Pancha mahabhuta (five elements)

Five great elements from which Ayurveda holds that all matter, including the body, is composed: ether (akasha), air (vayu), fire (agni), water (jala) and earth (prithvi). Their combination forms the three doshas. This cosmology underlies the diagnosis and treatment logic of palace retreats, which adjust oils, temperatures and foods according to the elements to be balanced.