A review on ‘dharakalpa

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Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: A review on ‘dharakalpa
The WJPR includes peer-reviewed publications such as scientific research papers, reports, review articles, company news, thesis reports and case studies in areas of Biology, Pharmaceutical industries and Chemical technology while incorporating ancient fields of knowledge such combining Ayurveda with scientific data.
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Author:

Dr. Muhammed Hisham, Dr. Aneesh E. G. and Dr. D. B. Vaghela


World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research:

(An ISO 9001:2015 Certified International Journal)

Full text available for: A review on ‘dharakalpa

Source type: An International Peer Reviewed Journal for Pharmaceutical and Medical and Scientific Research

Doi: 10.20959/wjpr202111-21613

Copyright (license): WJPR: All rights reserved


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Summary of article contents:

Introduction

The ancient Ayurvedic treatise Dharakalpa, believed to be written in Kerala, focuses on the technique of Dhara and similar therapeutic procedures. Despite its historical significance, Dharakalpa has remained largely unnoticed until recent translations and publications have brought it to the forefront. This review aims to elucidate its contents and methodologies, offering a simplified understanding for practitioners and scholars interested in these Ayurvedic treatments. By analyzing various editions and establishing comparisons, the authors present critical concepts from the text, with an emphasis on clarity for better application in practice.

The Importance of Dharakalpa

One of the key features of Dharakalpa is its detailed and methodical approach to the procedures of Dhara. The treatise is regarded as a comprehensive reference for these specialized techniques due to the exhaustive manner in which it discusses vital aspects such as procedural steps, therapeutic benefits, and requisite materials. It provides crucial information on several forms of Dhara, including Takradhara and Kayaseka, outlining exact protocols that practitioners should follow to ensure effective treatment outcomes. This systematic elaboration highlights its importance not only as a practical guide but also as a historical document indicative of traditional practices in Kerala.

Detailed Procedural Guidelines for Sirovasthi

One of the significant procedures outlined in Dharakalpa is Sirovasthi, categorized as one of the superior types among the four Moordhatailas. The text highlights the preparatory steps necessary for the procedure, which includes specific purificatory actions like Vamana and Virechana, along with therapies such as Abhyanga and Swedana performed in the evening. A careful assembly of materials is required, including a specially designed leather band to hold medicated oil around the head. The text prescribes observations of desired symptoms to assess the efficacy of the treatment, drawing attention to the importance of following distinct protocols for patient care.

Therapeutic Outcomes of Takradhara

Takradhara represents another vital procedure in Dharakalpa, where processed Takra (buttermilk) is utilized as the therapeutic agent. The treatise describes the preparation of the Dharadravya, which requires meticulous processing of ingredients, ensuring purification through various methods. The benefits associated with Takradhara include alleviating specific ailments, as summarized in tabular form for clarity. By laying out the treatment regimen, duration, and expected outcomes, Dharakalpa not only educates practitioners on the procedural aspects but also emphasizes the holistic approach of Ayurvedic healing.

Conclusion

Dharakalpa stands out as a critical reference in the context of Ayurvedic therapies, particularly concerning Dhara techniques. As explored through the discussions of Sirovasthi and Takradhara, the treatise encapsulates essential procedural details and therapeutic benefits, illuminating key breakthroughs in traditional medical practices. Its impact on contemporary Ayurvedic practice cannot be overstated, as it not only preserves historical knowledge but also enhances the understanding and execution of treatments that remain relevant in modern healthcare. The work ultimately contributes to a broader appreciation of Ayurvedic sciences and underscores the significance of maintaining such traditional wisdom in health management.

FAQ section (important questions/answers):

What is the significance of the ancient treatise Dharakalpa?

Dharakalpa is a renowned ancient treatise from Kerala, detailing the procedures of Dhara and related treatments. It offers comprehensive insights into the methods, benefits, and protocols necessary for performing these therapeutic practices effectively.

Who authored and published the Dharakalpa treatise historically?

The treatise was first published by Acharya Yadavjitrikamji as an attachment to Vaidyamanorama written by Acharya Kalidasa. Various translations in Hindi and Kannada followed, increasing its accessibility and popularity among practitioners.

What procedures are primarily discussed in the Dharakalpa?

Dharakalpa elaborates on various procedures, primarily emphasizing Dhara, Takradhara, Kayaseka, and Sirovasthi, providing detailed methodologies, indications, and benefits associated with each therapeutic practice.

What are the benefits of the Takradhara procedure according to the text?

Takradhara is reported to treat various conditions like Kesha shouklya, Mootradosha, and Sandhisladhana. Its therapeutic application aims to balance the doshas and improve overall well-being.

What is the importance of methodical adherence to procedures in Dharakalpa?

Following prescribed methodologies in Dharakalpa is crucial for achieving desired therapeutic outcomes. These methods ensure that the treatment adheres to traditional principles, promoting efficacy and patient safety.

What precautions or follow-up measures are recommended post Dhara procedures?

After completing Dhara procedures, recommendations include rest, using Kashaya powders to cleanse the skin, and adhering to a light, digestible diet to support recovery and enhance treatment effects.

Glossary definitions and references:

Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “A review on ‘dharakalpa”. 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) Dhara:
Dhara refers to a therapeutic technique in Ayurvedic medicine involving the continuous pouring of a warm liquid over the body. This process is considered beneficial for various ailments and is detailed extensively in the ancient treatise 'Dharakalpa', making it crucial for practitioners to understand its significance in treatments.

2) Table:
In the context of the article, tables serve as structured presentations of information, summarizing benefits, durations, and procedures related to Dhara. They help simplify complex concepts, providing clear and quick reference points for practitioners and researchers studying the treatment methodologies outlined in 'Dharakalpa'.

3) Sneha:
Sneha refers to oily substances used in Ayurvedic treatments, such as oils or ghee. As a vital component in various procedures like Dhara, Sneha aids in lubrication, skin nourishment, and restoration of balance in the body’s doshas, which are critical for effective therapeutic outcomes.

4) Atiyoga:
Atiyoga describes the consequences of excessive application or performance of a therapeutic procedure, such as Dhara. Understanding this concept is essential for practitioners to avoid over-treatment, thereby preventing adverse reactions and ensuring patient safety and efficacy in Ayurvedic interventions.

5) Disease:
Understanding various diseases in the context of Ayurveda is crucial for practitioners. Each disease can correspond to specific doshic imbalances that demand targeted treatments, making an integrated approach, such as those outlined in 'Dharakalpa' for Dhara, vital for restoring health.

6) Dravya:
Dravyas, the plural of Dravya, entail various essential substances utilized in Ayurvedic protocols, including herbs, oils, and other therapeutic materials. Understanding the properties and applications of these Dravyas offers practitioners insight into how to effectively administer treatments like Dhara.

7) Angula (Amgula):
Angula, referring to a singular finger width, is used in Ayurvedic measurements to maintain accuracy in treatments. Its relevance underscores the importance of methodical and precise application in therapeutic procedures, such as determining the height at which Dhara should be performed.

8) Water:
Water is a fundamental component in Ayurvedic treatments, particularly in preparing medicated solutions for therapies like Dhara. Its quality and treatment influence the efficacy of the procedures, making it an essential element in the formulation of herbal decoctions and therapeutic liquids.

9) Hara:
Hara often alludes to the concept of 'removal' or 'destruction' related to ailments in Ayurveda. In the context of treatments, managing doshic imbalances through methods like Dhara is essential for restoring health and balance, highlighting the holistic vision of Ayurvedic medicine.

10) Shalakyatantra (Salakyatantra, Shalakya-tantra, Shalakyatamtra):
Shalakyatantra is a branch of Ayurveda focused on the treatment of diseases related to the head, neck, and eyes. Its relevance highlights specialized Ayurvedic practices tailored for particular ailments, pointing to the comprehensive nature of treatments like Dhara in addressing health concerns.

11) Lakshana (Laksana):
Lakshanas refers to the various signs or symptoms that indicate specific health conditions. Their importance lies in guiding practitioners in diagnosing diseases accurately and determining appropriate Ayurvedic treatments, such as Dhara, designed to alleviate particular symptoms.

12) Pitta:
Pitta is one of the three doshas in Ayurveda, representing the elements of fire and water. An understanding of Pitta’s characteristics is essential when applying treatments like Dhara, as practitioners must address specific imbalances to restore health effectively.

13) Kapha:
Kapha, the dosha symbolizing earth and water elements, is critical in Ayurveda as it represents structure and lubrication in the body. Knowledge of Kapha's qualities aids Ayurvedic practitioners in adjusting treatments such as Dhara to restore balance and treat related conditions.

14) Matra:
Matras, the plural of Matra, relate to the specific measurements applied in Ayurvedic treatments. Precise comprehension of Matras ensures that practitioners administer the right dosage of substances, vital for the success of treatments such as Dhara.

15) Takra:
Takra refers to buttermilk or churned liquid, frequently incorporated in Dhara procedures for its cooling and nourishing properties. Its significance in Ayurvedic treatments emphasizes the adaptability of therapies to cater to specific doshic imbalances and health conditions.

16) Roga:
Roga translates to 'disease' or 'affliction' in Ayurveda. Knowledge of Rogas is fundamental for practitioners, as it guides them in diagnosing ailments and selecting appropriate treatment approaches, including tailored methods like Dhara designed for specific disorders.

17) Discussion:
The discussion section of a scholarly article provides a succinct analysis and interpretation of the findings presented. It contextualizes the research within broader frameworks, allowing practitioners to understand the implications of the methods described, particularly for treatments like Dhara in clinical settings.

18) Amalaki:
Amalaki, or Indian Gooseberry, is a revered herb in Ayurveda known for its rich vitamin C content and medicinal properties. Its mention in treatment procedures like Dhara emphasizes the significance of herbal ingredients in formulating therapeutic solutions tailored to individual health needs.

19) Muhurta:
Muhurtas refer to specific periods in Vedic astrology considered favorable for undertaking activities, including Ayurvedic treatments. Knowledge of Muhurtas allows practitioners to time procedures like Dhara appropriately for optimal therapeutic benefits.

20) Prastha (Prashtha):
Prastha is a measurement used in Ayurveda, referencing approximately 96 grams. Its significance is highlighted when determining the quantity of ingredients or substances to be utilized in preparations for procedures like Dhara, promoting precision and adherence to traditional practices.

21) Kerala:
Kerala, renowned as the birthplace of Ayurveda, is critical in understanding the cultural and historical contexts of Ayurvedic practices. The region's traditional knowledge, particularly regarding therapies like Dhara expressed in texts like 'Dharakalpa', highlights its contributions to holistic health sciences.

22) Nature:
Nature pertains to the intrinsic characteristics and qualities of substances used in Ayurveda. Understanding the nature of various Dravyas and doshas is essential for practitioners, ensuring tailored treatments like Dhara match the unique health conditions of individual patients.

23) Dosha (Dosa):
Dosha refers to the three fundamental energies—Vata, Pitta, and Kapha—governing physiological and psychological functions in Ayurveda. Understanding Doshas is crucial for practitioners as it informs diagnosis, treatment strategies, and the personalization of therapies like Dhara for optimal efficacy.

24) Vata:
Vata, associated with air and space, is one of Ayurveda's three doshas, influencing movement and communication. Knowledge of Vata's properties supports practitioners in addressing disorders linked to its imbalance, utilizing treatments like Dhara tailored to restore equilibrium.

25) Kala:
Kala denotes timing and stages in Ayurvedic treatments, emphasizing the relevance of proper timing in administering therapies like Dhara. Awareness of Kala helps practitioners maximize therapeutic effects, aligning procedures with patients’ specific conditions and individual needs.

26) Hair:
Hairs relate to an individual's overall aesthetic and health, addressed in Ayurveda through specific treatments. Recognizing the importance of hair health aligns with the holistic principles of Ayurveda, influencing the application of therapies like Dhara focused on the scalp.

27) Kashayadravya (Kasayadravya, Kashaya-dravya):
Kashaya-dravya refers to herbal powders that are utilized in various Ayurvedic procedures for their therapeutic effects. Employing Kashaya-dravya in post-treatment practices, such as after Dhara, underscores the holistic approach of Ayurveda in promoting patient recovery and health restoration.

28) Raktapitta (Rakta-pitta):
Rakta-pitta signifies conditions of blood or related disorders in Ayurveda. Knowledge of Rakta-pitta influences diagnostic and treatment strategies, particularly in employing Dhara and other interventions, ensuring that therapies effectively address specific health imbalances.

29) Kaphadosha (Kaphadosa, Kapha-dosha):
Kapha-dosha represents one of Ayurveda's three fundamental energies, associated with earth and water. Addressing Kapha imbalances through treatments like Dhara is essential due to its influence over structure and bodily fluids, guiding practitioners in managing related disorders effectively.

30) Netraroga (Netra-roga):
Netra-roga refers to eye diseases in Ayurveda. Understanding these conditions is essential for practitioners, as it informs treatment selection, including specific therapies like Dhara, aimed at alleviating symptoms and restoring health in the ocular region.

31) Developing:
Developing, in the context of Ayurvedic practices, refers to the continuous evolution of treatment methodologies informed by traditional knowledge. This process is crucial for integrating ancient wisdom with modern interpretations, particularly regarding therapeutic techniques like Dhara for contemporary health challenges.

32) Saindhava (Saimdhava):
Saindhava refers to rock salt, often utilized in Ayurvedic treatments. Its inclusion in therapeutic procedures, such as in Dhara, emphasizes the role of mineral supplements in enhancing treatment efficacy, particularly for balancing doshic influences and promoting health.

33) Dhanyamla (Dhanya-amla):
Dhanyamla refers to fermented rice water, a medicinal preparation in Ayurveda. Its significance in Dhara procedures highlights the therapeutic potential of traditional dietary substances, enhancing treatment outcomes through their unique health benefits.

34) Substance:
Substance refers to any material or ingredient used in Ayurvedic therapies. Its relevance is paramount for practitioners, as the selection and understanding of various substances significantly influence treatment efficacy and patient outcomes in procedures such as Dhara.

35) Abhyanga (Abhyamga):
Abhyanga is an Ayurvedic oil massage intended to nourish the body and balance doshas. It often precedes treatments like Dhara, preparing the body for deeper therapeutic interventions, emphasizing the interconnected nature of Ayurvedic treatment practices.

36) Kalidasa:
Kalidasa, a revered figure in Ayurveda, is acknowledged for his contributions to ancient texts. His works provide insights into traditional practices and treatments, including Dhara, establishing a foundation for contemporary understanding and application of Ayurvedic therapies.

37) Gandusa (Gandusha, Gamdusa, Gamdusha):
Gandusha refers to the practice of holding medicated oil or decoction in the mouth for therapeutic purposes. Its inclusion in Ayurvedic protocols highlights the holistic approach to treatment, ensuring that procedures such as Dhara encompass comprehensive care methodologies.

38) Angasada (Anga-sada):
Angasada signifies bodily pain or discomfort in Ayurveda and is considered an important symptom to address. Recognition of Angasada informs practitioners about the necessity of therapies like Dhara as a method of alleviating discomfort and restoring overall well-being.

39) Visarpa:
Visarpa is a term referring to a specific type of skin rash or infection in Ayurveda. Understanding Visarpa helps practitioners devise effective treatment strategies, emphasizing the relevance of therapies like Dhara in managing skin-related conditions.

40) Trikatu (Tri-katu):
Trikatu is a combination of three pungent spices—Black Pepper, Long Pepper, and Ginger—often used in Ayurveda for its health benefits. Its mention in dietary practices reinforces the holistic aspect of Ayurvedic healing, especially post-treatment recommendations following Dhara.

41) Snigdha:
Snigdha, meaning oily or unctuous in Ayurveda, describes substances that provide nourishment and lubrication. Its relevance in treatments like Dhara highlights the importance of using appropriate qualities of therapeutic agents to achieve desired health benefits.

42) Avastha:
Avastha refers to the condition or state of an individual, particularly regarding health. Understanding Avastha is crucial for practitioners, as it informs the selection of treatments, ensuring therapies like Dhara are tailored to the patient’s specific health status.

43) Kannada:
Kannada refers to a South Indian language spoken in Karnataka, which has contributed to the dissemination of Ayurvedic knowledge through translated texts. This cultural aspect reinforces the relevance of local languages in preserving and sharing the wisdom of ancient health practices.

44) Kashaya (Kasaya):
Kashaya refers to astringent herbal decoctions utilized in Ayurvedic treatments. Their application post-Dhara highlights the need for comprehensive care, as Kashaya aids in restoring balance and aiding digestion following oily therapies.

45) Vaghela:
Vaghela is mentioned as a contributor to Ayurvedic knowledge and practices, emphasizing the collaborative nature of traditional healing systems. His contributions serve as vital resources for practitioners studying ancient texts and methodologies such as Dharakalpa.

46) Ruksha (Ruksa):
Ruksha refers to a dry or rough quality, often associated with Vata. Understanding Ruksha is essential in Ayurveda for identifying conditions needing moisture or lubrication, guiding treatments like Dhara to balance these qualities and promote healing.

47) Dhriti (Dhrti):
Dhriti denotes mental strength and stability in Ayurveda. Understanding Dhriti is significant for practitioners as it influences the holistic approach to treatments, including the psychological impact and well-being associated with processes like Dhara.

48) Vamana:
Vamana is a therapeutic emesis (vomiting) technique in Ayurveda, used to cleanse the body of excess doshas. Its mentioning alongside Dhara underscores the comprehensive approach of Ayurvedic treatments in addressing health imbalances and detoxification practices.

49) Chardi:
Chardi refers to nausea or vomiting in Ayurveda. Recognizing this symptom is crucial for practitioners, as it may necessitate adjustments in treatment approaches like Dhara, ensuring therapies are appropriately tailored to individual patient responses and conditions.

50) Vatika:
Vatika refers to conditions primarily associated with Vata dosha excesses, characterized by dryness and movement-related disorders. Understanding Vatika aids practitioners in crafting appropriate Ayurvedic interventions, using techniques like Dhara to restore balance effectively.

51) Reason:
Reason pertains to the underlying causes of health conditions in Ayurveda. Exploring the reasons behind doshic imbalances informs practitioners’ strategies for employing treatments like Dhara, ensuring that interventions address root causes rather than just symptoms.

52) Summer:
Summer, as a season, influences dietary and lifestyle recommendations in Ayurveda. Acknowledging the effects of seasonal changes on health enhances practitioners' effectiveness in applying treatments like Dhara, ensuring they are adapted to seasonal needs for various individuals.

53) Powder:
Powder refers to ground herbal substances used in preparations for various Ayurvedic treatments. Its relevance encompasses the preparation of unique blended powders for use in therapies, enhancing the effectiveness of treatments like Dhara through skilled application.

54) Seat (Seated):
Seated refers to body posture during therapeutic procedures. Proper seating is critical during processes like Dhara to ensure patient comfort and the effectiveness of treatments, as posture can influence the absorption and efficacy of therapeutic agents.

55) Aruci:
Aruchi refers to a loss of appetite, a common symptom in various disorders. Identifying Aruchi helps practitioners address underlying health issues through Ayurveda, guiding treatment choices like Dhara that may alleviate related symptoms and restore balance.

56) Dhatu:
Dhatu is singular for the term Dhatus, which refers to the seven vital tissues in the body in Ayurveda. Proper understanding of individual Dhatus helps practitioners guide treatments like Dhara to specifically nourish and rejuvenate these essential components of health.

57) Karma (Karman):
Karma relates to actions and their consequences in the context of Ayurveda. Understanding the karmic implications of various treatments allows practitioners to shape their therapeutic approaches like Dhara, ensuring adherence to ethical practices while addressing health.

58) Vidhi:
Vidhi refers to the procedures or methods employed in Ayurveda. A thorough understanding of Vidhi is essential for practitioners as it guides the execution of treatments like Dhara, ensuring they are performed accurately for optimal results.

59) Nasya (Nashya):
Nasya refers to the Ayurvedic practice of administering medications through the nasal passages. Its mention in conjunction with Dhara reinforces the multifaceted approach of Ayurveda, where various treatment methods are utilized in unison to enhance overall health outcomes.

60) Rakta:
Rakta, or blood, represents one of the vital Dhatus in Ayurveda. Understanding Rakta is crucial for practitioners, especially in treatments like Dhara, to ensure that blood health is maintained and any imbalances addressed through appropriate therapeutic interventions.

61) Drava:
Drava refers to liquid or fluid substances in Ayurveda, particularly those used in treatments. Its relevance is highlighted in therapies like Dhara, where liquids are essential for administering treatments tailored to specific health needs and conditions.

62) Taila (Thaila):
Taila refers to oil in Ayurveda, a crucial component in many therapeutic procedures. Its properties and application significantly influence treatments like Dhara, highlighting the importance of using appropriate oils for effective outcomes in healing practices.

63) Klama:
Klama signifies fatigue or exhaustion in Ayurveda and is a critical symptom to evaluate. Understanding Klama informs practitioners about the necessity of treatments like Dhara that aim to restore energy and balance in patients experiencing fatigue.

64) Netra:
Netra denotes the eyes in Ayurveda, often requiring specialized diagnostics and treatments. Awareness of Netra health is crucial in the context of Dhara, ensuring that therapies are aligned to address ocular conditions and promote overall eye health.

65) Karna:
Karna refers to the ear in Ayurveda. Understanding Karna's role in health helps practitioners design targeted interventions, including certain Dhara techniques aimed at alleviating conditions affecting hearing and ear-related disorders.

66) Shukra (Sukra):
Sukra refers to semen or reproductive fluid in Ayurveda, essential for reproductive health. Addressing Sukra-related conditions through treatments like Dhara highlights the importance of holistic approaches in Ayurvedic medicine in maintaining overall vitality and wellbeing.

67) Ghrita (Ghrta):
Ghrta refers to clarified butter or ghee, commonly used in Ayurvedic treatments. Its incorporation in procedures like Dhara amplifies therapeutic effects, nourishing the body and balancing doshas through the use of well-prepared medicinal oils.

68) Kesa (Kesha):
Kesha signifies hair in Ayurveda, and it pertains to hair health and related disorders. Treatments like Dhara often target scalp conditions, reinforcing the significance of understanding Kesha health within Ayurveda to optimize therapeutic interventions.

69) Hindi (Himdi):
Hindi, as a major Indian language, plays a role in disseminating Ayurvedic knowledge through translated texts. The contribution of Hindi literature enhances accessibility and understanding of ancient practices, including treatments like Dhara, among a broader audience.

70) Kota:
Kota refers to localized pain or discomfort. Understanding Kota is essential for practitioners to devise appropriate Ayurvedic treatments, employing therapeutic approaches like Dhara to alleviate this type of pain effectively.

71) Bala:
Bala represents strength or health in Ayurveda. It's crucial for practitioners to assess a patient’s Bala when designing treatments like Dhara, ensuring interventions are appropriate for individual strength levels and overall vitality.

72) Sira (Shira):
Sira refers to vessels or channels within the body that carry fluids. Awareness of Sira is significant in Ayurvedic practices, especially when applying treatment methods like Dhara, ensuring that therapies promote unimpeded flow within the body's channels.

73) Amla:
Amla, or Indian Gooseberry, is recognized for its high vitamin C content and antioxidant properties. Its inclusion in Ayurvedic practices, particularly in treatments like Dhara, underscores the medicinal value of traditional herbs in enhancing overall health and wellness.

74) Janu:
Janu refers to the knee joint, crucial for movement and stability. Understanding Janu is significant in Ayurvedic assessments, particularly in the context of treatments like Dhara, which may focus on joint health and mobility.

75) Mana:
Mana refers to mental health or clarity in Ayurveda. Insight into Mana enables practitioners to consider psychological aspects while designing treatments, ensuring that procedures like Dhara encompass a comprehensive approach to overall patient health.

[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 79]

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Discover the significance of concepts within the article: ‘A review on ‘dharakalpa’. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:

Vamana, Virechana, Atiyoga, Snehapana, Vaidyamanorama, Sneha Dravya, Takradhara, Samyak Lakshana, Kayaseka.

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