A brief account of the fractions of soma
Journal name: Ancient Science of Life
Original article title: A brief account of the fractions of soma
The ANSCI is a peer-reviewed, open-access journal focused on Ayurveda and traditional medicines. It publishes original research, reviews, and literary studies linking traditional knowledge with modern science, covering disciplines like botany, ethnomedicine, pharmacology, and clinical research.
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S. Mahdihassan
Ancient Science of Life:
(A quarterly multi-disciplinary scientific research journal in Ayurveda)
Full text available for: A brief account of the fractions of soma
Year: 1990
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
The ancient plant known as Soma, originally referred to as Sauma in Sanskrit and Haoma in Avesta, holds significant historical and cultural importance in the traditions of the Aryans and Iranians. The term "Soma" derived from the Chinese word Hao-Ma, implying a fire-colored fibrous plant akin to hemp. It was widely used as an anti-fatigue drink, celebrated for its purported healing properties and association with longevity and immortality. The process of extracting juice from the Soma plant involved crushing its stalks between stones, leading to the distinction of various fractions of the resulting juice.
Identification of Soma
One of the critical concepts explored in the text is the identification of Soma, particularly its connection to the plant species Ephedra. Prof. Kashikar's research highlighted Aitchison's early identification of Ephedra as Soma, a claim that has been supported by other scholars, such as Bornmuller, who noted the diverse varieties of Ephedra available, complicating the search for the original habitat of the Aryans. The etymology of the terms "Soma" and "Haoma" reveals their roots in Chinese linguistics, where the plant is described through its physical traits鈥攍ong, thin stems resembling hemp fibers and a yellowish coloration. This etymological understanding enhances the cultural significance of Soma as more than a mere substance but as a vital aspect of the early Indo-Iranian lifestyle.
Conclusion
This brief account of Soma illustrates the profound connection between language, culture, and botany in ancient societies. The essential role of Soma in the healing practices and sustenance of the Aryans and Iranians underscores the plant's importance in their rituals and daily life. Additionally, the identification of Soma as a specific species, such as Ephedra sinica, emphasizes the rich intersection of natural history and cultural heritage. Despite the historical perspectives presented, there remains a lack of concise terminological documentation regarding the various parts and fractions of the Soma plant, indicating an avenue for further research in understanding this fascinating subject.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is the origin of the term 'Soma'?
Soma originated from 'Sauma' in Sanskrit and is related to the Avesta name 'Haoma'. It is a loan word from the Chinese term 'Hao-Ma', referring to fire-colored hemp or fibrous items.
What was the significance of Soma in ancient cultures?
Soma was celebrated as a panacea, an anti-fatigue drink, and a beverage associated with longevity and immortality. Its juice was believed to cure ailments, making it highly valuable to the Aryans.
Which plant is identified as Soma in ancient texts?
Soma has been identified as Ephedra, specifically Ephedra sinica. Early scholars proposed other varieties, but research continues to clarify the original species associated with the name.
What parts and fractions of the Soma plant are recognized?
Key terms include 'Andhas' for the plant or juice, 'Ansu' for shoot or stalk juice, 'Parvan' for portions of the stem, and 'R Jisa' for the residue after juice extraction, known as bagasse.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for 鈥淎 brief account of the fractions of soma鈥�. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.
1) Soma (Som膩):
Soma refers to a plant revered in ancient texts, particularly in the Rigveda, known for its restorative and potentially immortal qualities. It is closely associated with the juice extracted from the plant, which was considered a panacea for ailments, signifying its importance in spiritual and medicinal contexts for early Aryans.
2) Habitat:
Habitat relates to the geographical and environmental conditions where the Soma plant, specifically a species of Ephedra, flourished. Understanding its habitat is crucial for tracing the origins of the Aryans and how the environment influenced their culture, as the plant played a significant role in their rituals and daily life.
3) Science (Scientific):
Science is pertinent here as it encompasses the identification and classification of the Soma plant within a biological and medicinal framework. The analysis of the plant鈥檚 properties, as well as its historical significance, integrates ethnobotany, pharmacology, and linguistics to comprehend the ancient narratives surrounding Soma.
4) Varna (Var峁嚹�, Var峁嘺):
Varna in this context refers to a specific term describing a part of the Soma plant鈥攕pecifically a swollen portion of the stem. It highlights the meticulous categorization and the understanding of various parts of the plant in ancient literature, demonstrating the interconnectedness of language, botany, and traditional practices.
5) Water:
Water is linked to Soma through its extraction process, where the plant's juice is produced by crushing its stalks between stones. The reference to Varna, or swollen parts of the stem, indicates moisture content, crucial for understanding the plant鈥檚 characteristics and the significance of hydration in its cultivation and use.
6) Veda (Ved膩):
Vedic pertains to the ancient Indian scriptures, particularly the Rigveda, where Soma is mentioned extensively. This term underscores the spiritual and ritualistic importance of Soma among the Vedic people, highlighting the plant鈥檚 role in religious activities and its symbolic representation of immortality and divine sustenance.
7) Cina (C墨na, C墨n膩, Ci峁塧, Ci峁壞�, C墨峁壞�, Cin膩):
China is relevant as it is linked to the etymological origins of the term Soma, derived from the Chinese word 'Hao-Ma' referring to fire-colored hemp. The identification of the Soma plant with a Chinese variety emphasizes the cross-cultural connections and the historical exploration of medicinal plants between ancient civilizations.
Other Science Concepts:
Discover the significance of concepts within the article: 鈥�A brief account of the fractions of soma鈥�. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:
Spiritual significance, JUICE EXTRACTION, Different fractions.
Concepts being referred in other categories, contexts and sources.