Significance of Kushtha

Kushtha, in Ayurveda, refers to a classification of skin diseases that includes various disorders such as leprosy, eczema, and psoriasis. It is a significant term used in traditional texts, encompassing conditions characterized by skin lesions and dysfunction of bodily elements like Doshas. The term further divides into subcategories, including Mahakushtha and Kshudrakushtha. Specific herbal remedies and medical preparations are often prescribed for treatment. Kushtha highlights the emphasis on skin disorders within Ayurvedic medicine and their classifications.1
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Synonyms: Leprosy, Hansen's disease

In Dutch: Kushtha; In German: Kushtha; In Finnish: Kushtha; In Spanish: Kushtha; In Swedish: Kushtha; In Malay: Kushtha

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

Hindu concept of 'Kushtha'

Hinduism Books

Kushtha in Hinduism denotes leprosy and various skin disorders, encompassing medicinal herbs used in Ayurveda for treatment. It signifies both a chronic condition and specific therapeutic ingredients aiding in healing processes.

Significance in Ayurveda (science of life):
Ayurveda Books

From: Sushruta Samhita, volume 4: Cikitsasthana

(1) A condition referred to as skin diseases, for which specific expressed oils are prescribed.[1] (2) Leprosy or skin diseases requiring special treatment, often using herbal remedies and medical preparation methods.[2] (3) A chronic skin disease or condition often referenced in Ayurvedic texts, which can be treated with specific preparations.[3]

From: Sushruta Samhita, volume 1: Sutrasthana

(1) Leprosy, characterized by spontaneous bursting of affected parts along with other severe symptoms.[4]

From: Bhesajjakkhandhaka (Chapter on Medicine)

(1) A group of skin disorders in Ayurveda, associated with leprosy and characterized by multiple types including major and minor conditions.[5]

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) An ingredient that may refer to a medicinal herb used in traditional medicine, added to the mixture.[6] (2) A type of medicinal root used as one of the ingredients in the compound.[7] (3) An herb included in the formulation, contributing to the therapeutic effects of the remedy.[8] (4) A medicinal herb referenced in the preparation mixture that contributes to the overall remedy.[9] (5) A medicinal herb, often used for its therapeutic properties, included in the preparation.[10]

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.

The concept of Kushtha in local and regional sources

History Books

Kushtha is associated with skin diseases, historically linked to conditions like leprosy. It is referenced in ancient texts such as the Hathapradipika, emphasizing its significance in traditional medicine as a notable skin ailment.

Significance in India history and geography:

From: History of Science in South Asia

(1) Kushtha is a disease mentioned in the Hathapradipika, referring to skin diseases.[11] (2) This term refers to diseases whose symptoms primarily present on the skin, including what might today be diagnosed as leprosy, highlighting a common disease focus.[12]

Plural form: De Kushtha.