Abstract

Vd. Fayaz Ahmed*, Vd. Kamlesh Sonare and Vd. Suryakant Dwivedi

ABSTRACT

Sapta means seven and dhatu means that which bears or supports. Ayurveda identifies seven vital tissues that provide nourishment, growth, and structure to the entire body. These tissues are called dhatus which are in many ways similar to the major tissues identified by modern science. They are maintained within limit of the skin from outside and mucus membrane from inside. Each Dhatu has Updhatu or a sub unit and together they make up the body grow strong. They provide support, strength and structure to the body. Each dhatu is governed by one of the three biological humors (Doshas) Updhatu support the body and make them strong, but as they do not nurture the body tissues as Dhatus, they are called Updhatu. Ayurveda says that proper diet and digestion ensure excellent tissue renewal. Once food is fully digested, the building of tissues commences. The first tissue that gets strength is plasma and then sequentially other tissues are nourished. An imbalance within any tissue will, therefore, affect all subsequent tissues. Plasma is rich in digestive nutrients and actively transfers these nutrients to subsequent tissue layers. In this way, even the deepest and most complex tissues are nourished by the foods we eat. Dhatu means body constituents which build the basic structure and carry various physiological functions. They work as body tissues, stabilize and sustain body.[1] The term “DHATU” generally refers to the seven structural components of the body. The structural and functional integrity of body depends upon dhatu. Therefore, it is important to understand the concept of dhatu. Hence, this article will cite about dhatus and its importance. Seven dhatu • Rasa dhatu: plasma and lymph • Rakta dhatu: blood tissue • Mamsa dhatu: muscle tissue • Meda dhatu: adipose tissue • Asthi dhatu: bone tissue • Majja dhatu: bone marrow • Shukra dhatu: reproductive fluids; semen