Vaidyavallabha: An Authoritative Work on Ayurveda Therapeutics
Journal name: Ancient Science of Life
Original article title: Vaidyavallabha: An Authoritative Work on Ayurveda Therapeutics
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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Arhanth Kumar Jain, Shreevathsa Manjunath
Ancient Science of Life:
(A quarterly multi-disciplinary scientific research journal in Ayurveda)
Full text available for: Vaidyavallabha: An Authoritative Work on Ayurveda Therapeutics
Year: 2016
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA
Summary of article contents:
Introduction
The text �Vaidyavallabha,� authored by Hastiruci, a Jain scholar, represents a significant contribution to Ayurvedic therapeutics between 1673 and 1726 CE. It encompasses various physical and mental ailments along with their treatments, articulated through 274 verses over eight chapters. The work emphasizes unique medicinal preparations that utilize locally available drugs, highlighting its practical application within the context of its time. Although concise, “Vaidyavallabha� is invaluable to the field of Ayurveda, particularly regarding disease management and therapeutic approaches.
Emphasis on Simple and Accessible Treatments
One of the notable features of “Vaidyavallabha� is its focus on simple and easily accessible treatments. The text prioritizes direct methods of narration, aiming at making Ayurvedic concepts comprehensible to practitioners and patients alike. For instance, it presents specific formulations for a variety of conditions, including unique therapies for ailments such as fever, gynaecological disturbances, and even conditions caused by toxins and poisons. The text details formulations that utilize common local resources, emphasizing the practicality and effectiveness of treatments. This alignment with the socio-economic and cultural context of the period underscores the adaptability of Ayurvedic practices to meet the healthcare needs of the time.
Conclusion
“Vaidyavallabha� stands out as an authoritative and essential work in the canon of Ayurveda, characterized by its emphasis on practical and straightforward therapeutic solutions. By detailing effective and simple formulations designed to treat a myriad of diseases, it reinforces the significance of Ayurveda as a holistic healthcare system. Its enduring relevance, demonstrated through the availability of various manuscripts, illustrates the text's impact on the practice of Ayurveda and its foundational role in understanding and treating health issues within its historical context.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is the focus of the text 'Vaidyavallabha'?
'Vaidyavallabha' is an authoritative Ayurvedic work that focuses on therapeutics, addressing various physical and mental ailments with unique treatments across eight chapters and 274 verses.
Who authored 'Vaidyavallabha' and during what time period?
The text was authored by Hastiruci, a Jain scholar, approximately between 1673 and 1726 CE, based on both internal and external historical evidence.
What is notable about the treatments described in 'Vaidyavallabha'?
The text emphasizes simple, effective, and locally available medicinal preparations for various diseases and innovative methods for naming diseases, enhancing its significance in Ayurvedic practice.
What are some unique diseases mentioned in 'Vaidyavallabha'?
Unique diseases described include Velā jvara (periodic fever), Mala vṛddhi (intestinal hernia), and Mukha śoṣa (dryness of mouth), showcasing the text's comprehensive approach to various health conditions.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Vaidyavallabha: An Authoritative Work on Ayurveda Therapeutics�. 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) Vaidyavallabha:
Vaidyavallabha is an authoritative text in Ayurveda written by Hastiruci during the 17th century. It encompasses a range of Ayurvedic therapeutic practices in its 274 verses across eight chapters, focusing on unique medicinal formulations, treatments for various diseases, and showcasing local herbs and remedies relevant to its time.
2) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is a traditional Indian system of medicine that emphasizes balance in the body's energies through diet, herbal treatment, and yoga. Its practices are documented in ancient texts, and it focuses on holistic health, integrating physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. Vaidyavallabha is an important contribution to this science.
3) Hastiruci:
Hastiruci was a Jain scholar and author of Vaidyavallabha, who contributed significantly to the field of Ayurveda. Active between the late 17th and early 18th centuries, his work represents the synergy of traditional Ayurvedic knowledge with the socio-cultural context of his time, highlighting locally available remedies.
4) Drug:
Within the context of Vaidyavallabha, the term 'drug' refers to various medicinal substances derived from plants, minerals, or animals used in Ayurvedic treatments. The text emphasizes the use of locally available drugs, making them accessible for common ailments, thereby enhancing its practical applicability in daily life.
5) Roga:
Roga is a Sanskrit term meaning 'disease' or 'disorder.' In Ayurveda, understanding the nature of Rogas is crucial for diagnosis and treatment. Vaidyavallabha outlines numerous Rogas, explaining their symptoms, causes, and treatments, thus enriching the Ayurvedic pathophysiological framework.
6) Samhita:
Samhita refers to an ancient compilation or collection of texts encompassing knowledge in various fields, including medicine. In Ayurveda, Samhitas like Vaidyavallabha serve as foundational texts that compile extensive medicinal knowledge, therapeutic practices, and philosophical insights related to health and disease.
7) Donkey:
In Vaidyavallabha, donkey-related references are associated with medicinal concepts, highlighting the traditional use of donkey’s milk and dung in various therapies. These animal products were considered to have unique healing properties, showcasing the integration of local fauna into Ayurvedic practices.
8) Jvara:
Jvara means 'fever' in Ayurveda, which is considered a significant condition requiring careful treatment. Vaidyavallabha details the types of Jvara, its causes, and several therapeutic options, emphasizing the holistic approach in managing fevers through dietary changes and herbal medicines.
9) Yoga:
Yoga, within the Ayurvedic context, refers to exercises and practices aimed at physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. Although not the primary focus of Vaidyavallabha, it complements Ayurvedic treatment by promoting balance and health through physical discipline and mindfulness.
10) Milk:
Milk is viewed as a vital nourishing substance in Ayurveda, often used in various therapeutic formulations. Vaidyavallabha emphasizes the medicinal properties of different types of milk, including cow and donkey milk, as part of formulations aimed at improving health and managing ailments.
11) Sharman (Sarma, Sharma, Sarman):
Sharma likely refers to an author or commentator associated with Ayurveda or Vaidyavallabha, specifically noted for works that update or interpret ancient texts. Authors like Sharma play a crucial role in preserving and disseminating Ayurvedic knowledge across generations.
12) Vyasa (Vyasha):
Vyasa is a historic figure in Indian literature, traditionally attributed with the authorship of key texts, including the Mahabharata. In the context of Ayurveda, figures akin to Vyasa symbolize the transmission of knowledge and the scholarly tradition of compiling and interpreting medicinal texts.
13) Vata:
ղṭa denotes forest trees and is often linked to health principles in Ayurveda. Vaidyavallabha may illustrate the relationship between vegetation and medicinal formulations, underscoring nature's role in health.
14) Sage:
In the Ayurvedic tradition, a sage is a knowledgeable figure with profound wisdom in medicine and philosophy. Hastiruci, as a Jain scholar and sage, embodies this wisdom in his text, contributing to the depth of Ayurveda with his unique insights on health and therapeutics.
15) Kathiyavadi:
ٳ屹ḍi refers to a geographical and cultural region in Gujarat, India, where Hastiruci, the author of Vaidyavallabha, originated. The local flora and traditional practices from this region significantly influenced his writings, making them contextually relevant for local practitioners and patients.
16) Siddhanta (Siddha-anta, Siddhamta):
Siddhanta denotes established principles or doctrines. In Ayurveda, it refers to foundational concepts guiding medical practice and philosophy. Vaidyavallabha incorporates various Siddhantas, showcasing traditional methodologies while addressing common diseases and promoting holistic health approaches.
17) Mrigiroga (Mrgiroga, Mrigi-roga):
ṛgī-Dz refers to epilepsy or seizures in Ayurveda. Vaidyavallabha provides insights into its causes, symptoms, and treatments, emphasizing the unique formulations available for managing this condition. Understanding ṛgī-Dz is critical for Ayurveda practitioners to offer effective therapeutic solutions.
18) Ahiphena (Ahi-phena):
Ahiphena, or opium, is a potent substance discussed in Vaidyavallabha for its medicinal uses and potential toxicity. The text outlines treatments for its adverse effects, reflecting Ayurveda's nuanced approach to both conventional and controversial substances, promoting safety in medicinal practices.
19) Epilepsy:
Epilepsy is a neurological condition characterized by recurrent seizures. Within the Ayurvedic framework presented in Vaidyavallabha, epilepsy (ṛgī-Dz) is discussed comprehensively, with various herbal formulations and lifestyle recommendations aimed at balancing the body's doshas and mitigating seizure activity.
20) Leprosy:
Leprosy is a chronic infectious disease that primarily affects the skin and nerves. Vaidyavallabha addresses therapeutic options for Leprosy (ṣṭ), emphasizing the use of local and accessible herbs in its management, showcasing Ayurveda's holistic view of treatment.
21) Kababa:
, noted in Vaidyavallabha, refers to a specific plant or herb used in preparations. The text's details on illustrate Ayurveda's reliance on diverse botanicals for therapeutic purposes, promoting effective remedies that are often region-specific and culturally informed.
22) Mukha:
Mukha means 'mouth' in Sanskrit and is frequently referenced in Ayurvedic texts concerning oral health. Vaidyavallabha provides formulations for various oral ailments, illustrating the importance of Mukha health in overall wellness and the integral role of oral care in Ayurvedic medicine.
23) Virya:
īⲹ refers to potency or strength, particularly in terms of medicines or treatments in Ayurveda. In Vaidyavallabha, īⲹ is emphasized in formulations aimed at enhancing energy levels and treating conditions related to deficiency, accentuating the text's focus on functional outcomes.
24) Dhupa:
ٳū貹 refers to fumigation or incense preparation used in Ayurvedic practices for purification and therapeutic effects. Vaidyavallabha describes unique ٳū貹 methods involving specific ingredients, reflecting Ayurveda's holistic view toward health, incorporating environmental and sensory factors into healing.
25) Arshas (Arsa, Arsas, Arsha):
ś refers to a singular instance of the same condition noted in Ayurveda. While related to hemorrhoids, the term's singular form provides specificity in discussions around treatment protocols for localized conditions, as seen in Vaidyavallabha's descriptions of methods for addressing this ailment.
26) Ricinus communis:
Ricinus communis, or castor oil plant, is mentioned in Vaidyavallabha for its therapeutic properties. This plant's oil is known for its purgative effects and is utilized in various Ayurvedic remedies, showcasing its importance in the therapeutic landscape of Ayurveda.
27) Yogacintamani (Yoga-cintamani):
۴Dz-Գ峾ṇi is a text authored by Ჹṣa Kīrti that is contemporaneous with Vaidyavallabha. It reflects similar medical philosophies and methodologies, thereby providing a broader understanding of early Ayurvedic practices and compounding techniques during their respective time periods.
28) Taruniranjana (Taruni-ranjana):
ղṇ�-ñᲹԲ refers to a specific Ayurvedic preparation involving fumigation, indicated for its believed properties in enhancing beauty and well-being. Its mention in Vaidyavallabha highlights the cultural practices of using sensory experiences as part of therapeutic routines in Ayurveda.
29) Allium sativum:
Allium sativum, or garlic, is recognized in Ayurvedic medicine for its health benefits. Vaidyavallabha discusses its uses in various formulations, emphasizing its role in promoting cardiovascular health and its anti-inflammatory properties, aligning with natural healing principles of Ayurveda.
30) Guhyasankoca (Guhya-sankoca, Guhyasamkoca, Guhya-samkoca):
ҳܳⲹ-ṅkdz refers to vaginal spasm, a condition outlined in Vaidyavallabha. The text provides approaches to managing this condition with herbs and therapies aimed at alleviating discomfort, emphasizing Ayurveda’s holistic approach to women’s health issues.
31) Meghabhatta (Megha-bhatta):
ѱ-ṭṭ is a scholar known for his commentary on Vaidyavallabha, contributing to the understanding and propagation of Ayurveda. Commentaries like his are essential for interpreting ancient texts and ensuring their relevance in contemporary medicinal practices among practitioners and scholars.
32) Bhramavata (Bhrama-vata):
-ٲ denotes vertigo or dizziness in Ayurveda. Celebrated in Vaidyavallabha, the condition is explored through the lens of dosha imbalances, with specific treatments recommended to restore balance and alleviate symptoms, demonstrating Ayurveda’s comprehensive diagnostic approach.
33) Mukhachaya (Mukha-chaya):
ѳܰ- signifies facial melanosis or discoloration of the face. Vaidyavallabha addresses this condition with specific formulations, reflecting Ayurveda’s detailed approach to skin health and aesthetics, integrating local knowledge for effective cosmetic treatments.
34) Kababacini (Kababa-cini):
-cīni refers to a specific herb or plant known for its therapeutic benefits mentioned in Vaidyavallabha. The incorporation of such herbs highlights the rich biodiversity utilized in Ayurveda, emphasizing the importance of locally sourced medicines in addressing various health issues.
35) Bhallataka:
ٲ첹, or Semecarpus anacardium, is a medicinal plant recognized in Vaidyavallabha for its applications in treating conditions such as hemorrhoids. The text details various ways to utilize this potent herb within therapeutic formulations, showcasing the traditional knowledge embedded in Ayurveda.
36) Cintamani (Cinta-mani, Cimtamani):
侱Գ峾ṇi refers to a jewel of wisdom or knowledge. In the context of Ayurveda, it symbolizes the invaluable insights and practices conveyed in texts like Vaidyavallabha, emphasizing knowledge's role in holistic health and well-being.
37) Virecana:
Virecana is a therapeutic purgation treatment in Ayurveda designed to eliminate excess doshas from the body. Vaidyavallabha elaborates on its application for various diseases, showcasing the importance of detoxification in maintaining health and treating ailments effectively.
38) Hitaruci:
Hitaruci was a significant scholar in the development of Ayurveda and is mentioned as a teacher of Hastiruci. His influence is observed through the interconnectedness of Ayurvedic texts, passing down knowledge across generations, enriching the field of traditional medicine.
39) Medicine:
Medicine pertains to the science and practice of diagnosing, treating, and preventing diseases. In the context of Vaidyavallabha, it consists of various Ayurvedic formulations, dietary recommendations, and therapeutic practices that illustrate the medicine's holistic nature embedded in traditional knowledge.
40) Samkoca (Sankoca, Shankoca):
ṅkdz denotes constriction or spasm. In Vaidyavallabha, it reflects conditions wherein there is restricted bodily function. The text outlines treatment strategies emphasizing relaxation techniques and herbal formulations to restore normal physiological activity and alleviate discomfort associated with ṅkdz.
41) Ranjana (Ramjana):
鲹ñᲹԲ signifies enhancement or beautification, particularly through therapeutic processes. Vaidyavallabha incorporates 鲹ñᲹԲ practices, investigating unique formulations that promote physical beauty, reflecting Ayurveda’s dual focus on health and aesthetics in its therapeutic repertoire.
42) Vertigo:
Vertigo describes a sensation of spinning or imbalance, often indicating an underlying health issue. Vaidyavallabha explores vertigo through the lens of dosha imbalances, offering herbal remedies and treatments designed to restore equilibrium and alleviate disorienting symptoms.
43) Science (Scientific):
Science in the context of Ayurveda refers to the systematic study and understanding of life and health. It involves the application of observation, experimentation, and analysis, especially evident in texts like Vaidyavallabha, which codify Ayurvedic principles and practices for effective healthcare.
44) Marica:
Ѳī, or black pepper, is a spice valued in Ayurveda for its numerous health benefits. Within Vaidyavallabha, Ѳī is recommended for various formulations, emphasizing its use in enhancing digestion, circulation, and more, reflecting Ayurveda's holistic dietary principles.
45) Taruni:
ղṇ� refers to a young or youthful aspect, often associated with health and vigor. In Vaidyavallabha, it may appear in formulations aimed at enhancing youthful qualities, representing Ayurveda's concerns with rejuvenation and overall well-being.
46) Eranda (Eramda):
ṇḍ, also known as castor oil, is highlighted for its medicinal properties in Vaidyavallabha. Recognized for its purgative effects, ṇḍ plays a crucial role in treating various imbalances, demonstrating Ayurveda’s pragmatic approach to employing effective herbal remedies for health restoration.
47) Lashuna (Lasuna):
śܲԲ, or garlic, is celebrated in Ayurveda for its numerous health benefits, including its ability to improve digestion and support cardiovascular health. In Vaidyavallabha, śܲԲ is utilized in specific formulations, showcasing traditional approaches to leverage common culinary ingredients for medicinal purposes.
48) Bhrama:
Bhrama signifies dizziness or confusion. In Vaidyavallabha, it is associated with Vāta imbalances. The text prescribes treatments to manage Bhrama, reflecting Ayurveda’s holistic approach that considers lifestyle adjustments, dietary modifications, and herbal remedies to alleviate symptoms and restore balance.
49) Kushtha (Kustha):
ṣṭ refers to skin diseases, primarily leprosy, in Ayurveda. Vaidyavallabha emphasizes various treatments for ṣṭ, focusing on both herbal remedies and dietary practices aimed at promoting skin health, reflecting the comprehensive nature of Ayurvedic dermatological care.
50) Shunthi (Sunthi, Sumthi, Shumthi):
Śṇṭ refers to ginger (Zingiber officinalis), a revered herb in Ayurveda noted for its benefits in digestion and anti-inflammatory effects. Vaidyavallabha includes Śṇṭ in various formulations, showcasing its pivotal role in Ayurvedic medicine and culinary practices.
51) Phala:
Phala translates to fruit, representing both nourishment and the results of therapeutic actions in Ayurveda. In Vaidyavallabha, discussions around Phala extend to the health benefits of various fruits, promoting their integral role within a balanced Ayurvedic diet.
52) Megha:
Megha signifies clouds and often symbolizes abundance or potential in literary texts. Though not a primary theme in Vaidyavallabha, its presence may hint at metaphors of nourishment and the holistic environment Ayurveda assesses for health maintenance.
53) Pitta:
Pitta is one of the three doshas in Ayurveda, signifying the fire element and responsible for metabolism and digestion. Vaidyavallabha addresses Pitta imbalances by outlining dietary sources and herbal treatments aimed at restoring equilibrium within the body.
54) Kshira (Ksira):
ṣīr refers to milk, acknowledged for its nourishing properties in Ayurveda. Vaidyavallabha discusses its applications in dietary practices and medicinal formulations, which leverage its goodness and pivotal role in restoring health and vitality.
55) Hastin (Hasti):
Hasti relates to elephants, often symbolizing strength and stability in Indian culture. While not a primary theme in Vaidyavallabha, the term may reflect Ayurveda's connection to significant cultural elements in terms of preserving strength and vitality in health practices.
56) Rakta:
Rakta refers to blood in Ayurveda, essential for life and health. Vaidyavallabha discusses treatments involving Rakta, emphasizing its importance in overall vitality and the management of conditions related to blood disorders.
57) Chaya:
indicates shadow or shade, potentially representing health conditions that manifest subtly or gradually. In the context of Vaidyavallabha, the term may relate to the nuanced understanding of health, treatments, and monitoring the body’s signs and symptoms.
58) Hingu (Himgu):
ᾱṅg refers to asafoetida, an ingredient celebrated in Ayurveda for its digestive properties. Vaidyavallabha includes ᾱṅg in therapeutic preparations, showcasing its relevance in managing gastrointestinal ailments and promoting digestive health.
59) Harsha (Harsa):
Ჹṣa denotes joy or happiness, often a byproduct of effective treatment. In Vaidyavallabha, managing emotional and mental health is paramount; thus, Ჹṣa reflects Ayurveda’s holistic approach to wellness that includes psychological aspects.
60) Shrava (Srava):
屹 signifies discharge or flow, often discussing bodily fluids in pathology. Vaidyavallabha notes conditions involving 屹, emphasizing the need for treatment protocols that address both physical symptoms and underlying causes effectively.
61) Snuhi:
Snuhi refers to the medicinal plant Euphorbia neriifolia, recognized for its therapeutic properties. Vaidyavallabha details its use in various formulations, demonstrating the significance of indigenous plants in Ayurvedic practices and their applications for curing specific ailments.
62) Paka:
첹 translates to cooking or preparation, often relating to how medicines or foods are prepared. In Vaidyavallabha, 첹 encompasses the nuances of cooking therapies and their impact on health, emphasizing the importance of proper preparation in Ayurvedic treatment.
63) Naga (Nag):
岵, possibly representing a snake, often symbolizes medicinal properties in Ayurveda. In Vaidyavallabha, the mention of 岵 aligns with various treatments and formulations linked to ancient beliefs about animal derivatives and their health benefits.
64) Krimi (Krmi):
ṛm refers to worms or parasites, frequently discussed in Ayurvedic literature concerning digestive disorders. Vaidyavallabha outlines various formulations to combat ṛm infestations, promoting herbal remedies as effective treatments for maintaining digestive health.
65) Curd:
Curd, or yogurt, is esteemed in Ayurveda for its probiotic properties that support gut health. Vaidyavallabha notes its benefits in various formulations, reinforcing the significance of fermented foods in promoting digestion and overall well-being.
66) Worm:
Worm refers to the parasites that can infest the gastrointestinal tract, posing health risks. Vaidyavallabha addresses treatment strategies for managing worm infestations, showcasing Ayurveda's integrative approach to addressing such conditions and enhancing patient health.
67) Tinospora cordifolia:
Tinospora cordifolia, known as Guduchi, is highlighted in Vaidyavallabha for its immunomodulatory properties. This herb is considered valuable in enhancing general health, reflecting Ayurveda's emphasis on using natural compounds for disease prevention and treatment.
68) Emblica officinalis:
Emblica officinalis, or Amla, is revered in Ayurveda for its rich vitamin C content and antioxidant properties. Vaidyavallabha emphasizes Amla's role in enhancing health, showcasing its versatility in various formulations aimed at promoting longevity and vitality.
69) Azadirachta indica:
Azadirachta indica, commonly known as neem, is noted in Vaidyavallabha for its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. Recognized for its wide applications in treating skin conditions and detoxifying the body, neem embodies Ayurveda's holistic treatment philosophies.
70) Terminalia chebula:
Terminalia chebula, or Haritaki, is mentioned in Vaidyavallabha for its digestive health benefits. This fruit is cited as a natural remedy for gut issues, reflecting Ayurveda's comprehensive insights on promoting balance through herbal interventions.
71) Mangifera indica:
Mangifera indica, or mango, is a culturally significant fruit in Ayurveda. Vaidyavallabha may discuss its culinary uses and health benefits, exemplifying Ayurveda’s appreciation for the role of food in supporting health and nutrition.
72) Acacia catechu:
Acacia catechu, or khair, is acknowledged in Vaidyavallabha for its applications in treating skin and inflammatory conditions. This tree's extracts demonstrate Ayurveda's integrative use of flora for various medicinal purposes, enhancing the understanding of plant-based therapies.
73) Croton tiglium:
Croton tiglium, referenced in Vaidyavallabha for its potential therapeutic applications, highlights Ayurveda’s use of diverse plants. While known for its toxicity, its judicious use under expert guidance illustrates the depth of Ayurvedic knowledge on balancing efficacy and safety in treatments.
74) Piper longum:
Piper longum, or long pepper, is valued in Ayurveda for its warming properties and ability to enhance digestion. Vaidyavallabha includes it in various formulations, reflecting the importance of spices in supporting overall health and therapeutic efficacy.
75) Cow milk (Cow's milk):
Cow milk is perceived as a vital ingredient in Ayurveda, recognized for its nutritional value. In Vaidyavallabha, cow milk is prescribed in many therapeutic formulations, exemplifying the foundational role of dairy in Ayurvedic dietary practices.
[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 281]
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