A narrative review on concept of Bala and immunity in Ayurveda physiology

Abstract

Bala in Ayurveda physiology is a multidimensional factor that refers to physical and psychological strength and the ability produced in response to antigen exposure and resistance against the manifestation of disease. It has also been synonymously used for components providing strength, nourishment, and stability to the body such as Oja, Vyadhikshamatva, Balya, Sara, Balavriddhikara Bhava, Prakrita Sleshma. The Bala of a person is determined by a complex interaction of multifactor such as Balavriddhikara Bhava, Dhatu Sarata, Prakriti, indulgence in dietary and behavioural activities, inherent qualities, etc. Further, it has also been opined that the Bala of a person cannot be assessed by just observing his body physique, as it has been seen that a person having a well-formed body does not always have good strength. In contrast, a person with a lean body may have excellent stability. As the Bala of a person serves as an important criterion for assessment of the severity as well as prognosis of disease, there is a need for the development of objective parameters for its assessment and implication in clinical practices.