Significance of Apasmara
Apasmara refers to a condition primarily associated with epilepsy, characterized by loss of consciousness, seizures, and cognitive impairment. In Vaishnavism, it denotes forgetfulness and emotional disturbances, while Ayurveda defines it as a psychosomatic disorder linked to memory loss and abnormal movements. The term encompasses a range of symptoms, including violent convulsions and mental disturbances, and is treated using various Ayurvedic remedies like Mahachaitasa Ghrita and Purana Ghrita. Apasmara highlights the intersection of physical and psychological health in traditional medicine.
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The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Apasmara'
Apasmara in Hinduism symbolizes forgetfulness and loss of awareness, often linked to conditions like epilepsy and emotional distress. It represents spiritual distraction while reflecting the emotional and physical turmoil associated with this state.
From: Bhakti-rasamrta-sindhu
(1) A state of spiritual distraction or disturbance that is included in specific vyabhicari-bhavas of devotion.[1] (2) A condition characterized by forgetfulness or a loss of awareness, contributing to the emotional experience of fear.[2] (3) A condition of almost total lack of consciousness arising from disturbance of the dhatus due to grief, also known as epilepsy.[3]
From: Sushruta Samhita, volume 1: Sutrasthana
(1) Epilepsy characterized by convulsions or seizures, which may prove fatal in severely weakened patients.[4]
From: Rasa Jala Nidhi, vol 5: Treatment of various afflictions
(1) A term for epilepsy in the text, associated with symptoms like loss of consciousness and violent movements.[5]
The concept of Apasmara in scientific sources
Apasmara, in Ayurveda, signifies epilepsy and is associated with specific treatments such as Unmada Gaja Kesari Rasa, particularly emphasizing approaches to manage the condition in children.
From: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
(1) A neurological disorder or epilepsy, potentially aggravated by certain dietary combinations.[6] (2) A condition characterized by sudden disruption of normal brain function, often referenced in relation to Sangyavaha srotas.[7] (3) An Ayurvedic term for epilepsy or seizures, a condition effectively treated by Mahachaitasa Ghrita.[8] (4) An Ayurvedic term for epilepsy, indicating a condition marked by loss of consciousness and disturbed cognitive functions.[9] (5) A distinct clinical entity described in ancient texts, attributed to the influence of the female Graha Jambha, characterized by memory loss and a range of symptoms resembling modern epilepsy.[10]
From: International Ayurvedic Medical Journal
(1) A neurological disorder characterized by a loss of consciousness and memory, which affects about 1% of the general population globally.[11] (2) In Ayurveda, a condition described as loss of consciousness or memory, characterized by derangements in cognitive faculties and mental disturbances.[12] (3) A term for epilepsy in Ayurvedic texts, for which Tagara is utilized as part of treatment.[13] (4) An ancient term used in Ayurveda to describe epilepsy, associated with imbalances in the body's energies and requiring specific treatment approaches.[14] (5) A term used in Ayurveda for epilepsy or loss of consciousness, indicating a condition that can be treated with Purana Ghrita.[15]
From: Journal of Ayurveda and Holistic Medicine
(1) Refers to epilepsy in Ayurveda, indicating a specific condition for which Unmada Gaja Kesari Rasa is prescribed.[16] (2) Refers to epilepsy and the Ayurvedic treatment approaches for it in children.[17]
From: Ancient Science of Life
(1) A disorder ranging from simple memory loss to severe conditions like epilepsy and organic psychoses, often linked to systemic infections.[18]
From: Ayushdhara journal
(1) Apasmara is an Ayurvedic term related to epilepsy, characterized by occasional unconsciousness and symptoms such as vomiting froth and abnormal body postures due to memory loss.[19]