Plasma (rasa dhatu)

Plasma is the first and most basic dhatu in Ayurveda, responsible for nourishing all other tissues. It includes lymph, and essential fluids absorbed from digested food.

It is crucial for transporting nutrients, hormones, and other essential substances throughout the body, supporting immunity, and providing the primary source of nutrition. It aids in flushing out waste products, promoting detoxification and maintaining a healthy internal environment. An imbalance in rasa dhatu can lead to digestive issues and weak immunity.

Herbs that increase plasma are sweet, with a cooling virya such as shatavari (Asparagus racemosus), liquorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra), and bala (Sida cordifolia).

Herbs that reduce plasma are pungent and heating, such as pippali (Piper longum), ginger (Zingiber officinale), black pepper (Piper nigrum).