Ayurvedic Foundations
A thorough grounding in Ayurvedic theory is the cornerstone of competent practice. CAPA's foundational curriculum covers the classical principles that have guided Ayurvedic medicine for over 5,000 years.
Explore Accredited ProgramsVata, Pitta & Kapha
The Tridosha framework is Ayurveda's fundamental model of human physiology and psychology.
Vata
Air + Space
Qualities: Light, dry, mobile, cold, subtle
Governs: Movement, nervous system, creativity, communication
Pitta
Fire + Water
Qualities: Hot, sharp, intense, light, liquid
Governs: Transformation, digestion, metabolism, intelligence
Kapha
Earth + Water
Qualities: Heavy, slow, smooth, cold, stable
Governs: Structure, lubrication, immunity, memory
Key Foundational Principles
These classical frameworks underpin all Ayurvedic assessment and treatment.
Panchamahabhutas
The Five Great Elements — Earth, Water, Fire, Air, and Space — form the basis of all matter in Ayurvedic cosmology. Every substance, tissue, and organ in the body can be described in terms of these elements.
Prakriti & Vikriti
Prakriti is an individual's unique constitutional nature, determined at conception. Vikriti represents the current state of imbalance. Ayurvedic assessment begins by understanding both to guide personalised treatment.
Saptadhatu (Seven Tissues)
The seven bodily tissues — Rasa, Rakta, Mamsa, Meda, Asthi, Majja, and Shukra — form a progressive sequence of nourishment. The health of each dhatu depends on the proper functioning of those that precede it.
The Eight Branches
Classical Ayurveda is organized into eight specialized disciplines, each addressing a distinct domain of health.
Kaya Chikitsa
General medicine & internal medicine
Bala Tantra
Paediatrics & gynaecology
Graha Chikitsa
Psychiatry & mind-body medicine
Shalakya Tantra
Diseases of the head, eyes, ears, nose & throat
Shalya Tantra
Surgery (classical Ayurvedic)
Agada Tantra
Toxicology & forensic medicine
Rasayana
Rejuvenation & anti-aging therapies
Vajikarana
Reproductive health & vitality
Begin Your Studies
Explore CAPA-accredited programs to begin your formal journey into Ayurvedic medicine.
View Accredited Programs