Significance of Cold water
In Ayurveda, cold water is a common element in remedies, potentially having cooling and purifying properties. It can increase Kapha, worsening conditions like piles. It is a remedy for thirst but should be avoided postnatally. It is used therapeutically for issues like fainting, and can be used in the preparation of Hima and Mantha. It is often used in bathing and can relieve depression, improve immunity, and reproductive health. It is also a factor in several diet recommendations, and it is used in the treatment of several conditions.
Synonyms: Cool water, Chilled water, Icy water, Refreshing water
In Dutch: Koud water; In Finnish: Kylmä vesi; In Spanish: Agua fría; In German: Kaltes Wasser; In Malay: Air sejuk; In Swedish: Kallt vatten; In French: Eau froide; In Italian: Acqua fredda; In Portugese: Água fria; In Polish: Zimna woda
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Cold water'
In Buddhism, "cold water" symbolizes stillness and emptiness. It represents water undisturbed by heat, the cold hells, and a substance for dyeing robes. Furthermore, it serves as an analogy for prakriti's inert state before the emergence of life.
From: Vinaya Pitaka (3): Khandhaka
(1) A substance used by monks to dye robe-material that caused it to smell nasty.[1]
From: Milindapanha (questions of King Milinda)
(1) Water that remains in a quiet and motionless state when not subjected to heat.[2]
From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)
(1) This refers to a substance that some religious figures avoided due to the belief that it contained life, and therefore should not be used.[3]
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) A category of hells characterized by severe punishments involving cold water.[4] (2) An analogy used to depict the inert, empty nature of prakriti before conditions bring it to life, akin to cold water before being heated.[5]
Hindu concept of 'Cold water'
In Hinduism, "cold water" holds diverse meanings. It's used for hydration after medicine, enhances efficacy, and alleviates pain. It's a remedy, a cleansing agent, and a beverage. It can be therapeutic, a component in preparations, or used in rituals, while excess can be detrimental. It also symbolizes purity, defeat, or calming influence.
From: Rasa Jala Nidhi, vol 4: Iatrochemistry
(1) When dealing with primary fever, it is important to avoid drinking cold water and taking pulses, fish, meat, and milk, among other things.[6] (2) A beverage that is salutary to the patient.[7] (3) Drinking of this or anointing the body with oil immediately after drinking of oil, clarified butter or tallow; application of douche of oil; vomiting, purgation, or application of a special douche, called niruha basti, corrupts the movements of watery fluids in the system leading to the oozing out of water from the affected veins and accumulation of the same in the belly, which becomes glossy, enlarged, and swollen causing a painful sensation around the navel.[8] (4) A bath in this, along with other cooling actions, are to be resorted to when taking the medicine.[9] (5) A remedy method mentioned for cooling the patient's head, which is part of the treatment process.[10]
From: Rasa Jala Nidhi, vol 5: Treatment of various afflictions
(1) Is a simple remedy used to treat swoons by sprinkling it over the face or taking dips in it, along with other cooling and soothing treatments.[11] (2) Recommended to be drunk after taking certain medicinal pills as part of treatment protocol.[12] (3) Water at a low temperature used to soothe and treat conditions like vomiting by calming the system.[13] (4) Referred to as a soothing agent for intoxication effects, beneficial after consuming wine or betel nuts.[14] (5) Water at a low temperature, recommended for mitigating thirst among other benefits.[15]
From: Rasa Jala Nidhi, vol 3: Metals, Gems and other substances
(1) A specific liquid, is recommended as part of the diet for those undergoing poison treatment, as well as meat of jangala animals, goat’s blood, madgura fish, sugar, honey, and milk.[16] (2) Regular water at a low temperature used alongside turmeric juice for washing earthworms.[17]
From: Journal of Ayurveda and Integrated Medical Sciences
(1) Cold water, or Hima Jala Pana, provides relief in Madyaja Trushna, as Madya causes Shoshana (dries up) of Rasa (watery elements) of the body in alcohol addicts, similar to how heated sand absorbs water.[18] (2) This is one of the treatments, along with specific therapies, for conditions.[19] (3) Cold Water is used to wash Tankana kept in the shell of coconut and mixed with Maricha Churna, according to Rasenra Sar Sangraha, completing a step in the purification process.[20] (4) Cold water, cold wind, and cold things are considered Apathya, to be avoided by Sutika during the postnatal period.[21] (5) The practice of Kavala and Gandusha with this has been mentioned for maintenance of eye health.[22]
From: Charaka Samhita (English translation)
(1) After the person has taken the purgative dose, his face should be sprinkled over with this, and he should be given to smell cordial earth, flowers, fruits, leaf-buds and acid articles in order to prevent the tendency for vomiting.[23] (2) It is mixed with paste of red physic nut and gur for a purgative potion and a cure for jaundice.[24] (3) A douche the woman should take after the consummation of the sexual act.[25] (4) A common remedy suggested for thirst that can provide relief, especially when used appropriately.[26]
From: International Research Journal of Ayurveda and Yoga
(1) One of the nidana is drutam sheetambu sevinaam, suddenly going into very this after working in the sun.[27] (2) Promotes eye health when bathing with it from the head.[28] (3) This and soft drinks before hot tea, and after taking ghee are examples of Agni Viruddha and Upchara Viruddha.[29] (4) This refers to the excessive intake of water at a low temperature, identified as AtiShitambuSevana, within the context provided.[30]
From: Sushruta Samhita, Volume 6: Uttara-tantra
(1) Water that has a low temperature, often used to cool the body, reduce inflammation, or alleviate certain symptoms.[31] (2) A patient suffering from an attack of Rakta-pitta should take a compound of Draksha, Tikta-rohini, Yashti-madhu and sugar with cold water to improve the condition.[32] (3) A therapeutic agent often used in treatment, such as plunge-baths or sprinkling, to help revive a patient suffering from fainting fits.[33]
From: Sushruta Samhita, volume 4: Cikitsasthana
(1) The use of cold water and other cold things can aggravate bodily Vayu, leading to aching pain, gastralgia, stuffedness, abdominal inflation, and shivering.[34] (2) A person suffering from any affection of the teeth should refrain from taking this.[35] (3) A common element in various remedy preparations that may have cooling and purifying properties.[36]
From: Journal of Ayurvedic and Herbal Medicine
(1) This is a factor that was recommended to be avoided, as part of the patient's lifestyle adjustments, as described in the text.[37] (2) Cold water, due to its sheeta guna (cold) nature, contributed to the physiological reduction in the movement of nourishment to the eyes, as stated in the text.[38] (3) This is one of the measures used during Prana Pratyagamana, and is sprinkled on the face of the baby, especially in summer, to help revive the newborn.[39]
From: Sushruta Samhita, volume 2: Nidanasthana
(1) This is a factor that, through contact, can cause the growths to increase in size, potentially worsening the condition of piles.[40]
From: Sushruta Samhita, Volume 5: Kalpasthana
(1) Sprinkling cold water over the body of the patient is part of the remedy in such cases when poisoned articles for Abhyanga (oils and unguents) look thick, slimy or discoloured.[41]
From: Garuda Purana
(1) Dashing cold water over the eyes while holding water in the mouth each morning is believed to cure many occular affections.[42] (2) Used in conjunction with Indra-varuni roots and certain errhines to alleviate pain in the neck and arms.[43]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) Describes the fragrant water sprinkled on the king’s head, symbolizing refreshment and revival of senses.[44]
From: Markandeya Purana
(1) Describes the characteristic of rivers like the Shita, Shankhavati, and Bhadra, which are abundant in pure, cold water.[45]
From: Harivamsha Purana
(1) Water used in battle symbolizing defeat or incapacitation, particularly against demons.[46]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) The environment in which the girls are situated, indicating the temperature of the water they are standing in.[47]
From: Prem Sagar (English translation)
(1) The temperature of water that causes a discomfort, especially when one is submerged for a long time.[48]
From: Bhakti-rasamrta-sindhu
(1) Mentioned in a context where the characters are in distress, shivering due to the cold, emphasizing their vulnerable state.[49]
From: Kathasaritsagara (the Ocean of Story)
(1) This describes the refreshing and pure quality of the water found in the lake, offering relief from the desert's heat.[50] (2) Freshwater that is cool, providing refreshment and relief.[51]
From: Hiranyakesi-grihya-sutra
(1) Water used in conjunction with warm water during the ceremony to moisten the hair.[52]
From: Asvalayana-grihya-sutra
(1) "Cold water" is combined with warm water and poured with the words, 'With warm water, O Vayu, come hither!' during the ritual.[53]
From: Brahma Sutras (Shankaracharya)
(1) A substance used to revive a person who has swooned, and it is applied to help them recover consciousness.[54]
Jain concept of 'Cold water'
In Jainism, "Cold water" signifies essential sustenance for monks, embodying simplicity and minimalism. It's linked to abstaining from worldly actions, right conduct, and spiritual understanding. While potentially impure, it is offered by householders. It symbolizes simplicity in diet and life.
From: Sutrakritanga (English translation)
(1) He who abstains from this, who plans or undertakes nothing, and has ceased from even the smallest actions, who does not eat food out of the dish of a householder, possesses right conduct.[55] (2) The beverage consumed by certain sages and great men, symbolizing simplicity in diet and life.[56] (3) A basic necessity for sustenance consumed by monks, indicating simplicity and minimalism in their lifestyle.[57] (4) Mentioned as part of a lifestyle that is criticized unless it is accompanied by genuine spiritual understanding.[58]
From: Acaranga-sutra
(1) A potentially impure substance that may be offered by the householder in the alms-bowl, which the mendicant should refuse.[59]
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) This is used in a simile to explain how even naturally cold water can become colder when snow is added.[60]
The concept of Cold water in local and regional sources
"Cold water" encompasses various meanings. It cools hot water for the old man, is part of the author's routine, and causes discomfort for the letter writer. Additionally, it appears in a bathroom context and in rasayana therapies for longevity.
From: The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda
(1) Cold water is a part of the author's daily routine, as they take a dip in it after exercising in the morning.[61] (2) The water the letter writer hopes to avoid due to experiencing cramps, suggesting a physical discomfort related to the water.[62]
From: Triveni Journal
(1) The text describes Bijoy drinking a glass of "cold water" after his bath, which symbolizes a cleansing ritual and a return to simplicity before making his decision to relinquish his wealth.[63] (2) This is a type of water that came out from one of the taps in the bathroom, which the protagonist was shown.[64]
From: History of Science in South Asia
(1) This is a substance mentioned in the context of rasayana therapies that is attributed to stabilizing age, and it is taken along with milk, honey and clarified butter.[65]
From: Village Folk-tales of Ceylon (Sri Lanka), vol. 1-3
(1) Water that the woman goes to fetch in order to cool the hot water for the old man.[66]
The concept of Cold water in scientific sources
The text defines "cold water" in multiple contexts. It can refer to hydration, water temperature, and its impact on digestion, including Ayurveda's perspective. It is also used in scientific contexts, such as in infrared spectrometry and washing processes. Additionally, it is referenced for its effect on children and as a component in certain processes.
From: Asian Journal of Pharmaceutics
(1) This is used to dissolve the modified xanthan gum and HPMC.[67] (2) The drug was dissolved in this to yield a final concentration of 0.5% w/v.[68] (3) The solubility of extracted mucilage was found be swells in this solvent.[69] (4) The white and black Ashodhita and Shodhita A. precatorius pericarp powder were weighed and dissolved in 100 mL of distilled water and macerated in this.[70] (5) The rat skin was washed with cold water to remove the dirt.[71]
From: South African Journal of Physiotherapy
(1) Cold water can make the children get cold, tense, and shivering too soon.[72]
From: African Journal of Primary Health Care and Family Medicine
(1) Water at a low temperature, and used in the washing of linen.[73]
From: Sustainability Journal (MDPI)
(1) The analysis incorporates the mixing of cold water with geothermal fluids, calculating mixing ratios and their effect on reservoir temperatures.[74] (2) The risk of cold water often results in the adaptation of swimming routes and routines, with participants choosing places to swim with multiple exit points during wintertime.[75] (3) Cold water is used in the surface cooler to provide additional cooling and dehumidification, helping to achieve the desired air supply conditions for the air conditioning system.[76] (4) Cold water is provided by a cooling tower and pumped into the ground coupled heat exchanger to inject cold energy into the ground during cold energy storage experiments.[77] (5) The spread of cold water injected from injection wells towards the production well is facilitated by high-permeability channels, impacting the heat breakthrough boundary and overall efficiency.[78]
From: International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health (MDPI)
(1) Must be of choice when washing hands because the repeatedly use of hot water can cause dermatitis, maintaining skin health.[79] (2) Immersion in cold water can lead to rapid cooling and cardiac arrest, highlighting the importance of quick rescue and rewarming efforts to improve survival rates for those exposed.[80] (3) Lessons were provided focusing on remaining safe in a specific type of aquatic environment, and boating safety.[81] (4) Cold water systems are tested for Legionella, and WMP data includes disinfectant levels in cold water, with failures in cold water metrics being considered in relation to Legionella detection, but cold water is less implicated.[82] (5) It is a low temperature liquid environment in which perceptual and physiological responses during physical activity have been studied.[83]
Classical concept of 'Cold water'
From: The Authoress of the Odyssey
(1) Cold water is mixed with hot water by Euryclea to prepare a foot bath for the stranger, which ultimately leads to her recognizing Ulysses by the scar on his leg.[84]
From: The History of Herodotus
(1) A substance in which the priests wash themselves twice in the day and twice again in the night, as part of their religious services.[85]
From: The Odyssey of Homer (English translation)
(1) A substance into which a blacksmith plunges an axe or hatchet to temper it, giving strength to the iron.[86]
From: The Literature of the Ancient Egyptians
(1) This is the substance in which Anpu was instructed to place Bata's heart, once found, to restore it to life, illustrating a magical process of resurrection.[87]