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Analysis Study Research Paper | Ayurveda | Volume 15 Issue 1, January 2026 | Pages: 1550 - 1553 | India
The Function of Bodhaka Kapha in Taste Perception: A Comparative Analysis with Salivary and Gustatory Mechanisms
Abstract: Ayurveda delineates the Dosha as three essential principles that function in the external environment while also influencing human nature, hence governing all physiological processes. The Dosha executes several physiological duties throughout the body. Consequently, they are referred to as the functional unit of the body. The deficiency or lack of any single Dosha is insufficient for the fulfilment of life, as Kapha, Pitta, and Vata govern Srushti (Creation), Sthiti (Maintenance), and Laya (Destruction) of all beings. Kapha is the Dosha responsible for the formation of beings and serves as the foundation of the entire universe. The phrase Kapha is formed from the words Ka, meaning water, and Pha, meaning flourishes, occurring concurrently. Kapha is the unifying principle of the body. This is constituted by the supremacy of Aap and Prithvi Mahabhuta. Kapha is functionally categorized into five types-Avalambaka, Kledaka, Bodhaka, Tarpaka, and Sleshaka - due to its attributes such as Snigdhatva, Mritsna, and Gurutva. Bodhaka kapha is one of the Kapha kinds, primarily responsible for the Bodhanakarma of Rasa (Taste Perception) and the fragmentation of ingested food. Bodhaka kapha is situated near the base of the tongue and the neck. The perception of taste is facilitated by the aqueous nature of the gustatory sense organ. Modern science posits that taste is a chemical experience. Saliva, with its solvent properties, dissolves solid food particles, allowing the resultant compounds to activate the taste buds. The activated taste buds identify the flavor. Taste is diminished when the mouth is desiccated, as things can only be perceived when dissolved. This article intends to examine the parallels between saliva and Bodhaka Kapha from both contemporary and traditional perspectives
Keywords: Dosha, Kapha, Bodhaka Kapha, Rasa Bodhana, saliva, division, gustatory perception
How to Cite?: Dr. Savita Meena, Dr. Shailesh Diwan, Dr. Kuldeep Gehlot, Dr. Chandni Goyal, "The Function of Bodhaka Kapha in Taste Perception: A Comparative Analysis with Salivary and Gustatory Mechanisms", Volume 15 Issue 1, January 2026, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 1550-1553, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR26124125921, DOI: https://dx.dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR26124125921