The seven Dhatus in Ayurvedic pathology and therapy »

The concept of the seven Dhātu-s ("tissue") counts among the fundamental doctrines of Āyurveda. A good quality of the seven tissues and a regular metabolism are characteristics of a healthy organism. On the other hand the Dhātu-s are often affected in various disease-processes along with the three Doṣa-s and the Srotas. So the Caraka-Saṃhitā itself admonishes us to assess the Dhātu-s thoroughly when making a diagnosis. In this presentation typical symptoms of diseased Dhātu-s will be discussed as well as the corresponding therapeutic possibilities. However, since Āyurveda is not only concerned with treating diseases but also with the preservation of health, some recommendations for the strengthening of the Dhātu-s (Rasāyana) will also be summarised.