Significance of Bile
Bile is described in various contexts as a significant bodily fluid. In Purana, it relates to the term mayuh linked to health, while Mahayana identifies it as a digestive fluid produced by the liver. Theravada views bile as a component aiding digestion, and historically, in Indian traditions, it is recognized as one of the three humors or doshas in Ayurveda. Bile is also associated with chyle pigmentation and its position between the intestine and stomach is noted.
Synonyms: Gall, Bile salts, Bile acid, Digestive fluid, Digestive juice
In Finnish: Sappi; In Dutch: Gal; In Spanish: Bilis
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Bile'
In Buddhism, Bile is interpreted as a physical element linked to digestion, representing both a bodily fluid produced by the liver and a vital component that supports the body's digestive process.
From: Visuddhimagga (the pah of purification)
(1) The fluid component that soaks the body and aids in digestion.[1]
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) A digestive fluid produced by the liver, listed as one of the physical aspects of the body.[2]
Hindu concept of 'Bile'
In Hinduism, Bile, referred to as mayuh, signifies a vital substance linked to health, emphasizing its importance in maintaining physical well-being and balance within the body as per traditional beliefs.
From: Hayanaratna: The Jewel of Annual Astrology
(1) This word is used in the context of health and humors, which is a consideration when analyzing the sixth house, and is used to describe a specific type of imbalance.[3]
The concept of Bile in local and regional sources
Bile is associated with chyle pigmentation and is positioned between the intestine and stomach. It is also recognized as a humor or dosha in Ayurveda and Greco-Roman traditions, existing in variations like yellow and black.
From: History of Science in South Asia
(1) Bile is described as a morbific factor whose pacification takes place in winter, according to the text provided.[4] (2) Bile is a humour that is listed in the context of bodily fluids, and is explicitly stated that bile can be vomited, as occurs with gastric juices or expectorated mucus in cases of illness.[5] (3) The text mentions "bile" as one of the three humors/doshas, which is a concept in early Ayurveda and the Greco-Roman system, with the potential for different types like yellow and black.[6] (4) Bile is linked to the pigmentation of chyle and is described as being situated between the intestine and the stomach, according to the provided text.[7]