Significance of Excessive thirst

Excessive thirst, as discussed across various frameworks, reflects a strong and insatiable desire for spiritual engagement in Vaishnavism, while in Ayurveda, it is a significant symptom related to conditions such as diabetes, obesity, and digestive disturbances. Medically, it indicates dehydration and is often associated with metabolic issues, notably in diabetic patients. This condition, referred to as polydipsia in scientific contexts, underscores the need for increased fluid intake and may lead to serious health complications if not addressed.

Synonyms: Polydipsia, Extreme thirst, Intense thirst, Persistent thirst, Unquenchable thirst

In Dutch: Overmatige dorst; In Finnish: Liiallinen jano; In Spanish: Sed excesiva; In German: Übermäßiger Durst

The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.

Hindu concept of 'Excessive thirst'

Hinduism Books

Excessive thirst in Hinduism can indicate physical ailments like diabetes and dehydration, often managed through Ayurveda. Symbolically, it also reflects a deep spiritual longing for engagement and connection with Krishna, highlighting both physical and spiritual aspects of thirst.

Significance in Ayurveda (science of life):
Ayurveda Books

From: Journal of Ayurveda and Integrated Medical Sciences

(1) It is a symptom of affection of Udakavaha Srotas. This is when there is dryness of tongue, palate, lips, throat and Kloma.[1] (2) This is a symptom of obesity, and it is used to evaluate the patients and to assess the treatment's effect on their thirst.[2] (3) Excessive thirst is a symptom that can arise when Aam and Pitta are combined, and it is related to oral cavity diseases.[3] (4) This condition, along with excessive hunger, can make a person more susceptible to the effects of alcohol and the development of Madatyaya.[4] (5) This condition is directly associated with Trishna Roga and is linked to the dysfunction of a specific channel within the body, potentially leading to various related symptoms.[5]

From: International Research Journal of Ayurveda and Yoga

(1) It is alleviated by Trishnahara, which is one of the pharmacological actions possessed by most of the drugs.[6] (2) According to Ayurveda Trishna, also known as this, is a clinical symptom.[7] (3) Apart from these basic symptoms, the Charaka Samhita mentions eight Medo Roga impairments, each with a detailed aetiology, like this.[8] (4) Trishna is a clinical feature included in Madhumeha.[9] (5) It is feeling the need to drink more fluids than usual.[10]

From: Charaka Samhita (English translation)

(1) Excessive thirst is one of the blood-born diseases, as a result of vitiated blood, that can occur, along with heaviness of limbs, burning, prostration, anorexia, and headache.[11] (2) A feeling of extreme thirst experienced by the corpulent individual due to digestive disturbances.[12] (3) A condition characterized by an unusual increase in the need for fluids, potentially linked to other disorders.[13] (4) A condition characterized by an abnormal increase in thirst, often signaling dehydration or other health problems.[14]

From: Journal of Ayurvedic and Herbal Medicine

(1) This is a primary symptom, alongside polyuria, associated with diabetes mellitus, which was mentioned within the case report.[15]

Ayurveda is a branch of Indian science dealing with medicine, herbalism, taxology, anatomy, surgery, alchemy and related topics. Traditional practice of Ayurveda in ancient India dates back to at least the first millenium BC. Literature is commonly written in Sanskrit using various poetic metres.

Significance in Rasashastra (chemistry and alchemy):
Rasashastra Books

From: Rasa Jala Nidhi, vol 4: Iatrochemistry

(1) Recommended to drink boiled water cooled after boiling in small quantities.[16]

From: Rasa Jala Nidhi, vol 3: Metals, Gems and other substances

(1) A condition of increased thirst that can be a direct consequence of high salt intake.[17]

Rasashastra is an important branch of Ayurveda, specialising in chemical interactions with herbs, metals and minerals. Some texts combine yogic and tantric practices with various alchemical operations. The ultimate goal of Rasashastra is not only to preserve and prolong life, but also to bestow wealth upon humankind.

Significance in Purana and Itihasa (epic history):
Purana Books

From: Garuda Purana

(1) A common symptom observed during certain types of small-pox indicating dehydration or distress.[18] (2) A distressing symptom often accompanying various wound-related conditions, indicating dehydration or other complications.[19]

The Purana refers to Sanskrit literature preserving ancient India’s vast cultural history, including historical legends, religious ceremonies, various arts and sciences. The eighteen mahapuranas total over 400,000 shlokas (metrical couplets) and date to at least several centuries BCE.

Significance in Vaishnavism (Vaishava dharma):
Vaishnavism Books

From: Chaitanya Bhagavata

(1) A strong, insatiable desire for spiritual engagement and the constant remembrance of Krishna, demonstrating the deep longing of a devotee.[20]

Vaishnava or vaishnavism (vaishnavism) represents a tradition of Hinduism worshipping Vishnu as the supreme Lord. Similar to the Shaktism and Shaivism traditions, Vaishnavism also developed as an individual movement, famous for its exposition of the dashavatara (‘ten avatars of Vishnu’).

The concept of Excessive thirst in scientific sources

Science Books

Excessive thirst is a symptom linked to various health conditions. It's a key indicator in Ayurveda, obesity, diabetes, and liver ailments. The heightened urge for fluids, also known as polydipsia or Atipipasa, stems from dehydration, high blood sugar, or metabolic imbalances.

Significance in Scientific journals, articles, etc.:

From: International Journal of Pharmacology

(1) Neem bark is used to alleviate the condition of drinking too much.[21]

This section includes scientific research in the field of healthcare, often involving traditional medicine systems such as Ayurveda, Unani, Siddha and Holistic health. It includes papers from scientific journals classified as either original, clinical or experimental research, review articles or case reports.

Classical concept of 'Excessive thirst'

Various literature Books

Meaning of Excessive thirst in Ancient Greek mythology, history and philosophy:
Greek Books

From: Aesop's Fables (English translation)

(1) It describes an overwhelming need for hydration experienced by a bird, which motivates its actions in the narrative.[22]

Ancient Greece in the Archaic Period was made up from independent states, called Polis, or city state. Classical Greek culture, especially philosophy, had a powerful influence on the Roman Empire. Greek mythology consists of stories belonging to the ancient Greeks concerning their Gods and heroes, the nature of the world and the origins and significance of their religious practices.