Charaka Samhita Research Articles

A Critical Analysis on ‘Theory of Knowledge’ (Epistemology) of Charaka Samhita and its Importance in Clinical Medicine

A Critical Analysis on ‘Theory of Knowledge’ (Epistemology) of Charaka Samhita and its Importance in Clinical Medicine

Preliminary analytical study of Bhallatakadi kshara (herbomineral preparation)

ABSTRACT Introduction: Bhallatakadi kshara is described in Charaka samhita Grahani chikista adhyaya. Bhallatakadi kshara consists of ten ingredients and is indicated in Hridaroga, (~disease of heart), Pandu (~pallor/anemia), Grahanidosha (~diseases due to malfunctioning of gastrointestinal tract dealing with digestion), Gulma (~a type of lump), Udavarta (~upward movement of Vayu with retention of stool and urine), and Shula (colicky pain in the abdomen). Objective: The objective of the study is to develop analytical standards for Bhallatakadi kshara by preparing and testing three different batches using the same method of preparation. Materials and Methods: Bhallatakadi kshara is prepared by putapaka (~heating of herbomineral preparation covered in various substances at a desired temperature) method. It is subjected to physicochemical analysis, scanning electron microscopy, Energy Dispersive X-Ray Spectroscopy (EDAX), and Wavelength Dispersive X-Ray Fluorescence (WD-XRF). Results: In the WD-XRF study, major contents are Cl (76.929%) and Na (16.952%), and minor are (K 2.0%), S (1.693%), Ca (0.581%), Si (0.543%), P (0.288%), Mg (0.353%), and Fe (0.213%). Conclusion: By using the same method of preparation, the three different batches of Bhallatakadi kshara were showing particle size and other parameters very close to each other. The average particle size of Bhallatakadi kshara is found to be 33.67 mm (volumetric median diameter) and 9.01 mm (Sauter mean diameter) and contains activated carbon and other elements such as Cl, Na, K, and Mg.

A Comprehensive Review of Pippali (Piper Longum Linn.) in Brihadtrayee.

Background:Piper longum linn is one of the important medicinal plant of the family piperaceae. It is highly valued from time immemorial because of its vast medicinal properties. Material & method:Detailed review with special references to various Yogaof Pippali single as well as formulations, its indication, Kalpana, Rogadhikarawere compiled from Bruhadtrayilike Charak samhita, Sushrutasamhita& Astanghriday. Various synonyms, its Rasapanchaka, Rogghntawere reviewed from all Nighantuavailable in digital format. Result: All compiled data has been presented in tabular form. The result has been mentioned with special reference to formulations, Kalpana, indications, internal or external Yogaetc. Conclusion: After reviewing all the data it is found that Pippaliis widely used as single drug as well as an ingredient of various formulations. In formulations it may be used in the form of Trikatuor Panchkolaor single herb as bioenhancer or to potentiate the effect of formulations and to make more penetrate and easily digestible formulations.The present article provides its detailed review from Bruhadtraiwith special reference to its various formulations, Kalpana, its use as internal or external, indication etc. Findings of this review may help academicians and researchers as already reference.

A Preliminary Pharmacognostical and Physicochemical Evaluation of Darvyadi Lauha Tablet – a Herbomineral Formulation for Pandu (Anemia)

Background: Ayurveda has a holistic aim to keep mankind healthy. Due to the growing acceptance of herbal drugs worldwide, it is important to provide data on quality, safety, and efficacy. Ayurveda prescribes metals, minerals, and herbomineral formulations under the heading of Rasa Shastra in addition to herbal medicines only. Manufacturing procedures for these formulations are rigorous and adverse reactions are possible if not performed properly. Here, an attempt has been made to set preliminary pharmacognostical and pharmaceutical parameters along with high-performance thin-layer chromatography (HPTLC) of one of the herbomineral formulations named Darvyadi Lauha, mentioned in Charak Samhita for the treatment of Pandu (anemia) and Kamala (jaundice). Aim and Objective: This study aimed to evaluate and establish the pharmacognostical and physicochemical parameters of Darvyadi Lauha tablet. Materials and Methods: Preauthenticated raw drugs were procured and Darvyadi Lauha was prepared at pharmacy, ITRA, Jamnagar. Organoleptic parameters and microscopic analysis of the tablet were done at Pharmacognosy Department, ITRA, Jamnagar. Physicochemical analysis of tablet and HPTLC were done at Pharmaceutical Laboratory, ITRA, Jamnagar. Results: Microscopic features of Darvyadi Lauha were cross-checked with ayurvedic pharmacopoeia of India (API) standards of individual ingredients and it was found all characteristics remain intact. In physicochemical parameters, the pH value was 6, water-soluble extract was 22.27% w/w, alcohol-soluble extract was 22.46% w/w, ash value was 11.057% w/w, and loss on drying (LOD) was 2.028%w/w, HPTLC at 254 nm and at 366 nm showed six spots in each. Conclusion: This study generated preliminary data on organoleptic parameters, microscopic evaluation, and physicochemical parameters such as pH, water-soluble extract, alcohol-soluble extract, ash value, LOD, and HPTLC of Darvyadi Lauha tablet. These fingerprinting can be useful for future researchers to reproduce this formulation, as till date, quality control parameters of Darvyadi Lauha are not available in API or not available in the public domain.

Gynaecology and Obstetrics in Charaka Samhita

It is accepted that, Ayurveda is the ancient system of medicine which is rich enough to guide the society in different aspects of health. The system is rich with the measures for prevention of the diseases and also with the description of medicines, diets and behaviours for treatment of different ailments. Charaka Samhita written by Charaka is the basic classic of the Ayurvedic system of medicine. Charaka Samhita, though deals with Kayachikitsa (Medicine), then also not left the other branches. Charaka has includes Obstetrics and Gynaecology also in his Samhita elaborately. Knowledge of Gynaecology and Obstetrics (Prasuti Tantra and Stree Roga) is available in Charaka Samhita in different references. The descriptions are containing some salient features which are seemed to be important and informative even in present time

IMPORTANCE OF GUGGUL IN MANAGEMENT OF GALGAND (HYPOTHYROIDISM)

Galgand (Hypothyroidism) is according to Shabdkal-Padrum, the Gand or Sphotak (growth) occuring in Galpradesh is called galgand (Hypothyroidism).Goiter is one of the manspradoshaja disorders. The charaka samhita has classified Galgand under Various types of Kaphavikars, according to Acharya charaka, when the profuse kapha dosha is present in the outer region of the throat. It causes chronic inflammation, which is called goiter.

Some Less Known Medicinal Plants of Haryana

Plants of medicinal importance have been the life saviours of the human race before the discovery of modern medicines. The use of plants as a source of medicine has been recorded from a 60000-year old grave. With the establishment of AYUSH, the Indian government is working to elevate herbal medicine to mainstream medicine. The Indian government is currently working hard to increase the use of plants as medicines. Plants are an easily available resource for natives and the poor for treating various diseases. Therefore, the aim of the present review is to understand the knowledge of medicinal plants as a future source of herbal drugs, to find various plants useful as medicinal plants in Haryana, and to create a catalogue of all medicinal plants present in Haryana as found by various researchers. About 700 plants were described in the Charaka Samhita and Sushruta Samhita during the 1st millennium BC. Haryana is a state in northern India, neighbouring Delhi. The study was conducted to enlist the various plants of medicinal importance in Haryana. Various studies have been conducted in Haryana to enlighten the various medicinal plants found in Haryana, but these studies only cover medicinal plants in 10 out of 22 districts of Haryana, which is less than one-fourth. There is huge potential for finding numerous local medicinal species in Haryana which may treat numerous underlying diseases. Various medicinal plants have been enlisted which are found by local communities as having immense benefits as medicines that are being used by local communities numerous times. This knowledge is found through continuous hit and trial by generations of communities and has got immense knowledge about various medicinal plants, but this knowledge is getting lost due to incomparability in cataloguing the knowledge present in these communities, such as the Sapera community.

Evaluation of effect of Suvarnprashanadi Kalpa on Vyadhikshamatva of infants aged 0-12 months - A Pilot study

Ayurveda is a science of life and Kaumarbhritya is an essential branch of Ashtanga Ayurveda that relates with child. Infant is early phase of life staring from birth to 12 months, has low immunity. Vaccines are meant for specific immunity but lacking the protection against various pathogens through nonspecific immunity. Ayurveda classics i.e., Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, Kashayapa Samhita has proposed some interventions to deal with infantile immunity. The present study is aimed at infant’s wellbeing and number of major and minor infections through infantile period. This pilot study showed no major infections, no adverse effects of medicines in infant.

A Study on Marketing Strategies and SWOC Analysis of Himalaya Wellness Private Ltd

Purpose: Ayurveda is a traditional natural and holistic medical system that was transmitted orally through a lineage of sages. It is thought of as the study of life. It offers information on eradicating the paths that lead to the spread of diseases as well as how to prevent infections altogether. The Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, and Ashtanga Hrudaya are the three oldest texts on Ayurveda. They describe the effects of five elements—earth, water, air, fire, and space—on a person's system and emphasise the significance of maintaining these elements' balance so that people can live healthy and happy life. Numerous businesses produce ayurvedic goods. One of the ayurvedic businesses, The Himalaya Company, was established in 1930 by Mr. M. Mrunal to modernise the ancient Indian science of Ayurveda and introduce it to the public. The researcher concentrated on presenting the Himalaya Company's advantages, disadvantages, opportunities, and challenges, the various wellness products the company produces, the marketing tactics employed, and the company's marketing mix. Methodology: This qualitative research paper is based on secondary data which is obtained from the research papers published in various journals, books, newspapers, articles, annual reports of the company, and articles related to this study. Findings: One of the company's key strengths is the name Himalaya. One of the top 10 ayurvedic businesses in India is Himalaya. A Good Manufacturing Certificate was received (GMP). When making the items, the company uses the Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry method. In order to address the growing demand for ayurvedic items, the company teamed up with Snapdeal. Additionally, they started the My Lakshya campaign, the main objective of which is to bridge the gap between their current and ideal careers. Originality: This article discusses the numerous wellness products made by Himalaya Company, the SWOC study of the company, its marketing techniques, and its overall marketing mix. Value: The study investigated if the company is strong enough in terms of quality by analysing the strengths, flaws, opportunities, and challenges. Paper Type: Case Study of the Company.

Ayurvedic Review of Post Covid Anxiety Disorder w.s.r to Chittodvega

The post-COVID-19 situation occurs in people with a record of probably or showed SARS-CoV-2 infection, usually, three months from the onset of COVID-19 with signs that last for at least 2 months and it is not always explained by an alternative diagnosis. The global community is concerned about Post Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) complications and their impact on mental health. It is going to impact various spheres of life such as the economy, industries, worldwide market, human health, health care etc. It has also induced impairments in work and social functioning which leads to the elevation of mental disorders like stress, anxiety and depression among well-being. Objective: Since anxiety is not described specifically in Ayurveda but is only found as a symptomatic description, this article attempt to study the disease Post COVID Anxiety disorder and its symptomatology and pathogenesis (Samprapti) in Ayurveda. Data source: Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, Vagabhata Samhita and modern medical textbooks, scientific journals and online databases. Review Methods: The classical textbooks and modern textbooks and various scientific journals and other databases were reviewed manually. Results: Post Covid complications of anxiety can cause serious mental health issues, and has a huge impact on societies. Conclusion: The study intends to study the causes of mental health disorders (Chittodvega) in post covid patients.

Poison as Discussed by Susruta, The Father of Surgery

Poisons are the substances that, after coming to contact with the body either internally or externally, cause deleterious effect. Poisoning is the situation when an individual comes to the contact with a poison and the development of signs and symptoms occurs. Management of poisoning is vividly discussed in the branch of Modern medicine “Toxicology”. The context of the substances that can be closely compared with “poison” and “poisoning” is the concept of “BISHA”and “BISHAPITA” of the Ayurvedic classics. Bisha is discussed by the great Indian Ayurvedic scholar, the father of Indian medicine, “Charaka”in the famous book “Charaka Samhita” Chikitsasthana 23rd chapter and also by the father of Indian Surgery “Susruta” in “Susruta Samhita” Kalpasthana 8 chapters . Both the scholars have given almost same concepts on poison (Bisha) and poisoning (Bishapidita). But, even with close similarity of concepts, the description of Susruta is seemed to be more elaborate and informative hence throwing light on his concepts is considered to be more beneficial and informative.

A Concept of Aahar in Ayurveda for Eye Nourishment

Eyes are the most important sense organ in the human body. What we perceive comes through our sense of sight only. By protecting our eyes, we will reduce the eye diseases. The eyes are the window to the body. They are the only place where our blood vessels can be viewed in their natural state without a surgical procedure. With this visual inspection of the blood supply, optometrists can stop many health conditions just by taking a place into your eyes. In Ayurveda, Netra are considered as site of Alochaka pitta. Pachaka pitta due to its strength, obliges all other types of Pitta by nourishing them. It is must to keep the status of Pachak pitta in proper balance to keep Alochaka pitta healthy. For this the diet should be taken light, easily digestible and following all principles of diet intake. The concept of balanced diet was also mentioned in Charak Samhita, the things which are always conducive for health and should be consumed regularly for the maintenance of health. Food has been given the prime importance since Vedic period. It is one among the three sub-pillars supporting life. Aahara (diet) plays major role in keeping eyes healthy. Virudha Aahara (incompatible foods) may leads to poor vision or even blindness. Clinical conditions which may occur due to faulty lifestyle are Diabetic Retinopathy, age related macular degeneration, Computer Vision Syndrome etc. For preventing these types of eye diseases and for maintaining ocular health much has been described in Ayurvedic Samhitas, in the form of Ritucharya, Sadvritta, Chakshushya Rasayana. The food products and dietary habits regarding proper eye health will be in explained in paper.

Ashmari in Brhat-Trayi: A Critical Review of Literature

Ashmari has been known to humanity since the dawn of time and is one of the Mutravaha Srotas' most common diseases. Ashmari is mentioned in almost all Ayurvedic Samhitaas, but "Father of Surgery" acharya Sushruta describes Ashmari in the most scientific way possible, including its etiopathogenesis, categorization, symptomatology, complications, and management. Urolithiasis, the third most frequent urinary tract disease after UTI and BPH, can be linked to Ashmari. Stone development is a symptom of Ashmari disease, which is a painful condition. As a result, it is considered one of the fatal ailments that are "Ashtamahagada". There are very few research articles available on this disease explaining the comprehensive review of classical texts. As the disease Ashmari is of prime importance for humans so many authors have tried to write and compile the references or information available in classical texts but there is not any single article that not only compiles the textual references but also explains its appropriate modern counterpart. So the primary objective of this study is to review all the literature related to Ashmari in Brhat-Trayi and compile it in a single place for gaining comprehensive knowledge and used it for easy referencing for conducting further research. Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, and Ashtanga Hridayam along with classical commentaries, e-books, and research articles were reviewed critically in detail to collect literature regarding Ashmari. In this review, a few newer correlations are also included by the author. As this review also includes medicinal management, where a vast number of drugs are told by Acharyas so there may be a possibility of further research by finding or proving the antiurolithic or lithotriptic activity of several medicines. It will be the greatest achievement in the field of urology if we can prevent its reoccurrence and reduces the need for surgical management. There is a need for novel research to evolve an effective treatment that is curative as well as preventive.

Multidimensional Planning for Health In Ayurveda and Scope of Swasthasyorjaskar Chikitsa

The health is described in Charak Samhita under different titles along with its process to attain the health i.e., Arogyata, Sukha & Sukhayu, immune person etc. Rasayana & Vajikarana are the branches among the eight branches of Ayurveda and its result is shown as Swasthasyorjaskarah which are directly related to health promotion. A specific concept is also mentioned in Charak Samhita about absolute health is known as Naishthiki Chikitsa. The term Swasthasyorjskar Chikitsa is the Urjaskar therapy for Swastha Person. A medically fit (Arogya) person who achieve well being (Sukhayu) by following its tools and educative measures, should seek for promoted status of excellence of health or health plus. For this Swasthasyorjskar chikitsa is prescribed. When a person achieve maintenance of excellent status of health then only he can aspire for the absolute health status i.e. Nihshesh dukhnivritti through Yoga and Naishthiki chikitsa. Hence in Charak Samhita there is prescribed the provision of Swathasyorjaskar Chikitsa for healthy one also.

Evidence of practice of Nutraceuticals/ Functional foods in our daily life described in Ayurveda

Ayurveda Scholars has considered food (Ahara) as an important pillar for development, sustenance of a healthy life and longevity. Considering the importance of food in health and disease.Charak has mentioned that the health or state of disease depends on rationale use of food. Food has been also considered as an etiological factor of several disorder as well as management and prevention of diseases. Ayurveda has given the comprehensive classification of food that are described in respect of their rasa(taste), vīrya(potency), vipāka (taste after digestion) and prabhāva (special actions) under the chapter Annapana Vidhi Adhyaya of Charak Samhita e.g. corn with spike/awn, corn with pods/legumes, pulses, meat, leaf, fruits, greens, leafy vegetables, wine, water, milk, products of sugar cane juice. In the mid of 1980s the term ‘functional food’ was coined in Japan to refer the food substances which have additional special health benefits. Spices and condiments which are commonly used in every kitchen on regular basis during different cooking preparations such as turmeric, ginger, garlic, onion, coriander, cinnamon, cumin, clove, fennel, barley, Indian gooseberry, tulsi, aloe vera etc. has been described in Ayurveda thousands year back with their special health benefits. In India there are number of traditional products used as functional food but needs more scientific validation, it could be a research opportunity in nutrition to explore the relation between certain diseases and these food components.Functional foods provide great potential for prevention of several chronic diseases, when consumed in balanced proportion in food preparations with a healthy lifestyle.

A comparative clinical trial to evaluate the efficacy of Darvyadi Kashaya and Vidangadi Kashaya in Prameha vis-a-vis Type II Diabetes Mellitus

Background: Prameha is a Mutratipravrutta Vyadhi which is characterized by Prabhuta Mutra and Avila Mutra. Prameha is considered as a Daruna Vyadhi as it involves Tridosha, affects Basti which is a Mahamarma, is Anushangi with many Upadrava. Kapha, Meda and Shareera Kleda play an important role in its manifestation. This disease has closer resemblance with Type II Diabetes mellitus. In Ayurveda classical texts, various formulations in the form of Kashaya, Ghritha, Asava and Arishta have been explained in the context of treatment of Prameha. Darvyadi Kashaya and Vidangadi Kashaya mentioned as Sarvaprameha Hara Yoga in Charaka Samhita and Yogaratnakara respectively are taken up for study in the management of Prameha vis-a-vis Type II Diabetes mellitus. Objective: To compare the efficacy of Darvyadi Kashaya and Vidangadi Kashaya in Prameha vis-`a-vis Type II Diabetes mellitus. Method: It was a comparative clinical study involving two groups, Group A and Group B, each consisting of 25 patients. For Group A, Darvyadi Kashaya was administered and for Group B, Vidangadi Kashaya was administered for 90 consecutive days. Result: After completion of treatment, it was observed that glycemic control was considerable in both the groups. Darvyadi Kashaya showed slightly better results in Karapada Daha and Prabhuta Mutra at night. In fresh cases, significant glycemic control was observed compared to treated cases in both the groups. Conclusion: It can be concluded from the results that both Darvyadi Kashaya and Vidangadi Kashaya are equally effective in management of Prameha vis-a-vis Type II Diabetes mellitus.

Comparative clinical study to evaluate the efficacy of Vartaku Gutika and Chitrakadi Vati in the management of Grahani Roga (Irritable Bowel Syndrome)

Background: Grahani is a disease of great clinical relevance in modern era because of it’s directly link with improper food habits and stressful lifestyle. Agnimandhya is root cause of Amadosha and it is crucial factor for Grahani and causes Pakwa Apakwa Mala Pravritti. It can be correlated to irritable bowel syndrome. About 15% of the general populations have symptoms that justify diagnosis of IBS. As in the Grahani Agnimandhya is important factor in Samprapti, so it should be treated with Agnivardhan Yogas. Vartaku Gutika which is described in Chakradatta as reseach drug and Chitrakadi Vati mentioned in Charak Samhita for control group. Objectives: To evaluate the effect of Vartaku Gutika and to compare the effect Vartaku Gutika and Chitrakadi Vati in the management of Grahani. Methods: 40 enrolled subjects completed the course of intervention. Randomly they were divided into two groups, group A was given Chitrakadi Vati and group B Vartaku Gutika abd they were adviced 500 mg of tablet two times after food with Ushna Jala, and were adviced to follow Pathya Aahara. Statistical analysis with paired t test, Wilcoxon signed rank test, Mann Whitney test, Mc Nemar test and Chi square test was performed for numerical, ordinal and nominal data respectively. Results: Statistically significant reduction of Lakshana of Grahani in both the group was observed. Overall Vartaku Gutika has more improvement in compared to Chitrakadi Vati. Conclusion: Both Vartaku Gutika and Chitrakadi Vati breaking the pathology of Grahani, but in this study Vartaku Gutika is more effective than compared to Chitrakadi Vati.

An overview of Covid-19 with special reference to Janapadodhwamsa

Virus, bacteria and fungi are the most common causes for spreading illness in human and in animals. These are the microorganisms and they can cause epidemic and pandemic diseases. World is passing through many viral epidemics affecting respiratory system since last twenty years. It includes SARS-CoV 2002-2003, H1N1 Influenza 2009, MERS-CoV 2012 to the recent COVID-2019. COVID-19 is a viral pandemic infection this is air borne illness that is spreading through droplet infection. This virus especially affects the respiratory system by doing immunosuppression in person. In Ayurveda there are references of Janapadodhwamsa in Charaka samhita vimansthan. Janapadodhwamsa – is the term coined by Charak which means destruction of population living in same place at the same time because of 4 main reasons i.e. Dushit vayu (Air), Dushit jala (water), Dushit desh (land), Dushit kaal (time) Janapadodhwamsha causes death of individuals in the affected area inflicting huge destruction.

Pittala (Brass) in Traditional Indian Knowledge System: A Review

Brass (Pittala) is a very popular and common metal alloy typically comprised of 66% copper and 34% zinc. Undoubtedly, it has a much longer history than Zinc. Ayurvedic treatises such as Charaka Samhita (2nd century BC) and Sushruta Samhita (3rd century BC) have mentioned some instruments used for various therapies and surgical procedures made of Pittala such as Jeevah-nirlekhana (tongue scarper), Vasti Netra etc. The original Sanskrit equivalent for brass was Riti, the word Pittala being subsequently adopted for it. In Kautilya Arthasastra (4th century) it is known as Arakuta. Pittala kills a large number of microorganisms within a few minutes to hours of contact. So, it is a good antifouling material. Its ethno-medicinal use is in Raktapitta, Krimi, Kushta and Pandu Roga. Probably, there is no available literary research study done on Pittala so far. Most of the information is obtained from Rasa Ratan Samuchchaya. Pittala Bhasma retains the property of both Tamra (copper) and Yashada (zinc). It has Tikta Rasa (bitter taste), and its Virya (temperament) is either Ushna (hot) or Sheeta (cold), which depends on the variety of Pittala and various drugs used in the process to make Bhasma. It appears from the thorough search of the process of Marana, that its Bhasma preparation is easier than Tamra.

A TRADITIONAL THERAPEUTIC REVIEW OF TAMALAKI (PHYLLANTHUS NIRURI ) FROM CLASSICAL AYURVEDIC TEXTS.

Phyllanthus niruri is one of the renowned medicinal plant in Ayurveda to subside a number of disease in Ayurvedic field. It is native plant of Phyllanthaceae Family. It is reported to possess various pharmacological Actions like Anti Inflammatory,Anti-Asthmatic,Anti-Microbial Activity,Immune Modulatory Actions,Anti-Viral Action (Hepatitis B),AntiMalarial Activity, Antioxidant Activity etc. In this article classical categorization, synonyms, Rasapanchaka, Karma, Morphology, Vernacular names and many qualities of Tamalaki will be described. It is a plant with many benefits because of its chemical and therapeutic properties.This paper presented a comprehensive review of Phyllanthus niruri especially its pharmacological actions and therapeutic importance in Ayurveda on the basis of traditional texts like Charaka Samhita,and Sushruta Samhita,Vagbhatta and Various Nighantus as well as modern literatures.