Second thoughts on ayurveda
Journal name: Ancient Science of Life
Original article title: Second thoughts on ayurveda
The ANSCI is a peer-reviewed, open-access journal focused on Ayurveda and traditional medicines. It publishes original research, reviews, and literary studies linking traditional knowledge with modern science, covering disciplines like botany, ethnomedicine, pharmacology, and clinical research.
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Erik Sigdell
Ancient Science of Life:
(A quarterly multi-disciplinary scientific research journal in Ayurveda)
Full text available for: Second thoughts on ayurveda
Year: 1991
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
The article by Erik Sigdell, published in "Ancient Science of Life," delves into various intricate aspects of Ayurveda, addressing certain unanswered questions and suggesting interpretations that integrate contemporary understanding. Sigdell explores the roles of the three doshas—vata, pitta, and kapha—highlighting their interconnected functions in the body and the implications of imbalances among them. He also presents a comprehensive analysis of the six rasas (tastes) and their pharmacological significance, ultimately linking these traditional concepts to broader health themes that encompass spiritual and ethical dimensions.
The Role of Doshas: An Intriguing Dichotomy
Sigdell scrutinizes the established locations, or sthana, of the doshas within the body and proposes a different perspective on their functional dynamics. He argues that the traditional assignments do not align with the physiological activities attributed to each dosha. For example, rather than vata being concentrated in the lower abdomen and kapha in the upper chest, Sigdell suggests that vata should be seen as functioning predominantly in the head—governing communication and coordination—and kapha as foundational in the abdomen, responsible for nutrient supply and waste management. This re-evaluation of dosha locations leads to a deeper exploration of their responses to disease and stress, ultimately proposing that the most significant disturbances arise in areas where doshas are least needed, indicating weak points in their functional presence within the body.
Conclusion
Sigdell concludes that the roots of diseases extend beyond mere dosha imbalances, pointing instead to a conflict-driven origin that encompasses spiritual dissonance, interpersonal conflicts, and environmental exploitation. This broader context suggests that achieving health necessitates cultivating peace within oneself and with the surrounding world. Emphasizing a holistic approach, the author posits that the ultimate resolution to health issues lies in fostering love and compassion in our actions, thereby aligning ourselves with a deeper understanding of interconnectedness in creation. In essence, enduring health is not just a physiological state but a harmonious existence achieved through ethical and compassionate living.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What are the central principles of Ayurveda according to Erik Sigdell?
Ayurveda emphasizes the balance of three doshas—vata, pitta, and kapha—linked to bodily functions and health. Erik Sigdell suggests that diseases arise from imbalances caused by conflicts with spiritual, interpersonal, or environmental issues.
How does Erik Sigdell explain the concept of vipakas in digestion?
Sigdell theorizes that vipakas represent digestion stages rather than changes in taste. For instance, madhura vipaka indicates substances absorbed predominantly during the sweet stage of digestion, influencing their effects on the body.
What is the significance of the mahabhutas in Ayurveda?
Mahabhutas are fundamental elements in Ayurveda that relate to bodily functions. Imbalances in these elements can lead to diseases, guiding diagnosis and treatment based on the elemental composition of remedies.
What does Erik Sigdell say about the primary cause of diseases?
Sigdell attributes the initial cause of diseases to conflicts arising from ignorance, egoism, or unfulfilled actions, emphasizing the importance of understanding and harmonizing these conflicts to maintain health.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Second thoughts on ayurveda”. 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) Vipaka (Vipāka):
Vipaka refers to the post-digestive transformation of food into three primary tastes: Madhura (sweet), Amla (sour), and Katu (pungent). This concept highlights the significance of digestion and nutrient absorption in Ayurveda, indicating how the body's processing of food influences physiological functions, health, and balance within the body.
2) Rasa (Rasā, Rasha):
Rasa signifies taste or flavor, categorized into six primary types in Ayurveda: Madhura (sweet), Amla (sour), Lavana (salty), Tikta (bitter), Katu (pungent), and Kasaya (astringent). Each rasa impacts the doshas differently, influencing physiological functions, emotional states, and overall health, bridging the connection between food and health.
3) Dosha (Dosa, Doṣa, Dosā, Doṣā, Ḍosā):
Doshas are the three primary energies in Ayurveda: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. They represent various physiological and psychological functions in the body. The balance of doshas is crucial for health; imbalances lead to disease. Ayurvedic practices focus on maintaining or restoring dosha equilibrium through diet, lifestyle, and treatment.
4) Virya (Vīrya, Vīryā):
Virya refers to the inherent potency of a substance, denoting its thermal qualities and effects on the body. It is crucial in determining how a drug interacts with doshas during treatment. Virya is categorized as Saumya (calm) and Agneya (fiery), influencing the therapeutic approach in Ayurveda significantly.
5) Substance:
In Ayurveda, 'substance' denotes any material used for therapeutic purposes, including herbs, minerals, and animal products. The properties and effects of these substances are assessed based on their constitutive elements, doshic balance, and vitality, emphasizing a holistic understanding of health and treatment methodologies in Ayurveda.
6) Kapha:
Kapha is one of the three doshas in Ayurveda, corresponding to water and earth elements. It governs structure, stability, and fluid balance within the body. An imbalance in Kapha can lead to excess weight, sluggishness, and respiratory issues. Ayurvedic treatments aim to balance Kapha through lifestyle adjustments and dietary changes.
7) Vata (Vāṭa, Vaṭa, Vāta, Vaṭā):
Vata, the dosha associated with air and ether elements, embodies movement, communication, and energy in the body. It regulates bodily functions, including circulation and nerve impulses. An imbalance in Vata can lead to anxiety, dry skin, and digestive issues. Ayurveda emphasizes calming and grounding practices to balance Vata.
8) Pitta (Pītta, Piṭṭā):
Pitta, equated with fire and water elements, governs metabolism and digestion. It is responsible for transformation in the body, including digestion and hormone regulation. When imbalanced, Pitta can cause inflammatory conditions and irritability. Ayurvedic strategies focus on cooling foods and soothing practices to restore Pitta balance.
9) Madhura (Madhurā, Mādhura):
Madhura refers to the sweet taste, which is associated with nourishment, calming, and grounding effects on the body. It promotes Kapha and enhances vitality. In Ayurvedic healing, Madhura substances are valued for their ability to provide energy and balance when incorporated into the diet or treatments.
10) Guna (Guṇa, Gūna):
Guna indicates the inherent qualities or attributes of substances in Ayurveda. These qualities help in understanding the behavior and impact of different herbs and foods on the body and mind. Recognizing guna is essential for practitioners to prescribe appropriate remedies and create balanced dietary plans.
11) Ayurveda (Āyurveda, Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is an ancient Indian system of medicine that emphasizes a holistic approach to health and wellness. It focuses on balancing the body's energies (doshas) through personalized diets, herbal treatments, and lifestyle adaptations. Ayurveda integrates physical health, mental well-being, and spiritual growth to achieve a state of harmony.
12) Karma (Karman, Kārma):
Karma signifies the law of cause and effect, emphasizing the connection between actions and their consequences. In Ayurveda, it is recognized that one's lifestyle choices and behavior impact overall health and can contribute to imbalances in doshas. Understanding karma informs personal responsibility in maintaining wellness.
13) Katu (Kaṭu, Kātu):
Katu is defined as the pungent taste, which stimulates digestion and metabolic processes. It balances Kapha but can aggravate Pitta if consumed excessively. In Ayurvedic practice, Katu flavors are often incorporated to enhance digestion and energize the body, playing a significant role in dietary recommendations.
14) Amla (Amlā, Āmlā):
Amla, the sour taste, plays an essential part in digestion and nutrient absorption. It stimulates appetite and balances Pitta, but can aggravate Vata if consumed in excess. In Ayurveda, Amla is valued for its detoxifying properties and is included in many formulations for health and wellness.
15) Mahabhuta (Mahābhūta, Maha-bhuta):
Mahabhuta refers to the five great elements in Ayurveda: earth, water, fire, air, and ether. These elements form the basis of all matter and are essential in understanding the body's constitution and imbalances. Each substance and energy in the universe corresponds to these elements, guiding Ayurvedic practices.
16) Mridu (Mṛdu):
Mrdu represents the gentle quality in Ayurveda, associated with substances that have softening or soothing effects on the body. It is linked to Saumya virya and is essential in formulating remedies aimed at alleviating pain, irritation, and inflammation, providing a delicate approach to healing.
17) Transformation (Transform, Transforming):
Transform in an Ayurvedic context relates to the conversion of food into energy and the dynamic physiological changes in the body. Understanding transformative processes helps practitioners tailor treatments and dietary guidance to optimize health and influence doshic balance effectively.
18) Knowledge:
Knowledge in Ayurveda is vital for understanding individual constitution, doshic balance, and the impact of food and lifestyle choices on health. Continuous learning allows practitioners to tailor treatments to individual needs, fostering a deeper connection between the practitioner, patient, and the holistic principles of Ayurveda.
19) Saumya (Saumyā):
Saumya denotes the tranquil or gentle quality of substances in Ayurveda, typically associated with comforting and stabilizing effects on the body. It aids in calming overstimulation, particularly helpful for balancing Vata and Pitta imbalances, and plays a prominent role in therapeutic formulations.
20) Manda (Maṇḍa, Mandā, Mamda):
Manda refers to the quality of subtle or light substances, often associated with a nourishing effect. In Ayurveda, it acts as a counterpart to Tiksna, emphasizing the balance between different qualities of substances, which is crucial in determining their therapeutic application and effect on doshic balance.
21) Blood:
Blood in Ayurveda is considered vital for nourishment and the transport of nutrients throughout the body. It plays a significant role in maintaining health and vitality. The balance of doshas influences blood quality, while dietary and lifestyle choices impact its health, promoting overall well-being.
22) Pharmacology:
Pharmacology in Ayurveda involves the study of medicinal substances, their properties, preparations, and effects on the body. It emphasizes a holistic understanding of natural remedies and their therapeutic applications, enabling practitioners to select appropriate treatments based on individual constitution and health conditions.
23) Activity:
Activity in the Ayurvedic context refers to the dynamic processes involving bodily functions and the interactions of doshas. Identifying the activities associated with each dosha helps in understanding health imbalances and guides practitioners to implement dietary and lifestyle modifications for restoring harmony.
24) Snigdha (Snigdhā):
Snigdha signifies the oily or unctuous quality of substances, which helps to moisten and nourish the body. It is pivotal for balancing Vata, enhancing digestion, and promoting healthy skin and tissues. Incorporating Snigdha qualities into treatments assists in soothing and rejuvenating the body.
25) Lavana (Lavaṇa, Lavaṇā):
Lavana represents the salty taste in Ayurveda, which enhances digestion and aids in detoxification. It contributes to fluid balance and influences the Kapha dosha. Proper use of Lavana can stimulate appetite and balance other doshas, highlighting its significance in dietary practices.
26) Tikshna (Tīkṣṇā, Tīkṣṇa):
Tiksna denotes sharpness or intensity, often associated with the potency of certain substances. It enhances digestion and metabolism but can increase Pitta if imbalanced. In Ayurvedic practices, Tiksna is carefully utilized to stimulate functions without causing irritation or excess heat in the body.
27) Kashaya (Kāṣāya, Kāśaya, Kāsāya, Kaṣāya, Kaśāya, Kāsaya, Kaṣāyā, Kasāya, Kasaya):
Kasaya is the astringent taste in Ayurveda, recognized for its ability to dry and tighten tissues. It plays a crucial role in counteracting excess moisture and helps in managing Kapha imbalances. Kasaya substances are often used to treat conditions involving excess fluid retention and inflammation.
28) Reason:
Reason highlights the importance of understanding the underlying principles of Ayurvedic practice. Acknowledging the causes of imbalances enables practitioners to implement effective therapies to restore health. This focus on reason fosters a thoughtful approach to diagnosis and treatment, aligning with Ayurveda’s holistic philosophy.
29) Laghu:
Laghu signifies lightness or a quality that promotes ease and movement within the body. It aids in balancing heavy conditions associated with Kapha. Lighter foods and treatments that embody Laghu qualities are often prescribed to alleviate sluggishness, enhancing overall vitality and digestive efficiency.
30) Tikta (Tiktā):
Tikta is the bitter taste characterized by its detoxifying effects. It aids digestion, stimulates appetite, and balances Kapha, though excessive intake may increase Vata. In Ayurvedic wellness, Tikta herbal preparations are utilized for their cleansing properties and to promote healthy liver function.
31) Bhava (Bhāva):
Bhava refers to the emotional state or attitude that influences physical and mental health. In Ayurveda, understanding one's bhava helps identify imbalances that may lead to disease. Awareness and regulation of bhava play significant roles in achieving holistic health and emotional well-being.
32) Ushna (Uṣṇa, Uṣṇā):
Usna signifies heat or warming qualities in substances. It enhances digestion and promotes metabolic processes, particularly beneficial for cold and sluggish conditions. While Usna substances invigorate and energize, they must be used judiciously to avoid excessive heat in the body, particularly for Pitta types.
33) Drug:
A drug in Ayurveda is any substance used for therapeutic purposes, ranging from herbs to minerals. The effectiveness of a drug is evaluated based on its properties, including taste, potency, and its impact on doshas. Ayurvedic pharmacology emphasizes the importance of personalized treatment selection.
34) Medicine:
Medicine in Ayurveda refers to the comprehensive system of natural treatments aimed at restoring health and balance. It encompasses a range of practices, including herbal remedies, dietary changes, and lifestyle modifications tailored to individual needs, highlighting the holistic approach inherent in Ayurvedic healing.
35) Caraka (Cāraka, Cārāka):
Caraka refers to an ancient esteemed Ayurvedic physician and author of the Caraka Samhita, a foundational text in Ayurveda. His teachings encompass diagnostics, treatment, and the philosophical foundations of Ayurvedic medicine, contributing significantly to the understanding and practice of this holistic medical system.
36) Sthana (Sthāna):
Sthana refers to the specific locations or 'seats' of the doshas within the body as identified in Ayurvedic literature. Understanding Sthana aids practitioners in diagnosing weaknesses or imbalances related to dosha activities, guiding targeted interventions to restore health in affected areas.
37) Agneya (Āgneya, Āgneyā):
Agneya is related to the fiery or intense quality of substances, often associated with a stimulating virya. In Ayurveda, understanding Agneya helps practitioners use potent substances judiciously in treatments, ensuring a balance between stimulation and nourishment for optimal health.
38) Cakra (Cakrā, Cākra):
Cakra denotes the energy centers in the body according to Ayurvedic and yogic philosophy. Each Cakra corresponds to different physical and metaphysical functions. Balancing these Cakras is essential for health, emotional well-being, and spiritual development, forming a core part of holistic healing practices.
39) Guru:
Guru signifies a heavy quality in Ayurveda, which is calming and grounding. Substances with Guru qualities are utilized for their effects on Kapha and Vata balance. Recognizing Guru is significant when formulating treatments aimed at stabilizing and strengthening the body’s internal systems.
40) Sita (Sītā, Śīta, Sīta, Shita, Sītā, Sitā, Śita, Śītā, Siṭa, Siṭā):
Sita represents cold quality or cooling properties in Ayurvedic substances. It helps balance heat within the body, particularly beneficial for Pitta imbalances. Understanding Sita aids practitioners in selecting remedies that provide relief from excessive heat-related conditions, promoting overall balance and well-being.
41) Agniveshatantra (Agniveśatantra, Agnivesha-tantra):
Agnivesa-tantra is an ancient Ayurvedic text detailing the principles of Ayurvedic medicine, particularly relating to treatment methodologies. Knowledge derived from this text is fundamental to Ayurvedic practice, influencing diagnosis, treatment strategies, and the overall understanding of health and disease in Ayurvedic philosophy.
42) Caraka-samhita (Caraka-saṃhitā):
Caraka-samhita is a principal text in Ayurveda authored by Caraka, emphasizing diagnostics, treatment, and understanding health from a holistic perspective. Its teachings encompass knowledge on pharmacology, herbal medicine, and the philosophy of healing, serving as a guiding document for Ayurvedic practitioners.
43) Pancamahabhuta (Pañcamahābhūta, Panca-mahabhuta, Pamcamahabhuta):
Pancamahabhuta refers to the five great elements (earth, water, fire, air, and ether) fundamental to Ayurveda. These elements form the basis for understanding the body's constitution and its interactions with the universe. Balancing these elements is crucial for maintaining health and supporting therapeutic approaches.
44) Annihilation (Annihilated, Annihilate):
Annihilation in an Ayurvedic context refers to the complete dissolution or elimination of impurities and imbalances within the body. The process aims at restoring the individual to a state of balance and health, emphasizing the holistic nature of healing and the importance of detoxification in Ayurveda.
45) Arunadatta (Aruṇadatta):
Arunadatta is a prominent figure in Ayurveda known for his commentaries on classical texts. His contributions significantly enriched the understanding and application of Ayurvedic principles, further guiding practitioners in diagnostics and treatment methodologies, and reinforcing the historical depth of Ayurvedic wisdom.
46) Perception:
Perception in Ayurveda encompasses the understanding and interpretation of individual health based on sensory experiences and awareness. This reflects the broader holistic approach of Ayurveda, emphasizing personal insight and the interconnectedness of the mind, body, and environment in maintaining health and balance.
47) Tanmatra (Tanmātra, Tad-matra):
Tanmatra refers to the subtle elements or essences derived from the five mahabhutas, forming the basis for perception and the sensory experience in Ayurveda. They are essential in understanding the connection between physical elements and mental states, guiding practitioners in holistic treatment approaches.
48) Prabhava (Prabhāva, Prābhava):
Prabhava indicates the specific effects or influences that substances can exert on the body based on their unique qualities. Understanding Prabhava is crucial in Ayurveda as it helps link remedies to particular doshic imbalances and health conditions, optimizing therapeutic strategies.
49) Agnivesha (Agniveśa, Agni-vesha):
Agnivesa was an ancient scholar and practitioner known for the Agnivesa-tantra, which laid foundational principles for Ayurvedic medicine. His work contributed significantly to the understanding of treatment methodologies and the compilation of knowledge essential for the evolution of Ayurvedic practices.
50) Training:
Training in Ayurveda refers to the process of learning and mastering the principles, practices, and applications of Ayurvedic medicine. It emphasizes ongoing education for practitioners to enhance diagnostic skills and treatment strategies, fostering a deep understanding of health in a holistic context.
51) Samhita (Saṃhitā, Saṃhita):
Samhita refers to collections or scriptures that compile knowledge and teachings in Ayurveda. These texts serve as critical references for practitioners, detailing treatment methodologies, pharmacology, and the philosophical foundation of Ayurvedic principles, essential for guiding therapeutic practices.
52) Samkhya (Sāṅkhya, Saṃkhyā, Sāṃkhya, Saṅkhyā, Sankhya, Shankhya, Saṃkhya):
Samkhya is a philosophical system underlying Ayurvedic thought, delineating the interplay between consciousness and material existence. It informs Ayurvedic diagnostics and treatment by emphasizing the manifestation of life through balanced energies and understanding the nature of reality, providing a framework for health and healing.
53) Hemadri (Hemādri, Heman-adri):
Hemadri was an influential Ayurvedic scholar known for his comprehensive commentaries on classical texts, including the Caraka-samhita. His contributions have been essential in preserving Ayurvedic knowledge and guiding practitioners in applying traditional principles effectively in modern contexts.
54) Science (Scientific):
Science in the context of Ayurveda refers to the systematic study of natural elements and their interactions concerning health and wellness. It emphasizes empirical observation and exploration, melding traditional practices with modern understandings, ultimately striving for a deeper comprehension of health through research and experience.
55) Tantra (Tantrā, Tamtra, Tantrism):
Tantra in Ayurveda refers to the techniques and practices outlined in ancient scriptures for achieving spiritual and physical healing. It emphasizes the importance of harmonizing energies, balancing the body and mind, and understanding the interconnectedness of individuals with universal forces for holistic health.
56) Ruksha (Rūkṣa):
Ruksa is another term related to the dry quality associated with certain Ayurvedic substances. It is essential for formulating remedies that aim to balance the moisture levels in the body, particularly useful in managing Kapha disorders and ensuring that treatments effectively address excess fluid issues.
57) Duhkha (Duḥkha, Duḥkhā):
Duhkha translates to suffering or discomfort, representing a fundamental concept in Ayurveda that identifies imbalances and disturbances in the body and mind. Addressing duhkha involves identifying the root causes of distress and implementing strategies to restore balance and health, emphasizing holistic healing.
58) Vidya (Vidyā):
Vidya signifies knowledge or wisdom in Ayurveda, encompassing the understanding required to diagnose and treat imbalances effectively. It emphasizes the importance of education, continuous learning, and the exploration of Ayurvedic principles, guiding practitioners in their approach to holistic health care.
59) Aroma (A-roma):
Aroma refers to the scent of substances, which can influence health and well-being in Ayurveda. Recognizing the properties of various aromas can enhance therapeutic practices, integrating sensory experiences into healing methodologies and contributing to the holistic understanding of health in Ayurveda.
60) Water:
Water in Ayurveda is one of the five mahabhutas and is essential for maintaining bodily functions, hydration, and balance. Understanding the role of water in the body is crucial for formulating treatments and adjusting dietary practices to ensure optimal health and well-being.
61) Pride:
Pride in Ayurveda represents an emotional state that can lead to imbalance and suffering. Recognizing the impact of pride on health encourages individuals to engage in self-awareness practices that foster humility, compassion, and emotional balance, vital for holistic healing.
62) Greed:
Greed denotes an overwhelming desire for more than one needs, leading to dissatisfaction and imbalances. In Ayurveda, this quality is often associated with excess Pitta and Kapha. Acknowledging and addressing greed through mindfulness and balanced living is essential for maintaining overall health.
63) Worry (Worried, Worrying):
Worry signifies a state of anxiety and unease that can disrupt the balance of Vata dosha in the body. Recognizing its impact on health encourages practitioners to promote calming techniques and therapies to alleviate worry, fostering mental tranquility and emotional stability.
64) Salt (Salty):
Salty refers to the Lavana taste, which is essential in Ayurveda for enhancing flavor and stimulating digestion. While it can balance Kapha, excessive salt may increase Pitta. Understanding the role of salty substances in meal preparation and treatments is crucial for maintaining doshic harmony.
65) Fear:
Fear represents a negative emotional state that can disrupt the Vata dosha, leading to anxiety and imbalance. In Ayurveda, addressing fear through therapeutic practices encourages individuals to cultivate awareness, resilience, and balance, fostering emotional well-being and overall health.
Other Science Concepts:
Discover the significance of concepts within the article: ‘Second thoughts on ayurveda’. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:
Karma, Vipaka, Dosha, Mahabhuta, Rishi, Ajnachakra, Vatadosha, Pittadosha, Kaphadosha, Natural remedies, Healing process, Alternative medicine, Six Rasas, Diagnosis.
Concepts being referred in other categories, contexts and sources.