TRIDOSHA THEORY IN AYURVEDA: A COMPARATIVE REVIEW OF CHARAKA, SUSHRUTA AND VAGBHATTA

Abstract

Background: The Tridosha theory is the fundamental physiological and pathological framework of Ayurveda, explaining the maintenance of health and the causation of disease. The three Doshas namely Vata, Pitta, and Kapha govern all biological functions of the body and mind. Although the basic concept of Tridosha is common across classical texts, differences are observed in their descriptions, attributes, functions, and clinical applications among Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, and Ashtanga Hridaya of Acharya Vagbhatta. Aim:
To critically review and compare the concept of Tridosha as described in Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, and Ashtanga Hridaya. Objectives: To study the conceptual foundation of Tridosha in classical Ayurvedic texts. To analyze similarities in the description of Vata, Pitta, and Kapha among the three treatises. To identify textual and clinical differences in the interpretation of Dosha functions and characteristics. To understand the applied relevance of these variations in diagnosis and treatment. Materials and Methods: This study is a literary and comparative review based on primary Ayurvedic texts including Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, and Ashtanga Hridaya, along with their authoritative commentaries. Relevant Shlokas were collected, compiled, and comparatively analyzed to highlight doctrinal similarities and differences. Results: All three classical texts unanimously accept Tridosha as the governing principle of bodily functions. Charaka Samhita emphasizes the physiological and pathological dominance of Doshas, Sushruta Samhita highlights their anatomical and surgical relevance, while Ashtanga Hridaya presents a concise and clinically oriented synthesis. Variations are mainly observed in the elaboration of Guna, Karma, and applied clinical perspectives rather than in the core philosophy. Conclusion: The concept of Tridosha remains consistent in its foundational philosophy across Charaka, Sushruta, and Vagbhatta, with minor variations reflecting each Acharya’s clinical focus and scope of practice. Understanding these comparative perspectives enriches clinical reasoning and supports precise application of Ayurvedic principles in diagnosis and treatment.