Different Types of Diseases According to Ayurveda

In Ayurveda, disease is not merely a physical condition but a manifestation of an imbalance in the body’s internal energies, or doshas. Disease is understood as a state of discomfort or imbalance in a person’s body, mind, or spirit. It results when the harmony of the three doshas — Vata, Pitta, and Kapha — is disturbed.
Ayurveda categorizes diseases based on their causes, whether they are physical, psychological, or external, and offers specific treatments to restore balance and health. The goal of Ayurvedic treatment is not just to treat the symptoms, but to address the root cause of the imbalance to achieve long-term healing.

Types of Diseases in Ayurveda

Ayurvedic texts provide a detailed classification of diseases based on their origin, symptoms, and treatment approaches. Here are some common categories:

1. Samanyaj Vyadhi (General Diseases)

Samanyaj Vyadhi refers to a group of diseases that occur due to imbalances in one or more of the body’s doshas (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha). These imbalances can lead to a wide range of health issues, with symptoms varying based on the individual’s unique constitution (Prakriti), lifestyle, diet, and environmental factors.

For example, when the Vata dosha is aggravated, individuals with a Vata constitution may experience digestive problems or joint pain. On the other hand, those with a Pitta constitution may develop skin rashes or suffer from acidity.

A condition like anemia can arise due to disturbances in any of the doshas, leading to a deficiency in red blood cells. However, the approach to treatment will differ depending on which dosha is primarily affected.

Types of Diseases under Samanyaj Vyadhi:

• Vata-related diseases: Digestive issues, joint pain, anxiety, and neurological disorders.
• Pitta-related diseases: Skin conditions (e.g., rashes), acidity, inflammation, and liver disorders.
• Kapha-related diseases: Respiratory issues, obesity, and conditions related to excessive mucus or fluid retention.

Treatment for these diseases is personalized, focusing on restoring balance to the disturbed dosha.

2. Nanatmaj (Specific Diseases)

Nanatmaj diseases are those that arise due to the disturbance of a specific dosha. Each dosha is responsible for a particular set of health conditions, and when imbalanced, it produces specific symptoms. These diseases are easier to diagnose because they are linked to the specific dosha that is out of balance.

• Grudhrasi (Sciatica): This condition is caused by an imbalance in Vata dosha, leading to pain, numbness, and tingling sensations along the sciatic nerve.
• Kamala (Jaundice): This disease is a result of Pitta vitiation, causing the yellowing of the skin and eyes due to liver dysfunction.
• Medorog (Obesity): Obesity is often associated with Kapha imbalance, leading to excess fat accumulation, sluggish digestion, and water retention in the body.

These conditions show clear patterns that align with the specific dosha involved, which helps Ayurvedic practitioners tailor their treatments accordingly.

3. Agantuj (External Factor-Induced Diseases)

Agantuj diseases are illnesses that result from external factors such as infections, injuries, or the introduction of foreign substances into the body. Unlike diseases caused by internal dosha imbalances, these conditions arise from influences outside the body’s natural control.

They can stem from environmental factors like viruses, bacteria, physical trauma, or even extreme weather conditions. For example, a viral infection can trigger symptoms such as fever, fatigue, and body aches.

In Ayurveda, treatment focuses on enhancing the body’s immune system and using herbs and therapies to expel the pathogen and restore balance.

Types of Agantuj Diseases:

• Infections: Viral, bacterial, or fungal infections leading to conditions like the flu, colds, or respiratory infections.
• Injuries: Physical trauma, fractures, cuts, burns, or sprains.
• Environmental influences: Diseases caused by extreme weather conditions, such as heatstroke, hypothermia, or respiratory issues due to pollution.
• Toxins and poisons: Diseases arising from the introduction of foreign substances or poisons into the body, like food poisoning or drug reactions.

Treatment focuses on strengthening the body’s natural defenses and addressing the external cause, often through detoxification and immune-boosting therapies.

4. Nijroga (Endogenous Diseases)

Nijroga refers to diseases that originate from internal imbalances within the body. These conditions are deeply rooted and typically arise from a combination of factors such as poor digestion (Agni), the accumulation of toxins (Ama), and disturbances in the balance of the three doshas.

When the body’s natural processes, like digestion and elimination, are compromised, toxins can build up in the tissues, leading to chronic diseases like arthritis, diabetes, and heart disease.

Treatment for Nijroga focuses on detoxifying the body, restoring the digestive fire (Agni), and rebalancing the doshas through appropriate diet, herbal therapies, and lifestyle changes.

Types of Nijroga:

• Chronic metabolic disorders: Conditions like diabetes, obesity, and high cholesterol.
• Joint and tissue diseases: Conditions such as arthritis, gout, and fibromyalgia.
• Cardiovascular diseases: Heart disease, high blood pressure, and atherosclerosis.
• Autoimmune conditions: Diseases where the immune system attacks healthy tissues, such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus.

The treatment approach in Ayurveda is to cleanse the body of accumulated toxins, improve digestive strength, and restore harmony to the doshas to prevent the recurrence of these chronic conditions.

5. Manasik (Mental Health Disorders)

Manasik diseases refer to psychological and emotional disturbances. Ayurveda emphasizes the strong connection between the mind and body, recognizing that imbalances in the doshas can directly impact mental and emotional well-being.

The health of the mind is considered just as important as physical health, with emotional conditions such as anxiety, stress, depression, and anger often arising from doshic imbalances that affect the nervous system.

Treatment for Manasik diseases includes practices such as meditation, yoga, counseling, and the use of herbal formulations to soothe the mind and restore emotional balance. A key aspect of effective treatment involves understanding the individual’s emotional state and identifying stress triggers.

Types of Manasik Diseases:

• Anxiety disorders: General anxiety, panic attacks, or social anxiety.
• Mood disorders: Depression, bipolar disorder, and emotional instability.
• Stress-related disorders: Chronic stress, burnout, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
• Anger management issues: Irritability and outbursts of anger due to doshic imbalances.

Ayurvedic treatment focuses on restoring mental and emotional equilibrium, supporting mental clarity, and addressing the root causes of psychological distress.

Classification Based on Treatment Outcomes

Ayurveda also categorizes diseases based on whether they can be cured or not:

1. Sadhya (Curable Diseases)

Sadhya diseases can be effectively treated with Ayurvedic remedies, which aim to restore balance in the body. Depending on the severity and type of disease, treatment can range from simple dietary changes to more complex detoxification processes. These diseases are classified into:

• Sukhasadhya: These are diseases that are relatively easy to treat and can be cured within a short time. Conditions like a cold or a mild digestive disorder often fall into this category, where simple Ayurvedic remedies can bring quick relief.
• Kruchchhasadhya: These diseases are harder to treat and may require more time and effort. Chronic conditions like arthritis or diabetes are considered Kruchchhasadhya because they require long-term management and lifestyle modifications to control symptoms and prevent complications.

2. Asadhya (Incurable Diseases)

Asadhya diseases are considered incurable or difficult to treat with conventional remedies. While Ayurveda acknowledges that these diseases may not be completely eradicated, it provides ways to manage symptoms, alleviate discomfort, and improve the quality of life. This category is divided into:

• Yapya: These diseases can be managed with ongoing treatment, but they are prone to relapse once the treatment is stopped. Chronic conditions like hypertension or asthma may fall under this category.
• Anukarma: These diseases do not respond to any form of treatment, and no permanent relief can be achieved. For example, advanced stages of certain cancers or degenerative diseases might be considered Anukarma, where the focus of treatment shifts to pain management and comfort.

Causes of Disease According to Ayurveda

In addition to the imbalances of the doshas, Ayurveda recognizes several other causes for disease. These causes can be genetic, environmental, or even spiritual. Below are the main categories:

1. Aadi-Bala Pravritta (Genetically Predisposed Diseases)

Aadi-Bala Pravritta refers to diseases that are hereditary or genetically predisposed, arising from the individual’s genetic makeup and influenced by family history.

These conditions are passed down through generations and may manifest based on inherited traits.Examples include genetic disorders such as hemophilia, cystic fibrosis, and certain types of inherited cancers.

While Ayurveda cannot alter the genetic predisposition itself, it focuses on strengthening the body’s resistance, optimizing overall health, and preventing complications by improving the body’s natural defenses and balancing the doshas.

Types of Aadi-Bala Pravritta Diseases:

• Genetic disorders: Hemophilia, cystic fibrosis, and sickle cell anemia.
• Hereditary conditions: Certain types of inherited cancers, muscular dystrophy, and polycystic kidney disease.
• Congenital conditions: Birth defects or developmental disorders passed down through genes.

Ayurvedic treatment aims to enhance the body’s resilience, improve immunity, and support the body’s systems to reduce the impact of genetic predispositions.

2. Janma-Bala (Congenital Diseases)

Janma-Bala refers to diseases that are present from birth, often caused by the conditions in which the fetus develops or inherited constitutional factors.

These conditions can arise due to genetic factors, environmental influences during pregnancy, or imbalances that affect the body’s development in the womb. Examples of congenital diseases include birth defects, congenital heart disease, and developmental disorders.

Ayurvedic treatment for Janma-Bala focuses on supporting the body’s growth and development, addressing any imbalances that may have been present since birth, and promoting optimal health from the start of life.

Types of Janma-Bala Diseases:

• Birth defects: Physical malformations present at birth, such as cleft palate or spina bifida.
• Congenital heart disease: Structural heart problems present at birth, such as ventricular septal defects.
• Developmental disorders: Conditions that affect a child’s physical, mental, or emotional development, such as cerebral palsy or Down syndrome.
• Genetic disorders: Inherited conditions that manifest at birth, like Marfan syndrome or muscular dystrophy.

In Ayurveda, treatment aims to harmonize and support the natural growth processes, improve immunity, and address any doshic imbalances that may be contributing to developmental challenges.

3. Sanghata-Bala (Traumatic Diseases)

Sanghata-Bala refers to diseases that result from trauma, including physical injuries, accidents, or surgeries. These conditions can affect the body’s tissues, bones, muscles, and joints, often leading to pain, swelling, and functional disturbances.

Ayurveda focuses on proper healing techniques to support recovery from physical trauma and restore balance to the body.

This may include herbal treatments, therapeutic massages, and specialized therapies like Panchakarma, which aim to detoxify and rejuvenate the body, promoting healing and strength after trauma.

Types of Sanghata-Bala Diseases:

• Physical injuries: Fractures, sprains, and strains.
• Accident-related trauma: Injuries resulting from falls, car accidents, or sports-related incidents.
• Post-surgery recovery: Healing after surgeries, such as joint replacements or wound repairs.
• Soft tissue damage: Muscle tears, ligament injuries, and tendon strains.

Ayurvedic treatment for Sanghata-Bala emphasizes restoring physical function, reducing inflammation, and enhancing the body’s natural ability to heal through holistic approaches.

4. Kala-Bala (Seasonal or Time-Linked Diseases)

Kala-Bala refers to diseases that are influenced by seasonal changes or environmental factors. Ayurveda recognizes that the body’s doshas are affected by the cycles of nature, and certain diseases are more prevalent during specific seasons.

For example, respiratory infections, colds, and flu are common during the rainy season due to increased humidity and cooler temperatures, while conditions like heatstroke, dehydration, and skin issues are more likely during the summer heat.

Ayurveda emphasizes preventive measures such as adjusting diet, lifestyle, and daily routines to align with the changing seasons, helping to maintain balance and prevent seasonal illnesses.

Types of Kala-Bala Diseases:

• Respiratory infections: Colds, coughs, flu, and sinusitis, typically occurring during the rainy or cold seasons.
• Heat-related illnesses: Heatstroke, dehydration, and sunburn, are common in the summer months.
• Seasonal allergies: Pollen-related allergies during spring or fall.
• Digestive issues: Indigestion, bloating, and constipation, which can occur with changes in diet during the transition between seasons.

In Ayurveda, the focus is on harmonizing the body’s internal rhythms with the external environment, using dietary adjustments, lifestyle changes, and seasonal detoxification practices to prevent these time-linked health conditions.

5. Daiva-Bala (Divine or Supernatural Influences)

In Ayurvedic tradition, Daiva-Bala refers to diseases that are believed to be caused by divine or supernatural influences. These conditions are often attributed to the wrath of gods, spirits, or karmic forces.

While this may seem spiritual or mystical, Ayurveda views these ailments as imbalances in a person’s life force (prana) or spiritual energy, rather than solely physical or environmental causes.

Treatment for Daiva-Bala typically involves a combination of spiritual healing practices, such as prayers, rituals, and meditation, along with physical therapies to restore balance and harmony between the body, mind, and spirit.

Types of Daiva-Bala Diseases:

• Spiritual disturbances: Conditions believed to be caused by negative karmic influences or the wrath of deities.
• Mental health disorders: Some conditions, particularly those with psychological or emotional origins, may be attributed to the imbalance of spiritual energy.
• Mystical ailments: Conditions considered to be the result of possession, curses, or supernatural forces.

In Ayurveda, treatment focuses on both the spiritual and physical aspects of health, using prayers, rituals, and remedies to cleanse the mind and spirit, while also employing herbal and therapeutic methods to address physical symptoms.

6. Svabhava-Bala (Natural Diseases)

Svabhava-Bala refers to diseases that arise from natural, inherent processes within the body, such as aging or hormonal changes.

These conditions are part of the body’s natural progression over time, and they often become more noticeable as a person ages. For example, arthritis, menopause, and other age-related changes are considered Svabhava-Bala diseases.

Ayurveda views aging as a natural process but emphasizes slowing down its effects, enhancing vitality, and managing age-related conditions through natural remedies, rejuvenating herbs, and therapies that promote overall well-being.

Types of Svabhava-Bala Diseases:

• Aging-related conditions: Arthritis, osteoporosis, and general wear and tear on joints and bones.
• Hormonal changes: Menopause, perimenopause, and other hormonal imbalances related to aging.
• Declining vitality: Fatigue, reduced energy levels, and general signs of aging such as skin wrinkling and memory issues.

In Ayurveda, the focus is on rejuvenation (Rasayana therapy), which includes the use of herbal treatments, lifestyle modifications, and therapies that support the body’s natural rejuvenation processes to maintain strength, vitality, and longevity.

Types of Diseases Based on Their Origin

Ayurvedic texts further classify diseases based on their internal or external origin:

1. Nija (Endogenous Diseases)

Nija diseases are conditions that arise from internal imbalances within the body. These diseases are caused by disturbances in the doshas and often develop gradually due to factors such as poor lifestyle choices, improper diet, or other internal causes.

Common examples of Nija diseases include digestive disorders, metabolic imbalances, and chronic pain. Ayurveda focuses on restoring internal balance by addressing the root causes of these imbalances through dietary adjustments, herbal remedies, yoga, and detoxification practices.

Types of Nija Diseases:

• Digestive disorders: Conditions like indigestion, bloating, acid reflux, or constipation.
• Metabolic imbalances: Disorders such as diabetes, obesity, or hypothyroidism.
• Chronic pain: Pain related to musculoskeletal conditions, arthritis, or fibromyalgia.
• Immunity issues: Autoimmune disorders or frequent infections.

In Ayurveda, the goal is to bring harmony to the body’s internal systems and restore equilibrium by enhancing digestion (Agni), eliminating toxins (Ama), and balancing the doshas through holistic treatments.

2. Agantuja (External Diseases)

Agantuja diseases are caused by external factors such as injuries, infections, or exposure to toxins from the environment.

Unlike diseases that stem from internal doshic imbalances, Agantuja conditions are triggered by events outside the body. Examples include a bacterial infection leading to fever, a wound that becomes infected, or illnesses resulting from exposure to harmful chemicals or pollutants.

In Ayurveda, the focus is on strengthening the body’s immune system and detoxifying it from any external pathogens or harmful agents through herbal remedies, immune-boosting treatments, and purification techniques.

Types of Agantuja Diseases:

• Infections: Bacterial, viral, or fungal infections that lead to conditions like colds, fevers, and respiratory issues.
• Trauma and injuries: Physical injuries, cuts, fractures, and wounds.
• Toxins: Poisoning, foodborne illnesses, or conditions caused by environmental toxins or pollution.
• Environmental exposure: Conditions arising from extreme weather, such as heatstroke or frostbite.

Ayurvedic treatment for Agantuja diseases focuses on eliminating toxins, promoting healing through natural therapies, and supporting the body’s defenses to restore balance and health.

3. Sharirik (Physical Diseases)

Sharirik diseases are conditions that affect the physical body, often manifesting as disorders such as arthritis, diabetes, or respiratory issues. These diseases are typically caused by physical factors such as lifestyle choices, diet, environmental influences, or physical trauma.

In Ayurveda, the treatment for Sharirik disease aims to restore physical health by addressing the root cause of the imbalance.

This is done through personalized therapies tailored to the individual’s doshic constitution, which may include herbal remedies, detoxification, diet modification, and specific lifestyle practices to bring the body back to a state of balance.

Types of Sharirik Diseases:

• Musculoskeletal disorders: Conditions like arthritis, joint pain, and back pain.
• Metabolic diseases: Diabetes, obesity, and high cholesterol.
• Respiratory conditions: Asthma, bronchitis, and other lung-related issues.
• Cardiovascular diseases: High blood pressure, heart disease, and atherosclerosis.

Ayurvedic treatment for Sharirik diseases emphasizes strengthening the body, enhancing digestion (Agni), eliminating toxins (Ama), and rebalancing the doshas to support long-term physical health.

4. Manasik (Psychological Diseases)

Manasik diseases are disorders that affect the mind and emotions. These conditions include stress, anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues that can disrupt emotional well-being and mental clarity.

Ayurveda treats Manasik diseases by addressing the mind-body connection, which is seen as integral to overall health. The approach focuses on restoring balance through mindfulness practices, meditation, yoga, and the use of calming herbs that support the nervous system and promote mental clarity.

This holistic approach helps to calm the mind, reduce stress, and restore emotional harmony.

Types of Manasik Diseases:

• Stress-related disorders: Chronic stress, burnout, and tension.
• Anxiety disorders: Generalized anxiety, panic attacks, and social anxiety.
• Mood disorders: Depression, bipolar disorder, and emotional instability.
• Psychosomatic conditions: Conditions where emotional stress manifests physically, such as headaches, gastrointestinal issues, or chronic pain.

In Ayurveda, the treatment for Manasik diseases emphasizes cultivating mental peace and emotional balance, supporting the nervous system with calming herbs, and promoting practices that strengthen the mind’s resilience and clarity.

In Ayurveda, disease is seen as a complex interaction of physical, mental, and spiritual factors. By understanding the underlying causes and classifications of diseases, Ayurvedic practitioners can provide a holistic approach to treatment, focusing not just on symptoms but on restoring balance in the body and mind.