Essay name: Kshemakutuhala by Kshemasharma (critical study)
Author:
Hiteshbhai Vrajalal Bhuptani
Affiliation: Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda / Department of Sanskrit Pali and Prakrit
This essay studies the Kshemakutuhala by Kshemasharma鈥攁n ancient Indian text rooted in the sciences of Dietology, Nutrition, Cookery, and Hygiene, as interpreted through Ayurvedic principles. Despite its historical significance, the Kshemakutuhalam has been largely overlooked, with prior editions lacking critical rigor. This present thesis offers a comprehensive study of the critical edition, exploring topics such as food definitions, royal kitchen organization, eating, health preservation through seasonal regimens, and Ayurvedic culinary arts.
Chapter 2a - Food
3 (of 39)
External source: Shodhganga (Repository of Indian theses)
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52 51
Dharma (religion), Artha (wealth), Kama (sexual acts) and Moksa
(salvation) of human existence depend upon the body (II-1)13
The KK describes the constituting process of the body by
food according to the principle of the Ayurveda.
The body is composed of five Mahabhutas, similarly all
food stuffs are also composed of them. These substances remain
in a particular proportion in the normal body of a living being.
However, because of Agnis (enzymatic actions inside the body),
this ratio of five Mahabhutas is replenished through the ingre-
dients of food, drinks, air, heat, sun light etc. The exogenous
Panca Mahabh奴tas are converted into endogenous Panca Mahabh奴tas
through the process of digestion and metabolism. The soul desires
in
to eat all kinds of food this physiological process 14
NORMAL DIET :
For sustainence of the body and presenvation of health
intake of food is essential. This should be normal diet. "If
the amount and variety of food required by the body for energy,
growth and the functioning and repair of all types of body
tissues
-
these needs
-
are met, one has a diet considered
Normal 15,
According to the Ayurveda, the eight factors are to be
