Hard

Understanding Kathina (Hardness) in Ayurveda 

Kathina is the Ayurvedic property of hardness associated with the Earth element. It increases Vata dosha and causes drying of waste products, reducing their elimination and causing stagnation. Hard substances decrease digestive fire but provide strength and rigidity to body tissues. They can create stiffness, insensitivity, and selfishness when excessive. 

🌟 Definition

Kathina is the property responsible for the hardness of matter in Ayurvedic science.¹

🌍 Elemental Association¹

Hard attribute is primarily linked to one element:

• Earth (Prithvi)

When a substance is described as having a hard attribute (kathina guna), it is understood to contain high quantities of earth element.

🔄 Relationship with Dosha¹

• Increases: Vata dosha ⬆️

💩 Effect on Malas (Waste Products)¹

Substances with hard attributes:

• Dry up the malas
• Reduces the free movement/elimination of waste products causing stagnation 

✨ Key Properties

• Decreases digestive fire (Agni)
• Increases hardness of body tissues¹
• It provides strength to dhatus (body tissues)¹
• Increases strength and rigidity
• Creates selfishness and insensitivity
• Causes stiffness of muscles and tissues¹

🌿 Examples

• Corals

References

Primary Source: Acharya Balkrishna's A Practical Approach To The Science of Ayurveda: A Comprehensive Guide for Healthy Living.

1. School of Ayurveda and Panchkarma - Lectures and Notes