Int. J. Ayur. Pharma Research, 2014; 2(2): 101-110 ISSN: 2322 - 0910

International Journal of Ayurveda and Pharma Research Review Article

RITU (SEASON), RITUCHARYA AND PRAKRITI- A CONCEPTUAL STUDY Bakal Nilesh Ganeshrao1*, Lode Dattatraya Somaji2, Patil Aparna Shrikrishna3 *1Assistant Professor and H.O.D. Department of Kriya Sharir, G. S. Gune Ayurveda College, Ahmednagar, Maharashtra, India. 2Assistant Professor and H.O.D. Department of Kaumarbhritya, G. S. Gune Ayurveda College, Ahmednagar, Maharashtra, India. 3Postgraduate Scholar. Department of Ayurveda Samhita, C.S.M.S.S. Ayurveda College, Aurangabad, Maharashtra, India. ABSTRACT The Prakriti (genetic constitution) and Kala (season) are extra ordinarily related with each other from the origin of a Prakriti due to many common and mutual factors. Naturally the effect of Kala on the Prakriti is unavoidable. The off springs from the conjugation of same Sukra (sperm) and Shonita (ovum) are not alike by Prakriti, because the time of conception or fertilization of the ovum might be different. The prominent Doshas during the time of conception has got definite role in the formation of Prakriti during conception, as well as after birth also. If the time predominates the Vata dosha, there must be certain qualities of Vata Dosha, even though the conjugating Sukra and Shonita may be of different Dosha. In such cases the chances of mixed Prakriti is more. The Charakacharya said that, a chance of Sama prakriti find is very difficult or rare. Most of the Prakrities are Vatala, Pittala and Sleshmala with predominance of Vata, Pitta and Kapha respectively. The season has great role in the genetic constitution because the fertilization of ovum also depends upon the time. Sushruta said, "after the cessation of the Rajo darshana (menstrual period) the 12 nights are useful for fertilization only". The modern physiology also states that the mature ovum get discharged through one of the two ovaries, every month, on or around the 14th day of cycle and so the period round about the 14th day is best for definite conception. This clearly shows the relation of Kala (season) and Prakriti (genetic constitution) since its origin and again ahead throughout the life time. Nowadays, the nature is changing its qualities due to various atmospheric changes like pollution, space experiments, heavy industrialization and population crisis. So while studying the effects of Kala (season) one has to face the hyper/ hypo and perverted faculties of Kala (season) which are affecting the generations. So the study of Kala (season) in respect of its various effects on Prakriti (genetic constitution), will be the essential thing in future. As per Ayurveda, Ritucharya (seasonal lifestyle) should be followed for prevention of diseases arising from variations in Tridosha due to Kala (season). In present study, we tried to advocate Ritucharya (seasonal lifestyle) with respect to Prakriti (genetic constitution). KEYWORDS: Prakriti, Ritu, Kala, Ritucharya. INTRODUCTION which one has to face in day to day busy life. Also Ayurveda is a science of life [1] developed the Ayurveda advocates living long and healthy - by the ancient sagas based on philosophical sturdy life, to achieve the Caturvidha speculations as well as intense clinical purushartha, i.e. Dharma, Artha, Kama and [2] observations. The principal object of Ayurveda is Moksha . It shows significant evidences, not only to cure the disease, but also to prevent elucidating the psychosomatic approach, the individuals from all sorts of miseries of life, towards the entire problems of health and

Available online at : http://ijapr. in Page 101 Bakal Nilesh Ganeshrao et al. Ritu (Season), Ritucharya and Prakriti- A Conceptual Study diseases. The life is a union of body (Sharir), The genetic constitution has been senses (Indriyas), mind (Satwa) and spirit described in relevance to the fundamental (Atma)[3] as if a trigon of mental, physical and elements, i.e. Tridoshas which are supposed be spiritual factors, without any one of them, it can't the origin of Prakriti (genetic constitution). exist. So to have a long and healthy life, one must According to the predominance of the Doshas in be careful about the above three principles, all seven types of Prakrities (genetic which are inter-related and inter-dependent. constitution) has been described in old texts. In Ayurveda the creation of living being The Tridoshas being the initiative active is mainly considered as combination of five subjects in the formation of Prakriti (genetic fundamental entities called Panchamahabhutas constitution) as well as in nature, on which the (five fundamental entities) and the soul [4]. The existence of life as well as the nature depends. whole physical world is derived from these Likewise these Tridoshas when get affected by Panchamahabhutas (five fundamental entities) external forces as Kala (season) or Parinama [7], by their specific combinations. Thus the human it also reflects upon the corresponding Doshaja body is also a combination of five Mahabhutas or genetic Prakriti. (fundamental entities). There are various The Rituchakra of six Ritus (season cycle) external environmental forces like Sun, Moon, have different characters, responsible for and Air etc., which are responsible for the increase in same qualities in nature, as well as in control of external atmosphere. The same forces human being and depresses the opposite have various effects on the human body directly qualities also [8]. This is the reason for the Chaya, or indirectly. Prakopa and Prashama of Tridoshas in the These effects observed on various human beings in corresponding Ritus[9] (season). individuals are not same because, there is This variation of Tridoshas is not of the same difference in genetic constitution, which is quality in every individual. If the Doshas (Prakriti governed by Tridoshas. Tridoshas are supposed genetic), corresponds with the natural vitiated to be the basic elements of the body, derived Doshas in body, the chance of vitiation of Doshas from the Panchamahabhutas (five fundamental in that Prakriti (genetic constitution) is more e.g. entities) or the purpose of physiological in Vasanta ritu kala (spring) the nature is in activities. They are responsible for the integrity favour of Kapha prakopa due to sunshine heat of of the human body and govern the entire it. So the persons of Kaphaja prakriti will systems. When these Tridoshas get vitiated by definitely show signs of Kapha prakopa with external forces, various types of somatic slightest Kaphaja ahara -Vihara. So the study of disorders start, giving rise to diseases [5]. such effects in all six Ritus (season) in various Thus the health of an individual depends Prakrities (genetic constitution) will be helpful upon the normal position of Dosha, Dhatu and for the prevention and cure of the vitiated Mala [6]. For which, the Ayurveda had prescribed Tridoshas and thereby further illnesses. specific regimen of life for longevity and health, Nowadays, the nature is changing its such as Dincharya (daily lifestyle), Ritucharya qualities due to various atmospheric changes (seasonal lifestyle) etc. like pollution, space experiments, heavy Though the equilibrium of Tridoshas is industrialization and population crisis. So while supposed to be essential factors for normal studying the effects of Kala (season) one has to living, there is always a limited relative genetic face the hyper/ hypo and perverted faculties of variation of these Tridoshas, right from Kala (season) which are affecting the conception of ovum which leads to generations. So the study of Kala (season) in predominance of one of the Doshas in the body, respect of its various effects will be the essential on which genetic constitution is based upon. thing in future. This is called "Deha-prakriti". The concept of As one can't avoid Kala (season), its Deha (body) is a psychosomatic approach in variations will definitely reflect Upon the which the Prakriti has genetic and acquired individual and if he knows about his Prakriti aspects. The acquired constitution develops in (genetic constitution) and relation with the Kala relation to the environmental factors, like age, (season), he will try to guard himself. sex, familial and socio-economic atmosphere, Similarly the Ritucharya (seasonal and lastly climatic condition which top the list. lifestyle) described in the old texts must be modified according to the modern techniques

Available online at : http://ijapr. in Page 102 Int. J. Ayur. Pharma Research, 2014; 2(2): 101-110 ISSN: 2322 - 0910 and the life shall be made more comfortable with 5. Atma (Soul personal): The Jiwatma, which all the amenities, bearing in mind the Tridoshas enters at the time of conception with its own and their characters, which one has to keep in peculiarities. equilibrium. Thus, the direct and indirect factors DISCUSSION mentioned above are responsible, in the PRAKRITI formation of Prakriti (genetic constitution) with their various different faculties. Hence the off- The Brihatrayee (Charaka, Sushruta, springs from the same parents are not always of Vagbhata) has wisely and minutely explained the same Prakriti (genetic constitution). about the process of Prakriti [10-12,]. Types and Classification of Prakriti As Tridosha are part of and parcel of every component i.e. Dhatu, the Vata, Pitta, The Prakriti (genetic constitution) is classified Kapha are also present in Shukra (sperm) as well by various ways as: as in Shonita (ovum). When the union of these 1) Doshaja Shukra (sperm) and Shonita (ovum) takes place 2) Panchabhautika and Jiwatma (soul) enters; at that same time, the conception takes place. At that time one or other 3) According six basic factors like Jati, Kula etc of the Doshas may be in preponderance. So the 4) Manasa Prakriti (genetic constitution) is determined by Here we are not going in details of each Prakriti the most dominant Dosha and thus the foetus due to the possible expansion of the topic. and then the child becomes of Vataja, Pittaja, Kaphaja Prakriti or mixed also. KALA The period of conception, the season, Atit means past time (Bhutakala) so one position of the Uterus, the diet and behavior of who is responsible for past, future as well as the mother at that moment, and during present time and is Vibhu (all pervading) and pregnancy period, predominance of the Nithya (perpetual or eternal). It is the original Panchamahabhutas (five fundamental entities) cause of generation of Purusha (individual) as in nature are the factors which are responsible well as disease [13]. Apart from that, the whole for conception as well as development of foetus. universe is under the power of Kala (time) and it They have definite influence according to their is an efficient cause for all the activities. dominant Doshas in the process of Prakriti In Mahabharata much importance had (genetic constitution) and qualities of dominant been given to Kala (time) and had praised its Doshas are established on which the original power and efficiency regarding the various genetic constitution is based. Apart from these, stages of life and nature. Thus, the greatness of few other factors also play some role in process Kala (time) given an opportunity to call it as of the formation of the Prakriti (genetic "Swayambhu Bhagawan" (a self existent God). constitution). They are as follows: The Kala (time) is one, and is free from 1. Jati (Race): Based on the occupation or the generation, existence and destruction. The life race of the parents. For example Brahmin, and death of all the living things are controlled Vaishya, Kshatriya, Kshudra. by it. It is so active and fast that, it can't remain 2. Desha (Region): There are regional static for a fraction of a second, and is having specificity for example in northern India the very strong revolutionary power. complexion is fair than southern India. In The Kala (time) though one, is northern Anupa Desha Kapha dosha is subdivided into various stages, due to movement prominent one. of Sun, as a day, night, seasons etc. So it appears 3. Kala (season): In each season, there is different. In day to day practice the Kala (time) is dominance of certain Dosha (described divided according to the relation between Sun, infra). Moon and Earth and so it acquires multiple different characters during the said period. 4. Vaya (Age): Age factor of parents has importance in conception as well as Division of Kala (season) development. A self revolving Earth moves around the Sun all the while. The time limit for one such

Available online at : http://ijapr. in Page 103 Bakal Nilesh Ganeshrao et al. Ritu (Season), Ritucharya and Prakriti- A Conceptual Study circumvention around the Sun is called a (summer solstice) Again from North- Karkavritta Samvatsara i.e. one year or 365 days. to reach South-Makaravritta, this six month This one year is mainly divided into two period (23rd June to 22nd December) is called equal parts due to motion of Sun and is called Dakshinayana (winter solstice). Then each Ayana Ayana. When the Sun starts moving from South is again subdivided into three Ritus (season) i.e. from Makaravritta (Tropic of Capricorn) to each of two months duration only. Thus the reach the North i.e. Karkavritta (Tropic of whole Samvatsara i.e. year is divided into six [14] Cancer), this six month period (22nd of Ritus (season) as follows: December to 23rd June) is called Uttarayana. Ayana Ritu Indian Months English Months Uttarayana Shishira (winter) Margashirsha and Pousha 23rd Dec. to first half of Feb. Or Vasanta (spring) Magha and Phalgun 02nd half of Feb. to first half Adana Kala of Apr. (summer Grishma (summer) Chaitra and Vaishakha 02nd half of Apr. to first half solstice) of June. Dakshinayana Varsha (monsoon) Jestha and Ashadha 23rd June to first half of Aug Or Sharad (autumn) Shravana and Bhadrapada 02nd half of Aug. to first half Visargakala of Oct. (winter Hemanta (fall winter) Ashwina and Kartika 02nd half of Oct. to 22nd of solstice) Dec. As quoted in Charaka, Sushruta and responsible for the various changes in the Vagbhata there is slight difference in Ritu atmosphere. These changes are cyclical (season) and corresponding Indian months. But according to the cyclical motion of Sun and Earth it is natural, that after a period of thousands which resulted into the formation of Ritu years, this deviation is ought to be. Today the (season) and Rituchakra (season cycle). definite days of solar movements are definite, Each Ritu (season) has its own and so it is easy to define the months also. But it peculiarity regarding its atmospheric characters, is more specific to accept the Ritus (season) resulting into an increase in particular rasa according to the seasonal characters in that (taste) which are responsible for the increase of particular Ritu (season). same qualities. Hence the same Dosha may have India is a very big country with different influence on the Prakriti (genetic constitution), climates and geographical conditions. It has showing different changes in different maximum coldest region like Himalaya and individuals, in the same Ritu (season), which can hottest region like Vidarbha. The rainfall is also be established, by observation and inspection of ranging from dry desert to 500 inches in a year. them in the six different Ritus (season). Before Naturally there is seasonal variation in different that it will be practical to know about specificity parts of the country. of two Ayanas (solstice) and the Ritus (season) in The seasons are also changing in the them. region wise. The Pravruta season described in Uttarayana or Adana Kala old texts i.e. Sushruta had supposed to be, pre The Kala (season) in which the mild and monsoon Ritu and is common in Southern India, liquids or juicy faculties are absorbed by the where Shishira is not encountered. While in opposite qualities of atmosphere, resulting into Northern India, cold seasons being dominant the loss of strength and power, thereby emaciation Shishira had described than the Pravrutta. in animals and vegetables is called the Adana The miraculous power (Prabhava) of Kala (summer solstice) Ritukala (season) has various effects on all living The Adana Kala or Uttarayana (summer and non-living things of the Universe. solstice) is composed of Shishir, Vasanta and Specifically the effect upon the animal and Grishma ritus (winter, spring, summer). In this vegetable kingdom is more obvious and period the Sun and Air are Tikshna, Ushna and sensational. These all revolutionary changes are Ruksha (i.e. Penetrating, Hot and without due to Sun, Moon, Earth and Air. All these are humidity) as the Sun is nearer to the Prithvi having their own specific motions, but still (earth). Also the Sun rays are short and very hot, related to each other. So the various qualities and penetrating in nature; resulting into and characters of these universal factors are absorption of softness, cold, oily and juicy

Available online at : http://ijapr. in Page 104 Int. J. Ayur. Pharma Research, 2014; 2(2): 101-110 ISSN: 2322 - 0910 qualities. The properties of Sun are enhanced by solstice) and beginning of Visarga kala (winter the Vayu, (air), making the atmosphere more dry solstice) the individual is having less power and i.e. Ruksha. All these changes are useful to energy. In mid time of both the Ayanas (Vasant increase the Tikta (bitter), Kashaya (astringent) and Sharada) the power and energy is also in and Katu (pungent) rasa, which by virtue of their between, while at the end of Visarga and similarity increase the power of Vata Dosha in beginning of Adana it is maximum one [15]. the body and is responsible for losing weight and Above discussion clearly established that power. universal factors like Jala (water), Surya (Sun), Since the beginning of Adana kala i.e. Soma (Moon), Vayu (Air) has got inter relation Shishira (winter) the body starts emaciating and by which they all affect the atmosphere resulting becoming dry which goes to its maximum at the into different Ritus (season) and thereby Ritu- end of Adana (summer solstice) i.e. Grishma and chakra i.e. cyclical order of six Rasas (tastes) and so the dominance of Vata dosha is also active their qualities. All these factors finally act on during the whole Adana Kala (summer solstice). Prakriti (genetic constitution) through Tridoshas. Dakshinayana or Visargakala The equilibrium of Tridoshas is depending upon the normal stages of different Ritus (season) The Kala (season) which nourishes the with their qualities. If they are disturbed by a animals and vegetables by increasing their juicy Atiyog (increase in qualities) or Mithya yoga or water contents, and thereby the strength and (perversion in qualities) the Tridoshas also power is called Visarga - kala. (winter solstice) It disturbed accordingly and so there might be is composed of Varsha, Sharada and Hemanta Dosha -Vridhi (predominance) or Dosha-kshaya ritus (monsoon, autumn, fall winter) in which which effects particular Doshaja deha prakriti there is gradual fall of the power of Sun and Vayu with changes in characters accordingly, as the (air) and rising of the Moon power. In addition to rules previously states i.e. "Equality increases the Moon, the rains and clouds also helps to keep the same factors and unequality decreases". the atmosphere cold and mild. The Snigdha guna (oilyness) starts increasing in all the things, These characters of the Ritukala (season) resulting into well nourishment and strength of are responsible for Vitiation of Tridoshas in same individual. All these changes act to increase Dosha prakriti (genetic constitution) and the Amla, Madhura, Lavana rasa (Sour, Sweet, Salty Ahara vihara (lifestyle) of same quality. The tastes) in the nature. So there is dominance of table given below will explain the seasonal Pitta and Kapha dosha respectively. It is changes of Tridoshas and thereby the Prakrities observed that the end of Adana Kala (summer also. Effect of Ritukala on Tridoshas Dosha Chaya Prakopa Prashama Vata Grishma (summer) Varsha (mansoon) Sharada (autum) Pitta Varsha (mansoon) Sharada (autum) Hemanta (fall winter) Kapha Shishira (winter) Vasanta (spring) Grishma (summer) Relation between Rasa Ritu (season) Dosha The six Rasas (taste) are produced due to increase of same qualities in the six different season which are responsible for generation of Doshas of same characters as well as cessation of (Prashama) opposite one [16]. The particulars are as follows: Ritus with their relation with Mahabhutas, Doshas and Rasas Ritu Predominant Prominent rasa Dosha Generation Dosha regression elements in nature kala (Janana) kala (Shamana) Shishira (winter) Vayu & Akasha Tikta (bitter) Vata Pitta & Kapha Vasanta (spring) Vayu & Prithvi Kashaya (astringent) Vata Pitta & Kapha Grishma (summer) Vayu & Teja Katu (pungent) Vata & Pitta Kapha Varsha (mansoon) Prithvi & Teja Amla (sour) Kapha & Pitta Vata Sharada (autum) Apa & Teja Lavana (salty) Kapha & Pitta Vata Hemanta Prithvi & Apa Madhura (sweet) Kapha Pitta, Vata (fall winter)

Available online at : http://ijapr. in Page 105 Bakal Nilesh Ganeshrao et al. Ritu (Season), Ritucharya and Prakriti- A Conceptual Study Thus in every Ritu (season) the (taste) and Prakriti. This preventive aspect of the atmosphere is changed, according to the changes science is more realistic and practical. in the qualities of Universal affecting subjects The Ahara (diet) Desha (region), JALA mentioned before. These changes are (water), Vayu (Air) and Kala (time) are the responsible for the changes in characters of factors which are common and responsible for Prakriti (genetic constitution) normally as well atmospheric changes. Out of them, the Kala as responsible to create imbalance or abnormal (time) has much more importance, as it cannot changes in Doshas resulting into disease. So the be avoided and it not under the control of the particular diseases of that prominent Dosha are individual, like other factors, which can be common in that season only. avoided or controlled, if an individual thinks. So all these changes are the nature's The excess or deficient or false manifestation or adjustment, and the treatment, to keep the Ritu kala (season) are going to affect the Prakriti Doshas as well as the body healthy. But for that, (genetic constitution) and so one must follow the one must know the effects of Ritu (season) on specific Ritucharya (seasonal lifestyle). Prakriti (genetic constitution), and to adjust his Hemanta Ritucharya day to day behavior according to the changes in Ritus (season) to keep the body healthy. In Hemanta (fall winter), the atmosphere is very cold, so the air, water and other subjects In the present days a man is so involved become very cool and cold. The nights are longer in the various busy activities, that he is not able than day. This coldness affects the skin. The to grasp the changes, and their natural remedy. blood vessels, which get constricted, to prevent So he has to face many health problems heat loss of the body. So the internal body heat throughout the year. increases, due to which the Agni (fire) is To get out of this vicious circle, one must increased, resulting into increased appetite- know his own Prakriti (genetic constitution) and digestion and thereby strength and power of the its relation with the different ritus, (season) and body. As the nights are longer, the man gets behave accordingly. The ancient Ayurveda had hungry early in the morning. So in Hemanta (fall given more trace on the daily routine winter) one should practice to take food in the (Dinacharya) in each and every season morning containing Madhura, Amla, Lavana (ritucharya). Now a days it may not be possible rasas (sweet, sour, salty) and Guru (heavy), to behave as per Dinacharya (daily routine) or Snigdha (oily) diet, otherwise there are more Ritucharya (seasonal lifestyle) due to vast chances of increase in Vata Dosha[18]. change in the mode of life, and ignore the Diet in Hemanta principles stated in it and alter it accordingly. So the study of Ritucharya will be the most useful Cereal: Rice,Wheat,Jawar path towards healthy and happy life. Pulses: Udid (black gram) Kulitha (horse gram), RITUCHARYA Watana (pea) It is observed that the Doshas which are Oils: Til, Groundnuts, Animal fats, Coconut there since origin of the Prakriti, (genetic Milk Products: Milk, Curds, Buttermilk, Butter, constitution) are liable to be vitiated in the Ritus Ghee, Cheese (season) of same origin by simple aggravating Vegetables: Potato, Sweet Potato, Onion, causes. Hence Charaka called all the Prakrities Cabbage, Flower, Dudhi Bhopala (bottle gourd), (genetic constitution), except Sama as "Sada- Tondali (ivy gourd), Drum Sticks etc. Atura" i.e. always diseased [17]. So to prevent that, it is necessary to practice the opposite Fruits: All sweet fruits, Mango, Banana, Grapes, characters and qualities of the original Deha Figs etc. Prakriti dosha. The ritu (season) in which the Drinks: Hot water, wine (sura made from original Deha prakriti dosha is going to be cereals) fruit juice and its preparations. increased more as a natural law, it is necessary that the individual must practice Rasas (tastes) Vihara; of opposite qualities and also other activities to Abhyanga: To massage the oil into the hair and keep the dosha in equilibrium state. body before bath. These things made to think us the Exercise: Like various games, Yogasana and various Ritucharya, according to Dosha, Rasa gymnastics.

Available online at : http://ijapr. in Page 106 Int. J. Ayur. Pharma Research, 2014; 2(2): 101-110 ISSN: 2322 - 0910

Bath: Before bathing application of Keshara beautiful flowers, fruits, and green leaves. Even (saffron), Lodhra (symlocos vacemosa), Kasturi the birds are happy and singing e.g. Kokila, (musk) and Shikekai (Acacia concinna) powder which enhances the charming atmosphere. Even to vanish oiliness of skin. the air is clean. The Sun shines bright making the Rest: Should stay in warm and close houses, atmosphere hot. This hotness is a causative Sunbath is appreciated. factor for melting of the Kapha dosha, which was increased in the body due to misbehavior in Clothing: Cloths made up of warm wool and Hemanta ritu. So in Vasanta ritu, Kapha Prakopa animal leather. is prominent causing various Kaphaja diseases. Sex: Enjoy more lustful sex as the nights are cold In Kapha Prakriti person these changes and long. are more remarkable. The Drava guna (liquid) of In Hemanta (fall winter) especially the Kapha increases in this period which results into Vata prakriti person should observe about loss of appetite and poor digestion Dinacharya (daily lifestyle) as there is more (Agnimandya). So this season is mainly for Kapha chance of Vata Prakopa. This Kala (season) is dosha only, which should be controlled by Ritu beneficial for increase in Kapha Dosha (Kapha charya (seasonal lifestyle). Sanchaya) which is going to affect in Vasanta ritu The Diet: (Kapha Prakopa). So the Kapha prakriti individual must be cautious during this Ritu for Cereals: Yava, Vari, Old Wheat,Jawar the increase in Kapha i.e. he should not enjoy Pulses: Masura (lentils), Chana (chickpeas), sweeter, oily and heavy food and more rest. Pitta Moog, (mung beans), Matki (dew beans) Prakriti person can enjoy except excess of Amla Oils: Mustard, Karadi oil, Til oil (sour) and Lavana rasas (salty). Milk Products: Only Buttermilk Shishira Ritucharya- Vegetables: Karela (bitter melon), Brinjal, Generally the atmosphere in the Shishira Raddish, Pumpkin, Drum Stick and dry ritu (winter) is just same as that of Hemanta (fall vegetables, Suran etc. winter) one. The only difference is the Adana Kala (summer solstice) begins from Shishira and Non-vegetarian: Roasted Mutton of goat, so the Ruksha (dryness) guna is increased due to Chicken. cold. The Vayu (air) and Megha (clouds) of the Fruits: Lemon, Betel nut, Pomegranate, Jambul. Adana (summer solstice) are supported by dense Drinks: Oil, wine and Hot drinks, Asava and mist and rains and so the atmosphere is more Arista. cold and shivering. This helps to increase Vata and Kapha (Prakopa) doshas. So the Ritucharya Miscellaneous: Plenty of honey - the Katu Tikta (seasonal lifestyle) is like that of Hemanta ritu and Kashaya rasas (pungent, bitter, astringent) (fall winter) only. But one must practice warm should be accepted freely. and without air-breezy. He should eat Behavior: sumptuous hot food and drink hot water and other drinks too. The Tikta (bitter) rasa is Smoking: After meals smoking is advised. produced in this Ritu (season) and so Vata dosha Exercises: Gymnastics and hard work. start increasing. The Tikta, Kashaya rasas (bitter, Massage: Before bath massage the body with astringent) along with cold and Laghu (light) dry powder (Utane) of Chandan (sandalwood), diet should be omitted. Ushira (Vetiveria zinzanioides) etc. Some way in Shishira ritu (winter) the Hot bath: Hot water bath followed by Kapha prakriti person should not practice application of scented plaster (Lepa) to the skin. Kaphaja Ahara and Vihara to prevent Kapha- chaya. He must take Katu,Tikta and Kashaya In the afternoon one must spend the time with rasas (pungent, bitter, astringent) in diet. The his wife in the gardens surrounded by flowers. Pittaja person should behave as the body The day time sleep is strictly prohibited. demands according to the atmospheric changes. Sex: Can enjoy sex at night. Vasanta Ritucharya- Miscellaneous: To control the Kapha dosha, This ritu (season) is supposed to be the Shodhana Karma like Vamana (vomiting) is most charming, due to natural beauty in the surrounding nature. All the nature is full of

Available online at : http://ijapr. in Page 107 Bakal Nilesh Ganeshrao et al. Ritu (Season), Ritucharya and Prakriti- A Conceptual Study advised under supervision of specialist, Residence: It should be cold, apply curtains of especially in Kapha Prakriti. Mango leaves and Ushira. Nasya (nasal drops) and smoking also help for Spend the time in the gardens where there is a melting the Kapha, Anjan Kawal etc. should be thick dense forest without Sun rays. practised during this ritukala (season). Sleep: Outside the house or on the terrace in the Grishma Ritucharya calm and cold moonlight, on the bed which is This is the hottest season, as the Sun is nearer to very smooth and light and perfumed with the Prithvi, and so the rays are short and sharp, flowers. giving more heat. There is tremendous loss of During Hotness: Fans can be used in olden days sweat, as well as energy and power. The person prepared from feathers of Peacock and Ushira gets easily exhausted after a light work also. The (vertiveria zizanioides). Kapha dosha decreases and the Vata dosha In short to protect from heat and increases. The atmosphere becomes very Sunlight the various methods to be adopted from stagnant and dry (Ruksha) producing Katu rasa time to time. The Grishma (summer) being Vata (Pungent). The Pitta Prakriti persons are more chaya kala, the Vata persons should take care affected due to Ushna (hot) and Tikshna about the Vata dosha. He should not practise (penetrating) guna. Vataja Ahara and Vihara. Bowels should be kept The Diet: normal with Sneham (ointing) or Basti (enema) Cereals: Wheat, Jawar, Sathe sali Rice. Shodhana. The Kaphaja persons should behave according to Ritucharya. (seasonal lifestyle) Pulses: Masura (lentils) Moog (mung beans), Matara (pea) Varsha Ritucharya- Milk Products: Curd, Ghee, Buttermilk and milk. Due to the rain, the rivers, tanks, wells are full of water. The whole surroundings Vegetables: Karela (bitter melon), Cucumber, become green due to development of grass and Chuka (green sorrel), Methi (fenugreek), white trees. The flowers are blooming. The atmosphere onion, Tondali (ivy gourd) etc. is cold and damp. There are no thundering Non-vegetarian: Jangal Mansa rasa without clouds, but the rain is more. Whole sky is cloudy spices, meat of Goat, Deer, Rabbit. and there is a gloomy atmosphere. Due to Adana Kala (summer solstice) the strength and power Fruits: Watermelon (unripe), Kharbuja (sweet is diminished. The damp and cloudy atmosphere, melon), Jambhul, Grapes, Bananas, Amalaki make the appetite and digestion power poor. So (emblica officinalis), Pomegranate, Lemon. the cloudy weather is responsible for increase in Drinks: All cold drinks prepared from fruit Vata due to Shita guna. juices (Panhe and Panake), added with sugar and The new rain water is fresh, cold and lemon, Sugarcane juice, Cold water stored in muddy and so is Amla Vipaki which is reason for earthen pots added wala, Musta. No alcoholic accumulation of Pitta dosha (Sanchay). So during drinks are advised. If at all, add more water and this season the chances of diseases are more and take very dilute and small quantity. hence one must keep his Agni normal. Miscellaneous: Honey, Cow's urine (Gomutra) The Diet Behavior: One should adopt such a behavior Cereals: Old Wheat and rice, Jawar, Yava. that the heating process will be minimized. Pulses: Masura, Moog. Bath: Bathing with cold water and swimming, after baths apply the paste or plaster of Chandan Oils: Coconut oil or Groundnut oil. (sandalwood), Agaru (aquillaria agallocha), Milk Products: Fresh Buttermilk, Butter Ghee Ushira (vertiveria zizanioides) etc. the cold and milk- Goat milk. substances. Vegetables: Karela (bitter melon), White onion, Clothing: Thin soft cotton clothes with garlands Methi (fenugreek), Padwal (snake gourd), of scented flowers, pearls and jewellery. Ghevada (broad beans), Sweet Potato, Cucumber Exercise: Minimum exercise. etc. Sex: Omitted or rarely. Non-vegetarian: Meat of goat, Deer, Rabbit.

Available online at : http://ijapr. in Page 108 Int. J. Ayur. Pharma Research, 2014; 2(2): 101-110 ISSN: 2322 - 0910

Fruits: Mango, Ber, Pomegranate, Amalaki Milk Products: Buttermilk, Plain milk, Sugar, (emblica officinalis), Grapes, Sugarcane. Curds contra indicated. Drinks: Well water, Lemon juice and Yusha Fruits: Grapes, Amalaki, Kismis, Kushmanda (soups) made up from meat. (white gourd melon), Banana, Apple, Chiku. Miscellaneous: Honey. Vegetables: Methi (fenugreek), Chakavata Behavior (goosefoot), Dudhi (bottle gourd), Sweet Potato, Karela (bitter melon), Cucumber, Cabbage, One should not be in the Sunshine for longer Tandulja. period. Drinks: Water in Moonlight when Agasti Exercise: No extra exercise. shinning in the sky (Hansodaka), Wine of Bath: With warm water. Massage perfumes and Sugarcane-Sidhu-Honey-Cold drinks. scented powders with the cloth; after bath. Vihara: Omit Sun heat as well as eastern wind. Clothing: The clothes must be dried and with Night should be spent in moonlight, with lite fumes of scented wood. Flower garlands are white clothing and flower garlands. Cold water used. bath with Ushira is advised. Enjoy sex once after 3, 4, 5 days. Mild exercise advised. Residence and Sleep: Stay in dry place. Day time sleep as well as sleeping outside the house Shodhana: Rakta mokshana (blood letting) is or open air is avoided. advised to keep the Pitta and Rakta Dhatu normal. Virechana (purgation) is advised to keep Sex: Minimum enjoyment. the Pitta and Agni normal especially in Pittaja Shodhana Karma: Vamana (vomiting), Prakriti. Virechana (purgation) and Basti (enema) as CONCLUSION required. Prakriti (genetic constitution) is basic Sharada Ritucharya genetic constitution of the body. The Kala In Sharada (autum), the Sun is very hot (season) has definite impact on Doshas so the atmosphere is also very hot and predominant during formation of Prakriti penetrating. Somehow the night is clear and (genetic constitution). Also the individuals of cold. The Pitta dosha which aggravates in Varsha different Prakrities (genetic constitution) shows ritu (Pitta Sanchay) is provoked by the hot and varied reactions towards six Ritu Kalas (season). penetrating Sun leading to Pitta Prakopa. The The changes are mainly in physiological rather blood is also vitiated due to Pitta dosha as both than physical. are having same faculties. The Agni is also According to climatic conditions, in deficient (Agnimandya) due to vitiated Pitta different Ritus one has to follow Ritucharya dosha. (seasonal lifestyle) according to Prakriti (genetic In Sharada (autum) the wind from constitution) e.g. Varsha ritucharya (mansoon Eastern side is in motion, which being damp in lifestyle) for Vataj prakriti, Sharad ritucharya nature may aggravate the Vata Vyadhi and so is (autum lifestyle) for Pittaj prakriti and Vasant not advisable. So in Sharada ritu (autum) one ritucharya (spring lifestyle) in Kaphaja prakriti. should practice sweet, light, astringent and bitter In other Ritus, Ritucharya (seasonal diet which will not increase Pitta dosha. lifestyle) should be followed according to Dosha Diet state. Panchakarma should be done to cleans the Cereals: Rice, Wheat, Jawar, Java of more than body due to different stages of Doshas e.g. Chaya, one year old. Prakopa, Prasara. Thus, Kala (season) is a major contributory factor in the various changes in the Pulses: Moog, Tur (yellow pigeon peas), Chana nature as well as in human body also. (chickpeas), Masura (lentils), Beans. REFERENCES Meat: Jangal meat of Goat, Rabbit, Chicken, Pigeon, Peacock. 1. Dr. Brahmanand Tripathi. Charak Samhita. 7th Edition (Sutrasthana Chp. 1-41). Fishes: From stream. Varanasi, Chaukhamba Surbharti Prakashan, Oils: Ghee medicated with bitter medicines. 2000. p.13.

Available online at : http://ijapr. in Page 109 Bakal Nilesh Ganeshrao et al. Ritu (Season), Ritucharya and Prakriti- A Conceptual Study 2. Dr. Brahmanand Tripathi. Charak Samhita. Varanasi, Chaukhamba Surbharti 7th Edition (Sutrasthana Chp. 1-15). Prakashan, 2000. p.758. Varanasi, Chaukhamba Surbharti Prakashan, 11. Kaviraja Ambikadutta Shashtri. Sushruta 2000. p.06. Samhita. 12th Edition. (Sharirasthana Chp. 3. Dr. Brahmanand Tripathi. Charak Samhita. 4-62). Varanasi, Chaukhamba Sanskrit 7th Edition (Sutrasthana Chp. 1-42). Sansthan, 2001. p. 37. Varanasi, Chaukhamba Surbharti Prakashan, 12. Kaviraja Atrideva Gupta. Ashtanga 2000. p.14. Hridayam. 13th Edition. (Sharirasthana Chp. 4. Dr. Brahmanand Tripathi. Charak Samhita. 3-82/83). Varanasi, Chaukhamba Sanskrit 7th Edition (Sharirasthana Chp. 1-16). Sansthan, 2000. p. 192 Varanasi, Chaukhamba Surbharti Prakashan, 13. Dr. Brahmanand Tripathi. Charak Samhita. 2000. p. 791. 7th Edition (Sutrasthana Chp. 25-25). 5. Kaviraja Atrideva Gupta. Ashtanga Hridayam. Varanasi, Chaukhamba Surbharti 13th Edition. (Sutrasthana Chp. 1-19). Prakashan, 2000. p. 446. Varanasi, Chaukhamba Sanskrit Sansthan, 14. Kaviraja Atrideva Gupta. Ashtanga 2000. p. 10. Hridayam. 13th Edition. (Sutrasthana Chp. 6. Kaviraja Ambikadutta Shashtri. Sushruta 3-1). Varanasi, Chaukhamba Sanskrit Samhita. 12th Edition. (Sutrasthana Chp. 15- Sansthan, 2000. p. 26. 48). Varanasi, Chaukhamba Sanskrit 15. Dr. Brahmanand Tripathi. Charak Samhita. Sansthan, 2001. p. 64. 7th Edition (Sutrasthana Chp. 6-8). 7. Dr. Brahmanand Tripathi. Charak Samhita. Varanasi, Chaukhamba Surbharti 7th Edition (Vimanasthana Chp. 8-76). Prakashan, 2000. p.149. Varanasi, Chaukhamba Surbharti Prakashan, 16. Dr. Brahmanand Tripathi. Charak Samhita. 2000. p.752. 7th Edition (Vimanasthana Chp. 1-6). 8. Dr. Brahmanand Tripathi. Charak Samhita. Varanasi, Chaukhamba Surbharti 7th Edition (Sutrasthana Chp. 1-45). Prakashan, 2000. p.656. Varanasi, Chaukhamba Surbharti Prakashan, 17. Dr. Brahmanand Tripathi. Charak Samhita. 2000. p.16. 7th Edition (Sutrasthana Chp. 7-40). 9. Kaviraja Atrideva Gupta. Ashtanga Hridayam. Varanasi, Chaukhamba Surbharti 13th Edition. (Sutrasthana Chp. 12-24/25). Prakashan, 2000. p.180. Varanasi, Chaukhamba Sanskrit Sansthan, 18. Dr. Brahmanand Tripathi. Charak Samhita. 2000. p. 92. 7th Edition (Sutrasthana Chp. 6-10). 10. Dr. Brahmanand Tripathi. Charak Samhita. Varanasi, Chaukhamba Surbharti 7th Edition (Vimanasthana Chp. 8-95). Prakashan, 2000. p.150.

Cite this article as: Address for correspondence: Dr.Bakal Nilesh Ganeshrao Bakal Nilesh Ganeshrao, Lode Dattatraya Somaji, Patil Aparna Shrikrishna. Ritu (Season), Ritucharya and Prakriti- A Assistant Professor and H.O.D. Conceptual Study.Int. J. Ayur. Pharma Research Department of Kriya Sharir 2014;2(2):101-110. G. S. Gune Ayurveda College, Ahmednagar- 414001 Source of support: Nil, Conflict of interest: None Declared Email: [email protected] Phone: +919423417057

Available online at : http://ijapr. in Page 110