Ayurveda: an international overview – part i

Glossary definitions and references:

Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Ayurveda: an international overview – part i”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.

1) Medicine:
Medicine refers to a system or practice of diagnosing, treating, and preventing illness. In the context of Ayurveda, it embodies holistic principles aimed at harmonizing body, mind, and spirit to alleviate suffering and promote health. This approach recognizes the interconnectedness of physical and mental states, addressing root causes rather than merely symptoms.

2) Ayurveda (Āyurveda, Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is a traditional Indian system of medicine that translates to 'knowledge of life.' It encompasses not just physical health, but also the harmony of mind, body, and spirit. With a focus on prevention and balance, Ayurveda utilizes natural remedies and lifestyle interventions, making it relevant in contemporary health discussions.

3) Knowledge:
Knowledge in Ayurveda is viewed as the understanding of life and health. It includes empirical wisdom gained over centuries through observation and experience, forming the foundation of Ayurvedic practices. This body of knowledge is preserved in texts like the Caraka Samhita, ensuring that ancient insights continue to inform current medical understanding.

4) Caraka (Cāraka, Cārāka):
Caraka is regarded as the father of Ayurvedic medicine and is credited with compiling extensive medical knowledge in the Caraka Samhita. His work emphasizes the importance of diagnosis, patient management, and therapeutic practices, establishing a systematic approach to healthcare that remains relevant and respected in contemporary wellness contexts.

5) Science (Scientific):
Scientific refers to the systematic and methodical approach used to understand phenomena through observation and experimentation. In Ayurveda, a scientific perspective integrates traditional knowledge with contemporary research, aiming to validate ancient practices and promote a systematic understanding of health, disease, and therapeutic options available.

6) Desire:
Desire is a fundamental aspect of human nature recognized by Ayurvedic philosophy. It drives individuals to seek relief from suffering and pursue well-being. In Ayurveda, the inherent desire to achieve health propels the application of therapeutic principles, motivating individuals to eradicate sources of pain and discomfort.

7) Samhita (Saṃhitā, Saṃhita):
Samhita refers to a compilation or collection of texts that systematically document knowledge. In Ayurveda, texts such as the Caraka Samhita and Susruta Samhita serve as foundational references, articulating theories, principles, and practices essential to understanding and applying Ayurvedic medicine in healing and maintaining health.

8) Arogya (Ārogya):
Arogya translates to 'freedom from disease.' In Ayurveda, it symbolizes the state of health one strives to achieve through balanced living and the elimination of ailments. The pursuit of Arogya emphasizes preventative care and holistic approaches, illustrating the aim of Ayurvedic practices to promote overall wellness and vitality.

9) Punya (Puṇyā, Puṇya):
Punya refers to the concept of merit or virtue in Indian philosophy, often linked to actions that yield positive outcomes. In Ayurveda, Punya embodies the belief that promoting health and aiding others in achieving Arogya results in spiritual rewards, reinforcing the notion that health is both a practical and ethical pursuit.

10) Sushruta-samhita (Suśruta-saṃhitā):
The Susruta Samhita is an ancient Ayurvedic text attributed to Susruta, who is recognized as a pioneer in the field of surgery. The text emphasizes surgical techniques, anatomy, and practical applications of medicine, significantly contributing to the historical development of surgical practices and medical education in India.

11) Caraka-samhita (Caraka-saṃhitā):
The Caraka Samhita is a seminal Ayurvedic text authored by Caraka, focusing on internal medicine. It systematically covers principles of diagnosis, treatment, and preventive healthcare, laying down the foundation for Ayurvedic practices that prioritize a comprehensive understanding of patient health and well-being throughout history.

12) Sutrasthana (Sūtrasthāna, Sutra-sthana):
Sutrasthana is a section of the Caraka Samhita that explores fundamental concepts and the theoretical framework of Ayurvedic medicine. It serves as a guide for practitioners, elucidating essential principles that govern health and illness and establishing a philosophical basis for Ayurvedic treatments and interventions.

13) Accumulation (Accumulating, Accumulate):
Accumulated denotes the gathering and preservation of knowledge through time. In Ayurveda, this term reflects the extensive wisdom handed down through generations, highlighting the importance of experiential learning and the documentation of medical practices that form the backbone of Ayurvedic medicine and its ongoing evolution.

14) Evolution:
Evolution in the context of Ayurveda signifies the adaptation and refinement of medicinal practices over time. This process reflects the accumulation of experiential knowledge and scholarly insights, leading to the development of a robust system that has evolved alongside societal changes and advancements in medical understanding.

15) Jealousy:
Jealousy is an emotional state recognized in Ayurveda as a mental imbalance that can lead to stress and health issues. It is seen as an obstacle to well-being, emphasizing the importance of emotional health in maintaining overall health. Ayurvedic practices aim to mitigate such negative emotions to foster mental harmony.

16) Indriya (Imdriya):
Indriya refers to the sense organs in Ayurvedic philosophy. They are essential for experiencing life and interacting with the environment. Balanced functioning of the Indriya is crucial for health, as they contribute to perception, awareness, and the overall state of well-being, influencing physical and mental health.

17) Anguish:
Anguish denotes a state of severe mental or physical suffering. In Ayurveda, it is viewed as a barrier to achieving Arogya. The discipline emphasizes addressing both mental anguish and physical ailments through holistic approaches, advocating for treatments that restore balance and promote mental resilience alongside physical health.

18) Sharira (Śarīra, Sarīra, Sarira, Śārīra):
Sarira means 'body' in Sanskrit and is a crucial concept in Ayurveda. It represents the physical form that houses the mind and spirit. The health of the Sarira is interlinked with mental and spiritual states, highlighting the need for a holistic approach in maintaining well-being and addressing illness.

19) Repair:
Repair pertains to the restoration and healing of the body and mind. In Ayurveda, the concept emphasizes the importance of treating underlying causes of ailments rather than merely symptoms. This restorative approach encompasses various therapies aimed at promoting the body's self-healing capabilities and achieving a state of balance.

20) Moksha (Mokṣa, Moksa, Mokṣā):
Moksha signifies liberation or freedom from the cycle of birth and death, representing the ultimate goal in life according to many Indian philosophies. In Ayurveda, achieving Moksha requires maintaining health and well-being, as physical ailments can obstruct one’s spiritual journey and pursuit of higher consciousness.

21) Manas (Mano, Manash, Māṇo):
Manas refers to the mind in Ayurvedic philosophy. It is considered a crucial component of health, playing a significant role in emotional and mental well-being. Achieving a balanced state of Manas is vital for overall health, and Ayurvedic practices often include mental health strategies to cultivate peace and clarity.

22) Water:
Water is vital in Ayurveda, symbolizing purity and essential for life. It plays a crucial role in maintaining balance within the body. Ayurvedic principles emphasize the importance of hydration, proper digestion, and detoxification, recognizing water as essential for sustaining health and facilitating various physiological processes.

23) Atman (Ātman, Ātma, Atma, Ātmā):
Atman refers to the self or soul in Indian philosophy, representing the true essence of an individual. In Ayurveda, the Atman is central to the understanding of health, as true well-being encompasses not just the physical and mental aspects but also the spiritual dimension of human existence.

24) Pride:
Pride is regarded as an emotional imbalance that can disrupt mental harmony in Ayurvedic philosophy. It can lead to unhealthy ego states and interpersonal conflicts, negatively influencing physical health. Ayurveda encourages humility and self-awareness as pathways to achieving balance and overall well-being.

25) Greed:
Greed is identified as a negative trait in Ayurveda that can lead to mental disturbances and unhealthy lifestyles. It is seen as an obstacle to achieving Arogya, as it fosters attachment and dissatisfaction. Ayurvedic teachings promote moderation and contentment as antidotes to greed's destructive influences.

26) Veda (Vedā):
Veda refers to the ancient sacred texts of India that embody knowledge, including medical wisdom. The term signifies a broad understanding of life and health, establishing the philosophical framework Ayurveda operates within. Vedas provide a foundational context for Ayurvedic principles, practices, and their holistic approach to well-being.

27) Mana (Māṇa, Māna, Maṉa, Maṉā, Māṉa, Māṉā):
Mana refers to the mind in the context of perception and consciousness. It is significant in Ayurveda as it influences emotional and mental states, impacting overall health. The balance of Mana is essential for maintaining mental clarity and emotional stability, which are pivotal for achieving optimum health.

28) Salt (Salty):
Salt holds a key position in Ayurveda as it influences body balance and taste. It acts as a preservative and enhances flavors while also being essential for bodily functions. In Ayurveda, the use of salt is carefully regulated to maintain health and prevent imbalances, stressing its importance in dietary practices.

29) Drug:
Drug refers to substances used to diagnose, treat, or prevent disease. In Ayurveda, 'drugs' encompass natural remedies derived from plants, minerals, and animal products. The formulation and application of these drugs are guided by principles aimed at restoring balance, emphasizing the holistic view of treatment that Ayurveda upholds.