Rasa Dhatu (रस धातु)

The Samskrit word 'Rasa' has various meanings like extract/juice, taste, interest and even mercury. However in context of human body the word 'Rasa' used in Ayurveda refers to a body tissue or body component which is the first among 7 dhatus described in Ayurveda. Dhatus are building blocks of physical body called as Sharira. It is also called as 'Ahara-rasa' i.e. extract of food in liquid state. It performs the function of nourishing the physical body.