Critical Analysis of Tridosha Siddhanta in Light of Modern Physiology: An Integrative Review
Abstract
The Tridosha Siddhanta constitutes the foundational theoretical framework of Ayurveda, describing physiological and
pathological processes through the dynamic interplay of Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. Despite its central role in clinical
practice, its correlation with modern physiological principles remains a subject of ongoing debate. This review aims to
critically analyze the Tridosha Siddhanta in the context of contemporary biomedical understanding, exploring its
conceptual parallels, limitations, and translational relevance. A structured literature review was conducted using
PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and classical Ayurvedic texts including Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, and
Ashtanga Hridaya. The findings suggest that Vata may be functionally correlated with neurophysiological processes and
movement regulation, Pitta with metabolic and enzymatic activities, and Kapha with structural integrity and anabolic
processes. However, these correlations remain largely interpretative and lack direct empirical validation. Modern
physiology, grounded in molecular and cellular mechanisms, provides precise quantification and experimental reproducibility, whereas the Tridosha framework offers a systemic, qualitative, and individualized approach. The review
highlights both conceptual overlaps and epistemological differences, emphasizing the need for integrative research
methodologies. Bridging traditional Ayurvedic principles with modern biomedical science could facilitate the
development of personalized and holistic healthcare models. Further interdisciplinary studies employing systems biology
and computational modelling are required to substantiate these correlations and enhance their clinical applicability.
Keywords
Tridosha Siddhanta, Ayurveda, Vata, Pitta, Kapha, modern physiology, integrative medicine