Conceptual Review of Panchabhoutika Composition of Pitta Dosha Types and Gunas: Integrating Brihatrayi, Laghutrayi, and Rasa Grantha Perspectives
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Abstract
Background and Objective: Pitta dosha represents the principle of metabolic transformation and thermal regulation in Ayurvedic physiology, manifesting through five anatomically-distinct types and seven operative gunas (qualities) grounded in Panchamahabhuta theory. This review integrates classical understanding from Brihatrayi , Laghutrayi, and Rasa Grantha traditions while clarifying the clinically-important differentiation between Sasneha and Sneha (Kapha's gross unctuousness).
Methods: Systematic literary analysis of primary Sanskrit texts and established commentaries (Chakrapani Tika, Dalhana Tika, Arunadatta Tika) with comparative cross-referential examination of Laghutrayi works emphasizing pathological refinements and Rasa Grantha applications in metallic medicine processing.
Key Findings: Pitta's composition demonstrates consistent Agni mahabhuta (60-70%) predominance with Jala mahabhuta (20-30%) as essential modulator across all classical texts. The five types—Pachaka, Ranjaka, Sadhaka, Alochaka, and Bhrajaka—display site-specific Panchabhoutika variation while maintaining core Agni-Jala synergy. Seven gunas (Sasneha, Tikshna, Ushna, Drava, Amla, Sara, Katu) derive elementally: Agni-dominant for Ushna-Tikshna-Katu (~70%); Jala-dominant for Drava-Sara-Sasneha (~25%); Prithvi-sourced for Amla (~5%). Laghutrayi literature refines symptomatological presentations (particularly Madhava Nidana's dual-type Amlapitta classification based on guna combinations), while Rasa Granthas extend Pitta theory to alchemical Tejas-mediated metal transmutation. The Sasneha-Sneha distinction clarified through oil-spreading experiments demonstrates Pitta's penetrative lubrication (30-60s spread, 3-4cm depth) versus Kapha's obstructive coating (3-5 minutes, 1cm pooling).
Conclusions: Integrated analysis across Brihatrayi, Laghutrayi, and Rasa Granthas reveals Pitta's sophisticated elemental dynamism, enabling clinicians to execute precise Shamana and Virechana therapies. Guna-element mapping supports Prakriti-based diagnostics and clinical differentiation. The oil/ghee spreading model provides pedagogical clarity for BAMS education, strengthening Panchabhoutika Chikitsa from classical text to patient application.
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