To understand how Maharishi Ayurveda works, it is first necessary to understand the three fundamental biological principles called doshas:

Three different principles determine the constitutional type
In Maharishi Ayurveda everything in creation has its own kind of constitution. Each individual has a particular physical and spiritual make-up that distinguishes him from others. After becoming familiar with these principles, even a beginner will be able to understand his metabolism, behaviour, moods and characteristics. The three doshas (VATA, PITTA, and KAPHA) are the principles that underlie and regulate all bodily functions.

Our body responds like a cybernetic system
Our body is a cybernetic system. That means it is self-regulating and with the help of a complex feedback system continually strives to compensate for disturbances it experiences. For example, the body will try to counterbalance a constant Vata stimulus by activating its own reserves of Kapha and Pitta . If these reserves have been used up, then a health disorder will develop.

We must understand that the doshas operate within a natural range. We should not consider the balance of the doshas to be a fixed ratio of Vata, Pitta and Kapha. The three doshas react amongst each other according to changing circumstances. This is a continual and extremely dynamic regulating activity. Good health is not a state, it is a process. Our body is continually regenerating itself.

Toxins overload the mind and body
We are constantly interacting with our environment. We absorb toxins from the air and from our food. These are then absorbed into our cells and tissues. Incorrect digestion of our food, negative moods and emotional pressure can create toxins. These toxins impede healthy metabolism and hinder the supply of nutrients to the cells, which is necessary for healthy functioning. This impairs the normal efficiency of our organs. These deposits, combined with an imbalance of the doshas, are responsible for almost all illnesses.