Ayurveda is entirely based on the laws of nature. Ayurveda considers Man as a miniature replica or small model of the Universe. The theory of the macrocosm–microcosm continuum (Loka–Purusha Samya) is the most important principle of Ayurveda.

Man and the universe are made up of five basic elements called the Panchamahabhuta:

Akasha (ether / space)
Vayu (air / motion)
Teja (fire / radiant energy)
Ap (water / cohesive factor)
Prithvi (Earth / mass)

The concept of the elements is closely linked to the Ayurvedic theory of the beginning of the universe.

In the beginning, there was nothing but a void. Within the expanse of nothingness, the Om, known as the soundless sound, echoed through the universe.

The vibration rippled through the universe and created movement, which became the Air (Vayu) element.

As those ripples interacted, friction created heat, forming the Fire (Teja) element.

As the fire burned, it released steam (Ap/Water) and left the Earth (Prithvi) element as residue.

Thus, the five elements came to be.

Each element is present in nature and in ourselves. They each have a function, qualities, and actions.

In Ayurveda, the balance or imbalance of these elements within the body influences everything from metabolism and mindset to skin and hair quality. They also guide lifestyle, diet, seasonal changes, and skincare/selfcare routines.

Akasha (Ether / Space)

The Gunas of Akasha

Subtlety, expansiveness, lightness, vastness, emptiness.

In nature: the open sky or any unoccupied space.

In the body: represents spaces such as pores and cavities (mouth, ear canal, nostrils), allowing movement and expansion of the other elements.

Imbalances: feeling “spaced out,” disconnected, or physical and mental emptiness. In the lens of Cosmetology, it determines pore size, such as are they enlarged, blocked etc.

Vayu (Air)

The Gunas of Vayu

Lightness, dryness, mobility, subtlety, expansiveness, coolness.

In nature: wind moving through trees or any movement in the atmosphere. Provides vitality, carries fragrance and other particles.

In the body: governs movement, circulation of blood, breathing, nerve impulses, muscle contractions, and cell-to-cell communication.

An imbalance may show as anxiety, constipation, insomnia and joint pains

On the skin, excess may show as dryness on the skin and flaking on the scalp, brittle hair, chapped lips and premature ageing, as it is said to be responsible for Cellular turnover.

Teja / Agni (Fire)

The Gunas of Teja:

Heat, intensity, transformation, brightness, sharpness, lightness, penetrative, dynamic.

In Nature is it seen in anything producing heat and light. This includes sunlight, volcanic activity. It oversees transformation, much like a physical fire transforms wood to heat, light and earth.

Within the body, the fire element governs digestion and metabolism (agni). It also regulates our body temperature, intellect, drive and confidence. On the skin, it shows as a healthy glow and strong hair and nails due to nutrient absorption feeding the tissues.

Excess fire element can lead to inflammation or the skin, body (such as rashes and acne) and emotions, and anger and burnout. In the Ayurvedic Cosmetology lens, the fire element is also said to govern melanogenesis so hyperpigmentation may also be present.

A deficiency of the fire element can lead to poor digestion, low energy and a lack of motivation and would show in the skin as dull and pale and lacking in lustre. Ridges may also be seen horizontally across the nail plate.

Ap / Water

The Gunas of Water:

Fluidity, Liquidity, Coolness, cohesion, adaptability, hydrating/ moisturising, Nourishing.

As water forms the rivers, oceans and rain, it connects and transports. The same applies to the body. The water element governs blood, lymph and all bodily fluids, maintaining hydration, lubrication of the joints and cooling the body via sweat.

Excess water element in the body can show up as excess mucous, oedema, or puffiness in the face and eyes. A lack of the water element may show as dryness, dehydration, excess oiliness and dull skin and hair.

Prithvi / Earth

The Gunas of Prithvi:

Solidity, stability, heaviness, density, structure, firmness and support.

In nature, the Earth element forms mountains, minerals and soil, and anything that as a mass and solid form. The ground beneath our feet provides us with stability, support and nurturing. In the body, the earth element still relates to what gives us structure and support, so includes the bones, muscle mass, teeth and hair.

In the scope of Ayurvedic cosmetology, the earth element provides thickness, strength and firmness, so in balance will show as firm healthy skin and strong hair, however an excess can show as comedones and cellulite.

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