A systematic approach to the classification of diseases

Glossary definitions and references:

Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “A systematic approach to the classification of diseases”. 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) Roga:
In Ayurvedic terminology, 'Roga' refers to disease or disorder. It encompasses various pathological conditions described in ancient texts, highlighting the significant classification of diseases based on etiology, symptoms, and underlying dosha imbalances. Understanding 'Roga' is fundamental for diagnosis and treatment in Ayurveda, emphasizing the holistic nature of health.

2) Swelling:
In Ayurveda, 'Swelling' pertains to the clinical manifestation of accumulation or inflammation, often denoted as 'Sotha.' It can arise from various causes, including doshic imbalances, infections, or injuries. Recognizing and classifying swellings is essential for devising appropriate treatment strategies to restore balance in the affected area.

3) Dosha (Dosa, Doṣa, Dosā, Doṣā, Ḍosā):
'Dosa' refers to the three fundamental energies: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha, which govern physiological and psychological processes in the body. Imbalances in these dosas lead to diseases ('Roga'). Understanding dosas is crucial in Ayurveda for diagnosing and tailoring treatments that restore harmony and health.

4) Nija:
'Nija' signifies diseases of endogenous origin, meaning they arise from internal factors, such as inherited traits or lifestyle choices. Ayurveda categorizes diseases as either Nija or Agantuja (external) to understand their root causes better. Identifying Nija diseases is key for personalized interventions targeting internal imbalances.

5) Vata (Vāṭa, Vaṭa, Vāta, Vaṭā):
'Vata' is one of the three doshas in Ayurveda, characterized by its qualities of movement, dryness, and coolness. It regulates bodily functions related to motion, nerves, and circulation. An imbalance in Vata can lead to various disorders, emphasizing the need for treatments that promote stability and nourishment.

6) Prameha:
'Prameha' encompasses a group of metabolic disorders, primarily related to urinary issues and diabetes-like conditions. It is classified into various types based on causes and symptoms. Understanding Prameha is vital for addressing diseases connected with metabolism and maintaining bodily balance through dietary and lifestyle interventions.

7) Science (Scientific):
The term 'scientific' relates to the methods and principles employed in Ayurveda to analyze health, disease, and treatments systematically. This highlights Ayurveda’s foundations in evidence-based practices and observational studies, fostering a rational understanding of living systems and holistic health.

8) Caraka (Cāraka, Cārāka):
Caraka is a revered figure in Ayurvedic literature, particularly known for the 'Caraka Samhita,' one of the foundational texts of Ayurveda. His works are pivotal in the classification of diseases, clinical practices, and understanding therapeutics, influencing Ayurvedic practitioners and continually guiding current medical understanding.

9) Kapha:
'Kapha' is the dosha associated with structure, fluid balance, and stability in the body, characterized by qualities such as heaviness, moisture, and coldness. Imbalances in Kapha can lead to various diseases, emphasizing the importance of understanding its role in maintaining physical and psychological health.

10) Sutrasthana (Sūtrasthāna, Sutra-sthana):
'Sutrasthana' refers to a section in Caraka Samhita that provides foundational principles and philosophies of Ayurveda. It emphasizes the theoretical frameworks governing health and disease, serving as a reference for practitioners in diagnosing and treating various ailments based on Ayurvedic principles.

11) Alasaka:
Alasaka is a term used in Ayurveda to describe a digestive disorder characterized by loss of appetite or diminished digestive fire. It indicates a condition where the body struggles to process food, often leading to malnutrition or other metabolic issues, highlighting the crucial link between digestion and overall health.

12) Grahani (Grahaṇī):
'Grahani' denotes a specific gastrointestinal disorder primarily associated with the small intestine, characterized by issues like chronic diarrhea and malabsorption. Understanding Grahani is essential for effective treatment strategies, focusing on the balance of dosas and the restoration of digestive functions.

13) Kshudra (Kṣudrā):
'Kshudra' refers to minor or trivial diseases in Ayurveda that may not be life-threatening but require attention to maintain overall health. These conditions often reflect imbalances that can escalate if left untreated, showcasing the holistic approach of Ayurveda toward even seemingly insignificant ailments.

14) Karna (Karṇā, Karṇa, Kārṇa):
'Karna' refers to the ear in Ayurvedic terminology. Diseases affecting the ear, known as 'Karna Rogas,' include various conditions, from infections to hearing loss. Understanding these diseases is essential for effective treatment, emphasizing the Ayurvedic perspective of organ-specific ailments and their comprehensive management.

15) Visha (Viśa, Visa, Viṣa, Viṣā, Vīśa):
'Visa' refers to poisonous substances, including toxins, that can adversely affect the body. In Ayurvedic practice, understanding the effects of 'Visa' is critical for detoxification and treatment strategies, contributing to the broader classification of diseases related to poisoning and toxicity.

16) Pakshaghata (Pakṣaghāta, Paksha-ghata, Paksha-aghata):
'Pakshaghata' refers to a specific type of paralysis or hemiplegia in Ayurveda, highlighting a disruption in the body's motor functions. Understanding Pakshaghata is essential for diagnostic and therapeutic practices focusing on restoring mobility and balance, as well as addressing underlying doshic imbalances.

17) Karnashrava (Karṇaśrava, Karna-shrava, Karṇaśrāva):
'Karnasrava' denotes discharge or secretions from the ear, often symptomatic of infections or other ear disorders. Recognizing Karnasrava is vital for appropriate diagnosis and treatment, aiding in the restoration of ear health and the prevention of more significant complications.

18) Kshatodara (Kṣatodara, Kshata-udara):
'Kshatodara' refers to abdominal diseases characterized by pain or discomfort, often arising from injuries or internal disturbances. Acknowledging this condition in Ayurveda helps classify abdominal issues effectively, guiding personalized treatment strategies to address the underlying causes and promote gastrointestinal health.

19) Similarity:
'Similarity' in the context of classification systems denotes the recognition of common characteristics among various diseases. This principle underpins Ayurvedic classifications, allowing practitioners to group diseases systematically based on shared symptoms or etiological factors, facilitating more effective diagnosis and treatment.

20) Gandamala (Gaṇḍamāla, Ganda-mala):
'Gandamala' refers to a specific skin disorder in Ayurveda characterized by the development of lesions or growths. Understanding this condition allows practitioners to apply appropriate treatments addressing underlying doshic imbalances, emphasizing Ayurveda's holistic approach to skin health.

21) Vilambika (Vilambikā):
'Vilambika' indicates a type of digestive disorder leading to delayed or irregular bowel movements characterized by constipation. Recognizing Vilambika within the Ayurvedic framework helps practitioners tailor therapeutic strategies to regulate digestive function and restore natural rhythms of elimination.

22) Pravahika (Pravāhikā):
'Pravahika' refers to a specific form of diarrhea in Ayurveda, often signifying an imbalance in digestive processes and requiring careful management. Understanding Pravahika is crucial for diagnosis and treatment, focusing on restoring digestive health through dietary modifications and herbal interventions.

23) Akshipaka (Akṣipāka, Akshi-paka):
'Akshipaka' denotes conditions concerning vision, often exploring issues like blindness or visual impairments in Ayurveda. Recognizing Akshipaka as a distinct pathological condition allows practitioners to provide targeted treatments that enhance visual function and address underlying health imbalances.

24) Vidradhi (Vidradhī):
'Vidradhi' refers to localized swellings or abscesses in Ayurveda, typically resulting from infections or inflammatory processes. Understanding Vidradhi aids in diagnosis and guides treatment options aimed at draining abscesses and eliminating underlying infectious causes.

25) Hridroga (Hṛdroga, Hrid-roga):
'Hridroga' encompasses diseases related to the heart in Ayurveda, highlighting the significance of cardiac health. Understanding Hridroga allows practitioners to focus on lifestyle and dietary interventions to promote cardiovascular well-being and address any perceived imbalances in bodily functions.

26) Agantuja (Āgantuja, Agantu-ja):
'Agantuja' categorizes diseases that originate from external causes, such as trauma or environmental factors, in contrast to 'Nija' diseases. This classification is essential in Ayurveda for understanding the origins of ailments and tailoring treatment strategies to address specific external influences affecting health.

27) Atisara (Atisāra, Atīsāra):
'Atisara’ refers specifically to acute diarrhea in Ayurveda, characterized by an imbalance in digestive moisture and function. Understanding Atisara is crucial for timely intervention, addressing the underlying causes through dietary and herbal remedies to restore proper digestive balance.

28) Amavata (Āmavāta, Ama-vata):
'Amavata' is an Ayurvedic term for rheumatic disorders characterized by joint pain due to ama (toxins) accumulation. Recognizing Amavata is essential for effective management strategies, as it indicates the relationship between metabolic disturbances and musculoskeletal health, emphasizing targeted detoxification and dietary adjustments.

29) Vriddhi (Vṛddhi):
'Vriddhi' refers to glandular swellings or enlargements, particularly within the reproductive system or lymphatic tissues. Recognizing Vriddhi is vital in Ayurveda for assessing potential disorders and implementing appropriate treatments aimed at restoring tissue health and hormonal balance.

30) Drishti (Dṛṣṭi, Drishtin, Dṛṣṭin):
'Drishti' pertains to vision or eyesight in Ayurveda, often addressing conditions affecting eye health. Understanding Drishti's significance in Ayurvedic literature is essential for formulating treatments focused on enhancing visual clarity and addressing underlying doshic imbalances impacting ocular health.

31) Tantra (Tantrā, Tamtra, Tantrism):
'Tantra' is a term used in various contexts within Ayurveda, referring to the principles and systems underlying health practices. It encompasses techniques and methodologies central to Ayurvedic philosophy, providing a framework for understanding life, disease, and healing, reflecting the systematic nature of Ayurvedic medicine.

32) Sthana (Sthāna):
'Sthana' translates to location or site in Ayurveda, crucial for diagnosing diseases based on where they manifest in the body. This concept emphasizes treating the specific bodily location where symptoms arise, helping practitioners tailor their therapeutic approaches to address localized health issues.

33) Vimana (Vimāna):
'Vimana' refers to a section in Ayurvedic texts that discusses the methodology of disease classification and understanding various ailments. This knowledge helps practitioners navigate through complex disease presentations and apply proper treatments, enhancing their ability to promote health and address imbalances.

34) Ajirna (Ajīrṇa):
'Ajirna' signifies a state of incomplete or impaired digestion in Ayurveda, often leading to discomfort and other digestive complaints. Identifying Ajirna is key for addressing digestive imbalances and implementing interventions aimed at restoring optimal digestive health and function.

35) Doshaja (Dosha-ja, Doṣaja):
'Dosaja' refers to diseases attributed to an imbalance in the doshas (Vata, Pitta, Kapha). Understanding Dosaja diseases is crucial in Ayurveda as it allows practitioners to identify the predominant dosha causing the ailment and to develop personalized treatment plans aimed at restoring balance.

36) Reason:
'Reason' in Ayurvedic context pertains to the underlying cause of a disease or disorder, which is essential for effective diagnosis and treatment. Identifying the reason guides practitioners in developing targeted interventions that address not just symptoms but also the root causes of health issues.

37) Pitta (Pītta, Piṭṭā):
'Pitta' is one of the three doshas in Ayurveda, related to metabolism, transformation, and heat in the body. An imbalance in Pitta can lead to issues such as inflammation and digestive disturbances. Understanding Pitta is crucial for diagnosis and treatment, emphasizing regulation of metabolic functions.

38) Gulma:
'Gulma' refers to a type of abdominal mass or tumor recognized in Ayurveda, requiring careful evaluation to understand its etiology and nature. Identifying Gulma assists in formulating appropriate treatment plans that may involve dietary changes, herbal interventions, or surgical considerations for abdominal disorders.

39) Krimi (Kṛmi, Kṛmī):
'Krimi' denotes parasitic infections in Ayurveda that may affect various bodily systems. Understanding Krimi is essential in Ayurveda for devising effective treatment strategies, including herbal remedies and detoxification methods, to eliminate parasitic infestations and restore health.

40) Shotha (Śotha, Śoṭha, Soṭhā):
'Sotha' refers to swelling or edema in Ayurveda, often associated with imbalances in the doshas or fluid retention. Recognizing Sotha allows practitioners to assess underlying causes and implement treatment plans aimed at reducing swelling and restoring fluid balance in the body.

41) Ulcer:
'Ulcer' in the Ayurvedic context highlights localized lesions or wounds, especially on mucosal surfaces. Understanding ulcers is significant for diagnosis and treatment, emphasizing dietary adjustments and herbal remedies to promote healing and prevent complications from ongoing inflammation or infection.

42) Janu (Jānu, Janū, Jāṇu):
'Janu' refers to the knee in Ayurvedic terminology. Diseases affecting the knee, especially those involving pain or inflammation, require specific management strategies that consider the involvement of Vata dosha, highlighting the importance of joint health within the broader context of musculoskeletal wellness.

43) Caraka-samhita (Caraka-saṃhitā):
Caraka-samhita is a seminal text in Ayurveda, authored by Caraka, detailing various aspects of medicine, including disease classification, treatment protocols, and philosophical underpinnings. This text serves as a key reference for practitioners in understanding traditional Ayurvedic medicine and applying it in clinical settings.

44) Sthavaravisha (Sthāvaraviṣa, Sthavara-visha):
'Sthavara-visa' refers to poisonous substances derived from plants or stationary sources within Ayurveda, highlighting the importance of understanding toxicology in health. Recognizing Sthavara-visa is crucial for diagnosing and managing poisoning cases, guiding appropriate detoxification and treatment strategies.

45) Vimanasthana (Vimānasthāna, Vimana-sthana):
'Vimana-sthana' denotes a part of the Caraka Samhita concerning the classification and assessment of diseases. It serves as a foundational reference for practitioners to understand the complexity of diseases and implement appropriate therapeutic interventions based on Ayurvedic principles.

46) Rasasheshajirna (Rasaśeṣajīrṇa, Rasashesha-jirna):
'Rasasesajirna' highlights the concept of compromised digestive function leading to toxic residue formation. Understanding this condition is vital for devising effective treatments focused on enhancing digestive efficacy and preventing the accumulation of harmful substances in the body.

47) Kshudraroga (Kshudra-roga, Kṣudraroga):
'Kshudra-roga' refers to minor ailments or trivial diseases which, while not critical, signify imbalances that continue to affect overall health when ignored. Addressing Kshudra-roga in Ayurvedic practice ensures a holistic approach to maintaining well-being and preventing potential escalations of these minor issues.

48) Sarvangavata (Sarvāṅgavāta):
'Sarvangavata' refers to a condition involving a widespread disruption of Vata dosha across the body. Recognizing Sarvangavata is essential for practitioners to implement comprehensive treatment approaches aimed at restoring balance and addressing the diverse symptoms contributing to the patient's discomfort.

49) Garbhiniroga (Garbhiṇīroga, Garbhini-roga):
'Garbhiniroga' focuses on diseases related to pregnancy and reproductive health in women. Understanding Garbhiniroga is crucial for ensuring safe motherhood and addressing health issues that may arise during gestation, highlighting Ayurveda’s holistic approach to maternal and child health.

50) Sandhi-mukta (Sandhimukta):
'Sandhimukta' refers to joint disorders or conditions affecting the connection between bones, including arthritis or other inflammatory diseases. Acknowledging Sandhimukta is vital for formulating treatments that alleviate pain and restore mobility through dietary and therapeutic methods.

51) Vishatantra (Viṣatantra, Visha-tantra):
'Visa-tantra' pertains to toxicological principles within Ayurveda, focusing on understanding poisons, their effects, and ways to neutralize them. A comprehensive grasp of Visa-tantra is crucial for practitioners to effectively manage cases of poisoning and devise appropriate detoxification protocols.

52) Vatakantaka (Vātakaṇṭaka, Vata-kantaka):
'Vatakantaka' refers to a specific type of pain or discomfort involving the joints, often attributed to Vata imbalance. Recognizing Vatakantaka is important for Ayurvedic practitioners to tailor treatments that alleviate joint pain and address imbalances in the doshas for deeper healing.

53) Rajayakshma (Rajan-yakshma, Rājayakṣma, Rājayakṣmā):
'Rajayakshma' represents tuberculosis or related chronic inflammatory diseases in Ayurveda, characterized by debilitating systemic symptoms. Understanding Rajayakshma is essential for effective management, emphasizing interventions aimed at restoring strength and addressing both the physical and nutritional aspects of the condition.

54) Bhagandara (Bhagamdara):
'Bhagandara' denotes a condition commonly known as fistula, affecting the anal region in Ayurvedic terminology. Understanding Bhagandara is critical for appropriate diagnosis and surgical intervention, highlighting the importance of addressing complex conditions through a comprehensive approach in Ayurveda.

55) Ekangavata (Ekanga-vata):
'Ekangavata' refers to unilateral paralysis affecting a single limb or side of the body, typically attributed to Vata disorders. Recognizing Ekangavata is essential within Ayurvedic practice for focusing on localized treatments that restore movement and function in affected areas.

56) Ajagallika (Ajagallikā, Aja-gallika):
'Ajagallika' denotes a type of cutaneous disorder characterized by specific skin lesions, often related to doshic imbalances in Ayurveda. Recognizing Ajagallika allows the practitioner to adopt targeted treatments that address skin health and restore balance accordingly.

57) Netraroga (Netra-roga):
'Netraroga' refers specifically to eye diseases or disorders in Ayurvedic contexts, providing a framework for understanding conditions affecting vision. Recognizing Netraroga allows practitioners to formulate treatments that address both symptoms and underlying doshic imbalances, revitalizing ocular health.

58) Karnaroga (Karna-roga, Karṇaroga):
'Karna-roga' refers to conditions affecting the ear, encompassing various disorders from infections to sensory impairments. Understanding Karna-roga is crucial for targeting ear-related issues within Ayurvedic practice, promoting effective treatment that addresses underlying doshic disturbances affecting ear health.

59) Pratishyaya (Pratiśyāya, Pratīśyāya):
Pratisyaya refers to nasal disorders in Ayurveda, often encompassing issues related to congested nasal passages or allergic reactions. Understanding Pratisyaya is essential for devising treatments aimed at alleviating respiratory distress and restoring normal function, given its role in the respiratory and upper gastrointestinal systems.

60) Mutraghata (Mūtraghāta, Mutra-aghata):
'Mutraghata' refers to urinary retention or difficulty in urination, often resulting from doshic imbalances. Recognizing Mutraghata is crucial for practitioners to formulate effective interventions that restore urinary function and address underlying health issues associated with fluid balance.

61) Vatavyadhi (Vātavyādhi, Vata-vyadhi):
'Vatavyadhi' signifies diseases attributed to Vata dosha disturbances, encompassing a range of conditions including joint disorders, neurological issues, and digestive complaints. Recognizing Vatavyadhi is pivotal for practitioners to implement targeted therapeutic strategies that restore dosha balance and alleviate symptoms effectively.

62) Abhishyanda (Abhiṣyanda):
'Abhisyanda' refers to ocular conditions characterized by discharge or inflammation of the eyes, including conjunctivitis. Recognizing Abhisyanda allows Ayurvedic practitioners to address specific eye conditions and employ treatments aimed at restoring ocular health and comfort.

63) Siraharsha (Sirāharṣa):
'Siraharsha' signifies a sensation of heaviness or pressure in the head, often linked to doshic imbalances affecting mental clarity. Understanding Siraharsha is significant for developing treatment protocols that alleviate head-related discomfort, promoting overall cognitive health.

64) Toxicology:
'Toxicology' within Ayurveda focuses on understanding poisons, their sources, and their effects on the body. This knowledge is crucial for managing cases of poisoning and formulating detoxification strategies, ensuring safe and effective resolution of toxic conditions impacting health.

65) Vatarakta (Vātarakta, Vata-rakta):
'Vatarakta' denotes a condition often referred to as gout, characterized by painful arthritis. Understanding Vatarakta is essential for Ayurvedic practitioners to apply targeted treatments addressing metabolic imbalances and promoting overall joint health, highlighting the interplay of doshic imbalances in chronic conditions.

66) Nadivrana (Nāḍivraṇa, Nadi-vrana):
'Nadivrana' represents wounds or injuries categorized as related to the channels or vessels of the body. Understanding Nadivrana is important for effective treatment that focuses on healing wounds while addressing potential complications arising from disturbances in the associated structures.

67) Amlapitta (Amla-pitta):
'Amlapitta' describes a digestive disorder characterized by acidity and heartburn, stemming from imbalances in Pitta dosha. Recognizing Amlapitta is crucial for developing dietary interventions and herbal treatments that alleviate symptoms and restore digestive balance.

68) Karnashula (Karṇaśūla, Karna-shula, Karṇaśūlā):
'Karnasula' pertains to various conditions affecting the ear, particularly regarding infections or structural abnormalities. Identifying Karnasula allows for tailored treatment approaches focusing on restoring ear health and addressing the concerns of hearing and balance.

69) Galaganda (Galagaṇḍa, Gala-ganda, Galagamda, Galagāṃḍa):
'Galaganda' denotes goiter or thyroid-related disorders within Ayurveda. Understanding this condition highlights the importance of metabolic balance and effective treatment strategies aimed at addressing thyroid function while enhancing overall hormonal health.

70) Shitapitta (Śītapitta, Shita-pitta):
'Sitapitta' describes a condition associated with a cold disease process characterized by disturbances in Pitta dosha. Understanding Sitapitta is essential for diagnosing related issues and formulating heating treatments that restore balance and combat cold-related symptoms.

71) Apabahuka (Apabāhuka):
'Apabahuka' refers to shoulder disorders or pain of various origins, often requiring targeted treatment approaches. Understanding Apabahuka is essential for practitioners to alleviate discomfort and restore mobility through therapeutic interventions focused on musculoskeletal health.

72) Nasaroga (Nāsāroga, Nasa-roga):
'Nasa-roga' refers to nasal diseases in Ayurveda, encompassing conditions affecting the nasal pathways. Understanding Nasa-roga is crucial for formulating treatments that address respiratory and olfactory disturbances, promoting overall sinus health and function.

73) Atisthula (Atisthūla, Ati-sthula):
'Atisthula' signifies excessive body weight or obesity within Ayurvedic terminology, often highlighting imbalances in dosha and metabolic processes. Recognizing Atisthula allows practitioners to devise weight management strategies and lifestyle modifications to promote health and prevent related complications.

74) Putikarna (Pūtikarṇa, Puti-karna):
'Putikarna' refers to ear diseases characterized by foul-smelling discharges, often indicating infection or other active processes. Identifying Putikarna is essential for timely treatment interventions that restore ear health and eliminate the sources of unpleasant odors or infections.

75) Kaphodara (Kapha-udara):
'Kaphodara' denotes conditions associated with excessive Kapha dosha, particularly relating to oedema or swelling. Understanding Kaphodara is crucial for managing excess fluid retention through dietary interventions and pacification of Kapha to restore balance.

[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 185]