by Rachna Chopra
Ayurveda proposes to analyze our body in terms of the five elements that compose it. The five primary natural elements or Panchbhootas that our body is created with–namely: aether, air, fire, water and earth–exist inside as well outside our bodies, signaling the fact that we are indeed microcosms of creation, comprised of the elements that comprise the universe.

These five primary elements combine in different measures to create various physiological functions. Ether and air combine to create Vata dosha, a force that directs nerve impulses, circulation, respiration and elimination. Fire and water combine to form Pitta dosha, a force that runs the processes of transformation including organic and cellular metabolism. Water and earth combine to form the Kapha dosha, the force responsible for growth and protection, such as the mucousal linings and cerebral-spinal fluid.

We are all made of unique proportions of Vata, Pitta, and Kapha in unique ratios. Therefore, Ayurveda worships the uniqueness of each individual incarnation on this planet, and the system of restoration is tailor-made to our needs. Another secret of number five in Ayurveda is its predominant system of detoxification called Panch Karma, meaning five actions. Five actions proposed by Ayurveda that can eliminate all possible toxins in the body include Vamana that uses emetics to remove toxins from the respiratory tract, Virechana or use of laxatives to cleanse the gastrointestinal tract, Basti or medicated enema, Nasya or nose cleaning, and blood cleansing or Raktamokshana.

These five treatments get prescribed in different combinations according to the particular need of the individual. The significance of number five in Ayurveda extends deeper than it seems. Number five signifies evolution. Standing midway between numbers 1 and 10, it suggests that though man has achieved mastery over lower kingdoms, he is yet to unfold the powers of his own divinity. The Vedantic theory claims number five to symbolize the fifth layer in human constitution, which is the mind, and Ayurveda is rooted in the belief that all gets healed once the mind gets healed!