[Classification of gulma] There are five types of gulma- vata dominant gulma, pitta dominant gulma, shleshma/kapha dominant gulma, nichaya (tridosha dominant) gulma, and shonita gulma.[
[Agnivesha’s question] After Lord Atreya said this, Agnivesha asked, “Sir, How can we know the specific characteristics of these five gulmas? Because without this knowledge, such patients cannot be successfully treated by a physician even though he is well versed in the selection and usage of drugs.”
Lord Atreya replied, “Agnivesha! Specific characteristics of the five gulma as well as other diseases are defined on the basis of their etiology, prodromal symptoms, clinical features with various types of pains, and therapeutic applicability."