the gunaof earth. Ether, air, fire, water, and earth
represent the five elements of the universe. The
practice of Ayurveda, also called the science of daily
living, is rooted in the ancient Indian system of
knowledge. The Ayurvedic physician Charak estab-
lished the idea that there are 20 fundamental
gunas, among which are 10 opposite pairs, such as
male and female, slow and fast, and dull and sharp.
When one understands the universe in these
terms, he or she can recognize characteristics of
both health and illness. In addition, food and drugs
in Ayurveda are based on the action and reaction of
the 20 gunas.
See also AYURVEDA.gunas 51