Trividha Pariksha
Ayurveda follows a unique diagnostic approach that focuses on identifying the root cause of diseases rather than just treating symptoms. One of the fundamental diagnostic methods in Ayurveda is Trividha Pariksha (Threefold Examination), which consists of:
1️⃣ Darshana Pariksha (Inspection/Observation)
2️⃣ Sparshana Pariksha (Palpation & Touch Examination)
3️⃣ Prashna Pariksha (Interrogation/Questioning)
These methods help in determining an individual’s natural constitution (Prakriti) and disease condition (Vikriti) by analyzing various bodily signs, symptoms, and imbalances.
1. Darshana Pariksha (Observation-Based Diagnosis)
This method involves visual inspection of the patient to assess their health condition.
Key Aspects Observed:
✅ Body Structure (Akruti): Shape, posture, weight, and overall physique.
✅ Skin (Twacha): Color, texture, glow, dryness, rashes, or discoloration.
✅ Eyes (Netra): Brightness, redness, dryness, or yellowness indicating different dosha imbalances.
✅ Tongue (Jihva): Coating, cracks, color, and moisture levels reflecting digestive health.
✅ Nails (Nakha): Strength, brittleness, white spots, or discoloration indicating nutritional deficiencies.
✅ Hair (Kesha): Hair fall, premature graying, dandruff, and scalp health.
✅ Stool & Urine (Mala-Mutra): Color, consistency, and odor revealing digestive and metabolic health.
✅ Facial Expressions & Body Movements: Indicating mental and physical well-being.
👉 Importance: This method provides an initial assessment of a person’s health status, dosha imbalance, and presence of toxins (Ama) in the body.
2. Sparshana Pariksha (Touch-Based Diagnosis)
This involves palpation, touch, and physical examination to detect underlying health conditions.
Key Examinations:
✅ Pulse Examination (Nadi Pariksha):
- The radial artery pulse is analyzed to detect dosha imbalances.
- Vata pulse: Fast, irregular, and unstable.
- Pitta pulse: Warm, moderate, and intense.
- Kapha pulse: Slow, heavy, and stable.
✅ Skin Examination (Twacha Pariksha):
- Hot skin: Indicates Pitta imbalance.
- Cold & dry skin: Indicates Vata imbalance.
- Oily & moist skin: Indicates Kapha imbalance.
✅ Pain Assessment:
- Pain in different areas of the body is checked by touch or pressure.
- Vata pain: Sharp and shifting.
- Pitta pain: Burning or stinging sensation.
- Kapha pain: Heavy and dull sensation.
✅ Swelling, Lumps, or Hardness Check:
- Any swelling, lumps, or abnormal growths are examined to determine dosha involvement and disease progression.
👉 Importance: This method helps detect internal disorders, especially neurological, musculoskeletal, and metabolic diseases.
3. Prashna Pariksha (Question-Based Diagnosis)
This involves asking the patient specific questions to understand their condition, lifestyle, and the onset of the disease.
Key Questions Asked:
✅ Disease Onset & Progression:
- When did the symptoms start?
- Was there a triggering event (dietary change, stress, seasonal change, etc.)?
✅ Symptoms & Complaints:
- Type of pain, burning sensation, heaviness, bloating, etc.
- Digestive issues like gas, acidity, constipation, or diarrhea.
- Sleep patterns, mental stress, fatigue, and energy levels.
✅ Diet & Lifestyle Analysis:
- Daily routine, food habits, and seasonal adaptability.
- Alcohol, smoking, or drug consumption habits.
✅ Mental & Emotional Health:
- Stress, anxiety, anger, or depression levels.
- Predominant mental state (Sattva, Rajas, Tamas).
✅ Family History & Genetic Factors:
- Any hereditary diseases in parents or close relatives.
👉 Importance: This method helps in identifying the root cause of the disease by analyzing diet, lifestyle, and mental health factors.