Significance of Active principles
The concept of the Active principle is multifaceted across various traditions. In Jainism, it emphasizes the soul's active engagement in shaping its fate. Vaishnavism associates it with life energy and transformation in the universe, particularly linked to Krishna. Purana expands on this by linking the Active principle to the mind's role in driving actions. In science, it refers to chemical compounds in plants responsible for their therapeutic effects, critical for understanding the medicinal properties of various herbal formulations.
Synonyms: Active ingredient, Therapeutic agent, Bioactive compound, Pharmacological agent
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Active principles'
The Active principle in Hinduism represents the mind's role as the driving force behind actions and desires, encompassing consciousness, life energy, and the essence of the Soul that initiates movement and transformation in the material realm.
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) The driving force of human behavior, often manifested through desires and conscious intentions.[1] (2) The notion that the mind itself is the driving force behind actions and sensations, rather than being merely reactive.[2] (3) A concept questioning the source of activity in the universe, suggesting it may not reside within inert entities like the body or mind.[3] (4) The function of the mind in driving actions and responses.[4] (5) The aspect of existence that is engaged in various actions and thoughts, encompassing the mind, life, and consciousness.[5]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) The aspect of the Soul that initiates action and movement within the material realm through the body.[6]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) The dhatu, or active principle, is the essence of life energy associated with Krishna in every living entity.[7]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) The effective aspect that manifests the material ingredients, representing the action and transformation within the universe.[8]
From: Prashna Upanishad with Shankara’s Commentary
(1) You are the true active principle of the senses (pranas), referring to the essential force or component that enables the functioning of the senses.[9]
Jain concept of 'Active principles'
The Active principle in Jainism emphasizes that the soul actively participates in its actions, influencing its destiny rather than being passive. This engagement underscores the importance of individual agency in spiritual evolution.
From: Bhagavati-sutra (Viyaha-pannatti)
(1) The idea that the soul is not passive but actively engaged in its actions, shaping its own fate.[10]
The concept of Active principles in scientific sources
The term "Active principle" denotes the biologically active compounds found in Vidari, which are essential for its therapeutic effectiveness, as noted by regional sources. These constituents contribute significantly to the plant's medicinal properties.
From: International Ayurvedic Medical Journal
(1) Compounds found in spices that contribute to their pharmacological effects.[11] (2) Chemical compounds within a plant that exert therapeutic effects, known in this context as Andrographoloids and Neo andrographoloids.[12] (3) The components in Ayurvedic formulations responsible for their therapeutic action.[13] (4) Active principle refers to the ingredient or component in a herbal formulation that is responsible for its therapeutic effect.[14] (5) Refers to Crotin, a toxalbumin found in Croton tiglium, which is irritant and vesicant.[15]
From: AYU (Journal of Research in Ayurveda)
(1) The primary chemical compounds or constituents within a plant that contribute to its medicinal effects.[16] (2) The primary components in herbal medicines that exert physiological effects, contributing to health benefits.[17] (3) Biologically active compounds found in herbal drugs that contribute to their therapeutic effects.[18] (4) The chemical compounds within Haritaki that contribute to its therapeutic effects.[19] (5) The component within a substance that is responsible for its biological effects.[20]
From: Journal of Ayurveda and Holistic Medicine
(1) The therapeutic compounds present in the Stanya-Shodhan Mahakashaya that contribute to enhancing the quality of breast milk.[21] (2) The primary biologically active compounds in a herbal formulation responsible for its therapeutic effects.[22] (3) The biologically active chemical constituents present in Vidari that support its therapeutic efficacy.[23]