Understanding Ayurveda Flashcards

What does the Ayurvedic principle of 'Like increases like' (Samanya Samanya Siddhanta) mean in practice?

Answer: Substances with similar qualities to a dosha will aggravate it

This foundational Ayurvedic principle states that substances sharing similar qualities with a dosha will increase it, while opposite qualities will pacify it.

In Ayurveda, 'Abhyanga' refers to:

Answer: Self-massage with warm oil

Abhyanga is the practice of self or assisted full-body oil massage, traditionally performed daily as part of Dinacharya to nourish tissues and calm Vata.

Which of the following is a primary characteristic of a Kapha-dominant individual?

Answer: Large frame, slow digestion, calm and stable temperament

Kapha types are typically well-built with large frames, slow but steady digestion, and naturally calm, loyal, and stable personalities.

The Ayurvedic concept of 'Satmya' refers to:

Answer: Wholesome habits that an individual has adapted to over time

Satmya describes substances or habits that a person has gradually adapted to over time and that are now considered suitable or wholesome for them specifically.

According to Ayurveda, which combination of foods is considered a classic 'Viruddha Ahara' (incompatible food combination)?

Answer: Milk and fish

Milk and fish are considered an incompatible combination (Viruddha Ahara) in Ayurveda as they are opposite in nature and their combination is said to cause toxin formation.

What is the meaning of 'Ayurveda' when translated from Sanskrit?

Answer: Knowledge of life or science of longevity

Ayurveda derives from 'Ayur' (life or longevity) and 'Veda' (knowledge or science), meaning 'the science or knowledge of life.'

In Ayurveda, the three Malas (waste products) are:

Answer: Urine, feces, and sweat

The three primary Malas in Ayurveda are Mutra (urine), Purisha (feces), and Sveda (sweat), which are the main byproducts of metabolic processes.