Significance of Sveda
Sveda is a term that signifies perspiration across various disciplines, including Vaishnavism, Ayurveda, Kavyashastra, and science. In Vaishnavism, it pertains to involuntary sweating linked to intense emotions such as joy or fear. Ayurveda views Sveda as a therapeutic method involving fomentation, used for healing and preparing the body for treatments. Kavyashastra recognizes it as an emotional response, while science describes it as a metabolic by-product. Overall, Sveda encapsulates both the emotional and therapeutic significance of sweating.
Synonyms: Sweating, Perspiration
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Sveda'
In Hinduism, Sveda encompasses perspiration linked to intense emotions, as well as a therapeutic sweating technique employed in Ayurvedic medicine. It aids in treating various ailments while also reflecting profound emotional and spiritual states.
From: Sushruta Samhita, Volume 6: Uttara-tantra
(1) Fomentation used as part of the treatment process in cases of ocular afflictions.[1] (2) A therapeutic procedure involving sweating or fomentation, applied in various ear disease treatments.[2] (3) Fomentation or sweating technique used in treatment, believed to help restore normal bodily functions.[3] (4) A therapeutic practice involving oily fomentation to liquefy hardened Kapha in asthma patients.[4] (5) Fomentation therapy employed to relieve symptoms of Gulma through heat application.[5]
From: Sushruta Samhita, volume 4: Cikitsasthana
(1) Fomentations, or warm applications, that can prepare the body for better response to medicinal administration.[6] (2) A traditional Ayurvedic method of applying heat to induce sweating and facilitate healing.[7]
From: Sushruta Samhita, volume 3: Sharirasthana
(1) Fomentation or sweating, a preparatory procedure for the patient before undergoing venesection.[8]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) The phenomenon of perspiring, which can occur during moments of ecstatic devotion.[9]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) Perspiring, an involuntary physical response often associated with intense emotion or spiritual ecstasy.[10]
From: Bhajana-Rahasya
(1) Perspiration that results from intense emotions such as jubilation and fear.[11]
From: Sahitya-kaumudi by Baladeva Vidyabhushana
(1) The term for perspiration, which is one of the eight sattvika-bhavas, indicating an emotional response.[12]
The concept of Sveda in scientific sources
Sveda, in Ayurvedic theory, signifies sweat as a metabolic by-product, indicating its role in the body's detoxification and balance. It highlights the interconnectedness of bodily processes and wellness through natural functions.
From: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
(1) Refers to sweat, which represents one of the by-products of the body's metabolic processes in Ayurvedic theory.[13]