The theory of the five elements (pancha maha bhuta) is one of the universal theories. This means that it is not only used in Ayurveda, but also in numerous other traditional systems, e.g., in a modified form also in Traditional Chinese Medicine. It assumes that both animate and inanimate nature are composed of these five elements in different compositions:
- Ether (ākāśa)
- Air (vāyu)
- Fire (agni or teja)
- Water (jala)
- Earth (pṛthivī)
In the descriptions of the Vedas, everything has its beginning in the ether. From it, the next elements are formed. The essential characteristics of all things perceptible to humans are determined by the prevailing element.
Ether
The ether is responsible as an element for the space in which everything can arise. It is at the same time beginning and end, i.e., the limit for everything material. In the human body, all hollow organs and conduction pathways are predominantly shaped by the element ether.
Air
The element of air represents the life energy (prāna) and is responsible for movement and change.
Fire
The element of fire stands for transformation and warmth, but also for intensity.
Water
The element water provides movement and moisture (kleda). In its pure form, the following characteristics are added to it:
- fluent (liquid)
- humid
- clear
Earth
The element of the earth symbolizes the coarseness and solid substances within the body. The following properties are attributed to the element earth in its pure form:
- heavy
- immobile
- hard,
- gross,
The elements and their characteristics shape and symbolize the 5 senses of humans:
| Element | Sensory Perception | further function in the context of sensory perception |
|---|---|---|
| Ether | Hearing | |
| Air | Touch | |
| FIre | Vision | Hearing, Touch |
| Water | Taste | Hearing, Touch, Vision |
| Earth | Smell | Hearing, Touch, Vision, Taste |
The composition of these elemental factors and their specific properties determine the sensory perceptions, the function and expression of the doshas (see there) and those of the 6 flavors.