An ayurvedic review of ashwagandha from samhitha and nighantus

Glossary definitions and references:

Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “An ayurvedic review of ashwagandha from samhitha and nighantus”. 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) Nighantu (Nighamtu):
Nighantu refers to the ancient Ayurvedic texts that compile synonyms and properties of medicinal plants, serving as essential references for understanding the uses of herbs like Ashwagandha in traditional medicine. They categorize various herbs, their synonyms, and medicinal properties, making the study of Ayurveda more accessible and organized. Nighantus play a crucial role in Ayurvedic pharmacology and herbal medicine.

2) Taila:
Taila, or oil, is often used in Ayurvedic formulations for therapeutic purposes. In the context of Ashwagandha, it refers to medicated oils that incorporate Ashwagandha for treating various ailments. These oils can be used for topical application or other therapeutic methods in traditional practices.

3) Samhita:
Samhita refers to the ancient texts of Ayurveda, including foundational works like Charaka Samhita and Sushruta Samhita, which detail herbal remedies, treatments, and medicinal preparations like those containing Ashwagandha. These texts form the backbone of Ayurvedic knowledge, providing comprehensive insights into medical practices.

4) Roga:
Roga means disease or illness in Sanskrit and is a key concept in Ayurveda that addresses various medical conditions. Ashwagandha is described in several ancient texts as a remedy for multiple Rogas, indicating its significance in treating ailments throughout traditional medicine.

5) Lepa:
Lepa refers to a paste or ointment made from herbs, commonly used in Ayurvedic treatments. Ashwagandha is included in various Lepa formulations that are applied to the skin for promoting healing and treating conditions such as wounds and skin diseases, demonstrating its versatility in Ayurvedic practice.

6) Drug:
In the context of Ayurveda, 'Drug' refers to medicinal substances derived from natural sources used to treat ailments. Ashwagandha is categorized as a vital drug known for its adaptogenic properties, helping the body cope with stress and numerous other health issues.

7) Ghrita (Ghrta):
Ghrita is a term for ghee or clarified butter used in Ayurvedic formulations. Ghrita infused with Ashwagandha is believed to enhance its potency and therapeutic effects, making it a popular choice in various Ayurvedic recipes aimed at improving health and well-being.

8) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is an ancient Indian system of medicine that utilizes herbs, dietary practices, and holistic approaches to promote health and treat illness. It emphasizes balance in body systems and considers Ashwagandha a key herb for maintaining vitality and treating numerous conditions.

9) Vata:
Vata in Ayurveda represents one of the three doshas, or bodily energies, associated with movement and the nervous system. Ashwagandha is often recommended to balance Vata, especially in individuals experiencing anxiety, stress, or nervous disorders.

10) Varga:
Varga indicates a category or classification in Ayurveda that groups similar items or concepts. The classification of herbs like Ashwagandha falls under various Varga for easier study and understanding, especially regarding their medicinal properties and uses.

11) Disease:
Disease refers to any deviation from health, for which Ayurveda provides holistic remedies. Ashwagandha is noted for treating various diseases, illustrating its broad efficacy and importance in traditional Indian medicine for promoting health and wellness.

12) Kashaya (Kasaya):
Kasaya refers to an astringent or decoction in Ayurveda, often used in formulations to treat conditions. Ashwagandha exhibits properties of Kasaya, indicating its effectiveness in addressing certain health conditions and enhancing overall bodily functions.

13) Varanasi (Varanashi):
Varanasi is a city in India renowned for its historical significance in Ayurvedic studies and practices. Many Ayurvedic experts and scholars, including authors of important texts on Ashwagandha and other herbs, have connections to this cultural hub.

14) Sharman (Sarma, Sharma, Sarman):
Sharma is a common surname among scholars and practitioners of Ayurveda. It often appears in references to authors who have contributed to Ayurvedic literature related to the study of herbs like Ashwagandha and its applications in medicine.

15) Balya:
Balya signifies a term in Ayurveda used to describe substances that promote strength and vitality. Ashwagandha is classified as Balya, recognized for its ability to rejuvenate and enhance physical strength in individuals.

16) Ushna (Usna):
Usna refers to the heating potency of a substance in Ayurveda. Ashwagandha is described as Usna, effective in balancing cold conditions in the body and enhancing energy and thermogenesis, making it beneficial for various health issues.

17) Rasayana (Rasa-ayana):
Rasayana indicates a category of rejuvenating therapies in Ayurveda. Ashwagandha is often utilized as a Rasayana, promoting longevity, mental clarity, and vitality, thus significantly contributing to overall health maintenance.

18) Vataja (Vata-ja):
Vataja refers to conditions arising from Vata imbalance. Ayurvedic texts recommend Ashwagandha for treating Vataja diseases, highlighting its importance as a balancing agent for the body's Vata dosha.

19) Vataroga (Vata-roga):
Vata-roga directs to conditions related to Vata disturbances, wherein Ashwagandha is frequently prescribed to restore harmony and treat symptoms associated with these diseases.

20) Samaka (Shamaka):
Samaka means 'equal' or 'balancing.' In Ayurveda, it pertains to substances that help maintain balance in bodily systems. Ashwagandha is often listed for its Samaka properties, particularly concerning Vata and Kapha doshas.

21) Tikta:
Tikta translates as 'bitter' in Ayurveda and is associated with certain therapeutic properties. Ashwagandha contains Tikta qualities, contributing to its broad medicinal usage and effectiveness in various formulations.

22) Basti:
Basti refers to a therapeutic enema or application used in managing symptoms and imbalances in Ayurveda. Ashwagandha is sometimes included in Basti formulations for its restorative and healing properties, aiding various conditions.

23) Rasa (Rasha):
Rasa means flavor or essence and is a significant aspect of Ayurvedic pharmacology. The Rasa of Ashwagandha includes qualities that contribute to its therapeutic efficacy, playing an important role in formulating treatments tailored to body types and conditions.

24) Vatavyadhi (Vata-vyadhi):
Vatavyadhi refers to diseases related to Vata dosha disturbances. Ashwagandha is widely recognized in texts for its role in treating Vatavyadhi, continuously emphasizing its usefulness in herbal therapies for Vata-related ailments.

25) Ashtanga (Astanga, Ashtan-anga):
Astanga commonly relates to the 'Eight Branches' of Ayurveda, encompassing diverse health practices. Ashwagandha is significant in this larger context, being integral in various branches dealing with physical and mental health.

26) Vyadhin (Vyadhi):
Vyadhi translates to disease, and in Ayurvedic texts, each Vyadhi typically has specific recommended treatments. Ashwagandha's classification under various Vyadhi showcases its extensive application in treating numerous conditions in Ayurveda.

27) Vajikarana:
Vajikarana is a branch of Ayurveda dedicated to improving reproductive health and vitality. Ashwagandha is often highlighted in Vajikarana practices for its aphrodisiac properties, supporting reproductive wellness and vitality.

28) Rajayakshma (Rajan-yakshma, Rajayaksma):
Rajayaksma refers to specific types of fever, particularly with symptoms affecting strength and vitality. Ashwagandha's uses in the treatment of Rajayaksma underscore its relevance in Ayurvedic fever management systems.

29) Vagbhata:
Vagbhata was a renowned Ayurvedic scholar credited with the authorship of key texts like Astanga Hridaya. His mention of herbs such as Ashwagandha has greatly influenced Ayurvedic practices and continuities of knowledge throughout history.

30) Medicine:
Medicine encompasses various practices used to maintain health and treat illness. In Ayurveda, Ashwagandha represents a cornerstone herb in the medical repertoire, essential for its wide-ranging health benefits.

31) Sodhala:
Sodhala refers to an Ayurvedic author associated with the creation of the Sodhala Nighantu, a text detailing various herbs, including Ashwagandha, and their medicinal applications. This work contributes significantly to the body of Ayurvedic herbal knowledge.

32) Virya:
Virya denotes the potency or efficacy of a substance in Ayurveda. The Virya of Ashwagandha is noted for its warming effects, making it useful in various therapeutic applications, especially for conditions of cold and deficiency.

33) Bala:
Bala translates to strength or vitality in Ayurveda. Ashwagandha is often referred to in contexts that promote Bala, assisting those recovering from disease or looking to enhance overall strength and energy levels.

34) Lakshaditaila (Laksaditaila, Lakshadi-taila):
Laksadi Taila denotes a medicated oil preparation that may include Ashwagandha, specifically used for treating various disorders. Its incorporation in Ayurvedic practices showcases the application of Ashwagandha in enhancing the efficacy of ointments and oils.

35) Varahakarni (Varaha-karni):
Varahakarni denotes synonyms or related names for Ashwagandha used in various texts emphasizing its beneficial properties. The diverse nomenclature enhances the understanding and recognition of its therapeutic role in traditional medicine.

36) Dravyaguna (Dravya-guna):
Dravya-guna encompasses the study of the properties and effects of various herbs, including Ashwagandha, providing foundational knowledge for Ayurvedic practitioners in herbal medicine.

37) Mahakashaya (Mahakasaya, Maha-kashaya):
Mahakasaya refers to major medicinal categories or preparations in Ayurveda. Ashwagandha's incorporation into Mahakasaya compositions illustrates its significance in enhancing the therapeutic outcomes of various herbal remedies.

38) Vajigandha (Vajin-gandha, Vajigamdha):
Vajigandha stands as one of the synonyms for Ashwagandha, representing its essential qualities that promote strength and vitality. The terminology highlights the significance of this herb in Ayurveda's application in reproductive and general health.

39) Balataila (Bala-taila):
Bala-Taila signifies a specific medicated oil formulation that may include Ashwagandha, especially recognized for its properties that support strength and vitality in those using it for therapeutic purposes.

40) Ushnavata (Usnavata, Ushna-vata):
Usna-Vata illustrates a property of Ashwagandha in formulations, indicating that it possesses warm qualities beneficial for balancing Vata dosha imbalances and treating resultant ailments.

41) Lakshadi (Laksadi, Laksha-adi):
Laksadi refers to a class of Ayurvedic formulations that may include Ashwagandha as part of a broader treatment strategy focused on restoring health and balance in the body.

42) Caraka:
Caraka refers to one of the foundational figures in Ayurvedic medicine known for the Caraka Samhita, which elaborates extensively on herbal medicines, including Ashwagandha, detailing its properties and uses.

43) Kushtha (Kustha):
Kustha denotes skin diseases or conditions, wherein Ashwagandha is recognized in classical texts for its beneficial effects in treating related ailments, underlining its importance in dermatological applications.

44) Turagi:
Turagi is a synonym for Ashwagandha, representing its multifaceted beneficial properties outlined across different Ayurvedic texts, adding to the understanding of its applications.

45) Khanda (Khamda):
Khanda means chapter or section in Sanskrit texts. The formulation discussions referring to Ashwagandha can often be found in various Khanda of Samhitas where it plays crucial roles in therapies and remedies.

46) Kapha:
Kapha is one of the three doshas in Ayurveda representing bodily fluids and structure. Ashwagandha is explored for its balancing effects on Kapha, demonstrating its versatility in addressing different types of health conditions.

47) Kalka:
Kalka indicates a paste made from fresh herbs, commonly used in treatments in Ayurveda. Ashwagandha is included in numerous Kalka recipes, serving therapeutic purposes through topical application or oral consumption.

48) Priya:
Priya refers to a synonym of Ashwagandha, often highlighting its pleasing characteristics and beneficial properties noted in Ayurveda, reinforcing the herb's positive association in treatment practices.

49) Vrana:
Vrana means wound or sore in Ayurveda. Various formulations containing Ashwagandha are cited for promoting healing of Vrana, making it an essential herb in wound care protocols.

50) India:
India is the birthplace of Ayurveda, and all traditional practices and herbs, including Ashwagandha, have deep roots in Indian culture, showcasing the historical significance of herbal medicine in enhancing health and well-being.

51) Hindi (Himdi):
Hindi denotes the language in which many Ayurvedic texts have been translated or composed. Understanding Ashwagandha and its uses in Hindi texts allows for broader accessibility of Ayurvedic knowledge to a wider audience.

52) Raja:
Raja refers to a title or author in the context of Ayurveda, specifically those who might have authored texts discussing Ashwagandha's properties and applications in traditional medicine.

53) Kasa (Kasha):
Kasa means cough in Ayurveda. Ashwagandha has been noted in treatments for Kasa, reinforcing its respiratory benefits and significance in managing coughing disorders.

54) Kaiyadevanighantu (Kaiyadeva-nighantu):
Kaiyadeva-nighantu refers to a specific Ayurvedic text where Ashwagandha is mentioned among various herbs, showcasing its significance and properties within herbal medicine.

55) Sushruta-samhita (Susruta-samhita):
Sushruta-samhita is a foundational Ayurvedic text focused on surgery and herbal treatments, where Ashwagandha's uses are elaborated upon, emphasizing its importance in both surgical and medicinal applications.

56) Sanskrit:
Sanskrit is the ancient language of classical texts, including those discussing Ashwagandha. Many Ayurvedic formulations and terminologies are rooted in Sanskrit, enriching the language's contributions to medicinal knowledge.

57) Dravya:
Dravya denotes medicinal substances used in Ayurvedic practices. Ashwagandha is a vital Dravya recognized for a range of therapeutic properties and applications in various formulations. [see source text or glossary: Dravya}

58) Varada (Vara-da):
Varada refers to a synonym or related term for Ashwagandha, commonly highlighted in Ayurvedic texts for its recognized therapeutic properties, showing the herb's broad use in treatments.

59) Veda:
Vedic signifies knowledge stemming from the Vedas, where references to Ashwagandha bolster its spiritual and medicinal importance in ancient and contemporary practices.

60) Katu:
Katu denotes a pungent flavor in Ayurveda. Ashwagandha also presents some Katu properties, contributing to its diverse medicinal character and applications in traditional formulations.

61) Withania somnifera:
Withania somnifera is the scientific name for Ashwagandha, widely studied for its adaptogenic properties and health benefits outlined in various Ayurvedic texts and modern research. Understanding its scientific classification aids in recognizing its medicinal importance.

62) Madhuraskandha (Madhura-skandha):
Madhura-skandha references a specific formulation that involves Ashwagandha and is noted for its sweet taste and beneficial properties in treating various conditions in Ayurveda, portraying its versatility.

63) Caraka-samhita:
Caraka-samhita is a classical Ayurvedic text fundamental to the study of herbal medicine, detailing treatments and formulations containing Ashwagandha, underscoring its therapeutic applications.

64) Rajanighantu (Raja-nighantu, Rajan-nighantu):
Raja-nighantu refers to a specific text documenting various herbs, including Ashwagandha. This work serves as an important reference in Ayurveda, highlighting the properties and uses of this vital plant.

65) Rajavallabha (Rajan-vallabha):
Raja-vallabha is a text composed by a notable author in Ayurveda, which incorporates discussions of Ashwagandha and its properties, contributing to the understanding and application of this herb in traditional practices.

66) Urustambha (Uru-stambha):
Urustambha pertains to ailments related to the abdomen or hips. Ashwagandha’s use in treating Urustambha indicates its significance in addressing various physical discomforts and conditions related to these areas.

67) Raktapitta (Rakta-pitta):
Rakta-pitta represents blood-related disorders. Ashwagandha's attributes in treating Rakta-pitta indicate its role in managing symptoms associated with blood imbalances within Ayurvedic contexts.

68) Kamarupini (Kama-rupini):
Kamarupini is a synonym for Ashwagandha, emphasizing its aphrodisiac properties within Ayurvedic texts, indicating its role in promoting sexual health and vitality.

69) Anuvasana:
Anuvasana denotes a type of enema in Ayurveda, in which Ashwagandha is sometimes included to provide therapeutic benefits for various abdominal and digestive disorders.

70) Karnaroga (Karna-roga):
Karnaroga refers to diseases impacting the ear. The inclusion of Ashwagandha in treatments for Karnaroga highlights its perceived effectiveness in addressing issues related to hearing and ear health.

71) Brimhaniya (Brmhaniya):
Brmhaniya is an Ayurvedic preparation indicating a substance promoting strength and vitality. Ashwagandha falls into this category, prominently featured in recommendations for enhancing overall health and energy levels.

72) Knowledge:
Knowledge in Ayurveda encompasses the understanding of herbal remedies, practices, and theories. The study of Ashwagandha reflects deep knowledge of its unique properties and applications in healing processes within traditional medicine.

73) Vallabha:
Vallabha denotes a title often associated with Ayurvedic authors, signifying their contributions to texts that frequently refer to Ashwagandha and its extensive uses in herbal treatments.

74) Apasmara:
Apasmara refers to epilepsy or seizure disorders. Ashwagandha is mentioned in Ayurvedic texts as a supportive treatment for Apasmara, highlighting its neuroprotective and calming properties.

75) Narayana (Nara-ayana, Nara-yana):
Narayana often illustrates divine aspects of Ayurvedic medicine, linking Ashwagandha with spiritual healing and holistic health benefits that are revered in traditional practices.

[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 263]