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Significance of Erysipelas

Erysipelas is a bacterial skin infection characterized by red patches and burning sensations, often affecting infants. According to multiple sources, it is described as resembling the petals of a red lotus and is known as Visarpa in Ayurveda, marked by rapidly shifting swellings due to deranged Doshas. Treatment options include herbal medicines and leech therapy. It can have severe consequences and may be associated with the adverse effects of excessive salt consumption.

In Finnish: Ruusu; In Dutch: Wondroos; In Spanish: Erisipela; In German: Erysipel

The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.

Hindu concept of 'Erysipelas'

Hinduism Books

Erysipelas, or Visarpa in Hinduism, is a bacterial skin infection linked to excessive salt, causing elevated swellings and resembling red lotus petals. It can affect infants and is treatable with specific medicine.

Significance in Rasashastra (chemistry and alchemy):
Rasashastra Books

From: Rasa Jala Nidhi, vol 4: Iatrochemistry

(1) A bacterial skin infection that can be treated with this medicine.[1] (2) A bacterial skin infection that causes redness and swelling, identified as one of the ailments the medicine can cure.[2]

From: Rasa Jala Nidhi, vol 3: Metals, Gems and other substances

(1) A bacterial skin infection that can be related to the negative effects of excessive salt.[3]

Rasashastra is an important branch of Ayurveda, specialising in chemical interactions with herbs, metals and minerals. Some texts combine yogic and tantric practices with various alchemical operations. The ultimate goal of Rasashastra is not only to preserve and prolong life, but also to bestow wealth upon humankind.

Significance in Ayurveda (science of life):
Ayurveda Books

From: Sushruta Samhita, volume 2: Nidanasthana

(1) Also known as Visarpa, it is a disease characterized by shifting, elevated swellings caused by the deranged Doshas that can extend rapidly over the body.[4]

Ayurveda is a branch of Indian science dealing with medicine, herbalism, taxology, anatomy, surgery, alchemy and related topics. Traditional practice of Ayurveda in ancient India dates back to at least the first millenium BC. Literature is commonly written in Sanskrit using various poetic metres.

Significance in Purana and Itihasa (epic history):
Purana Books

From: Garuda Purana

(1) A skin condition resembling the petals of a red lotus that may appear on the scalps or pelves of infants and can have a fatal outcome.[5]

The Purana refers to Sanskrit literature preserving ancient India’s vast cultural history, including historical legends, religious ceremonies, various arts and sciences. The eighteen mahapuranas total over 400,000 shlokas (metrical couplets) and date to at least several centuries BCE.