An applied aspect of prabhava as per brihatrayee
Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: An applied aspect of prabhava as per brihatrayee
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.
This page presents a generated summary with additional references; See source (below) for actual content.
Original source:
This page is merely a summary which is automatically generated hence you should visit the source to read the original article which includes the author, publication date, notes and references.
Dr. Kavita Tiwari and Dr. Anurag Mishra
World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research:
(An ISO 9001:2015 Certified International Journal)
Full text available for: An applied aspect of prabhava as per brihatrayee
Source type: An International Peer Reviewed Journal for Pharmaceutical and Medical and Scientific Research
Doi: 10.20959/wjpr20222-22980
Download the PDF file of the original publication
Summary of article contents:
Introduction
Ayurveda, the traditional Indian system of medicine, is more than just a repository of medicinal practices; it is an extensive science of life, emphasizing holistic patient well-being. Central to Ayurvedic pharmacology are the concepts of drug action, characterized by principles such as Rasa, Guna, Virya, Vipaka, and Prabhava. Among these, Prabhava is a complex and often debated concept that refers to the specific actions of drugs that cannot be explained solely by their individual components. This review aims to delve into the concept of Prabhava as articulated in classical texts and its significance in contemporary Ayurvedic practice.
The Concept of Prabhava
Prabhava can be understood as the unique biotransformation or specific action of a drug that is distinct from its Rasa (taste), Guna (attributes), Virya (potency), and Vipaka (post-digestive effect). It illustrates how two drugs with similar properties may exhibit vastly different actions due to Prabhava. This concept indicates why whole herbal formulations can often be more effective and safer than isolated compounds. Ancient texts define Prabhava through various terms, pointing to its unique property that cannot be explained by the pharmacological actions of the drug’s constituents alone. Importantly, the classical texts emphasize that attributes such as Achintya (unpredictability) and Amimansya (beyond inquiry) underscore the mysterious nature of Prabhava.
Differences Between Prabhava and Virya
The distinction between Prabhava and Virya is essential for understanding drug actions in Ayurveda. While Virya refers to the general potency that produces predictable effects based on the drug's attributes, Prabhava represents the specific, sometimes inexplicable effects that arise. The actions attributed to Virya are generally understood within the framework of common pharmacological principles, whereas those attributed to Prabhava may not fit conventional paradigms of drug action. For instance, one can explain the Vata-pacifying effect of a drug through its Virya, but actions that cannot be simplified in this manner and are highly specific to certain conditions highlight the role of Prabhava.
Practical Implications of Prabhava
In practical terms, understanding Prabhava enables Ayurvedic practitioners to make informed decisions in treatment, recognizing that certain drugs exhibit unique effects not easily classified under the basic principles of Ayurveda. For example, Danti and Chitraka, both classified under Katu Rasa, demonstrate different actions due to Prabhava, with Danti serving as a purgative while Chitraka acts as a digestive aid. Such insights underscore the importance of personalized medicine in Ayurveda, where understanding individual drug dynamics can lead to tailored treatment strategies.
Conclusion
The exploration of Prabhava in Ayurveda reveals essential insights into the complexity of drug actions beyond conventional pharmacology. As modern scientific inquiries begin uncovering the biochemical underpinnings of these Ayurvedic principles, the term Prabhava may evolve, shedding light on specific actions that were once deemed mysterious. Overall, fostering more robust research into Ayurvedic concepts like Prabhava while integrating contemporary scientific methodologies will enhance understanding and application in herbal medicine, ultimately benefiting patient outcomes. As the boundaries of Ayurvedic knowledge expand, the core idea remains that some attributes of drugs resist clear explanation, reaffirming the need for further exploration in future research endeavors.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is the concept of Prabhava in Ayurveda?
Prabhava refers to the specific action or biotransformation of a drug that cannot be explained by its Rasa, Guna, Virya, or Vipaka. It highlights why Ayurvedic medicines, as a whole, are often more effective than isolated components.
How do Prabhava and Virya differ in Ayurvedic pharmacology?
Virya is the general potency of a drug, while Prabhava denotes specific actions that are inexplicable through conventional pharmacological parameters. Prabhava can exert effects even when other attributes, such as Rasa and Virya, are similar.
Why is research on Prabhava deemed necessary in modern times?
There is a growing need to scientifically understand the principles of Prabhava. As modern pharmacology advances, many previously inexplicable actions may be explained through phytochemistry, prompting a reevaluation of ancient concepts.
What role do classical texts play in understanding Prabhava?
Classical texts emphasize the importance of Prabhava in defining drug actions. Authorities like Charaka and Vagbhata highlight it as a crucial aspect that surpasses other attributes, suggesting it is central to Ayurvedic practice.
Can Prabhava be linked to modern drug actions?
Many actions once attributed to Prabhava may now be understood through modern pharmacological studies. Examples like the varying effects of structurally similar drugs show that Prabhava can sometimes be explained scientifically.
What are some examples that illustrate the concept of Prabhava?
Examples include Danti and Chitraka, which possess similar qualities yet exhibit different actions. While both show Katu Rasa, Danti acts as a purgative, illustrating the unique effect attributed to Prabhava.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “An applied aspect of prabhava as per brihatrayee”. 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) Prabhava:
Prabhava refers to the specific action or unique effect of a drug that cannot be explained merely by its taste (Rasa), attribute (Guna), potency (Virya), or post-digestive effect (Vipaka). It signifies the unique and sometimes inexplicable medicinal properties that a drug exhibits, highlighting its complexity in herbal pharmacology.
2) Dravya:
Dravyas refer to multiple substances with therapeutic potential within Ayurvedic practice. Each dravya is recognized for its unique qualities and pharmacological actions, informing treatment strategies based on their specific properties, indicating a cornerstone of traditional medicine's holistic approach.
3) Karma (Karman):
Karmas signify the actions or therapeutic effects associated with Ayurvedic drugs. Each herb or formulation exhibits unique karmas that dictate their usage and efficacy in treatment protocols, emphasizing the intricate relationship between substances and their therapeutic applications.
4) Rasa (Rasha):
Rasas are the tastes associated with ayurvedic substances that play a crucial role in determining the therapeutic effects of dravyas. These tastes inform the classification of herbs and their pharmacological actions, guiding treatment protocols according to an individual’s dosha.
5) Drug:
In the context of Ayurveda, drugs refer to medicinal substances derived from plants, minerals, or animal sources. Ayurvedic drugs are characterized by their unique pharmacological properties, emphasizing natural healing and holistic approaches to health and wellness.
6) Virya:
Virya denotes the potency or energy of a dravya that influences its action within the body. It signifies the inherent strength of the substance to produce a therapeutic effect, which can be classified as either Ushna (heating) or Sheet (cooling), complementing the other pharmacological characteristics.
7) Guna:
Gunas are the inherent qualities or attributes of dravyas in Ayurveda, defining their behavior and effects. The classification of drugs based on their gunas helps determine the appropriate use and therapeutic potential of herbal medicines.
8) Acintya (Acimtya):
Achintya refers to that which is inconceivable or beyond comprehension. In Ayurvedic pharmacology, it describes specific actions of drugs that cannot be explained through conventional measures of Rasa, Guna, or Virya, reflecting the mysteries inherent in certain medicinal properties.
9) India:
India is the country where Ayurveda originated, representing a rich heritage of traditional medicine practices rooted in ancient philosophies and natural healing methods. Its diverse flora and historical medicinal systems contribute significantly to global health and alternative therapies.
10) Varanasi (Varanashi):
Varanasi is a key city in India known for its cultural and spiritual significance, often linked with ancient practices of Ayurveda and medicine. The city is an educational hub for traditional knowledge, including herbal healing and the study of medicinal plants.
11) Vipaka:
Vipaka signifies the post-digestive effect or transformation of a drug after digestion. It determines the ultimate impact of a dravya on the body and plays a crucial role in Ayurvedic formulations, affecting how the drug's properties manifest over time through metabolism.
12) Nature:
Nature refers to the inherent characteristics of substances used in Ayurveda, including their origins, composition, and intrinsic qualities. Understanding the natural properties of medicinal plants and substances is central to effectively utilizing them for health benefits in traditional practices.
13) Vagbhata:
Vagbhata is an esteemed ancient scholar of Ayurvedic medicine known for his contributions to the formulation of medicinal theories and practices. His texts, such as the Astanga Hridayam, highlight the principles of Ayurveda, including classifications of dravyas and their actions.
14) Medicine:
Medicines in Ayurveda encompass a wide range of natural substances, including herbs, minerals, and animal products used for therapeutic purposes. The application of these medicines is grounded in understanding their unique properties and actions within the body.
15) Activity:
Activity in Ayurveda refers to the functional effects produced by a dravya when administered as medicine. This encompasses the pharmacological actions and therapeutic outcomes that can result from the interactions of various substances with the body.
16) Danti (Damti, Dantin):
Danti, also known as Baliospermum montanum, is an Ayurvedic herb recognized for its purgative properties. It exemplifies the concept of Prabhava as it demonstrates specific actions that cannot be entirely attributed to its rasa, virya, or guna, showcasing unique pharmacological effects.
17) Pharmacological:
Pharmacological refers to the science of drugs and their effects on biological systems. In Ayurveda, it encompasses traditional understanding of herbal actions, exploring the complexities of how various dravyas interact with the body for therapeutic purposes.
18) Pharmacology:
Pharmacology in Ayurveda integrates the knowledge and study of drugs, emphasizing their therapeutic applications and interactions. This field focuses on understanding the actions of both natural and synthetic substances, exploring their efficacy and safety in medical treatments.
19) Shakti (Sakti):
Shakti denotes the strength or potency of a dravya, highlighting its ability to produce specific therapeutic effects. In Ayurveda, it encompasses both the rationally understood (Chintya) actions and the seemingly inexplicable (Achintya) powers attributed to various drugs.
20) Katu:
Katu refers to one of the six fundamental tastes in Ayurveda, categorized as pungent. This rasa is associated with specific therapeutic properties, often implicated in stimulating digestion, appetite, and respiratory health, influencing treatment formulations and dietary recommendations.
21) Madhura:
Madhura signifies the sweet taste within Ayurvedic classifications. This rasa is associated with calming and nourishing properties, contributing positively to the body’s metabolic functions and overall health, particularly beneficial for nourishing tissues and pacifying certain dosha imbalances.
22) Vaidya:
Vaidya is a term used to refer to a practitioner of Ayurveda. These professionals specialize in diagnosing and treating health issues through traditional Ayurvedic methods, herbal medicines, lifestyle changes, and holistic approaches that emphasize balance and wellbeing.
23) Madhurarasa (Madhura-rasa):
Madhura-rasa, or the sweet taste, is one of the essential tastes in Ayurveda with implications for health and nutrition. This rasa is seen as nourishing and calming, contributing positively to various bodily functions and health promotion by balancing doshas.
24) Reason:
Reason refers to the justification or explanation behind various actions or effects in Ayurveda, especially concerning drug actions. Understanding the reasons underlying the pharmacological effects of herbs is essential for effective treatment planning and medicinal formulations.
25) Delhi:
Delhi is the capital of India and a significant urban center influencing various fields including traditional medicine. It serves as a hub for cultural exchange, educational initiatives, and modern health practices, facilitating knowledge about Ayurveda and medicinal plants.
26) New Delhi:
New Delhi, as the capital city of India, represents a blend of modernity and tradition. It plays a crucial role in the promotion of Ayurvedic practices and education, hosting numerous institutions that focus on research, training, and dissemination of traditional healing knowledge.
27) Substance:
Substances in Ayurveda encompass various materials used in medicinal practices, including herbs, minerals, and animal products. Understanding their properties and actions is fundamental for effective treatment planning and health management.
28) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is the ancient Indian science of life and medicine, focusing on holistic health by integrating physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. It emphasizes natural healing through diet, lifestyle, herbal remedies, and individualized treatment based on one’s unique constitution.
29) Samhita:
Samhitas are collections of Ayurvedic texts that codify knowledge regarding herbs, treatments, and health principles. They serve as the foundation for Ayurvedic education, encapsulating centuries of wisdom and practical knowledge in healing.
30) Vamana:
Vamana, in Ayurvedic context, refers to therapeutic emesis or induced vomiting. This purification practice aims to expel toxins and is utilized in specific detox treatments, showcasing the process-oriented approach of Ayurveda towards health restoration.
31) Yava:
Yava, or barley, is an important grain in Ayurveda known for its nutritional benefits and digestive properties. It is traditionally used in various formulations and dietary practices, highlighting its role in promoting health and sustaining energy.
32) Vata:
Vata is one of the three fundamental doshas in Ayurveda, characterized by qualities of movement, air, and dryness. Understanding Vata’s influence is crucial in diagnosis and treatment strategies, as it significantly impacts physiological functions and health balance.
33) Raktashali (Raktasali, Rakta-shali):
Raktashali, referring to a specific kind of rice, is noted for its health benefits in Ayurveda. It is recognized for its properties to pacify the Vata dosha and its general nutritional value, emphasizing the importance of food in Ayurvedic practices.
34) Yashtimadhu (Yastimadhu, Yashti-madhu):
Yastimadhu, or Glycyrrhiza glabra, is an important Ayurvedic herb recognized for its sweet taste and multiple therapeutic properties. It serves various roles including demulcent and anti-inflammatory, reinforcing the significance of plant-based medicines in health care.
35) Similarity:
Similarity highlights the comparison of substances within Ayurveda based on their properties and effects. Recognizing similarities among various dravyas helps practitioners select appropriate treatments and create effective herbal combinations for targeted health outcomes.
36) Nagarjuna:
Nagarjuna is a renowned ancient scholar associated with the development of Ayurvedic philosophy and practice. His contributions, particularly in the formulation of herbal therapies and pharmacology, emphasize special drug properties that reflect the depths of Ayurvedic wisdom.
37) Haritaki:
Haritaki, known scientifically as Terminalia chebula, is widely used in Ayurveda for its laxative properties. Its pharmacological actions exemplify the critical concept of prabhava, where despite similar tastes with others, its specific actions demonstrate unique health benefits.
38) Chintya:
Chintya refers to the aspects of drug action that are rationally explainable or comprehensible. In contrast to Achintya, this term highlights the importance of understanding pharmacological effects based on established principles and characteristics of various dravyas.
39) Ashtanga (Astanga, Ashtan-anga):
Astanga refers to the foundational texts of Ayurveda, notably the Astanga Hridayam and Astanga Sangraha. These texts systematically categorize Ayurvedic principles and therapies, serving as essential references for practitioners and scholars in the field.
40) Vishnu (Visnu):
Vishnu is a significant deity in Hindu mythology, representing preservation and protection. Though not directly related to Ayurveda, the concept of balance and preservation is central to Ayurvedic teachings, mirroring the restorative goals of traditional medicine.
41) Sharman (Sarma, Sharma, Sarman):
Sharma signifies an honorific suffix often used in Indian names, denoting a learned or scholarly person. This is often associated with individuals who have a significant background or expertise in fields such as Ayurveda and traditional medicinal practices.
42) Pitta:
Pitta is one of the three doshas in Ayurveda, characterized by qualities of heat and transformation. Understanding Pitta is crucial for diagnosing and treating conditions related to metabolism and digestion, influencing dietary recommendations and treatment plans.
43) Vidya:
Vidya translates to knowledge or learning in Sanskrit. In the context of Ayurveda, it emphasizes the importance of wisdom and learning necessary for practitioners to effectively utilize ancient texts and techniques in modern health care practices.
44) Science (Scientific):
Science refers to the systematic study of the natural world, including the validation of Ayurvedic practices through empirical research. Integrating scientific approaches with ancient wisdom enhances the credibility and effectiveness of traditional medicine.
45) Vishaghna (Visaghna, Visha-ghna):
Vishaghna refers to substances known for their detoxifying or antidotal properties in Ayurveda. These medications are crucial in the treatment of toxic conditions, highlighting the significant role of specific herbs in alleviating harmful effects and maintaining health.
46) Katurasa (Katu-rasa):
Katu-rasa is the pungent taste recognized in Ayurveda, associated with therapeutic warmth and stimulation. This rasa often promotes digestion and acts as an expectorant, influencing the selection of specific treatments for respiratory and gastrointestinal health.
47) Shirisha (Shirisa, Sirisa, Sirisha):
Shirisha, or Albizia lebbeck, is an Ayurvedic herb characterized by multiple therapeutic actions including anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial properties. Its usage exemplifies the critical concept of prabhava, showcasing unique effects that cannot be solely attributed to its primary qualities.
48) Vatahara (Vata-ahara):
Vatahara denotes the therapeutic quality of substances that pacify the Vata dosha in Ayurveda. Such properties are essential in treating conditions caused by Vata imbalance, showcasing the necessity of understanding each dravya’s unique attributes and actions in treatment formulations.
49) Bharati:
Bharati signifies the essence of Indian culture and traditions, inclusive of Ayurveda, which emphasizes the holistic nature of health and well-being. It reflects the broader philosophical and ethical frameworks that underpin the practice of traditional medicine in India.
50) Disease:
Diseases in Ayurveda refer to imbalances or dysfunctions within the body systems negatively affecting health. Understanding the nature of diseases is essential for effective diagnosis and treatment planning in Ayurvedic practices.
51) Ghrita (Ghrta):
Ghrita refers to clarified butter (ghee) used in Ayurvedic formulations, recognized for its nourishing and therapeutic properties. It serves as a fundamental medium in various treatments, symbolizing the integration of dietary elements into the healing practices of Ayurveda.
52) Kshira (Ksira):
Kshira refers to milk in Ayurveda, celebrated for its nutritional and medicinal properties. It is considered a holistic remedy used in various formulations to pacify Pitta and Vata, promoting strength and vitality through dietary inclusions.
53) Bhuta:
Bhuta refers to the fundamental elements that constitute both physical and metaphysical aspects in Ayurveda. Recognizing these elements is critical for understanding the nature of substances and their interactions within the body, influencing treatment approaches.
54) Punjab:
Punjab is a region in India known for its rich agricultural heritage and diversity of medicinal plants used in Ayurveda. Its traditional practices contribute to the understanding and utilization of local herbs and remedies crucial for holistic health.
55) Kapha:
Kapha is one of the three doshas in Ayurveda, characterized by properties of heaviness, moisture, and stability. Understanding Kapha’s influence is essential for diagnosis and treatment strategies aimed at balancing body functions and promoting overall health.
56) Satya (Shatya):
Satya translates to truth in Sanskrit, highlighting the ethical importance of honesty and integrity in Ayurvedic practice. This principle is essential for practitioners to provide genuine treatments and adhere to established doctrines of wellness.
57) Indu (Imdu):
Indu is a term used in the context of Ayurvedic texts representing the moon or lunar qualities. It symbolizes a nurturing, soothing aspect, often attributed to certain substances and their ability to promote balance within the body’s systems.
58) Line:
Line refers to the demarcation or distinction in Ayurveda between different concepts, including the differentiation of doshas, gunas, and karmas. Understanding these lines helps in accurately diagnosing conditions and devising appropriate treatment strategies.
59) Pain:
Pain is a significant symptom in various diseases that Ayurveda aims to address through holistic treatments. Understanding the types and causes of pain is critical for practitioners to offer effective interventions and restore balance within the body.
60) Life:
Life in the context of Ayurveda signifies the holistic approach to well-being, integrating physical, mental, and spiritual health concepts. The Ayurvedic perspective emphasizes safeguarding life through balanced living and natural healing practices.
61) Precious stone:
Precious stones are valued minerals believed to possess healing properties in Ayurvedic traditions. Their significance lies in the belief that they can influence physical and spiritual well-being, promoting balance and harmony in health.
62) Ashtangasamgraha (Astangasamgraha, Astangasangraha, Ashtanga-samgraha, Ashtanga-sangraha, Ashtangasangraha):
Astanga-sangraha is a pivotal Ayurvedic text compiled by Vagbhata, presenting comprehensive knowledge on the principles, practices, and various aspects of Ayurvedic medicine. It serves as a key reference for practitioners and scholars to understand essential therapeutic concepts.
63) Gorakshanatha (Goraksanatha, Gorakhanatha, Gorakhnath, Goraksha-natha, Gorakha-natha):
Gorakha-natha is a prominent figure in Indian spiritual traditions, often associated with yoga and healing practices. His teachings and philosophies emphasize the balance of body and mind, which are crucial elements in the practice of Ayurveda.
64) Tanduliyaka (Tamduliyaka):
Tanduliyaka is a reference to a specific therapeutic preparation or food that comprises staples like rice. Its relevance in Ayurveda underscores the importance of dietary habits and the nutritional aspects of traditional medicine in promoting health.
65) Kashinatha (Kashi-natha, Kasinatha):
Kashinatha refers to a traditional Ayurvedic scholar known for contributions to the understanding and classification of Ayurvedic texts, playing a significant role in the preservation and dissemination of ancient knowledge in holistic medicine.
66) Dridhabala (Drdhabala):
Dridhabala is an ancient author noted for compiling and commenting on key Ayurvedic texts, especially the Charaka Samhita. His contributions offer insights into the practical application of Ayurveda and enhance the understanding of medicinal plants.
67) Discussion:
Discussion in the context of Ayurvedic studies involves the analysis and interpretation of concepts related to health, medicine, and treatment practices. Open dialogue surrounding these subjects enriches knowledge and fosters a deeper understanding of traditional healing methods.
68) Pumsavana:
Pumsavana is a specific Ayurvedic ritual aimed at ensuring the health and wellbeing of a fetus during pregnancy. This practice underscores the importance of early health interventions in traditional medicine frameworks.
69) Shrikantha (Srikantha, Shri-kantha, Shrikamtha):
Srikantha refers to a scholar or author recognized for contributions within the Ayurvedic field, particularly in the commentary and interpretation of traditional texts. Their works serve as valuable resources for understanding complex Ayurvedic principles.
70) Knowledge:
Knowledge in Ayurveda encompasses the holistic understanding of medical principles, treatments, and the interactions of various substances within the body. Continuous knowledge acquisition is essential for practitioners to provide effective healthcare.
71) Agnivesha (Agni-vesha, Agnivesa):
Agnivesa was an ancient Ayurvedic scholar credited with authoring significant texts, notably the Charaka Samhita. His work laid the groundwork for classical Ayurvedic theories, emphasizing the systematic approach to health and medicine.
72) Kaviraja (Kavi-raja):
Kaviraja refers to a royal physician or learned practitioner of Ayurveda, demonstrating the esteemed nature of Ayurvedic practitioners in historical contexts. They often held significant responsibilities in promoting health and wellness in royal courts.
73) Vatakara:
Vatakara indicates substances or treatments effective in pacifying the Vata dosha. Such classifications are vital in Ayurveda for diagnosing and formulating treatments tailored to individuals, ensuring holistic health management.
74) Samgraha (Sangraha):
Sangraha translates to collection or compilation, often used in reference to Ayurvedic texts that gather traditional medical knowledge. Such compilations play a crucial role in preserving the wisdom of ancient healing practices.
75) Relative:
Relative in Ayurveda refers to the interconnectedness of concepts such as doshas, qualities, and effects. Understanding these relationships is key in diagnosing conditions and constructing appropriate treatment modalities.
[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 181]
Other Science Concepts:
Discover the significance of concepts within the article: ‘An applied aspect of prabhava as per brihatrayee’. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:
Drug action, Scientific method, Promotion of health, Indian system of medicine, Phytochemistry, Ayurvedic pharmacology, Ayurvedic Concept, Modern Pharmacology.
Concepts being referred in other categories, contexts and sources.