Rasa dhatu

The word ‘rasa dhatu’ literally means the component of the body with nutrients and essence. There are two forms of rasa related to body physiology. Ahara rasa is the essence of food after the first level of digestion by jatharagni (factors responsible for digestion and metabolism) in the stomach. The second form is rasa dhatu. It is the component formed after the ahara rasa is acted upon by rasa dhatvagni.

Etymology and derivation

The word ‘rasa’ is derived from the Sanskrit root “ras” having the meaning of taste, to relish, to perceive, to feel, to desire. Rasa is derived from the root ‘gatau’ which means moving. As the nutrient fluid is continuously circulated in our body, it is known as rasa. [Su. Sa. Sutra Sthana 14/13]