CONCEPTUAL STUDY OF NEURO-PHYSIOLOGICAL CONTROL OF ‘SVEDA’ IN TERMS OF VATA FUNCTION

Abstract

Ayurveda emphasizes the maintenance of equilibrium among Dosha, Dhatu, and Mala for preservation of health. Among the three principal Malas, Sveda (sweat) plays an important role in maintaining body temperature, moisture, and softness of the skin. Classical Ayurvedic texts describe the formation, transportation, and regulation of Sveda through the coordinated actions of Vyana Vayu and Samana Vayu. Modern physiology similarly explains sweating as a thermoregulatory mechanism governed by the autonomic nervous system and hypothalamic centers. The present conceptual study attempts to correlate Ayurvedic principles of Sveda and Vata with contemporary neurophysiological understanding of sweating. The article highlights the possible relationship between Vyana Vayu and neural impulse conduction, particularly autonomic regulation associated with sweat gland activity. By integrating Ayurvedic concepts with modern neuroscience, this study aims to provide a broader understanding of the neurophysiology of sweating and the role of Vata in maintaining homeostasis.