In Kapha-type atherosclerosis, what is the described mechanism?

• A. Excess cholesterol from the liver circulation in rasa rakta with calcium streaks and fatty deposits, leading to plaque formation and hardening
• B. Pitta-driven ama in rasa rakta causing microinflammation
• C. Vata's dryness causing vessel rupture
• D. Increased insulin causing plaque

Answer: (A)

In Kapha-dominant atherosclerosis, the key idea is stagnation and accumulation within the circulation due to Kapha’s heavy, dense, and moist nature. Kapha tends to block channels, so lipids and other substances can settle in the vessels. Here, excess cholesterol produced by the liver circulates in rasa rakta (the circulating plasma and blood) and combines with calcium to form fatty deposits and calcified plaques. Over time, these lipid–calcium plaques thicken the arterial walls, narrow the lumen, and make the arteries stiff—leading to hardening of the arteries.

This fits the pattern of Kapha’s influence on the circulatory system, where accumulation and obstruction are central. The other concepts describe different patterns—inflammation from a Pittadominant process, dryness and rupture from Vata, or metabolic plaque from insulin—none of which align with the Kapha-specific tendency toward sticky deposits and calcified buildup within vessels.