Conceptual Correlation of Manovaha Strotas with the Endocrine System: A Review

Abstract

Manovaha srotas, as defined in ayurveda, are the subtle channels governing the flow and functions of manas (mind), encompassing not just mental but also physiological and spiritual well-being. The endocrine system in contemporary medicine consists of hormone-secreting glands critical for maintaining homeostasis and mental health. This review attempts to bridge these two paradigms by examining potential conceptual parallels between manovaha srotas and the endocrine system, focusing particularly on their influence over emotional balance, stress responses, and psychosomatic disorders. By synthesizing traditional ayurvedic wisdom with modern biomedical insights, this paper highlights the confluence of subtle energetic systems and biochemical regulation—paving the way for a more integrative approach to mind-body medicine.

Introduction

The text presents a comparative narrative review exploring the relationship between manovaha srotas in Ayurveda and the endocrine system in modern physiology to understand mental health from a holistic perspective. Ayurveda conceptualizes mental functioning through subtle channels connected to the heart and brain and governed by mental doshas, while modern science explains psychological regulation through neuroendocrine mechanisms involving hormones such as cortisol, serotonin, melatonin, and thyroid hormones.

The study highlights the growing need to integrate these perspectives due to the rising prevalence of stress-related and psychosomatic disorders. Using classical Ayurvedic texts and contemporary endocrinology and neurobiology literature, the review maps Ayurvedic concepts like triguna, dosha, and manas onto modern psychoneuroendocrinological models.

The results show strong parallels between the two systems. Manovaha srotas functions—such as cognition, perception, emotional regulation, and behavior—correspond closely with endocrine processes mediated by the HPA axis, limbic system, and key hormones influencing stress, mood, sleep, and metabolism. Ayurvedic mental imbalances (rajas and tamas) align with patterns of hormonal dysregulation, while triguna states are associated with specific neuroendocrine profiles.

Overall, the discussion emphasizes that both Ayurveda and modern medicine recognize the mind–body connection, though through different conceptual frameworks. Integrating Ayurvedic principles with endocrine science offers a more comprehensive understanding of mental health disorders and supports the development of integrative, holistic approaches to mental healthcare.

Conclusion

The conceptual framework of manovaha srotas in ayurveda and the endocrine system in biomedicine converge in several key areas, particularly in the regulation of stress, emotion, and mental health. Identifying these parallels supports a more unified view of psychosomatic illness and offers fertile ground for integrative therapies that span both traditional and modern systems of medicine.

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Copyright

Copyright © 2026 Janvi Bhimsingh Yadav, Vinod Mahadeorao Choudhari, Shweta Pandhari Kashiwar, Demendrakumar Gorelal Thakre. This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.