Significance of Nourishment
Nourishment is a multifaceted concept with various interpretations across different systems. In Vaishnavism, it relates to the devotional care provided by Bhagavan, akin to parental support. Ayurveda emphasizes nourishment as essential for sense organs and body well-being through sleep and diet, along with structural support for joints during pregnancy. Dharmashastra focuses on food's vital role in sustaining life, while Rasashastra identifies nutrients through specific mixtures. Science aligns with these views by highlighting the importance of food for health and growth in Ayurvedic practices.
Synonyms: Sustenance, Nutrition, Food, Maintenance, Subsistence, Sustenance., Provisions, Diet
In Dutch: Voeding; In Finnish: Ravintoa; In Spanish: Alimento; In German: Nahrung
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Nourishment'
In Hinduism, Nourishment encompasses sustenance from ritual offerings, the care similar to a father’s for his children, essential nutrients for health, and the vital role of food in sustaining life, health, and prenatal development.
From: Journal of Ayurveda and Integrated Medical Sciences
(1) This is provided to the sense organ, and this combined treatment pacifies the vitiated Vata in the body, and provides nourishment to the sense organ.[1] (2) This is a process in which Kapha supports joint structures, and synovial fluid also contributes similarly, providing the necessary elements to support the overall health of the joints.[2] (3) Nourishment is a process that the body goes through when it receives proper sleep, and is responsible for the well-being of the body, similar to how a proper diet is also essential.[3]
From: International Research Journal of Ayurveda and Yoga
(1) The text includes 'Nourishment', which is the state of being provided with food and other substances necessary for health and growth.[4] (2) This refers to the act of providing food and other substances to sustain and support health.[5]
From: Charaka Samhita (English translation)
(1) The sustenance necessary for the mother during pregnancy, which is believed to play a role in the proper formation and viability of the embryo.[6]
From: Journal of Ayurvedic and Herbal Medicine
(1) This is the process of providing nutrients, where srotorodha from abhishyandi dravyas disrupts this process, which can be treated through langhana to improve visual acuity.[7]
From: Sankhayana-grihya-sutra
(1) Referring to nourishment, it emphasizes the importance of food and its role in sustaining life and health.[8]
From: Hiranyakesi-grihya-sutra
(1) Sustenance or nourishment provided by the Fathers through the offerings made in the sacrifice.[9]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) The sustenance provided by the propagation of devotional service to Bhagavan, which is compared to the care a father gives to his children.[10]
From: Rasa Jala Nidhi, vol 3: Metals, Gems and other substances
(1) The process of providing necessary nutrients, achievable through vanga when mixed with milk.[11]
From: Bharadvaja-srauta-sutra
(1) This is one of the things the sacrificer seeks to receive from the ritual.[12]
The concept of Nourishment in scientific sources
Nourishment, according to regional sources, is defined as the provision of essential food and nutrients that support health and growth, particularly within Ayurvedic dietary practices.