365betÓéÀÖ

Critical review on sarangadhra samhita

| Posted in: Science

Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: Critical review on sarangadhra samhita
The WJPR includes peer-reviewed publications such as scientific research papers, reports, review articles, company news, thesis reports and case studies in areas of Biology, Pharmaceutical industries and Chemical technology while incorporating ancient fields of knowledge such combining Ayurveda with scientific data.
This page presents a generated summary with additional references; See source (below) for actual content.

Original source:

This page is merely a summary which is automatically generated hence you should visit the source to read the original article which includes the author, publication date, notes and references.

Author:

Dr. Vikas Chaudhary


World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research:

(An ISO 9001:2015 Certified International Journal)

Full text available for: Critical review on sarangadhra samhita

Source type: An International Peer Reviewed Journal for Pharmaceutical and Medical and Scientific Research

Doi: 10.20959/wjpr202315-29433

Copyright (license): WJPR: All rights reserved


Download the PDF file of the original publication


Summary of article contents:

1) Introduction

Ayurveda, a traditional Indian medicinal system, emphasizes the importance of preventing unnecessary suffering and promoting a long, healthy life through natural elements. The Sarangadhara Samhita, a significant text within this system, offers comprehensive insights into pharmaceutical preparations and the methodologies for medicine creation. Comprising 32 chapters and 2600 verses divided into three parts, this treatise serves as an essential resource for practitioners and researchers of Ayurveda, presenting the essence of prior texts in a simplified manner.

2) Nadi Pariksha: A Diagnostic Tool

One of the key innovations introduced in the Sarangadhara Samhita is the concept of Nadi Pariksha, or pulse examination, as a diagnostic tool to identify diseases. This method allows practitioners to analyze the pulse to gauge the presence of life and diagnose various conditions related to the three Doshas: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. Additionally, the treatise outlines 78 different diseases, although it does not significantly delve into their causative factors, leaving room for further exploration in Ayurvedic diagnostics.

3) Pharmaceutical Preparations in Ayurveda

The Sarangadhara Samhita stands out for its detailed descriptions of various pharmaceutical preparations, particularly the Pancvidha Kashaya Kalpana, which outlines five methods of preparing decoctions from medicinal herbs. Each method details specific steps, dosages, and supplementary ingredients, providing practitioners with a structured approach to creating effective herbal remedies. These preparations highlight the treatise's emphasis on the methodology of Ayurveda, integrating traditional practices with precise scientific processes.

4) Seasonal Relevance in Ayurvedic Treatment

Another notable focus in the Sarangadhara Samhita is its incorporation of seasonal considerations in treatment protocols. The text classifies seasons and their corresponding effects on the body, advising the best times to administer certain treatments for optimal health outcomes. This aspect reflects Ayurveda’s profound understanding of the relationship between human physiology and environmental influences, underscoring the need for tailored interventions based on seasonal variations.

5) Conclusion

In summary, the Sarangadhara Samhita is a foundational text that articulately combines philosophical concepts with practical methodologies essential to Ayurveda. Its contributions, particularly regarding Nadi Pariksha and pharmaceutical preparations, establish it as a critical guide for both practitioners and scholars. The treatise not only preserves ancient wisdom but also adapts it for contemporary use, ensuring the continued relevance of Ayurvedic principles in the modern medical landscape. Its commitment to simplicity and clarity makes this ancient knowledge accessible to a broader audience, promoting health and well-being across generations.

FAQ section (important questions/answers):

What is the main focus of Ayurveda?

Ayurveda aims to prevent unnecessary suffering by restoring balance through natural elements, promoting a healthy lifestyle to prevent disease recurrence.

How many chapters are in Sarangadhara Samhita?

Sarangadhara Samhita contains 32 chapters divided into three parts (Khandas), totaling 2600 verses.

What does the first chapter of Pradhama Khanda cover?

The first chapter discusses definitions, measurements, and the collection of unknown drugs, providing guidelines for various drug collections.

What types of medicinal preparations are described in Sarangadhara Samhita?

The text details various pharmaceutical preparations like Swarasa, Kwatha, Phanta, Hima, and Kalka, among others.

What innovations are introduced in Sarangadhara Samhita regarding diagnosis?

Sarangadhara Samhita is the first Ayurvedic treatise to describe Nadi Pariksha, a method for pulse examination to identify diseases.

What distinguishes Sarangadhara Samhita from other Ayurvedic texts?

Its comprehensive methods for pharmaceutical preparations, unique terminology, and inclusions like opium in materia medica highlight its significance.

Glossary definitions and references:

Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Critical review on sarangadhra samhita�. 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:
'Drugs' in the Ayurvedic context refer to natural substances utilized for therapeutic purposes. These encompass all types of formulations used for treating diseases. The classification and understanding of different drugs are pivotal in the practice of Ayurveda for effective healing.

2) Samhita:
'Samhitas' are collections of ancient texts encompassing various aspects of life, knowledge, and medicine. In Ayurveda, these texts serve as fundamental references, compiling wisdom on health practices, diagnostics, and treatments essential for practitioners.

3) Kalpana:
'Kalpanas' signifies the methods and processes involved in preparing medicines or treatments in Ayurveda. These delineate the various techniques and therapeutic preparations, emphasizing the importance of standardized practices for producing effective medicinal formulations.

4) Pala:
'Pala' is a traditional unit of measurement in Ayurveda, often used to denote quantities of medicinal substances. Its significance lies in standardizing doses of herbs and formulations, ensuring precise administration. Understanding 'Pala' helps practitioners prepare effective medicinal doses for various treatments.

5) Water:
'Water' is used as a vital element in Ayurvedic medicine, serving as a medium for preparing medicines and aiding in various therapeutic processes. Its role encompasses methods like decoction, infusion, and conducting treatments, emphasizing the importance of hydration and fluid balance for health.

6) Dravya:
'Dravyas' refers to the substances or materials employed in Ayurvedic medicine, including medicinal herbs, minerals, and animal products. Understanding Dravyas enables practitioners to identify and effectively utilize varied ingredients in the development of therapeutic formulations.

7) Vidhi:
The term 'Vidhi' means the method or procedure involved in the preparation and administration of Ayurvedic medicines. Each Vidhi outlines specific steps to ensure the efficacy, safety, and proper application of a treatment, emphasizing the importance of adhering to traditional practices for healing.

8) Basti:
'Basti' refers to an enema therapy in Ayurveda, used for cleansing and healing. It's considered a potent therapeutic method to eliminate toxins and balances doshas (body energies). Understanding Basti techniques is fundamental for practitioners administering this form of detoxification and treatment.

9) Khanda (Khamda):
'Khandas' are divisions or sections within Ayurvedic texts that organize knowledge into manageable parts. Each Khanda typically focuses on specific topics like treatments, medicine preparation, or philosophical principles, facilitating structured learning and practice.

10) Rasa (Rasha):
'Rasa' literally translates to 'taste' and is also a fundamental concept in Ayurveda that categorizes foods and drugs according to their inherent flavors and therapeutic properties. Each Rasa (such as sweet, sour, bitter, etc.) has physiological effects on the body, influencing health.

11) Disease:
'Diseases' are pathological conditions affecting the normal functioning of the body. Ayurveda respects the uniqueness of each individual and provides a comprehensive understanding of diseases, focusing on their root causes, manifestations, and suitable holistic remedies to restore health and harmony.

12) Sneha:
'Sneha' translates to 'oleation' in Ayurveda, referring to substances that are oily or fatty in nature. Sneha is pivotal in treatments, often used in Panchakarma therapy and healing formulations. Its therapeutic properties include nourishment and promoting balance in bodily functions.

13) Jaggery:
'Jaggery' is a traditional sweetener made from sugarcane or palm sap. In Ayurveda, it is viewed as a healthful alternative to refined sugar and is often used as a Prakshepaka Dravya (adjuvant) in formulations for its digestive advantages and nourishing qualities.

14) Karsha (Karsa):
The term 'Karsha' represents a smaller unit of measure, commonly used in Ayurvedic prescriptions. It is essential for accurately determining dosage, especially for powdered herbs and medicinal concoctions, thereby supporting the precise administration of treatments.

15) Honey:
'Honey' is a natural sweetener recognized for its medicinal properties in Ayurveda. It serves as a beneficial adjuvant in various herbal preparations, enhancing taste and bioavailability while providing health benefits such as antimicrobial properties and promoting digestion.

16) Kashaya (Kasaya):
'Kashaya' denotes herbal decoctions in Ayurveda. This preparation method involves boiling plant materials in water to extract their medicinal properties. Kashayas are fundamental to Ayurvedic treatments, providing concentrated benefits of herbs in liquid form for therapeutic use.

17) Pitta:
'Pitta' is one of the three fundamental doshas in Ayurveda, associated with metabolism, digestion, and energy. Pitta represents the fire element (Teja) and governs bodily functions like digestion and transformation. Its balance is vital for maintaining health and well-being.

18) Kapha:
'Kapha' is another dosha in Ayurveda, characterized by the qualities of earth and water; it governs structure, lubrication, and stability in the body. Understanding Kapha is essential for identifying potential imbalances and managing health conditions related to sluggishness or excess moisture.

19) Dhatu:
'Dhatus' refers to the seven tissue systems in Ayurvedic medicine that sustain life and health - Rasa (plasma), Rakta (blood), Mamsa (muscle), Meda (fat), Asthi (bone), Majja (marrow), and Sukra (reproductive tissues). The harmony of Dhatus ensures optimal physiological function.

20) Medicine:
'Medicines' refer to the therapeutic substances used for healing in Ayurveda. This broad category encompasses herbs, minerals, formulated preparations, and therapeutic interventions aimed at restoring health and preventing disease.

21) Kalka:
'Kalka' refers to a medicinal paste made from grinding fresh or dried herbs with water or other liquids. It is an essential Ayurvedic preparation method used for applying externally or ingesting, enabling effective delivery of the herbal properties for therapeutic benefits.

22) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
'Ayurveda' is a holistic healing system from India, emphasizing balance between body, mind, and spirit. It employs natural substances and techniques tailored to individual constitutions for disease prevention and treatment, promoting overall wellness through dietary, lifestyle, and therapeutic recommendations.

23) Vipaka:
'Vipaka' refers to the post-digestive effect of food or medicine, indicating how substances influence the body after digestion. It's crucial in Ayurveda as it helps determine the suitability of foods and drugs for individuals based on their digestive constitution.

24) Rakta:
'Rakta' specifically highlights blood among the seven Dhatus. It plays a fundamental role in sustaining life by providing nourishment and oxygen to tissues, alongside removing metabolic waste. Maintaining Rakta balance is vital for overall health and vitality in Ayurveda.

25) Taila (Thaila):
'Taila' translates to 'oil' in Ayurveda and is used extensively in therapeutic practices, especially in massages and medicated oils. Taila enhances absorption of medicinal properties, nourishes tissues, and promotes relaxation, highlighting its significance in Ayurvedic treatments.

26) Vata:
'Vata' represents the dosha associated with movement and dynamic processes within the body. It embodies qualities of air and space and regulates bodily functions like circulation and nerve impulses. Understanding Vata is critical for identifying conditions of imbalance and appropriate treatments.

27) Ghi (Ghee):
'Ghee,' or clarified butter, is a crucial food and therapeutic agent in Ayurveda known for its digestive and rejuvenating properties. It serves as a base for many Ayurvedic formulations, promoting health, enhancing absorption of nutrients, and balancing the doshas.

28) Life:
'Life' symbolizes the journey of existence, encompassing physical, mental, and spiritual dimensions. In Ayurveda, understanding the principles of healthy living, including diet, lifestyle, and self-awareness, contributes to sustaining a fulfilling and balanced life, in harmony with nature.

29) Upadhatu:
'Upadhatus' denotes secondary tissues derived from the primary Dhatus in Ayurvedic medicine. They support bodily functions and immunity, encompassing a deeper understanding of tissue relationships and overall health in therapeutic contexts.

30) Putapaka (Puta-paka):
'Putapaka' describes a specific Ayurvedic preparation method involving steaming or cooking herbal materials wrapped in leaves. This technique enhances the efficacy of certain drugs, allowing the extraction of bioactive components while preserving their properties for therapeutic use.

31) Anupana:
'Anupana' signifies the vehicles or substances used to administer medicines in Ayurveda. The choice of Anupana is critical, as it affects the absorption and efficacy of the drugs, allowing for tailored treatments based on individual needs and conditions.

32) Marana:
'Marana' refers to the process of detoxifying metals and minerals in Ayurveda, specifically through alchemical techniques. This process ensures the safety and efficacy of metal-based medicines, transforming them into beneficial therapeutic agents for various ailments.

33) Uttara:
'Uttara' means 'later' or 'subsequent' and denotes sections in Ayurvedic texts that elaborate on advanced topics or later stages of treatment. It often includes specialized therapies, reflecting a comprehensive approach to patient care.

34) Nasya (Nashya):
'Nasya' signifies a form of Ayurvedic therapy involving the administration of medicated substances through the nasal passage. This method is effective for addressing issues related to the head and respiratory system, illustrating Ayurveda's diverse therapeutic modalities.

35) Chaka:
'Chaka' generally refers to a wheel or cycle in Sanskrit. In the context of Ayurvedic texts, it might relate to cycles of life, seasons, or health, emphasizing the importance of balance and cyclicality in managing health.

36) Bala:
'Bala' translates to 'strength' or 'child' in Ayurveda. It can refer to physical strength or the vitality of an individual. The concept underscores the focus on growth, health, and resilience in Ayurvedic practices and treatments.

37) Vayu:
'Vayu' represents the element of air and is associated with the Vata dosha in Ayurveda. It governs functions like movement and communication within the body. Understanding Vayu's influence is essential for diagnosing and treating imbalances that affect overall health.

38) Road:
'Road' can symbolize pathways or journeys, often representing the journey towards health and wellness in Ayurveda. It can connote the pathways of treatment or the paths of life one takes in pursuit of balance and harmony.

39) Fire:
'Fire' symbolizes transformation, digestion, and metabolism in Ayurvedic philosophy. It is an essential element reflecting the concept of Agni, or digestive fire, crucial for bodily functions, health, and processing nutrients.

40) Nadipariksha (Nadipariksa, Nadi-pariksha):
'Nadi-pariksha' translates to pulse examination and is a vital diagnostic tool in Ayurveda. It involves assessing the pulse at specific points on the body to gauge health, energy flow, and identify imbalances in the doshas, aiding in accurate diagnosis and treatment.

41) Lakshana (Laksana):
'Lakshanas' refers to the signs or characteristics of a condition in Ayurveda, including symptoms of diseases. Recognizing these Lakshanas is essential for accurate diagnosis, guiding effective treatment and maintaining balance in bodily functions.

42) Pariksha (Pariksa):
'Pariksha' means examination or assessment. In Ayurveda, it typically refers to the comprehensive evaluation of a patient through various diagnostics, including pulse, tongue, and overall health, crucial for accurate diagnosis and treatment formulation.

43) Madhura:
'Madhura' translates to 'sweet' and represents one of the six tastes recognized in Ayurveda. Sweetness has a cooling and nourishing effect, influencing dietary recommendations and the holistic balance of the body's energies.

44) Guggulu:
'Guggulu' refers to a resin from the Commiphora mukul tree, known for its medicinal properties in Ayurveda. It is widely used in formulations for its benefits in managing cholesterol, inflammation, and promoting overall health.

45) Arishta (Arista):
'Arishta' indicates a specific type of fermented Ayurvedic preparation used for enhancing health and treating various ailments. This method utilizes fermentation to extract the therapeutic properties of ingredients, emphasizing the importance of microbial action in herbal medicine.

46) Dipika:
'Dipika' refers to commentaries or explanatory texts that elucidate Ayurvedic principles or texts. Such works enhance understanding and accessibility of ancient knowledge, ensuring traditional practices are accurately interpreted and preserved for contemporary use.

47) Koshtha (Kostha):
'Kostha' refers to the condition or quality of the digestive system in Ayurveda. It is important for identifying types of digestive capabilities or disorders, contributing to personalized dietary and treatment plans for optimal health.

48) Dosha (Dosa):
'Dosha' is a core concept in Ayurveda representing the three fundamental energies (Vata, Pitta, Kapha) that govern physiological and psychological functions. Understanding one's dosha is essential for personalized health regimens and identifying disease predispositions.

49) Asthi (Ashthi):
'Asthi' refers to bones in Ayurveda and is one of the seven primary Dhatus. It provides structure and support to the body. Maintaining healthy Asthi is crucial for overall physical stability and well-being.

50) Mamsa (Mamsha):
'Mamsa' means muscle tissue in Ayurveda, representing one of the seven Dhatus. It plays a vital role in movement, strength, and overall physical health, indicating the need for balanced nutrition and proper exercise.

51) Asava (Ashava):
'Asava' denotes a form of herbal preparation made by fermenting herbs in water, which extracts their medicinal qualities. This traditional method enhances the bioavailability of active compounds in the herbs, promoting their effectiveness in treatments.

52) Matra:
'Matra' signifies a specific measure or dosage in Ayurveda, often used to ensure accurate administration of medicines. It is essential for promoting safety and efficacy in treatment protocols and ensuring individualized healthcare.

53) Majja:
'Majja' refers to bone marrow and nervous tissue in Ayurveda, being one of the seven Dhatus. It plays a critical role in providing strength and vitality, linking the skeletal and nervous systems for overall body function.

54) Shukra (Sukra):
'Sukra' translates to 'semen' or reproductive fluid in Ayurveda and represents one of the primary Dhatus. It is significant for fertility, vitality, and reproductive health, emphasizing the importance of balance for reproductive functions.

55) Yogya:
'Yogya' means 'suitable' or 'appropriate' in Ayurveda. It pertains to the compatibility of medications, dietary choices, and treatments based on individual constitutions and conditions, inferring a personalized approach to health.

56) Sugar:
'Sugar' is a sweet substance used in many culinary and medicinal preparations. In Ayurveda, the type and quantity of sugar may affect digestion and health, highlighting the importance of balancing its use according to dosha.

57) Katu:
'Katu' translates to 'pungent' and represents one of the six tastes in Ayurveda. Pungent tastes stimulate digestion and metabolism, possessing warming qualities, thus influencing dietary selections and therapeutic formulations.

58) Nadi (Nadin):
'Nadi' means 'channel' or 'river' and pertains to the energetic pathways in the body. It symbolizes the circulation of prana (life force) and is a critical concept for understanding vitality and its impact on health and function.

59) Mala:
'Malas' signify waste products or by-products from metabolic processes in the body, such as urine and feces. In Ayurveda, the elimination of Malas is vital for maintaining health, as proper waste management prevents disease.

60) Milk:
'Milk' is considered a nourishing food in Ayurveda that promotes strength and vitality. It embodies various health benefits and is often used in formulations, reflecting its importance in dietary recommendations and holistic health.

61) Pur:
'Poor' signifies a lack of quality or effectiveness, especially in health or treatment contexts. In Ayurveda, understanding the factors contributing to poor health informs practitioners in diagnosing and formulating suitable treatments to restore balance.

62) Soil:
'Soil' symbolizes the foundation of life, echoing the cyclical and nurturing principles found in Ayurveda. It represents the connection between nature and health, reinforcing the importance of natural elements in nurturing wellness.

63) Matra-basti:
'Matra-basti' is a specific type of enema in Ayurveda designed for targeted therapeutic effects. Administration of Matra-basti involves precise measurements to promote balance and cleanse the body, exemplifying the detailed nature of Ayurvedic treatment practices.

64) Measurement:
'Measurement' is the process of quantifying substances in Ayurveda, crucial for dosage formulations and ensuring safety. Accurate measurement underpins effective treatments, highlighting the need for precision in preparing and administering Ayurvedic medicines.

65) Makshika (Maksika):
'Makshika' refers to a natural substance derived from bees, similar to honey or wax, with various medicinal properties. It is used in formulations for its health benefits and therapeutic applications, highlighting the diversity of sources in Ayurveda.

66) Prabhava:
'Prabhava' describes the unique effects or potency of a herbal drug in Ayurveda, emphasizing that different substances can have varying impacts beyond their basic properties. Understanding Prabhava is critical for determining appropriate use in treatments.

67) Madhyama:
'Madhyama' translates to 'intermediate' or 'medium.' In Ayurveda, it can refer to middle doses or balanced states, emphasizing the importance of moderation in treatments and dietary practices for maintaining health.

68) Rasayana (Rasa-ayana):
'Rasayana' denotes rejuvenative therapies in Ayurveda aimed at promoting longevity, vitality, and overall health. These treatments focus on nourishing and revitalizing the body, using specific herbs and practices to foster balance and rejuvenation.

69) Grahana:
'Grahana' refers to the process of ingestion or absorption of food and medicine in Ayurveda. It underscores the importance of understanding how the body processes various substances for effective health management.

70) Sandhi (Shandhi, Samdhi):
'Sandhi' signifies a joining or connection, whether between bodily parts or concepts in Ayurveda. It illustrates the holistic nature of health, emphasizing how different aspects of the body and mind work together for overall well-being.

71) Siddhi:
'Siddhi' refers to the successful outcome of a therapeutic process in Ayurveda, indicating the achievement of desired results. It is crucial for assessing the efficacy of treatments and understanding the journey towards health.

72) Kshara (Ksara):
'Kshara' refers to alkaline substances in Ayurveda that aid in various treatments. They can have therapeutic effects on digestion and wound healing, reflecting the diverse applications of natural substances in traditional medicine.

73) Vaidya:
'Vaidya' means 'physician' in Ayurveda. The Vaidya is responsible for diagnosing and treating patients, embodying expertise in utilizing Ayurvedic knowledge and therapies for health restoration and maintenance.

74) Lakuca:
'Lakuca' refers to specific medicinal plants used in Ayurveda. Their identification and application in formulations illustrate the extensive use of botanical sources to achieve therapeutic outcomes.

75) Dipana:
'Dipana' signifies stimulating digestion and metabolism in Ayurveda. It's a key concept in health, emphasizing the importance of digestive fire (Agni) for overall well-being.

[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 251]

Other Science Concepts:

[back to top]

Discover the significance of concepts within the article: �Critical review on sarangadhra samhita�. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:

Dhatu, Tridosha, Kalpana, Nadipariksha, Shadrasa, Natural element, Pharmaceutical preparation, Sneha Kalpana, Traditional systems of medicine, Vamana Vidhi, Sarangadhara Samhita, Ayurveda philosophy, Avaleha Kalpana, Panchvidha Kashaya Kalpana, Basti Vidhi.

Concepts being referred in other categories, contexts and sources.

Uttarakhanda, Sanskrit commentaries.

Let's grow together!

I humbly request your help to keep doing what I do best: provide the world with unbiased sources, definitions and images. Your donation direclty influences the quality and quantity of knowledge, wisdom and spiritual insight the world is exposed to.

Let's make the world a better place together!

Like what you read? Help to become even better: