Classical Texts Research Articles

Rehmannia glutinosa DC.-Lilium lancifolium Thunb. in the treatment of depression: a comprehensive review and perspectives

BackgroundIn recent years, the incidence of depression, recognized as a serious psychological disorder, has escalated rapidly. Rehmannia glutinosa DC. (Scrophulariaceae; Rehmanniae Radix, Crude drug) and Lilium lancifolium Thunb. (Liliaceae; Lilii bulbus, Crude drug) constitute a classic anti-depressant combination, exhibiting pharmacological effects that include anti-depressive, anti-anxiety, and anti-inflammatory properties. Current clinical studies have demonstrated that Baihe Dihuang Decoction, a traditional Chinese herbal compound, is effective in treating depression. However, the majority of scholars have predominantly examined Rehmannia glutinosa and Lilium in isolation, and a comprehensive elucidation of their principal active metabolites and pharmacological mechanisms remains lacking.MethodsA comprehensive literature search was conducted as of 29 September 2024, utilizing databases such as PubMed, CNKI, Wanfang Data, Baidu Scholar, and Google Scholar. Additionally, classical texts on Chinese herbal medicine, the Chinese Pharmacopoeia, as well as doctoral and master’s theses, were included in the collected materials. The search employed specific terms including “R. glutinosa,” “Lilium,” “Baihe Dihuang decoction,” “application of Baihe Dihuang decoction,” “pathogenesis of depression,” and “pharmacological action and mechanism of depression.ResultsThis paper reviewed the traditional applications and dosages of the R. glutinosa-Lilium as documented in Chinese medical classics, thereby establishing a foundation for the contemporary development and clinical application of the classical formula Baihe Dihuang Decoction. Additionally, recent years have seen a comprehensive review of the pharmacological effects and mechanisms of R. glutinosa-Lilium and its principal metabolites in the context of depression.ConclusionThis paper has reviewed the active metabolites of R. glutinosa-Lilium and demonstrated its efficacy in the treatment of depression, as well as its role in modulating the underlying mechanisms of the disorder. The findings aim to serve as a reference for further research into the mechanisms of depression, its clinical applications, and the development of novel therapeutic agents.

Assessing the Discourse System and the Visual Utterance System in the Artworks of Committed Iranian Paintings in the 60s and 70s

An attempt is made to answer the questions: How to base the Utterance system in the visual texts of Iranian painting, based on commitment discourse theory in the literature of the 60s and 70s? and What is the main difference between the Utterance and Discourse systems in visual arts? The generating institutions of this type of Utterance system necessitate the referential function for visual texts as the main component in the formation of such texts. According to these institutions, production of artwork as classical and ornamented texts convey only one meaning, unlike the phenomenal texts with multiple meanings, next to illustrating how some outstanding and common semantic signs lead to the formation of this type of Utterance system in the Iranian art.

The Centrality of Kyai in Establishing Moderate Understandings in Salafiyyah Pesantren

The yellow book as a compulsory curriculum in Salafiyyah Islamic boarding schools includes intolerant teachings, especially in the chapters of jihad and hudud. However, the students at this pesantren showed extraordinary tolerance and avoided cases of religious violence. This sketch shows that the students did not just learn and explicitly follow the teachings of centuries-old religious texts. This article reveals the guidance of kyai (Islamic religious leaders) in shaping the attitude of tolerance of students through the interpretation of the yellow book. With a qualitative approach in the form of a case study, this study interviews the kyai who act as supervisors and teachers at the Sabilurrosyad Islamic boarding school in Malang. The findings of the study revealed that the kyai consistently guided their students in understanding classical texts based on their socio-cultural background, by emphasizing obedience to the government, respecting local wisdom, considering social conditions, and maintaining tolerance of other religions. In conclusion, kyai plays an important role as an interpreter of the yellow book so that students have a moderate understanding.

The Uses of Phenomenology for Latinx Feminisms: Developing a Phenomenological Approach Informed by Rupture

Given the various shortcomings of classical phenomenological methods identified by critical and liberatory theorists, this paper considers what phenomenology has to offer theorists of multiply marginalized experience. The paper begins with an account of the major reasons for which Latinx feminists such as Linda Martín Alcoff, Jacqueline Martinez, and Mariana Ortega have found a phenomenological approach useful in their projects. This account reveals that though Latinx feminist phenomenologists have found useful resources for theorizing multiply marginalized theory and identity in the classical texts of phenomenology, experiences unique to those subjected to marginalization remain significantly underdeveloped or absent from classical accounts. Taking seriously the primacy of lived experiences of ‘rupture’, this paper argues, is therefore necessary in the development of a phenomenological approach that does justice to life in the borderlands and the lived experience of being-between-worlds. Informed by the work of Latinx feminist theorists such as Gloria Anzaldúa and María Lugones, this paper closes with a proposed critical feminist phenomenological approach that centers the moment of ‘rupture’ described in such work. Ultimately, this paper argues that the communication and documentation of these ruptures in the form of phenomenological description allows for the examination and interrogation of sedimented logics of oppression on the way to liberatory ends.

Evaluating the Antidote Action of Nimbuk Swarasa and Peya in Jayapala Toxicity: A Critical Review

Jayapala (Myristica fragrans), a plant-based toxin, is recognized for its therapeutic importance despite its toxic properties. Improper administration or insufficient purification can lead to adverse effects, including gastrointestinal irritation, salivation, and even death. The management of Jayapala poisoning is well-documented in classical Ayurvedic texts, with specific antidotes such as Nimbuk Swarasa (lemon juice) and Peya (rice water) being highlighted. This review critically evaluates the mode of action of Nimbuk Swarasa and Peya in Jayapala poisoning, to establish their therapeutic efficacy and practical applicability as antidotes. The study highlights the antidotal potential of Nimbuk Swarasa and Peya in enhancing digestive function, alleviating symptoms, and providing a cost-effective solution for managing Jayapala toxicity. The findings indicate that these preparations not only mitigate harmful effects but also embody a practical approach to addressing accidental poisoning

Analysis of quality parameters and preservative concentrations in Sahacharadi Kwatha: A comparative study of three commercial brands

BackgroundSahacharadi Kwatha is traditionally employed in Ayurvedic therapy for "vata" related conditions such as back pain, herniated disc, palsy, sciatica, and paralysis. Classical Ayurvedic texts recommend the use of freshly prepared Kwatha for optimal patient benefits. However, in response to the commercialization of Ayurveda and the demand for convenient over-the-counter (OTC) formulations, various commercial preservatives have been incorporated by Ayurvedic manufacturers to facilitate OTC preparation and prolong shelf life. ObjectivesThis study aims to comprehensively analyse and compare the quality parameters and preservative content in three prominent brands of Sahacharadi Kwatha available in the Indian market. Materials and methodsOrganoleptic and physicochemical properties, phytochemical content, and microbial load of the samples were analyzed following standardized procedures. Sodium benzoate levels in the samples were determined using both titrimetric and High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) methods. High-Performance Thin-Layer Chromatography (HPTLC) profiles were compared to discern differences among the samples. ResultsThe study revealed significant variations in organoleptic and physicochemical properties, HPTLC profiles, and microbial load among the tested samples. Sodium benzoate levels in all samples exceeded the FDA and API-approved limit. Additionally, substantial variations were noted in the phytochemical content of the samples. ConclusionThis investigation underscores noteworthy disparities in quality parameters and preservative content within the tested market variants of Sahacharadi Kwatha. The findings emphasize the existence of unregulated standards in the preparation of Ayurvedic medicines available in the market, highlighting the imperative for standardization and validation of Ayurvedic formulations. Such measures are essential for enhancing consumer acceptability and fostering the overall development and growth of the Ayurveda industry.

An insight into understanding ancient perspectives of respiratory health

This article explores the historical evolution of respiratory diseases highlighting its references in early Vedic texts such as the Rigveda, Yajurveda, Atharvaveda & Upanishads, offering insights into ancient understandings of respiratory diseases. It also delves into Ayurvedic treatments and practices detailed in classical texts like Veerasimhavalokana in relation to respiratory disease . Additionally, it covers traditional healing practices including Vedic mantras and their impact on human health. The narrative extends to folklore with the story of Ondine’s Curse, which inspired the term for central hypoventilation syndrome. By synthesizing these historical sources and practices, it underscores the depth of ancient knowledge in managing respiratory health and its influence on contemporary respiratory therapy.

Comparative Study of Air Pollution with Ayurveda and its Management

Background Environmental pollution is increasing day by day and imposing severe and irreversible damage to the world. Air pollution is one of the biggest threats for the environment and affecting humans, animals, crops, cities, forests, aquatic ecosystems. Environmental Toxicology is the science concerned with study of harmful effects of various chemical, biological and physical agents on living organisms. In Ayurveda Charakacharya has briefly described the environmental health in chapter named Janpadodhvansaniyavimanam. Ayurveda has a dedicated branch called Agadatantra which deals with the toxicological aspects of living entities of environment. Aims and objectives We aim to relate and validate this knowledge pertaining to the air pollution. Material and method the references available regarding the air pollution in classical texts were studied and compared with the available information in the contemporary medical literatures. Signs of air pollution given in the text compared and studied with signs of Air pollution. Discussion Ayurveda terms of Vikrut and Prakrut Vayu described in Granthas are found to be relatable with contemporary findings. Conclusion Air pollution described in Ayurveda are very precise and explanatory. Management of air pollution with this ancient science are the new open windows for healthy air breathing for every living organism.

The Rhetoric of Islamist Radical Organizations as a Method of Manipulating the Consciousness of Believers in the Late 20th – Early 21st Centuries

The article examines the influence of specific radical movements of Islam on their adherents through the linguistic attitudes. In the introduction, the author examines the general global reasons due to which a person in modern society is especially susceptible to various types of involvement in destructive cults. The main part of the article is devoted to the consideration of practical examples of verbal manipulations used by the Islamists. The paper also mentions extremist and terrorist organizations whose activities are prohibited on the territory of the Russian Federation and discusses their distorted interpretations of classical theological texts. By analyzing specialized literature in Russian and Arabic, as well as empirically, the research reveals the ways to influence the personality of a believer through the language. The author of the publication personally held many meetings in pre-trial detention centers with those under investigation and accused on extremist and terrorist charges and collected a large amount of empirical material. A conclusion is drawn about the main linguistic manipulations of Islamist organizations.

Similarities and Divergences in the Philosophical Thought of Plato, Francis Bacon, and René Descartes

The article "Similarities and Divergences in the Philosophical Thought of Plato, Francis Bacon, and René Descartes" explores the similarities and differences in the philosophical currents of these authors, focusing on their influence on modern and contemporary epistemology. It highlights the role of Platonic idealism in contemporary science through a dialectical engagement with Baconian empiricism and Cartesian rationalism. The main objective is to demonstrate the importance of Platonic idealism as an epistemological driver in the evolution of science, emphasizing the interconnections between the philosophical currents discussed. The study is a theoretical review based on a comparative analysis of classical and modern philosophical texts, utilizing a total of 14 references. The research focuses on the similarities and divergences between these philosophical currents throughout history. The most significant findings show that, although there are fundamental differences between idealism, empiricism, and rationalism, these currents converge at key points in the structuring of modern science. In particular, Platonic idealism provides a profound contribution to scientific knowledge, despite having been underestimated by the experimental method. The article concludes that Platonic idealism, along with Baconian empiricism and Cartesian rationalism, has been essential to the evolution of science. These philosophies, though divergent, have created a common foundation that has enabled the development of scientific knowledge.

Le tragedie di Pierre Brumoy: fra teatro di scuola e ripresa della tragédie sainte

The most important text by the French Jesuit Pierre Brumoy, is undoubtedly the Théâtre des Grecs of 1730, which has had a profound influence on the reading of classical theatre texts in Europe. Less known is his theatrical production, to which the author chooses to dedicate himself in the final phase of his life and which, in part, wants to be an explanation of the theories illustrated in the Théâtre des Grecs. Brumoy publishes five plays (two tragedies: Isac and Jonathas, ou Le triomphe de l’Amitié; a pastoral: Le Couronnement du jeune David and two comedies: La boëte de Pandore, ou La curiosité punie and Plutus) in the fourth volume of a miscellany of texts entitled Recueil de divers ouvrages en prose et en vers, published in 1741. The focus of this work is on religious plays that can be used to explore an interesting and unstudied aspect of Brumoy’s figure.

Pharmaceutical and physicochemical analysis of Mandura Bhasma

Introduction: Mandura (Slag of Iron) is a metallic oxide-cum-silicate of iron with the general formula Fe2SiO4 and is also known as Slag. In the classical text, different types of methods are explained in different classical books for the preparation of Mandura bhasma based on its utility. Objective: To prepare and analyse Mandura bhasma by employing various Bhasma pariksha mentioned in Ayurvedic science and Modern parameters along with analysis as per tools available today. Materials and methods: To standardise the standard operating procedure (SOP), Mandura Bhasma according to the method mentioned in classical Alchemy (Rasatarangini and Rasamrita). Mandura, detoxification process was followed by heating it in charcoal and dipping it in cow urine and the incineration process by levigating with juice of Aloe vera and heating system generated by cow dung cakes. Result: Bhasma became brownish, very fine, very soft and smooth and passed all classical characteristics of Ayurvedic parameters like Rekhapurnatva, Varitaratva, Sukshmatva, Shlakshnatva etc.,. All physic-chemical parameters are within the standard and presence of phytochemicals like steroids, alkaloids and tannin. X-ray diffraction analysis results revealed the crystalline size and FTIR revealed the presence of functional groups. Conclusion: The therapeutic efficacy of the Bhasma is believed to manifest only when it has successfully undergone the Bhasma Pariksha, a rigorous traditional assessment ensuring its quality and potency. This would undoubtedly aid in ensuring safety, efficacy, and batch-to-batch consistency.

Benefits and Mode of Action of Various Hasta Mudra

Introduction: In this modern era, our lifestyle is changed and become sedentary. Lack of physical exercise, faulty dietary habits, increased stress, and environment changes lead to many diseases. Everybody is fed up by taking so many medicines. Hence, people are showing interest in drugless therapies. Practicing Hasta mudra is totally drugless and cost less. Aim: The aim of this article is to describe the preventive and curative benefits of Various Hasta Mudra and to explain the mode of action of Various Hasta Mudra. Materials and Methods: Various benefits and modes of action of Hasta Mudra have been explained on the basis of classical texts and literature. Results: With regular practice of Hasta mudra, various diseases can be prevented and cured. Discussion: Mudra should be performed for at least 45 min in a day. Conclusion: Hasta Mudra is helpful in Mudhra therapy can control stress, depression, anxiety, fear and promotion of mental health and happiness prevention and cure of many diseases. in Mudra.[3] In Shiva Samhita, it is mentioned that just by practicing The word mudra is a Sanskrit word which has the meaning “gesture” or “attitude.” Mudra can be described as emotional, psychic, devotional, and esthetic gestures or attitudes. Mudra are attitudes of energy flow, which help in linking person’s pranic force with universal or cosmic force.[1] The literal meaning of mudra is the expression of internal feelings by way of different postures of fingers, palms, hands feet, and or body. This is an integral part of yoga and a scientific knowledge of spirituality and physical well. There are different types of Mudra, but in this article, we are discussing only about Hasta Mudra. By doing Hasta mudra, subtle hand and finger movements make important connections in the nervous system and stimulate specific energy pathways. In Hatha Yoga, there are 10 mudra which are mentioned as Jaramarananashaka.[2] In Gheranda Samhita, there are 25 Mudra and according to it, various eye and body positions (Asana) and Locks (Bandha) are also included

The Immunology - Ayurveda Perspective

Introduction: Immunity can be defined as the ability of the human body to resist almost all types of organisms or toxins that tend to damage tissues and organs. Ayurveda, one of the oldest health sciences has its perspectives and practices on immunology delineated under the heads of Vyadhikshmatwa (tolerance against disease), Ojas (the quintessence of all bodily tissues that is responsible for natural bio-strength, vitality and immunity), Bala (strength), and Vikaravighata Bhavas (disease-resisting factors). Materials and Methods: For the present review, the materials were collected from the Ayurvedic literature, including the three major classical texts Brihatrayees Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, Ashtanga Samgraha and Ashtanga Hridaya, and their important commentaries by Chakrapani, Arunadutta, Hemadri, Indu, and Dalhana. Information from the current scientific literature, articles published in PubMed, and authentic webpages has also been incorporated into this study. Subsequently, an independent analysis of immunology from Ayurvedic classical texts is presented in this review. Discussion: Ayurvedic compendia have vividly described the perspectives and practices of immunity and the promotion of disease-resisting factors. In addition to being the repository of age-old medical practices and the treasure trove of herbal drugs, the immunomodulatory effects of these diseaseresisting factors hold up even when bridging with new models based on modern science and technology. Conclusion: Rather than being a complementary science, Ayurveda is enriched with the concepts and practices of immunology. In order to free humanity from the grip of infections, it is important to explore the standalone and integrative aspects of science now.

Homonymy in the Persian Word dast

Abstract Proto-Indo-Iranian is envisaged to have had the form *jhasta denoting hand and the root *dans meaning to become skillful, to instruct, to teach. Previous studies have shown that these two forms have surfaced as homophones (both in the form of dast) during the Middle Iranian period, each with distinct meanings during that time. In this article, the authors have tried to explore the semantics of dast in Contemporary Persian through a meticulous examination of classical and contemporary texts. This analysis revealed that Contemporary Persian dast is a case of homonymy, with meanings clustered around two core concepts: hand and skill, power, probability. The article proposes that these dual core meanings may have originated from Proto-Indo-Iranian *dans and *ȷ́ʰasta, two semantically distinct elements, giving rise to an instance of homonymity through historical phonological processes.

The Impact of Viruddhahara on Lifestyle Disorders: An Ayurvedic Perspective

Abstract: Ayurveda, an ancient medical system, highlights the significance of Ahara (diet) in maintaining health and preventing disease. A core aspect of Ayurvedic theory is the concept of Viruddhahara, which refers to incompatible food combinations that are believed to disrupt the equilibrium of the body's Doshas, potentially leading to various health complications. This review examines the concept of Viruddhahara and its implications for contemporary lifestyle-related disorders such as hypertension, diabetes, obesity, and cardiovascular diseases. In the current fast-paced environment, improper eating habits and the proliferation of fast food have led to widespread consumption of Viruddhahara, contributing to metabolic disturbances and chronic conditions. Ayurveda categorizes Viruddhahara into several types, including incompatibilities based on properties, timing, and combinations. For instance, the pairing of fish with milk or the consumption of heated honey serves as examples of how such food combinations can negatively impact health. The review emphasizes the importance of adhering to dietary guidelines to prevent disturbances in Dosha and the degradation of body tissues, which are essential for preserving health. With the rising incidence of lifestyle-related disorders, it is crucial to understand the scientific underpinnings of Viruddhahara and its role in disease etiology. This research aims to enhance awareness about the adverse effects of incompatible diets and to advocate for the incorporation of Ayurvedic principles into contemporary dietary practices. By conducting a thorough review of classical Ayurvedic texts alongside modern research, this study seeks to establish a framework for integrating Ayurvedic dietary principles into modern lifestyles, offering a comprehensive approach to the prevention and management of lifestyle-related diseases.

Translating Jain Philosophy at the Confluence of Persianate Hinduism

Abstract In 1796, Claude Martin (1735–1800), a wealthy French officer of the East India Company living in Lucknow, commissioned the Brahman Delārām to translate into Persian two classical texts from the Digambara Jain philosophical tradition. Using the Braj Bhāṣā commentaries composed by the seventeenth-century Jain author Hemrāj Pāṇḍe, Delārām was able to access the original Prakrit texts of the eighth- and tenth-century philosophers Kundakunda and Nemicandra via an updated vernacularized version. His translations are as an exceptional document showing the hermeneutic tools that a Persian-speaking Brahman could use to parse the doctrinal system of Jainism. Delārām’s language was markedly shaped by his familiarity with Advaita Vedānta and the “unity of being (vahdat al-vojud)” school of Sufism, focused on ontological unity. More specifically, the Sufi-Advaita idiom that developed in Persian from the early Mughal period onward functioned for Delārām as a lens through which he could engage with the doctrinal diversity of India’s religious landscape. His efforts to translate the unfamiliar and sometimes perplexing elements of Jainism reveal the complex modalities of crossing linguistic and religious boundaries through Persian in South Asia and their partial incommensurabilities.

Reimagining the Classics: Feminist Perspectives on Canonical Texts

This paper explores feminist perspectives on canonical texts, reimagining classical literature through the lens of gender, power, and voice. “Canonical works have traditionally reflected patriarchal norms, often marginalizing or silencing female characters. Feminist literary criticism challenges these interpretations, offering new ways to understand these texts by reclaiming the voices of women and exposing the gendered structures embedded within them. Through the examination of key themes such as the male gaze, intersectionality, and the subversion of patriarchal norms, this paper seeks to demonstrate how feminist reinterpretations transform the reader's understanding of classical works. Case studies of iconic texts highlight how female characters are redefined, shifting from passive figures to empowered agents of change. The paper also considers the intersection of race, class, and gender in feminist critiques and how modern adaptations and retellings of canonical texts continue to challenge traditional narratives. By critically engaging with feminist theory and literature, this paper argues that these reimagined readings not only provide a more inclusive understanding of classical texts but also reveal their contemporary relevance in addressing issues of gender equality, empowerment, and social justice. This study contributes to feminist literary scholarship by deepening the dialogue between classical literature and feminist thought.

The Contemporary Transformation of Mythical Women: Helen and Penelope in Margaret Atwoods Reconstruction

The feminist movement has driven the reinterpretation of classical texts such as Homers epics, with Margaret Atwoods works exemplifying this trend. Atwood has created poetry and novels rooted in the tradition of feminist rewriting, utilizing mythological female figures like Helen and Penelope to explore their inner worlds and unveil the long-concealed mechanisms of patriarchal power. Employing techniques such as multiple perspectives and nonlinear narratives, she disrupts the constraints of a singular authoritative discourse. By merging the ancient with the modern, Atwood highlights the shared experiences of women while portraying the awakening of female consciousness. She transforms the stereotypical images of the whore and the virtuous wife into complex, autonomous individuals, challenging traditional gender role definitions. Atwoods rewritings are not merely retellings of the original stories but also explorations of the deeper structures of gender power. She weaves a rich cultural network of women, opening new frontiers for literature of their own.

How Did Early Modern Scholars Study Early Maps?

The two standard Anglophone historiographies of the history of cartography (Skelton 1972, Harley 1987) situated the field’s origins in the early modern era, or even in the later Middle Ages. Yet “history” and “cartography” are both products of the profound changes in the intellectual foundations and institutions of European knowledge practices in the decades to either side of 1800. By contrast, this essay explores how early modern scholars variously engaged with maps from the past in terms of contemporary knowledge practices. [Part 1] It first outlines the early modern meanings of “history” and “geography” and then reviews how early modern scholars engaged with early maps in three distinct ways. Classical scholars used the Peutinger map and Ptolemy’s Geography to identify locations of ancient places in order to improve their comprehension of Classical texts. [Part 2] Some geographers wrote histories of voyages and travels that related past routes to contemporary maps, and others wrote historical narratives of the compilation of encyclopedic texts and maps of regional and world knowledge. [Part 3] Antiquaries opportunistically described and at times reproduced a variety of maps, charts, and plans that came to their attention, but without active searches for early maps. Overall, I demonstrate that before 1775 there was neither a systematic approach taken to the study of maps from the past nor any hint of the core methodology that would be adopted by the first historiographical mode of map history as it developed after 1830.