Changes

The Sanskrit word ‘Prakriti’ denotes "nature". It’s the "natural tendency" of a person's constitution. [[Ayurveda]] system defined ‘deha prakriti’ as the somatic constitution (Code:VA-2888).<ref>National AYUSH Morbidity and Standardized Terminologies Electronic Portal by Ministry of AYUSH Available on http://namstp.ayush.gov.in/#/Ayurveda</ref> It makes each person unique in terms of anatomical, physiological, and psychological characteristics. It is determined not just by an individual's genetic composition received from parents. But additional elements(epigenetic factors) also play significant role. These factors are dietary and lifestyle habits of the mother during pregnancy (matuaahara-vihara), time scale(kala), health status of uterus(garbhashaya), and  basic elements(mahabhutavikara).

The Sanskrit word ‘Prakriti’ denotes "nature". It’s the "natural tendency" of a person's constitution. [[Ayurveda]] system defined ‘deha prakriti’ as the somatic constitution (Code:VA-2888).<ref>National AYUSH Morbidity and Standardized Terminologies Electronic Portal by Ministry of AYUSH Available on http://namstp.ayush.gov.in/#/Ayurveda</ref> It makes each person unique in terms of anatomical, physiological, and psychological characteristics. It is determined not just by an individual's genetic composition received from parents. But additional elements(epigenetic factors) also play significant role. These factors are dietary and lifestyle habits of the mother during pregnancy (matuaahara-vihara), time scale(kala), health status of uterus(garbhashaya), and  basic elements(mahabhutavikara).

In [[Ayurveda]], people are classified based on the presence of three elements known as "[[dosha]]." These are biological, functional units that help to understand both normalcy (prakriti) and abnormalities (vikriti) in an individual. The three [[dosha]] are [[vata]], the source of kinetic or movements; [[pitta]] represents the body's metabolism and transformation; and [[kapha]] as a source of potential energy represents the body's growth and maintenance.<ref name=Prasher>Prasher B, Aggarwal S, Mandal AK, Sethi TP, Deshmukh SR, Purohit SG, Sengupta S, Khanna S, et al. Whole genome expression and biochemical correlates of extreme constitutional types defined in Ayurveda. J. Transl. Med.2008:6. 1–12.</ref> These physiological principles are closely related to the phenotype of an individual. This article describes the concept and practical utility of deha prakriti (somatic constitution) in healthcare.   

In [[Ayurveda]], people are classified based on the presence of three elements known as "[[dosha]]." These are biological, functional units that help to understand both normalcy ([[prakriti]]) and abnormalities (vikriti) in an individual. The three [[dosha]] are [[vata]], the source of kinetic or movements; [[pitta]] represents the body's metabolism and transformation; and [[kapha]] as a source of potential energy represents the body's growth and maintenance.<ref name=Prasher>Prasher B, Aggarwal S, Mandal AK, Sethi TP, Deshmukh SR, Purohit SG, Sengupta S, Khanna S, et al. Whole genome expression and biochemical correlates of extreme constitutional types defined in Ayurveda. J. Transl. Med.2008:6. 1–12.</ref> These physiological principles are closely related to the phenotype of an individual. This article describes the concept and practical utility of deha prakriti (somatic constitution) in healthcare.   

{{Infobox

{{Infobox

|label1 = Section/Chapter/topic

|label1 = Section/Chapter/topic

|data1 = Concepts / [[Pramana]]   

|data1 = Concepts / [[Deha Prakriti]]   

|label2 = Authors

|label2 = Authors

|data2 =Bhojani M.K.¹, TanwarAnkurkumar¹

|data2 =Bhojani M.K.¹, Tanwar Ankur kumar¹

|label3 = Reviewer  

|label3 = Reviewer  

|label5 = Affiliations

|label5 = Affiliations

|data5 = ¹ Department of Sharir Kriya, A.I.I.A. , New Delhi, India

|data5 = ¹ Department of Sharir Kriya, A.I.I.A. , New Delhi, India

² [[Charak Samhita Research, Training and Development Centre]], I.T.R.A., Jamnagar,India

² [[Charak Samhita Research, Training and Development Centre]], I.T.R.A., Jamnagar, India

|label6 = Correspondence email

|label6 = Correspondence email

==Importance==

==Importance==

[[Prakriti]] is the concept of individuality. It is accepted by all ancient scholars to make it Universal theory (sarvtantrasiddhanta). In one of the assessment factors (parikshya bhava), [Cha.Sa.[[Vimana sthana]].8/94], [[prakriti]] is crucial for the development of the body, its appearance, behavior, and resistance power, such as immunity, health, and reproductive ability. The diet (ahara), should be taken by each individual according to his [[prakriti]]. Individual's digestion ([[agni]]) and gut pattern ([[koshtha]]) are influenced by [[prakriti]]. The knowledge of [[prakriti]] is also beneficial in choosing a suitable job, the field of work, friends, and the ideal life mate. This [[prakriti]]-based individualized health maintenance system of [[Ayurveda]] encapsulates the concept of new personalized medicine.<ref name=RottiH>Rotti H, Raval R, Anchan S, Bellampalli R, Bhale S, Bharadwaj R, et al. Determinants of prakriti, the human constitution types of Indian traditional medicine and its correlation with contemporary science. J Ayurveda Integr Med 2014;5:167e75.</ref>

[[Prakriti]] is the concept of individuality. It is accepted by all ancient scholars to make it Universal theory (sarvtantra siddhanta). In one of the assessment factors (parikshya bhava), [Cha.Sa.[[Vimana sthana]].8/94], [[prakriti]] is crucial for the development of the body, its appearance, behavior, and resistance power, such as immunity, health, and reproductive ability. The diet (ahara), should be taken by each individual according to his [[prakriti]]. Individual's digestion ([[agni]]) and gut pattern ([[koshtha]]) are influenced by [[prakriti]]. The knowledge of [[prakriti]] is also beneficial in choosing a suitable job, the field of work, friends, and the ideal life mate. This [[prakriti]]-based individualized health maintenance system of [[Ayurveda]] encapsulates the concept of new personalized medicine.<ref name=RottiH>Rotti H, Raval R, Anchan S, Bellampalli R, Bhale S, Bharadwaj R, et al. Determinants of prakriti, the human constitution types of Indian traditional medicine and its correlation with contemporary science. J Ayurveda Integr Med 2014;5:167e75.</ref>

[[Prakriti]] is the most important component that affects an individual's vulnerability to many diseases, as well as their prognosis, course, and consequences. Severe illness is caused by similar [[dosha]] in [[prakriti]] and samprapti (pathology). Individuals with a [[vata]], [[pitta]], or [[kapha]] dominance in [[prakriti]] are susceptible for [[vata]], [[pitta]], or [[kapha]] dominant illness, respectively. Individuals with vata prakriti have dry skin and hair, lean phenotypes, and are prone to fatigue, nervous system diseases, and insomnia, among other things. Pitta prakriti people have strong personalities and are prone to inflammatory ailments such as ulcers. Whereas kapha prakriti people have heavy bones, muscle, and fat and are more susceptible to respiratory disorders and obesity-related comorbid conditions.<ref name=Valiathan>Valiathan M. The Legacy of Vagbhata. 1st ed ed. Hyderabad: Universities Press (India) Private Limited; 2009.</ref> A physician must have a strong understanding of [[prakriti]] for successful healthcare management. [[Prakriti]] assessment is a component of the ten fold examination of the patient (dashavidhapariksha). Physicians diagnose the patient's state, which serves as the foundation for treatment.

[[Prakriti]] is the most important component that affects an individual's vulnerability to many diseases, as well as their prognosis, course, and consequences. Severe illness is caused by similar [[dosha]] in [[prakriti]] and [[samprapti]] (pathology). Individuals with a [[vata]], [[pitta]], or [[kapha]] dominance in [[prakriti]] are susceptible for [[vata]], [[pitta]], or [[kapha]] dominant illness, respectively. Individuals with vata prakriti have dry skin and hair, lean phenotypes, and are prone to fatigue, nervous system diseases, and insomnia, among other things. Pitta prakriti people have strong personalities and are prone to inflammatory ailments such as ulcers. Whereas kapha prakriti people have heavy bones, muscle, and fat and are more susceptible to respiratory disorders and obesity-related comorbid conditions.<ref name=Valiathan>Valiathan M. The Legacy of Vagbhata. 1st ed. Hyderabad: Universities Press (India) Private Limited; 2009.</ref> A physician must have a strong understanding of [[prakriti]] for successful healthcare management. [[Prakriti]] assessment is a component of the ten fold examination of the patient (dashavidha pariksha). Physicians diagnose the patient's state, which serves as the foundation for treatment.

==Etymological derivation==

==Etymological derivation==

==Definition==

==Definition==

Prakriti is a set of characteristics that an individual develops from the embryological stage as a result of the effect of physiologically normal [[dosha]], which then persists and appears as behavior throughout one's life [Rasa vaiseshika sutra 8]. Due to specific reasons, [[dosha]] becomes more intense during embryogenesis. This naturally amplified state of [[dosha]] is referred to as prakriti, and it lasts from birth to death.

Prakriti is a set of characteristics that an individual develops from the embryological stage as a result of the effect of physiologically normal [[dosha]], which then persists and appears as behavior throughout one's life [Rasa vaisheshika sutra 8]. Due to specific reasons, [[dosha]] becomes more intense during embryogenesis. This naturally amplified state of [[dosha]] is referred to as prakriti, and it lasts from birth to death.

People are born with different proportions of [[dosha]] which results in deha prakriti. This leads to a distinct psychosomatic manifestation. Each kind of prakriti has its own set of physical, physiological, behavioral, social, and mental traits. These features distinguish one person from another, causing individuality among living organisms.  

People are born with different proportions of [[dosha]] which results in deha prakriti. This leads to a distinct psychosomatic manifestation. Each kind of prakriti has its own set of physical, physiological, behavioral, social, and mental traits. These features distinguish one person from another, causing individuality among living organisms.  

===Dosha Prakriti===

===Dosha Prakriti===

   

   

[[Vata]], [[pitta]], [[kapha]], [[vata]]-[[kapha]], [[vata]]-[[pitta]], [[kapha]]-[[pitta]], and samadoshajaprakriti (all three, i.e. [[vata]]-[[pitta]]-[[kapha]]) are the seven forms of prakriti. [Cha.Sa.[[Vimana sthana]] 8/95] Among these, three kinds have single [[dosha]] preponderance, three have two [[dosha]] predominance, and one has all three [[dosha]] balance. [[Vata]], [[pitta]], and [[kapha]] are the three phenotypic extremes among the seven constitution types, with varying illness susceptibilities. The doshaja prakriti is divided into the following categories.

[[Vata]], [[pitta]], [[kapha]], [[vata]]-[[kapha]], [[vata]]-[[pitta]], [[kapha]]-[[pitta]], and samadoshaja prakriti (all three, i.e. [[vata]]-[[pitta]]-[[kapha]]) are the seven forms of prakriti. [Cha.Sa.[[Vimana sthana]] 8/95] Among these, three kinds have single [[dosha]] preponderance, three have two [[dosha]] predominance, and one has all three [[dosha]] balance. [[Vata]], [[pitta]], and [[kapha]] are the three phenotypic extremes among the seven constitution types, with varying illness susceptibilities. The doshaja prakriti is divided into the following categories.

'''01: Vatala (Code: VA-2889) or [[Vata dosha]] dominant prakriti:''' When the [[vata dosha]] is predominant in the constitution it is vatala. Vatala prakriti characteristics include a poorly developed body built, erratic appetite, irregular food, and bowel habits, quick physical activity, quick memory but low retention, dryness of skin and hair, and cold temperature intolerance. [Cha.Sa.[[Vimana Sthana]].8/98]; [Su.Sa.Sharira Sthana 4/64]<ref name= Susruta> Sushruta. Sushruta Samhita. Edited by Jadavaji Trikamji Aacharya. 8th ed. Varanasi: Chaukhambha Orientalia;2005.</ref>; [A.S.Sharira Sthana 8/7]<ref name= Sangraha> Vridha Vagbhata, Ashtanga Sangraha. Edited by Shivaprasad Sharma. 3rd ed. Varanasi: Chaukhamba sanskrit series office;2012.</ref>; [A.Hr.Sharira Sthana 3/86]<ref name=Hridaya/>

'''01: Vatala (Code: VA-2889) or [[Vata dosha]] dominant prakriti:''' When the [[vata dosha]] is predominant in the constitution it is vatala. Vatala prakriti characteristics include a poorly developed body built, erratic appetite, irregular food, and bowel habits, quick physical activity, quick memory but low retention, dryness of skin and hair, and cold temperature intolerance. [Cha.Sa.[[Vimana Sthana]].8/98]; [Su.Sa.Sharira Sthana 4/64]<ref name= Susruta> Sushruta. Sushruta Samhita. Edited by Jadavaji Trikamji Aacharya. 8th ed. Varanasi: Chaukhambha Orientalia;2005.</ref>; [A.S.Sharira Sthana 8/7]<ref name= Sangraha> Vridha Vagbhata, Ashtanga Sangraha. Edited by Shivaprasad Sharma. 3rd ed. Varanasi: Chaukhamba sanskrit series office;2012.</ref>; [A.Hr.Sharira Sthana 3/86]<ref name=Hridaya/>

'''03. Shleshma (Code: VA-2891) or [[kapha dosha]] dominant prakriti:''' When the [[kapha dosha]] is predominant in the constitution it is shleshmala. The characteristic features of shleshmala constitution are low appetite and digestion, are less mobile, have a good memory, oily skin, a fair complexion, have good disease resistance, and have a calm attitude.[Cha.Sa.[[Vimana sthana]]8/96; [Su.Sa.Sharira sthana 4/72]<ref name=Susruta/>; [A.S.Sharira sthana 8/12]<ref name=Sangraha/>; [A.Hr.Sharira sthana 3/97].<ref name=Hridaya/>

'''03. Shleshma (Code: VA-2891) or [[kapha dosha]] dominant prakriti:''' When the [[kapha dosha]] is predominant in the constitution it is shleshmala. The characteristic features of shleshmala constitution are low appetite and digestion, are less mobile, have a good memory, oily skin, a fair complexion, have good disease resistance, and have a calm attitude.[Cha.Sa.[[Vimana sthana]]8/96; [Su.Sa.Sharira sthana 4/72]<ref name=Susruta/>; [A.S.Sharira sthana 8/12]<ref name=Sangraha/>; [A.Hr.Sharira sthana 3/97].<ref name=Hridaya/>

'''04. Dwidoshaja Prakriti:''' When two dominant [[dosha]] combines to determine prakriti, the characteristics of both [[dosha]] are visible in the constitution.

'''04. Dwidoshaja prakriti:''' When two dominant [[dosha]] combines to determine prakriti, the characteristics of both [[dosha]] are visible in the constitution.

'''05.Sama doshaja prakriti:''' Prakriti is sama when the three [[dosha]] are in proportion to each other. These individuals are healthy and continue to be so.

'''05.Sama doshaja prakriti:''' Prakriti is sama when the three [[dosha]] are in proportion to each other. These individuals are healthy and continue to be so.

===Bhautika prakriti===

===Bhautika prakriti===

The five essential elements [[Akasha]], [[Vayu]], [[Agni]], [[Aap]], and [[Prithvi]] make up the human body, as well as three basic principles known as the tri[[dosha]]. The body air principle known as [[vata]] is manifested from the [[Akasha]] and [[Vayu]] components. This principle is referred to as [[vata dosha]] in Sanskrit. The [[Agni]] and [[Aap]] elements come together in the body to form [[pitta dosha]]. The [[Prithvi]] and [[Aap]] components manifest as [[kapha]]. There are "five" varieties of prakriti based on the predominance of these panchabhautik components. Vayavya, Jaliya, and Aagneya prakriti have characteristics that are similar to [[Vata]], [[Kapha]], and [[Pitta]] dominant prakriti, respectively. The stature of a person with a parthiva constitution is large, and he or she is firm, powerful, and muscular. The nabhasa constitution is characterized by piousness, longevity, and huge aural cavities. [Su.Sa.Sharira Sthana 4/79]<ref name=Susruta/>

The five essential elements [[Akasha]], [[Vayu]], [[Agni]], [[Aap]], and [[Prithvi]] make up the human body, as well as three basic principles known as the tri[[dosha]]. The body air principle known as [[vata]] is manifested from the [[Akasha]] and [[Vayu]] components. This principle is referred to as [[vata dosha]] in Sanskrit. The [[Agni]] and [[Aap]] elements come together in the body to form [[pitta dosha]]. The [[Prithvi]] and [[Aap]] components manifest as [[kapha]]. There are "five" varieties of prakriti based on the predominance of these panchabhautik components. Vayavya, Jaliya, and Agneya prakriti have characteristics that are similar to [[Vata]], [[Kapha]], and [[Pitta]] dominant prakriti, respectively. The stature of a person with a parthiva constitution is large, and he or she is firm, powerful, and muscular. The nabhasa constitution is characterized by piousness, longevity, and huge aural cavities. [Su.Sa.Sharira Sthana 4/79]<ref name=Susruta/>

===Prakriti classification as per era===

===Prakriti classification as per era===

Prakriti is formed by [[dosha]] dominance at the time of the gamete union. [Cha.Sa.[[Vimana sthana]] 8/95] It is an individual's basic constitution, which is determined from the time of conception and remains constant throughout life.[Su.Sa. Sharirasthana 4/78]<ref name=Susruta/>

Prakriti is formed by [[dosha]] dominance at the time of the gamete union. [Cha.Sa.[[Vimana sthana]] 8/95] It is an individual's basic constitution, which is determined from the time of conception and remains constant throughout life.[Su.Sa. Sharirasthana 4/78]<ref name=Susruta/>

'''Determining factors of prakriti:'''

===Determining factors of prakriti===

Individuals from all ethnic groups are classified as belonging to one of the seven types of prakriti. It is influenced by genetic and environmental variables. Many other variables influence an individual's prakriti at the time of birth.[Cha. Sa. [[Vimana Sthana]] 8/95]

Individuals from all ethnic groups are classified as belonging to one of the seven types of prakriti. It is influenced by genetic and environmental variables. Many other variables influence an individual's prakriti at the time of birth.[Cha. Sa. [[Vimana Sthana]] 8/95]

Prakriti is derived by both genetic (sperm and ovum) and epigenetic (uterus state, period of conception, availability of food, and mother's behaviors) variables throughout its formation.

Prakriti is derived by both genetic (sperm and ovum) and epigenetic (uterus state, period of conception, availability of food, and mother's behaviors) variables throughout its formation.

'''Factor influencing the prakriti:'''

===Factors influencing the prakriti===

Some factor sare recognized as influencing or regulation factors of prakriti. [Cha. Sa. [[Indriya Sthana]] 1/5]

Some factors are recognized as influencing or regulation factors of prakriti. [Cha. Sa. [[Indriya Sthana]] 1/5]

#Jatiprasakta (Race/caste/ Occupation): Caste/ Occupation have significant effect in shaping a man's fundamental constitution and personality.

#Jatiprasakta (Race/caste/ Occupation): Caste/ Occupation have significant effect in shaping a man's fundamental constitution and personality.

#Kulaprasakta (family/ancestry): The temperament of a family's progeny is always influenced by the family's character and conduct.

#Kulaprasakta (family/ancestry): The temperament of a family's progeny is always influenced by the family's character and conduct.

#Pratyatmaniyata (individuality): Though the offspring's genomic constitution is established by the material of both parents' genomic constitutions, the offspring's genomic constitution is ultimately decided by gene splicing during meiosis 1 during fertilization. It gives babies a genome that is completely different from both parents.<ref name=miko>Miko, I. (2008) Mitosis, meiosis, and inheritance. Nature Education 1(1):206.</ref> Individuality (pratyatmaniyata) is the variance that is unique in each person. It is the unique permutation and combination of [[panchamahabhuta]]. This may be inferred to be governed by Daiva (destiny) or purvajanmakrita samskara (past life deeds).

#Pratyatmaniyata (individuality): Though the offspring's genomic constitution is established by the material of both parents' genomic constitutions, the offspring's genomic constitution is ultimately decided by gene splicing during meiosis 1 during fertilization. It gives babies a genome that is completely different from both parents.<ref name=miko>Miko, I. (2008) Mitosis, meiosis, and inheritance. Nature Education 1(1):206.</ref> Individuality (pratyatmaniyata) is the variance that is unique in each person. It is the unique permutation and combination of [[panchamahabhuta]]. This may be inferred to be governed by Daiva (destiny) or purvajanmakrita samskara (past life deeds).

'''Un-changeable nature'''

===Un-changeable nature===

[[File:Prakruti_perifery_and_core.png|500px|'''Image 2: Prakruti perifery and core'''|thumb]]

[[File:Prakruti_perifery_and_core.png|500px|'''Image 2: Prakruti perifery and core'''|thumb]]

When any of the formative components is disrupted by inner and outside environmental variables, then prakriti spontaneously responds in the form of transient changes in the intensity of phenotypic expressions associated with [[vata]], [[pitta]] or [[kapha dosha]]. The [[dosha]] balance is influenced by changes in the environment including diurnal & seasonal variations. This change is in the intensity (quantitative) of expression rather than a change in the nature of expression (qualitative). However, a dynamic equilibrium of its constituent [[dosha]] is always maintained. [[Dosha]] predominant features in the particular time of day, night and season are also observed in the person irrespective of the prakriti. But it doesn’t mean the prakriti of the person is changed. This is merely a transitory change in the periphery of the prakriti. Prakriti's core does not alter. Death is indicated by a change in prakriti's core.[Su.Sa.Sharira Sthana 4/77]

When any of the formative components is disrupted by inner and outside environmental variables, then prakriti spontaneously responds in the form of transient changes in the intensity of phenotypic expressions associated with [[vata]], [[pitta]] or [[kapha dosha]]. The [[dosha]] balance is influenced by changes in the environment including diurnal & seasonal variations. This change is in the intensity (quantitative) of expression rather than a change in the nature of expression (qualitative). However, a dynamic equilibrium of its constituent [[dosha]] is always maintained. [[Dosha]] predominant features in the particular time of day, night and season are also observed in the person irrespective of the prakriti. But it doesn’t mean the prakriti of the person is changed. This is merely a transitory change in the periphery of the prakriti. Prakriti's core does not alter. Death is indicated by a change in prakriti's core.[Su.Sa.Sharira Sthana 4/77]

'''Non-harmful nature:'''

===Non-harmful nature===

The dominance of [[dosha]] in determination of prakriti is normal. The [[dosha]] predominance of prakriti represented by specific qualities is never destructive to the own trait in any manner, but rather stands out as a distinct, recognizable quality of that person. But this predominance of [[dosha]] is always susceptible to abnormalities (vikriti) of corresponding [[dosha]]. The diet and lifestyle provoking similar [[dosha]] as that in prakriti makes the person susceptible to diseases of that [[dosha]]. Therefore, the prakriti having single [[dosha]] dominance (vataladya) is always prone to diseases.  The inherent [[dosha]] dominance in prakriti up to a certain limit is not harmful. Just like the inherent toxin in animals is not harmful to the creature itself.[Su.Sa. Sharira sthana 4/78]<ref name=Susruta/> [A. Hr. Sutra sthana 1/9]<ref name=Hridaya/>

The dominance of [[dosha]] in determination of prakriti is normal. The [[dosha]] predominance of prakriti represented by specific qualities is never destructive to the own trait in any manner, but rather stands out as a distinct, recognizable quality of that person. But this predominance of [[dosha]] is always susceptible to abnormalities (vikriti) of corresponding [[dosha]]. The diet and lifestyle provoking similar [[dosha]] as that in prakriti makes the person susceptible to diseases of that [[dosha]]. Therefore, the prakriti having single [[dosha]] dominance (vataladya) is always prone to diseases.  The inherent [[dosha]] dominance in prakriti up to a certain limit is not harmful. Just like the inherent toxin in animals is not harmful to the creature itself.[Su.Sa. Sharira sthana 4/78]<ref name=Susruta/> [A. Hr. Sutra sthana 1/9]<ref name=Hridaya/>

'''Characteristic features of [[dosha]] specific prakriti'''

==Characteristic features of [[dosha]] specific prakriti==

   

   

There are seven different types of somatic constitutions. The following table lists the characteristics of [[vata]], [[pitta]], and [[kapha]] dominating prakriti as well as their [[guna]] (property).

There are seven different types of somatic constitutions. The following table lists the characteristics of [[vata]], [[pitta]], and [[kapha]] dominating prakriti as well as their [[guna]] (property).

|}

|}

'''Concept of personalized medicine:'''

===Concept of personalized medicine===

Individual genetic and epigenetic distinctions are the foundation of individualized and entail prescribing patients individual-specific treatments based on their genetic makeup.<ref name=JnanaA>Jnana A, Murali TS, Guruprasad KP, Satyamoorthy K. Prakriti phenotypes as a stratifier of gut microbiome: A new frontier in personalized medicine?. J Ayurveda Integr Med. 2020;11(3):360-365.doi:10.1016/j.jaim.2020.05.013.</ref> [[Ayurveda]] concept of individuality is called ‘prakriti’ to provide tailored treatment based on the person's prakriti, which is a blend of the predominance of [[dosha]]-[[vata]], [[pitta]], and [[kapha]]. Prakriti is an important ayurvedic concept that describes an individualized approach to health and disease.<ref name=ChopraA>Chopra A, Saluja M and Tillu G. Ayurveda-modern medicine interface: A critical appraisal of studies of Ayurvedic medicines to treat osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. J. Transl. Med. 2010: 3. 190–198.</ref>

Individual genetic and epigenetic distinctions are the foundation of individualized and entail prescribing patients individual-specific treatments based on their genetic makeup.<ref name=JnanaA>Jnana A, Murali TS, Guruprasad KP, Satyamoorthy K. Prakriti phenotypes as a stratifier of gut microbiome: A new frontier in personalized medicine?. J Ayurveda Integr Med. 2020;11(3):360-365.doi:10.1016/j.jaim.2020.05.013.</ref> [[Ayurveda]] concept of individuality is called ‘prakriti’ to provide tailored treatment based on the person's prakriti, which is a blend of the predominance of [[dosha]]-[[vata]], [[pitta]], and [[kapha]]. Prakriti is an important ayurvedic concept that describes an individualized approach to health and disease.<ref name=ChopraA>Chopra A, Saluja M and Tillu G. Ayurveda-modern medicine interface: A critical appraisal of studies of Ayurvedic medicines to treat osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. J. Transl. Med. 2010: 3. 190–198.</ref>

Prakriti will presumably contribute to public health programs aimed at preventing and combating communicable and non-communicable diseases.

Prakriti will presumably contribute to public health programs aimed at preventing and combating communicable and non-communicable diseases.

'''Tool of prakriti assessment:'''

===Tool of prakriti assessment===

The "prakriti" assessment entails phenotyping a person, based on a variety of factors such as physical type, eating and bowel habits, disease resistance and healing skills, memory retention, metabolism, and so on. It's a clinical examination using the three types of examination viz. inspection (darshan), palpation (sparshan), and interrogation (prashna). There are morphological (rachanaanusari), physiological (kriyaanusari), and psychological (manoanusari) aspects to it. The prakriti is determined by a combination of all these characteristics. Validated and standardized tools for prakriti assessment are available on the following links:

The "prakriti" assessment entails phenotyping a person, based on a variety of factors such as physical type, eating and bowel habits, disease resistance and healing skills, memory retention, metabolism, and so on. It's a clinical examination using the three types of examination viz. inspection (darshan), palpation (sparshan), and interrogation (prashna). There are morphological (rachanaanusari), physiological (kriyaanusari), and psychological (manoanusari) aspects to it. The prakriti is determined by a combination of all these characteristics. Validated and standardized tools for prakriti assessment are available on the following links:

(http://namayush.gov.in/sites/default/files/doc/Prakriti_Questionnaires.pdf)

(http://namayush.gov.in/sites/default/files/doc/Prakriti_Questionnaires.pdf)

'''The new research group model:'''

===New research group model===

Age, sex, and ethnicity (to some extent) are used as universal variables in modern medical research (control groups). However, these group results cannot be extended to the entire human population because each of these groups has a varied level of illness susceptibility and medication response. Prakriti displays itself in all ethnic groups, hence ethnic groups aren't required for research. It has an impact on an individual's entire life span by linking their nature to environmental factors such as their lifestyle and diet. Prakriti is an example of a strategy that can be used uniformly across the entire population to divide a stratified population into manageable subgroups (rather than hundreds of ethnic groupings). Future research may employ prakriti-based grouping.

Age, sex, and ethnicity (to some extent) are used as universal variables in modern medical research (control groups). However, these group results cannot be extended to the entire human population because each of these groups has a varied level of illness susceptibility and medication response. Prakriti displays itself in all ethnic groups, hence ethnic groups aren't required for research. It has an impact on an individual's entire life span by linking their nature to environmental factors such as their lifestyle and diet. Prakriti is an example of a strategy that can be used uniformly across the entire population to divide a stratified population into manageable subgroups (rather than hundreds of ethnic groupings). Future research may employ prakriti-based grouping.

The concept of prakriti is utilized in the Ayurgenomics (Genome-wide analysis of Prakriti), Ayurnutrigenomics (Genome wise analysis of nutrition need), Ayurpharmacogenomics (Assessment of right drug for right people and response of the drug). Prakriti-based gut microbe stratification, Epigenetics, Predictive medicine (Newborn screening), System biology, Exercise physiology, Sports science, Sleep medicine, Circadian rhythm are key areas of research.

The concept of prakriti is utilized in the Ayurgenomics (Genome-wide analysis of Prakriti), Ayurnutrigenomics (Genome wise analysis of nutrition need), Ayurpharmacogenomics (Assessment of right drug for right people and response of the drug). Prakriti-based gut microbe stratification, Epigenetics, Predictive medicine (Newborn screening), System biology, Exercise physiology, Sports science, Sleep medicine, Circadian rhythm are key areas of research.

==Thesis done==

==Theses done==

#Studies on human psychosomatic constitution by anthropometric methods as described in ayurveda by H.C.Shukla, Dept. of Basic principles, I.M.S., Varanasi, 1970.

#Studies on human psychosomatic constitution by anthropometric methods as described in ayurveda by H.C.Shukla, Dept. of Basic principles, I.M.S., Varanasi, 1970.

==Current researches==

==Current researches==

   

   

'''Association of Gut Microbe with prakriti phenotype:''' Studies discovered gut microbial patterns linked to a variety of host characteristics such as geography, age, and food. A few bacterial taxa were found to be specifically enriched in certain prakriti in recent scientific research. Chauhan et al.<ref>Chauhan NS, Pandey R, Mondal AK, Gupta S, Verma MK, Jain S, et al. Western Indian rural gut microbial diversity in extreme prakriti endo-phenotypes reveals signature microbes. Front Microbiol 2018;9:118.</ref> and Chaudhari et al.<ref>Chaudhari D, Dhotre D, Agarwal D, Gondhali A, Nagarkar A, Lad V, et al. Understanding the association between the human gut, oral and skin microbiome and the Ayurvedic concept of prakriti. J Biosci 2019;44: 112.</ref> detected extreme prakriti phenotypes (vata, pitta, and kapha) in a population from the VHDSS area in Pune and investigated if prakriti phenotyping can serve as a potential stratifier of the gut microbiota in that community and form the basis of personalized medicine.

===Association of Gut Microbe with prakriti phenotype===

'''Cosmetology and prakriti:''' The use of prakriti in cosmetic science aids in the selection of the appropriate cosmetic formulation; otherwise, cosmetic use at random can have a negative impact on beauty. The skin of healthy individuals with [[vata]] and [[pitta]] dominant prakriti was found to be dehydrated, but hydration was preserved in [[kapha]] dominant prakriti people.<ref>Suwarna UV, Deepak VM , Sheela KB, Kalpana SD. Variation in skin hydration on the basis of Deha Prakriti (body constitution): A cross-sectional observational study. Ayu2018;39:127-31.</ref>

Studies discovered gut microbial patterns linked to a variety of host characteristics such as geography, age, and food. A few bacterial taxa were found to be specifically enriched in certain prakriti in recent scientific research. Chauhan et al.<ref>Chauhan NS, Pandey R, Mondal AK, Gupta S, Verma MK, Jain S, et al. Western Indian rural gut microbial diversity in extreme prakriti endo-phenotypes reveals signature microbes. Front Microbiol 2018;9:118.</ref> and Chaudhari et al.<ref>Chaudhari D, Dhotre D, Agarwal D, Gondhali A, Nagarkar A, Lad V, et al. Understanding the association between the human gut, oral and skin microbiome and the Ayurvedic concept of prakriti. J Biosci 2019;44: 112.</ref> detected extreme prakriti phenotypes (vata, pitta, and kapha) in a population from the VHDSS area in Pune and investigated if prakriti phenotyping can serve as a potential stratifier of the gut microbiota in that community and form the basis of personalized medicine.

'''Genomic and biochemical basis of constitutional:''' Individuals with the three most dissimilar constitutional types have notable variances in biochemical and hematological markers, as well as gene expression levels across the genome.<ref name= Prasher/> The differences in hemoglobin levels between the prakriti are correlated with higher expression of genes that regulate hemoglobin levels, such as HBA1, HBB, and NOV, in [[pitta]] compared to [[vata]] and [[kapha]]. The human leukocyte antigen (HLA) gene polymorphism has been found to have a reasonable connection with prakriti type.<ref>Patwardhan, B.; Joshi, K.; Chopra, A. Classification of Human Population Based on HLA Gene Polymorphism and the Concept of Prakriti in Ayurveda. J. Altern. Complement. Med. 2005, 11, 349–353.</ref> Individuals with [[pitta]] prakriti are observed to have phosphoglucomutase 1 gene.<ref>Govindaraj, P.; Nizamuddin, S.; Sharath, A.; Jyothi, V.; Rotti, H.; Raval, R.; Nayak, J.; Bhat, B.K.; Prasanna, B.V.; Shintre, P.; et al. Genome-wide Analysis Correlates Ayurveda Prakriti. Sci. Rep. 2015, 5, 15786</ref>

===Cosmetology and prakriti===

'''Risk factor (disease vulnerability) and prakriti:''' There is a close link between [[vata]]-[[kapha]] and [[kapha]] prakriti and risk factors (diabetes, hypertension, dyslipidemia), insulin resistance, and immune markers.<ref>Mahalle NP, Kulkarni MV, Pendse NM, Naik SS. Association of constitutional type of Ayurveda with cardiovascular risk factors, inflammatory markers and insulin resistance. J Ayurveda Integr Med 2012;3:150-7.</ref>There is a very strong link between prakriti (Kapha/KaphaPittaja) and type 2 diabetes.<ref>Gupta A, Ali A, Tewari P, Agrawal NK, Patel R, Byadgi PS. Association of Kaphaja and Kapha Pittaja Prakriti and methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase C677T allele with type 2 diabetes. Ayu2018;39:146-50.</ref>

 

 

 

===Risk factor (disease vulnerability) and prakriti===

 

There is a close link between [[vata]]-[[kapha]] and [[kapha]] prakriti and risk factors (diabetes, hypertension, dyslipidemia), insulin resistance, and immune markers.<ref>Mahalle NP, Kulkarni MV, Pendse NM, Naik SS. Association of constitutional type of Ayurveda with cardiovascular risk factors, inflammatory markers and insulin resistance. J Ayurveda Integr Med 2012;3:150-7.</ref>There is a very strong link between prakriti (Kapha/KaphaPittaja) and type 2 diabetes.<ref>Gupta A, Ali A, Tewari P, Agrawal NK, Patel R, Byadgi PS. Association of Kaphaja and Kapha Pittaja Prakriti and methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase C677T allele with type 2 diabetes. Ayu2018;39:146-50.</ref>

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