Sri lankan medical manuscripts 鈥� an untapped source of ayurvedic research
Journal name: Ancient Science of Life
Original article title: Sri lankan medical manuscripts 鈥� an untapped source of ayurvedic research
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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Jinadasa Liyanaratne
Ancient Science of Life:
(A quarterly multi-disciplinary scientific research journal in Ayurveda)
Full text available for: Sri lankan medical manuscripts 鈥� an untapped source of ayurvedic research
Year: 1991
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
Sri Lankan medical manuscripts represent a rich yet underutilized resource for Ayurvedic research, harboring significant information about traditional medical practices. With the advent of printing in the 18th century, these invaluable palm-leaf manuscripts fell into obscurity, eventually overshadowed by printed texts. Despite this decline, a few families of traditional physicians continue to safeguard their private collections, which include unique remedies and medical knowledge that remain largely inaccessible. The available manuscripts in public libraries serve multiple purposes, including aiding in historical research and providing insights into the practice of medicine in ancient societies.
The Value of Empirical Remedies
One remarkable aspect of the Sri Lankan medical manuscripts is their compilation of "tested and proven" remedies derived from empirical experiences of ancient populations. These remedies, often found in practical manuals rather than learned treatises, illustrate the direct relationship between ancient societies and their natural surroundings. An example of this is a remedy for diabetes detailed in a Sri Lankan manuscript housed in the Cambridge University Library. The procedure involves heating borax, mixing it with buffalo ghee and a cucumber, and preparing complex combinations of other herbs like nutmeg and cloves. Such traditional formulations could offer valuable insights for contemporary pharmacological research, especially in the search for effective treatments for conditions like diabetes, as highlighted by modern researchers.
Conclusion
To fully harness the potential of Sri Lankan medical manuscripts, it is crucial to integrate these ancient remedies into modern pharmaceutical practices. The simplicity and cost-effectiveness of these traditional treatments, which are largely free from adverse side effects, make them excellent candidates for further research. The potential benefits of adapting these remedies using contemporary techniques could lead to significant advancements in medical care for common ailments. It is hoped that the untapped knowledge within these manuscripts will inspire more extensive research efforts, ultimately contributing to the alleviation of human suffering through the rediscovery of ancient wisdom.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is the significance of Sri Lankan medical manuscripts?
Sri Lankan medical manuscripts contain valuable information about Ayurveda practices, historical medicine, and remedies for various diseases. They are critical for research in traditional medicine, although many remain inaccessible due to neglect or private ownership.
How have palm-leaf manuscripts been affected over time?
After the introduction of printing in the 18th century, palm-leaf manuscripts fell into disuse. While some remain in private collections, many have been neglected or damaged, resulting in a loss of this rich literary heritage.
What types of remedies are documented in these manuscripts?
The manuscripts document remedies tested through empirical experience, often presented in practical manuals rather than learned treatises. Examples include treatments for diabetes and urinary calculi, drawn from the knowledge of ancient societies.
How can modern pharmacological research benefit from these manuscripts?
The remedies in Sri Lankan medical manuscripts can be tested in modern laboratories. Their natural, inexpensive ingredients hold potential for new treatments, particularly as they are generally free from side effects, paving the way for innovative applications.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for 鈥淪ri lankan medical manuscripts 鈥� an untapped source of ayurvedic research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) Drug:
The keyword 'Drug' refers to any substance that can alter physiological or psychological states. In the context of the text, it highlights the significance of herbal drugs derived from traditional remedies found in Sri Lankan medical manuscripts. Their empirical validation suggests potential therapeutic benefits, necessitating rigorous pharmacological exploration.
2) Medicine:
The term 'Medicine' encompasses practices and substances aimed at preventing, diagnosing, and treating illness. The text discusses traditional Ayurvedic medicine found in Sri Lankan manuscripts, emphasizing the practical applications of these ancient remedies. This illustrates the critical connection between historical medical knowledge and contemporary health practices.
3) Cow milk (Cow's milk):
The phrase 'Cow milk' indicates a significant ingredient in traditional Ayurvedic remedies referenced in Sri Lankan medical manuscripts. Cow milk is not only a base for concocting medicinal preparations but also carries nutritional benefits. Its inclusion in formulations underscores the integration of dietary components in holistic health practices.
4) Pharmacological:
The term 'Pharmacological' pertains to the study of drugs and their effects on biological systems. The text advocates for pharmacological scrutiny of traditional remedies found in manuscripts, indicating a bridge between ancient practices and modern science. Understanding these can lead to the development of new treatment modalities and agents.
5) Milk:
The keyword 'Milk', while similar to 'Cow milk', generally reflects a vital nutritional resource, often utilized in various medicinal formulations. Its role in Ayurveda suggests not just nutritional value but also therapeutic properties, aiding in the delivery and efficacy of herbal remedies as seen in the provided examples.
6) Saussurea lappa:
The term 'Saussurea lappa' refers to a medicinal plant mentioned in the manuscript for its therapeutic applications. This herb is noted for its potential benefits in traditional Ayurvedic formulations, thus highlighting the importance of plant-based remedies in treating ailments and the necessity for their scientific validation.
7) Cucumis melo:
'Cucumis melo' is the scientific name for the cucumber species referenced in the remedy for diabetes. This plant serves as a key ingredient in traditional treatments, illustrating how botanicals are systematically utilized in Ayurveda. Understanding its pharmacological properties can enhance its application in modern therapies.
8) Transformation (Transform, Transforming):
The keyword 'Transformation' speaks to the process of altering substances to enhance their medicinal properties. In the context of the text, it alludes to modern techniques that can refine ancient methods, suggesting innovation in preparing herbal medicines to improve efficacy and safety through scientific advancements.
9) Phytochemical:
The term 'Phytochemical' refers to bioactive compounds found in plants that may have health benefits. The text suggests that traditional remedies can be analyzed phytochemically to identify active constituents, potentially leading to new drugs derived from ancient practices, advocating for a fusion of traditional knowledge with modern scientific inquiry.
10) Alleviation:
The word 'Alleviation' indicates the reduction or easing of symptoms or suffering caused by diseases. In this context, it highlights the goal of utilizing ancient Sri Lankan remedies to provide relief. This notion underscores the value of incorporating traditional knowledge systems into contemporary wellness strategies for effective healthcare.
11) Jatiphala (J膩tiphala, Jati-phala, J膩t墨phala):
'Jatiphala' refers to nutmeg, an ingredient noted for its medicinal properties in the manuscript鈥檚 example for diabetes. The mention of this herb exemplifies the integration of common culinary ingredients into traditional healing practices in Ayurveda, inviting exploration of its pharmacological benefits and therapeutic potential.
12) Testimony:
'Testimony' refers to evidence or proof supporting a claim. In the context of the text, it calls attention to the wealth of knowledge preserved in Sri Lankan manuscripts that serves as a testament to the long-standing efficacy of traditional remedies and their potential contributions to modern medicine through research.
13) Ayurveda (膧yurveda, Ayus-veda):
'Ayurveda' is an ancient system of medicine that originated in India, focusing on balance between the body, mind, and spirit. The text explores the influence of Sri Lankan Ayurvedic practices, emphasizing the relevance of traditional healing methods and their validation in contemporary health and wellness disciplines.
14) Svarasa (Sva-rasa):
'Svarasa' refers to the juice extracted from medicinal plants, crucial in Ayurvedic preparations. This term illustrates the practical aspects of traditional medicine where a crucial step involves transforming whole plants into concentrated forms for therapeutic use. Its mention highlights the importance of preparation methods in efficacy.
15) Pushkara (Pu峁ara):
'Puskara', or borax, is referenced in the context of a traditional remedy for diabetes. This mineral compound underscores the incorporation of various natural products believed to possess medicinal properties. The examination of 'Puskara' reveals the diverse sources from which Ayurvedic remedies are derived, emphasizing holistic healing approaches.
16) Buffalo (Buffaloes):
'Buffalo' is relevant in its association with buffalo ghee, used in medicinal formulations. Ghee is valued for its health benefits and serves as a medium in traditional concoctions. The cultural significance of such ingredients highlights the interplay of dietary practices and medicinal applications in Ayurveda.
17) Science (Scientific):
'Science' is the systematic study of the structure and behavior of the physical and natural world through observation and experimentation. The text advocates for a scientific approach to the validation and application of traditional remedies found in Sri Lankan manuscripts, suggesting a modern-day exploration of empirical practices.
18) Kottam (K艒峁弓am):
'Kottam' refers to the plant Saussurea lappa, which is included in the manuscript for its medicinal use. Mentioning 'Kottam' illustrates the specificity and significance of individual herbs in traditional formulations, encouraging further research into their benefits and integration into contemporary medicinal practices.
19) Reason:
'Reason' relates to the intellectual basis behind practices and beliefs. In the context of the manuscript, it underscores the empirical knowledge inherent in Ayurvedic practices, highlighting the rational approaches that ancient societies used in developing their medicinal systems, providing a framework for current research and validation.
20) Borax:
'Borax', or 'Puskara', is highlighted for its historical medicinal uses. This mineral serves as an example of how traditional remedies incorporate various elements known for their healing properties. Further understanding of Borax can open avenues for modern therapeutic applications and validate ancient medical practices through scientific experiments.
21) Shri (艢ri, 艢r墨, 艢峁�, S峁�, S峁�):
'Shree' is a term of respect and auspiciousness in a South Asian context, often used as a prefix in institutional names. In the text, it denotes the 'Shree Visudanand Saraswati Marwari Hospital,' signifying the institution's commitment to integrating traditional Ayurvedic practices with contemporary medical research and advancements.
22) Anda (A峁囜笉a, Amda, A峁囜笉膩, An岣嵞�):
'Anda' refers to a traditional weight measure used in herbal formulations. In the example provided, it illustrates the precise dosages that are significant for the effectiveness of Ayurvedic treatments. Understanding such measures is vital for recreating and validating these ancient recipes in modern pharmacological contexts.
23) Ghi (Gh墨, Ghee):
'Ghee' is clarified butter, a key component in various Ayurvedic formulations. Its use indicates not just nutritional value but also its role as a vehicle for enhancing the absorption of medicinal herbs. Understanding ghee's properties is important for accurately replicating traditional remedies while exploring their benefits.
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