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Significance of Vata

Vata is a fundamental concept in Ayurvedic medicine, representing one of the three doshas associated with air and space elements. It governs movement and physiological functions in the body, playing a crucial role in various health aspects. Imbalances in Vata can lead to disruptions in bodily functions, contributing to issues like digestive disorders, nerve functions, and even fertility problems. Additionally, Vata is linked to conditions such as Aamavata, emphasizing its significance in maintaining overall health and wellness.1
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Synonyms: Wind, Air, Space, Ether, Movement, Duration

In Dutch: Vata; In German: Vata; In Finnish: Vata; In Spanish: Vata; In Swedish: Vata; In Malay: Vata; In French: Vata

The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.

Hindu concept of 'Vata'

Hinduism Books

Vata in Hinduism represents one of the three primary doshas in Ayurveda, embodying air and space elements. Its imbalance can lead to various health issues, particularly affecting movement, psychological functions, and specific gynecological and urinary conditions.

Significance in Ayurveda (science of life):
Ayurveda Books

From: Charaka Samhita (English translation)

(1) An Ayurvedic term describing a dosha that, when provoked, can cause various ailments; turpeth has effects on this dosha.[1] (2) The third dosha in Ayurvedic medicine, representing movement and change; Vata imbalances can lead to specific urinary anomalies.[2] (3) An Ayurvedic concept referring to the air element, which can be disturbed by improper enema techniques.[3] (4) One of the three humors associated with movement and bodily functions such as circulation and elimination.[4] (5) One of the three doshas in Ayurvedic medicine associated with movement and physiological functions, often implicated in various diseases.[5]

From: Sushruta Samhita, volume 4: Cikitsasthana

(1) In the context of Ayurvedic medicine, Vata refers to one of the three Doshas (body energies) that govern physiological functions; its imbalance can contribute to health issues.[6] (2) One of the three doshas in Ayurveda, associated with air and space, which can become deranged and lead to health issues.[7]

From: Sushruta Samhita, Volume 6: Uttara-tantra

(1) One of the three Doshas associated with movement and physiological functions within the body; its derangement can also affect body temperature.[8]

Ayurveda is a branch of Indian science dealing with medicine, herbalism, taxology, anatomy, surgery, alchemy and related topics. Traditional practice of Ayurveda in ancient India dates back to at least the first millenium BC. Literature is commonly written in Sanskrit using various poetic metres.

Significance in Purana and Itihasa (epic history):
Purana Books

From: Garuda Purana

(1) Vata relates to the Banyan tree, which is significant in traditional medicine.[9]

The Purana refers to Sanskrit literature preserving ancient India’s vast cultural history, including historical legends, religious ceremonies, various arts and sciences. The eighteen mahapuranas total over 400,000 shlokas (metrical couplets) and date to at least several centuries BCE.

Significance in Vaishnavism (Vaishava dharma):
Vaishnavism Books

From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)

(1) Of the lotus feet of my worshipable Deity.[10]

Vaishnava or vaishnavism (vaishnavism) represents a tradition of Hinduism worshipping Vishnu as the supreme Lord. Similar to the Shaktism and Shaivism traditions, Vaishnavism also developed as an individual movement, famous for its exposition of the dashavatara (‘ten avatars of Vishnu�).

Significance in Rasashastra (chemistry and alchemy):
Rasashastra Books

From: Rasa Jala Nidhi, vol 5: Treatment of various afflictions

(1) One of the three doshas; an imbalance can cause various health issues including shula.[11]

Rasashastra is an important branch of Ayurveda, specialising in chemical interactions with herbs, metals and minerals. Some texts combine yogic and tantric practices with various alchemical operations. The ultimate goal of Rasashastra is not only to preserve and prolong life, but also to bestow wealth upon humankind.

Jain concept of 'Vata'

Jainism Books

In Jainism, Vata is interpreted as a noun signifying 'tetanus,' indicating its relevance in understanding health and ailments within the context of Jain beliefs about physical well-being and spiritual purity.

Significance in Jainism (general):

From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra

(1) A noun referring to 'tetanus,' noted with reference information.[12]

Jainism is an Indian religion of Dharma whose doctrine revolves around harmlessness (ahimsa) towards every living being. The two major branches (Digambara and Svetambara) of Jainism stimulate self-control (or, shramana, ‘self-reliance�) and spiritual development through a path of peace for the soul to progess to the ultimate goal.

The concept of Vata in local and regional sources

History Books

Vata, a key Ayurvedic concept, denotes the windy humor linked to breath and manifests less often than bile and phlegm. It also references the banyan fig tree's growth, highlighting its multifaceted significance in regional contexts.

Significance in India history and geography:

From: History of Science in South Asia

(1) This is a term used in several sources to refer to the banyan fig tree, specifically in the context of the tree's growth on the mountains, as mentioned in the text.[13] (2) This is the windy humour that appears less frequently compared to bile and phlegm and is connected to breath.[14] (3) This is the Ayurvedic word for wind, and it is one of the three bodily humours frequently used in the Hathapradipika.[15]