Ayurveda Certification Practice Exam

In the context of Ayurveda, the sapta dhatus refer to the seven fundamental bodily tissues that play essential roles in maintaining health and vitality. Among these, the first dhatu is Rasa, which is commonly translated as 'plasma' or the essence derived from digested food. Rasa is crucial because it forms the foundation for the development of the other dhatus and is responsible for nourishing the body.

Plasma, or Rasa, acts as the nutrient-rich fluid that circulates through the body, delivering essential elements to the cells and tissues. It provides hydration, sustains metabolic processes, and supports the immune system. This foundational role is why it is considered the first of the seven dhatus.

The other options, such as blood, muscle, and fat, correspond to subsequent dhatus. After Rasa, the next dhatus are Rakta (blood), Mamsa (muscle), and Meda (fat). Each of these tissues builds upon the nourishment provided by the essence of Rasa. Understanding the order and importance of these dhatus is vital in Ayurveda, as it reflects the holistic approach to health—starting from the fundamental nurturing of tissues to the formation of more complex structures and systems in the body.