Influence of Nyaya-Vaisesika on Ayurveda
by Sindhu K. K. | 2011 | 38,473 words
This study researches the influence of Nyaya and Vaisheshika on Ayurveda.—The Nyaya system of Indian philosophy is closely linked with Vaisheshika, forming a logical and realistic philosophy essential for understanding various branches of Indian science, including Ayurveda (the ancient Indian science of life). The text explores the historical devel...
8. Karma (Action) in Ayurveda
According to Caraka Karma (action) is the response (movement) originated from volition. Thus essentially it is biological response. Action in Caraka is Cestita (i.e., activities of 229
living beings) where effort (prayatna) stands as its very cause. 91 Cakrapani mentions of some who explain action to be the cause of effort. He also notes that though effort is narrated to be the cause of action, the term prayatna is used in Ayurveda as a synonym of karma. On another occasion i.e., to explain the Caraka verse (sutra 1.52) "samyoge ca vibhage ca karanadravyanasritam kartavyasya kriya karmakarma nanyadapeksate | | " Cakrapani says in this verse, karma is defined. Karma is the causative factor in conjunction and disjunction and does not require another factor (for the initiation or performance)." This is evidently on the definition given in the Vaisesika philosophy. Prasastapada has further elaborated it. 93 230