and the circadian rhythm of calories consumed were also analyzed. A study was conducted on 28 workers subject to three fixed work (morning, afternoon, and night) shifts at a transport company in the city of Sao Paulo, Brazil. Their food intake was ascertained by the use of a 3-day dietary record, and their nutritional status was evaluated by their body mass index (BMI), both in winter and summer. Result (shift and season) showed food consumption measured in calories/24 hours was significantly higher in winter than summer. No seasonal difference in BMI was detected. Study showed circadian rhythmicity in calories consumed by morning as well as afternoon shift workers, both in the winter and summer. Circadian rhythmicity in calories consumed by night workers was found only in summer (Pasqua IC, Moreno CR.2004). Flouris AD et.al (2009) examined the effect of birth season on fetal development and longevity of all Greek citizens that were born (total: 516,874) or died (total: 554,101) between 1999 and 2003. They found significantly increased birth weight, gestational age and longevity in individuals born during the autumn and winter seasons of the year. These individuals also established statistically significant lower prevalence rates for fetal growth restriction and premature birth. Also, they observed increased temperature at birth associated with adverse effects on fetal development and longevity. On 694 healthy subjects (aged 18-60 years) the effects of biological variations of platelet counts were investigated in three cities of China. Platelet counts in healthy subjects were significantly higher in summer than in winter, while concluding the study suggests that the platelet counts could be greatly influenced in healthy subjects by biological variations such as geographical, seasonal and lipid variations (Peng L, Yang J et.al 2004). In another study of platelet count, platelet volume, fibrinogen, factor VII, core body and ambient temperatures was assessed in 54 healthy community dwelling elderly volunteers over a period of 1 year. This study suggests that significant seasonal variation in fibrinogen, mean platelet volume and core body temperature all of which peaked synchronously in May/June, in a year with an atypically mild winter and hot summer. But platelet total and factor VII did not exhibit a seasonal rhythm (Crawford VLetal2003).
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Cotter D (1996) studied the effect of season of birth and the risk of schizophrenia and expected periods of maximal risk during February - march and minimal risk during August - September.
EFFECT OF SEASON ON PHYSICAL ACTIVITY Study on 25 Dutch young adults healthy volunteers (10 men and 15 women) between the ages of 20 and 30 years shows that Physical activity level (PAL) was higher in summer than in winter and the difference was higher for men than for women. This study suggests that the extent of the changes in PAL is of physiological significance, and seasonality in physical activity should be taken into account when study plan on physical activity patterns or relationships between physical activity and health (Guy Plasqui etal.2004). P. Tucker and J. Gilliland (2007) found that levels of physical activity vary with seasonality, and the subsequent effect of poor or extreme weather has been identified as a barrier to participation in physical activity among different populations. Season and climate conditions have a significant effect on physical activity. This study provides a description of the influence of season and climate conditions have on meeting the recommendations for physical activity among adults in the United States. Promoting a higher percentage of the population meeting the recommendations for physical activity needs to go beyond providing information about potential health benefits that may result. Population based interventions need to provide information about choices for physical activity that are tailored by season and climate conditions and address concerns related to convenience, accessibility, safety, and aesthetics (Ray M. Merrill,2005).
SEASONAL VARIATIONS AND BLOOD CLOTTING TIME Rubio-Poo C. (1998) found significant differences on blood coagulation between spring-autumn and springwinter in mouse. The shortest values of blood clotting times were recorded during spring and the longest in winter. Seasonal shifts in hemostasis were evaluated in 3200 healthy subjects (aged 18-40) it was recognized that coagulation rate is the highest in spring. Natural lysis of the clot and euglobin fibrinolysis proved more demanding in spring, while least demanding in winter. Frequency of clot lysis inhibition varies with season. In winter the inhibition is observed in 45%, in spring in 21.6%, in summer in 41% and autumn in 36.2% of total subjects. This study suggests the more active hemostasis in spring and less active fibrinolysis in winter (Skipterov VP, Martynova VV 1993).
SEASONAL VARIATION OF SKIN DISEASES A retrospective study was performed at the Om Hospital and Research Center, Kathmandu, Nepal between January and December 1999. Data were collected from the hospital outpatient records and analyzed. The total number of patients with skin diseases was 1746, in which 793 males and 9553 females. Majorities (28.6%) of the visits are in spring and the three most common diagnoses included fungal infections, acne and melasma. All skin diseases showed statistically significant seasonal variation (Jha A K 2006).
VARITION IN HbA1c ACCORDING TO SEASON Some study suggests that the HbA1c was higher in cooler months and lower in the warmer months in both northern and southern hemispheres. According to this study difference in HbA1c over a year appears to be related to the difference in temperature (Trefor Higgins 2009).
VARIATIONS OF PLASMA CHOLESTEROL AND TRIGLYCERIDE LEVELS Plasma cholesterol and triglyceride levels were assessed in 11 healthy subjects, monthly over a 12 months period. Analysis of the monthly samples shows seasonal variation that is cholesterol was highest in the winter months and lowest in October, whereas triglyceride was highest in January and February and lowest in may and December ( G. Russell Warnick and John J. Albers). … (22)
Ira S. Ockene, Worcester, and colleagues (2004) investigated the seasonal variation in cholesterol among 517 healthy volunteers were investigated from health maintenance organization serving central Massachusetts. Data were collected quarterly over a twelve-month period on diet, physical activity, exposure to light, general behavioral information, and cholesterol levels were also measured. The researchers found that cholesterol levels were increased in men and women, with a peak in December and January respectively. The researchers found that the increase was greater in participants who had high cholesterol levels to begin with. Overall, 22 percent more participants had total cholesterol levels of 240 mg/dL or greater (high cholesterol) in the winter than in the summer.
SEASONAL VARIATION OF HEMATOLOGICAL PARAMETERS In a study 26 normal volunteers had monthly blood samplings during one calendar year for determination of number of red blood cells (RBC) and platelets, hemoglobin (Hb), hematocrit (Ht), mean corpuscular volume (MCV), MC Hb (MCH), MC Hb concentration (MCHC), RBC distribution width (RDW), mean platelet volume (MPV), platelet distribution width (PDW), plateletcrit (PCT), and plasma fibrinogen concentrations. The majority of the hematologic variables show seasonal rhythms. The peak-trough differences in the yearly variations in number of RBC, Ht, MCV, MCH, MCHC and RDW were very low. Number of platelets and plasma fibrinogen values showed a high amplitude yearly variation. All hematological variables, except MCHC, show a high inter individual variability which exceeds by far the intra individual variability (Maes M, Scharpe S 1995).
SEASONAL VARIATION OF HORMONES Hormone secretions are periodic variation release that may be influenced by seasonal variation (Gyton and Hall). Few studies suggest annual or seasonal variations in hormone concentrations in man. This study examines the components of biological variation, including seasonality, study designed to measure monthly plasma TSH, total T3 (TT3), free T4 (FT4), PRL, cortisol and testosterone in healthy volunteers. Study showed significant annual, fourmonthly and biannual rhythms in serum TSH; the lowest TSH values were observed in spring. A significant annual rhythm was observed in TT3, with lower values in spring and summer than in the other seasons. (M Maes, K Mommen1997).
SEASONAL VARIATIONS OF LIVER FUNCTION TEST Study by Miyake K and Miyake N (2009) suggested that the liver function tests show seasonal variations. According to them Serum levels of test results tended to increase in the winter. The increase in AST and ALT was about 6% in men and women, and was greater than that in cholinesterase (ChE), alkaline phosphatase (ALP) (in men and women) and gamma-glutamyltransferase (gammaGT) (in men). In contrast, total bilirubin (T-Bil) increased by 3.6% (men) and 5.0% (women) in the summer. The total protein and albumin concentrations did not change significantly.
VARIATION OF URIC ACID AND TRIGLYCERIDES Another study shows that uric acid was higher in summer compared to fall by 5% in the case of women aged 30–39 and by 7% in the case of men aged 30–39. Triglycerides were 6% higher during spring compared to fall for women aged 30–39, but surprisingly, 22% higher in winter compared to fall in the case of men aged 30–39 (Guy Letellier and France Desjarlais 1982).
SEASONAL VARIATIONS IN OXYGEN CONSUMPTION, VENTILATION, LUNG VOLUMES
Some study was carried out to investigate seasonal variations in oxygen consumption, ventilation, lung volumes
and their relationships in healthy adult inhabitants of West Siberia. Thirty healthy male adult volunteers were studied 4 … (23)
times during a year: in summer, autumn, winter, and spring under the same conditions in a room at rest. Oxyspirography, pneumotachography and the helium dilution method were used. Oxygen consumption (VO2), breathing frequency, vital capacity (VC) and inspiratory capacity were adjusted to be the same during the year. Minute ventilation (Ve), VO2-Ve ratio, residual volume (RV) and expiratory reserve volume (ERV) to RV ratio had dynamics concurrent with seasonal temperature dynamics. Tidal volume, ERV, functional residual capacity, forced 1-s expired volume (FEV1) and FEV1/VC also changed, but their dynamics were different from the previous parameters. The minimum value of these parameters was found in the spring and the maximum--in the autumn, or summer and autumn. Correlations between respiratory parameters also changed during the year. This study suggests that the oxygen consumption is provided by reorganization of pulmonary tissue in winter.( Gultyaeva V V et.al, 2001) A study was performed on 49(age between 18 to50) asthmatic individuals in Los Angeles to know respiratory status. During the summer (May-September) and winter (November-March), subjects measured their lung function two to four times daily for one week periods, and every hour recorded their symptoms, medication, and activity hourly in diaries. Most subject’s lung function and symptoms varied diurnally, and were worst in early morning. Also it was noticed that Lung function was similar in summer and winter, but symptoms and medication use decreased in winter ( Shamoo DA 1994).
SEASONAL VARIATION IN BODY MASS INDEX (BMI) AND WAIST CIRCUMFERENCE
A health survey carried out between 1 june 1993 and 31 may 1997 in the Netherlands to compare the time trend
and seasonal variation in body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference. It is reported that levels of BMI and waist circumference increased between 1 june 1993 and 31 may 1997. Among women, the time trend in abdominal obesity was stronger than that in obesity. Further, levels of BMI and waist circumference were higher in winter than in summer seasons. The seasonal variation was larger for abdominal obesity than for obesity, among both men and women. Surveys on BMI and waist circumference are only comparable if season is taken into account. Furthermore, the waist circumference is a more sensitive indicator of variations in lifestyle and body composition than is body mass index (Visscher TL, Seidell JC 2004).
SEASONAL VARIATION OF BLOOD PRESSURE Some study suggests that systolic and diastolic blood pressure values differed significantly across the four seasons and according to the distribution of outdoor temperature. The higher the temperature, the greater the decrease in blood pressure. This study shows average systolic blood pressure was 5 mmHg higher in winter than in summer. These changes in blood pressure were greater in subjects 80 years or older than in younger participants ( Alperovitch A, Lacombe J.M, Hanon O, et al2009).
BLOOD GROUPS When blood transfusion from one person to another person were first attempted , the transfusion were successful only in some instances .Often immediate or delayed agglutination and hemolysis of red blood cells(RBC) occurs, resulting in typical transfusion reaction that often led to death. Soon it was discovered blood of different people has different antigenic and immune properties, so that antibodies in plasma of one blood cells reacts with antigen on the surface of red blood cells of another blood. If proper precaution was taken, one can determine ahead of time whether the antibodies and antigen present in the donor and recent bloods will cause a transfusion reaction. At least 30 commonly occurring antigens and hundreds of rare antigen have been found in human blood cells especially on the surface of cell membranes. Most of them are weak and therefore of importance principally for studying the inheritance of gene to
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establish parentage. Two particular groups of antigens are more likely than the others to cause blood transfusion reactions. They are O-A-B system of antigens and Rh system (Guyton & Hall).
O-A-B BLOOD GROUPS A AND B ANTIGEN (AGGLUTINOGENS) Two antigens-type A and type B occur on the surface of red blood cells in large propotion of human beings. It is these antigens (agglutinogens) that cause most blood transfusion reactions. Because of the way of these agglutinogens are inherited, people may have neither of them on their cells, they may have one, or they may have both simultaneously (Guyton & Hall). MAJOR O-A-B BLOOD TYPES Depending on presence and absence of the two agglutinogens, A and B the blood of donors and recipient blog group is normally classified into four major O, A, B and AB blood types. When neither A nor B agglutinogen is present the blood type is O. When only type A agglutinogen is present, the blood type is A. When only type B agglutinogen is present, the blood is type B When A and B agglutinogen is present, the blood is type AB (Guyton & Hall). GENETIC DETERMINATION OF AGGLUTINOGENS Two genes, one on each of two paired chromosomes, determine the O-A-B blood type. These two genes are allelomorphic genes that can be any one of three but only one type on each chromosomes; type O, type A or type B. The type O gene is either functionless or almost function less, so that it cause no significant type O agglutinogen on the cells. Conversely, the type A and type B do cause strong agglutinogens on the cells (Guyton & Hall).
AGGLUTININS When type A agglutinogen is not present in a person’s red blood cells, anti bodies known as anti-A agglutinins developed in plasma. Also, when type B agglutinogen is not present in the red blood cells, antibodies known as anti- B agglutinins develop in develop in plasma. Group O blood, although containing no agglutinogens, does contain both anti- A and anti- B agglutinnis. Group A blood contains type A agglunogens and anti- B agglutinins. Group B blood contains type B agglutinogens and type anti- A agglutinins, finally group AB contains both A and B agglutinogens but no agglunins (Guyton & Hall). BLOOD GROUPS AND DISEASES Recently it was considered that the life expectancy of the holders of the blood group O is less than that of other blood groups, and generally blood group O individuals are more prone to various diseases. Recent study revealed that blood group A and B make people more resistant to cholera. Blood group O individuals have no immunity against cholera. Blood group B shows weaker protection against plague. Blood group A is more resistant to plague, but suffer from a higher rate of heart disease because their blood is more likely to clot. Blood group O is slightly protective against cardiovascular problem, but more prone to developing duodenal and peptic ulcers.
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MATERIALS AND METHODS SUBJECTS For the purpose of present study 54 volunteers (23female and 31male) aged between 18 to 30 years were randomly selected. Prakriti was determined and categorized as
vataja(vata-pittaja and vata-kaphaja), pittaja(pitta-
vataja and pitta-kaphaja) and kaphaja (kapha-vataja and kapha-pittaja). Subjects were not using any medication and were nonsmokers and not addicted to any bad habits which interfere in physiological functions. The volunteers were provided with detailed information concerning purpose and methods used in the study, before written consent was obtained. The Ethical Committee of Institute of Medical Science, Banaras Hindu University and PG Medical board, Institute of Medical Science, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi approved the study. Most subjects were students spending average time on study, sports or daily living activities; none of them were extreme athletes or extremely active in outdoor activities.
INCLUSION CRITERIA i.
Students of the Faculty of Ayurveda, aged between18 and 30 years who were willing to participate as volunteers in the study, were included after obtaining their written consent for participation.
ii. Only those volunteers, who were found ‘Clinically healthy’, based on the proforma prepared for this purpose were included in the study. The purpose was to exclude any volunteers who were known to have any ailment /chronic illnesses.
EXCLUSION CRITERIA (i)
Volunteers aged less than 18 years or more than 30 years were excluded.
(ii)
Volunteers not fulfilling the criteria of ‘Clinically Healthy’ status, as per the proforma were excluded.
(iii)
Those who suffered from any illnesses during the period of study.
STUDY DESIGN Experiment took place in the month of January-February (shishira ritu, seasonI), and all measurements were repeated with the same subjects in the month of May-June (greeshma ritu, season II) and September- October (sharad ritu, season III) to assess the seasonal influence on various prakriti individuals. 1.
Subjects were screened to understand their health status by using standard proforma designed by Pramod et.al to exclude the persons who are suffering from any illness (annexure I).
2.
Subjects were assessed to understand their prakriti by using prakriti assessment criteria designed (annexure II) by Vandana Verma et.al. (2009).
3.
Subjects visited the laboratory in the morning after 8-10 hour fasting to undergo various hematological and biochemical investigations.
4.
Blood Pressure, Pulse Rate, Respiratory Rate, Body Mass Index, Spirometry was done in Department of Kriya Sharir from 2-5pm after blood investigations in the morning.
Measurements 1.
Hematological and biochemical parameters were measured in Clinical Laboratory (Indian medicine) and Centre of Clinical Investigations (CCI), Sir Sunderlal Hospital, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi.
2.
Procedure of recording the Pulse Rate: The radial artery was palpated with the tips of three fingers compressing the vessel against the head of radius bone. Subject’s forearm was slightly pronated and the wrist … (26)
slightly flexed. The index finger varied the pressure on artery, the middle finger felt the pulse, while distal finger prevented reflections of pulsations from the palmer arch of arteries (Ghai CL 2007). The pulse rate was counted for one complete minute. 3.
Procedure of recording the Blood Pressure: This was done by the use of mercury sphygmomanometer. Riva-Rocci cuff was wrapped around the upper arm, with the centre of the bag lying over the brachial artery, keeping it’s lower edge about 3 cm above the elbow and it was ensured that cuff neither too tight nor very loose.BP was recorded by two methods. i. Palpatory Method: After wrapping cuff fingers were kept on the radial artery of the hand. The armlet was pumped to a slightly greater degree than required, to obliterate the radial pulse. The air was then slowly released until the pulse once again become palpable. The recording on the manometer at this point represents the systolic pressure. ii. Auscultatory Method: The diaphragm of the stethoscope was placed over the brachial artery at the curvature of elbow and armlet was inflated. Pressure was raised up to 40-50 mm Hg above systolic level determined by the palpatory method. Then pressure was released gradually until a clear, sharp, tapping sound is heart. The point at which first sound was heard represents the systolic blood pressure. Below the systolic reading puffing sound heard followed by a knocking or thudding sound which increased in intensity and then passed suddenly into another softer sound and disappeared. The sharp transition from the loud knocking to the soft blowing sound was taken as the diastolic blood pressure (Ogilvie C & Evans CC, 2003). During recording the blood pressure, it was ensured that the sphygmomanometer was always kept at the level of the heart of the individual.
4.
Procedure of recording the Respiratory Rate: Respiratory rate was counted by observing the abdominal movements. One inspiration and one expiration made up one respiratory cycle. Number of cycles per minute was taken as the respiratory rate. During recording the respiratory rate, it was ensured that the volunteer did not become aware that his/ her respiratory rate was being counted. To ensure this, the investigator pretended like that he was recording the pulse rate.
5.
Body mass index (Quetelet’s index)- Body mass index is statistical measure of weight scaled according to height. BMI is calculated by following formula. BMI= Weight (kg)/Height(m2)
6.
Spirometery- Spirometery was carried out by computerized spirometery Spiroexcel Medicaid made in Department of Kriya Sharir, Institute of Medical Science, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi.
Calculations and Statistical analysis Statistical analysis was done by using SPSS (statistical package for social sciences). SPSS provides a powerful statistical analysis and data management system in graphical environment, using descriptive menus and simple dialog boxes to do most of work. Hence, data was computed and analyzed by this programme. The data collected had been transferred on master chart showing various items/variables in columns and subjects in rows. The analysis of data was done using statistical software SPSS version 16.0. The items on demographic profile and personal characteristics were summarized using univariate and bivariate frequency tables, percentage, graphs and for continuous variables mean and standard deviation (SD) were determined. The formulae for mean and standard deviation are given as below:-
… (27)
Mean =
x n
sum of the observations No. of the observations
Standard Deviation SD=
x2
(
x) 2
n -1
Intra-group (within the group) comparison: To test the significance of mean of difference of paired observations made between three different seasons (paired t test was applied). Paired t =
mean of difference S E of differcnce
SE = Standard Error =
SD n
n = no. of cases (sample size) and d.f. = degree of freedom = n-1
Inter-group comparison (Between the groups): Because of more than two groups one-way ANOVA was applied, followed by appropriate post\ Hoc Test for determining significant pair of groups.
… (28)
OBSERVATIONS AND RESULT In the present study 54 healthy volunteers (aged between 18-30) were selected (23 female and 31 male) to find out physiological variations. Subjects were divided into three groups as per prakriti and in four groups as per blood groups. As per prakriti Group I
Vata prakriti (V)
Group II
Pitta prakriti (P)
10 subjects 24 subjects
Group III
Kapha prakiti (K)
20 subjects
And as per blood group Group I
Blood group A
17 subjects
Group II
Blood group B
19 subjects
Group III
Blood group AB
05 subjects
Group IV
Blood group O
13 subjects
Sample for evaluation was taken in three different seasons Season I
Shishira
Season II
Greeshma
Jan-Feb May-June
Season III
Sharad
Sep-Oct
Observations and result are presented in the form of following tables Table 1(a) showing variations of Serum Cholesterol in three different seasons as per Prakriti group Prakrii Group
Group I (V) ( n=10)
S. Cholesterol (mg/dl) (Mean ± SD) Season II Season May-June III Sep-Oct 170.57 ± 139.48 160.93 ± 38.89 ±19.67 31.75
Group II (P) ( n=24)
194.38 ± 41.82
144.26 ± 34.42
177.98 ± 34.99
Group III (K) (n=20)
188.88 ± 50.93
160.41 ± 33.76
174.18 ± 29.45
Between group comparison one-way ANOVA significant pairs (p
