Insomia - a literary review

Glossary definitions and references:

Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Insomia - a literary review”. 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) Nidranasha (Nidranasa, Nidra-nasha):
Nidranasha refers to the condition of insomnia or lack of sleep in Ayurveda. It is considered a Vataja Naanaathmaja Vikara, primarily linked to imbalances in the Vata or Pitta doshas. This condition negatively impacts an individual's physical and mental health, compromising overall well-being and bringing about disturbances in daily life activities.

2) Life:
In the context of Ayurveda, life is viewed as a harmonious balance of the body, mind, and soul. The text emphasizes that health and longevity depend on maintaining equilibrium among doshas (biological energies), dhatus (tissues), and achieving the life goals of Dharma, Artha, Kama, and Moksha—fulfillment of purpose, wealth, desires, and liberation.

3) Disease:
The term diseases encompasses various health conditions resulting from imbalances and dysfunctions within the body. In Ayurveda, these can arise from poor lifestyle choices, dietary habits, and environmental influences. Insomnia is one such example of a disease linked to doshic disturbances, particularly Vata and Pitta imbalances.

4) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is a traditional system of medicine from India that emphasizes the balance of bodily systems and the interplay of mind, body, and environment. It incorporates holistic approaches to health, including dietary choices, lifestyle adjustments, herbal remedies, and therapies like Panchakarma, aimed at restoring balance and preventing disease.

5) Dosha (Dosa):
Dosha refers to the three fundamental energies in Ayurveda: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. Each dosha represents a unique combination of physical and emotional attributes. An imbalance among these doshas is believed to contribute to health issues, including insomnia. Proper understanding of doshas is crucial for diagnosis and treatment in Ayurvedic practice.

6) Yoga:
Yoga is a discipline that integrates physical, mental, and spiritual practices aimed at fostering overall health and wellbeing. In Ayurveda, specific yoga practices such as asanas are recommended for managing conditions like Nidranasha. They help stabilize the doshas, thus promoting better sleep and holistic health.

7) Sangli:
Sangli is a city located in Maharashtra, India, where the research was conducted. The local Ayurveda Medical College in Islampur, Sangli, plays a pivotal role in the study and treatment of various health disorders, including Nidranasha, fostering knowledge and the application of traditional Ayurvedic principles.

8) Kapha:
Kapha is one of the three doshas characterized by the elements of water and earth. It is responsible for stability, immunity, and cohesion within the body. When Kapha is imbalanced, it can lead to conditions such as insomnia and other disorders. Proper management of Kapha is essential for maintaining health.

9) Vata:
Vata is the dosha associated with the elements of air and ether, governing movement, communication, and change in the body. An aggravated Vata can lead to disturbances like Nidranasha (insomnia), affecting sleep quality and overall health. Therefore, balancing Vata through lifestyle and dietary modifications is crucial in Ayurveda.

10) Samhita:
Samhitas refer to ancient compilations of Ayurvedic knowledge that contain guidelines for health, diagnosis, and treatment. They serve as essential texts for practitioners, providing insight into various conditions, including Nidranasha, thus laying the groundwork for effective therapeutic approaches based on traditional wisdom.

11) Pitta:
Pitta is a dosha characterized by the elements of fire and water, responsible for digestion, metabolism, and transformation in the body. An imbalance in Pitta can contribute to conditions like insomnia and other heat-related disorders. Ayurvedic treatment emphasizes balancing Pitta to maintain overall health and well-being.

12) Asana (Ashana):
Asanas are the physical postures in yoga that promote balance, flexibility, and strength. They play a key role in Ayurveda for managing physical and mental health. Practicing asanas regularly helps alleviate conditions such as Nidranasha, fostering a conducive environment for better sleep and overall well-being.

13) Human life:
Human life is viewed as a holistic entity that encompasses the physical, mental, and spiritual aspects. Ayurveda posits that to achieve the fundamental goals of life—Dharma, Artha, Kama, and Moksha—individuals must maintain health, which is integrally linked to proper sleep, nutrition, and lifestyle.

14) Daivavyapashraya (Daivavyapasraya):
Daivavyapashraya is an Ayurvedic therapeutic approach emphasizing spiritual therapy to address ailments. This may include rituals, incantations, and divine interventions believed to have healing properties. It recognizes the interconnectedness of spirituality and health, suggesting that mental clarity and emotional peace can aid physical treatment.

15) Yuktivyapashraya (Yuktivyapasraya):
Yuktivyapashraya focuses on rational and logical therapeutic strategies in Ayurveda, encompassing dietary modifications, herbal remedies, and cleansing therapies. This approach emphasizes the importance of analyzing a patient's condition to apply appropriate treatment pathways, ensuring a holistic strategy that promotes overall balance and health.

16) Majjadhatu (Majja-dhatu):
Majjadhatu is the bone marrow tissue in Ayurveda, considered critical for supporting brain function and overall vitality. It is linked to the production of nerve tissues and the nourishing qualities necessary for good health. A deficiency or disturbance in majjadhatu may contribute to conditions such as insomnia.

17) Vatadosha (Vatadosa, Vata-dosha):
Vata-dosha is one of the three primary doshas in Ayurveda, characterized by qualities of dryness, lightness, and coolness. It governs bodily functions related to movement and communication. An imbalance in Vata-dosha can lead to health issues, including insomnia (Nidranasha), highlighting the need for balance and stabilization in treatment.

18) Samprapti:
Samprapti illustrates the process of disease manifestation in Ayurveda, outlining the sequence of events leading to a clinical condition. Understanding this concept is crucial for diagnosing and treating ailments like Nidranasha, as it helps practitioners identify underlying causes and develop effective treatment strategies.

19) Pranavayu (Prana-vayu):
Pranavayu is an auxiliary Vata responsible for the vital functions of the body, especially those relating to the mind and nervous system. Its imbalance can lead to issues such as insomnia and anxiety. Ayurvedic practices focus on balancing Pranavayu to promote mental clarity and restful sleep.

20) Shavasana (Shava-asana, Savasana):
Shavasana is a restorative yoga pose performed while lying supine, facilitating deep relaxation and calmness. It helps alleviate fatigue and mental stress, making it a beneficial practice for those suffering from Nidranasha. In Ayurveda, it contributes to stabilizing Vata-dosha and promoting overall well-being.

21) Angamarda (Anga-marda, Amgamarda):
Angamarda refers to body aches or pain in Ayurveda. It may be a symptom related to disturbances in doshas, often accompanying conditions like insomnia. Addressing angamarda through Ayurveda can enhance management of Nidranasha, emphasizing the need to treat both body aches and sleep disturbances holistically.

22) Knowledge:
Knowledge in Ayurveda encompasses an understanding of bodily functions, doshic balance, and the nature of diseases. This holistic knowledge is essential for practitioners to effectively diagnose and treat conditions like Nidranasha, ensuring that treatment plans are tailored to individual needs and promote overall health.

23) Cleansing:
Cleansing in Ayurvedic practices refers to detoxification procedures aimed at removing impurities from the body. This can include therapies like Panchakarma, which are vital for restoring balance in doshas and improving health conditions. Cleansing is integral to treating disorders such as Nidranasha by eliminating the root causes.

24) Samgraha (Sangraha):
Sangraha refers to the compilation and collection of Ayurvedic knowledge and texts that encompass various aspects of health and treatment. These collections serve as foundational references for practitioners in diagnosing and managing diseases, guiding proper applications of Ayurvedic principles for conditions like Nidranasha.

25) Activity:
Activity, particularly in the context of daily life and health, refers to physical and mental engagement. In Ayurveda, maintaining a balanced level of activity is crucial for stability within the doshas. Excessive mental or physical exertion can lead to conditions like Nidranasha, necessitating balanced lifestyle habits for health.

26) Quality:
Quality in Ayurveda signifies the characteristics and attributes of food, sleep, and lifestyle. The quality of sleep, in particular, is closely linked to health outcomes. Good quality sleep is essential for the proper functioning of body and mind, hence addressing Nidranasha focuses on enhancing sleep quality.

27) Desire:
Desire, as an emotional drive in Ayurveda, pertains to cravings or longings that can affect an individual's mental and physical health. Unregulated desires can lead to emotional disturbance and stress, resulting in insomnia. Ayurveda encourages moderation of desire to maintain mental clarity and restful sleep.

28) Niyama:
Niyama encompasses the ethical and moral guidelines in yoga and Ayurveda, promoting self-discipline and personal conduct. Following Niyama can lead to improved mental health and stability, contributing to the management of disorders like Nidranasha by fostering overall harmony and well-being within an individual.

29) Tandra (Tamdra):
Tandra refers to drowsiness or lethargy in Ayurveda and can be a symptom of various ailments or imbalances. It poses challenges for daily functioning and productivity; recognizing and addressing tandra is critical in treatments for sleep-related disorders like Nidranasha to restore health and vitality.

30) Harsha (Harsa):
Harsha signifies joy or happiness in Ayurveda. A balanced mental state, reflected in feelings of happiness, contributes to overall health and well-being. Harsha can play a role in reducing conditions like Nidranasha, since emotional stability supports better sleep patterns and overall mental health.

31) Nidra:
Nidra means sleep in Ayurveda and is recognized as one of the three pillars of health alongside ahara (food) and brahmacharya (celibacy). Adequate and quality Nidra is vital for physical, mental, and spiritual health, forming the foundation for overall wellness, and preventing conditions such as Nidranasha.

32) Ahara:
Ahara refers to diet and nourishment in Ayurveda, fundamental for sustaining health and well-being. Proper ahara directly impacts dosha balance and can influence sleep quality. A nutritious and balanced diet supports optimal functioning of the body, thus preventing disorders like Nidranasha and enhancing overall health.

33) Kama:
Kama represents desires, pleasures, and satisfaction in life according to Ayurvedic philosophy. While kama is essential for human experience, uncontrolled or excessive pursuit can lead to stress and disturbances in sleep. Ayurveda emphasizes balance in kama to maintain mental health and promote restful sleep.

34) Spiritual therapy:
Spiritual therapy is a holistic approach in Ayurveda addressing mental and physical health through spiritual practices. It encompasses rituals, prayers, and meditation, aiming to restore balance and harmony in the mind and body. This therapy is essential for addressing disorders like Nidranasha by fostering mental peace and spiritual fulfillment.

35) Mental disorder:
Mental disorder is a broad term for ailments affecting mental health and well-being. Conditions like insomnia (Nidranasha) are classified as mental disorders in Ayurveda since they arise from psychological stress and doshic imbalances. Therefore, a comprehensive approach addressing both mind and body is vital for effective treatment.

36) Nature:
Nature encompasses the intrinsic characteristics and qualities of an individual or phenomenon in Ayurvedic philosophy. Understanding one's nature, including dosha constitution, enables personalized health strategies and interventions. This knowledge is crucial for effective management of health issues such as Nidranasha.

37) Sushruta-samhita (Susruta-samhita):
Sushrutasamhita is a foundational text in Ayurveda, attributed to Sage Sushruta, detailing surgical techniques, herbal medicine, and treatment methods. This ancient text provides valuable insights into managing various health conditions, including Nidranasha, and emphasizes the importance of holistic approaches in achieving balance and wellness.

38) Svastyayana (Svasti-ayana):
Svastyayana refers to the practice of reciting mantras or hymns aimed at promoting health and well-being. In Ayurveda, this spiritual practice reinforces positive mental states, contributing to overall wellness. It is considered effective in addressing conditions like Nidranasha by fostering a sense of peace and spiritual connection.

39) Pittadosha (Pittadosa, Pitta-dosha):
Pitta-dosha is one of the three primary doshas in Ayurveda, associated with transformation, heat, and metabolism. It governs digestion and emotional well-being. An imbalance in Pitta can lead to conditions such as insomnia (Nidranasha), necessitating management strategies that restore balance and address emotional disturbances.

40) Nidrakshaya (Nidra-akshaya, Nidraksaya):
Nidrakshaya refers to loss of sleep or insomnia in Ayurvedic terminology. It embodies the challenges associated with sleeplessness, reflecting disturbances in doshas. Understanding Nidrakshaya allows Ayurvedic practitioners to develop appropriate treatment plans focused on restoring sleep quality and addressing underlying causes effectively.

41) Shirodhara (Sirodhara, Shiras-dhara):
Shirodhara is an Ayurvedic therapy involving the gentle pouring of warm oil on the forehead. This treatment is known for its calming effects on the nervous system, making it beneficial for disorders like Nidranasha. Shirodhara promotes relaxation, mental clarity, and better sleep quality through sensory stimulation.

42) Discussion:
Discussion entails the analysis and examination of Ayurvedic principles and practices related to health and healing. In this context, it focuses on the exploration of conditions like Nidranasha, identifying underlying causes and effective treatment methods. Active discussion encourages knowledge sharing and promotes a deeper understanding of Ayurvedic practices.

43) Depression:
Depression is a mental health condition characterized by persistent sadness or loss of interest. In Ayurveda, depression can arise from imbalances in doshas, impacting mental and physical health. Conditions like Nidranasha often coexist with depression, necessitating a holistic approach that addresses emotional well-being and physical health for effective management.

44) Abhighata:
Abhighata refers to injuries or trauma that can lead to physical or mental distress in Ayurveda. It encompasses external physical injuries and their psychological impact. Understanding Abhighata is critical in addressing conditions like Nidranasha, as physical injuries may affect sleep and overall mental health.

45) Shiroroga (Siroroga, Shiras-roga):
Shiroroga refers to head ailments or disorders impacting brain health in Ayurveda. Conditions associated with Shiroroga may lead to sleep disturbances like Nidranasha. Ayurvedic treatment strategies address both physical and psychic components, recognizing that brain health is crucial for overall wellness and quality of sleep.

46) Vismarana:
Vismarana is a therapeutic approach involving memory clearance or forgetting in Ayurveda, used to alleviate mental burdens. In the context of mental disorders like Nidranasha, Vismarana focuses on helping individuals let go of stressors, thus promoting mental clarity and improving sleep quality through cognitive relief.

47) Vismapana:
Vismapana refers to surprise or shock therapy within Ayurvedic treatment. This technique is used to disrupt negative thought patterns and emotional burdens. In cases of Nidranasha, Vismapana may help patients release stress and anxiety, facilitating conditions necessary for improved sleep and mental well-being.

48) Lakshana (Laksana):
Lakshana refers to the characteristics or symptoms exhibited by diseases in Ayurveda. Identifying Lakshana is vital for diagnosing conditions like Nidranasha. Understanding symptomatology helps practitioners tailor treatment strategies that address both the physical and mental aspects of the disorder, ensuring holistic care.

49) Rasayana (Rasa-ayana):
Rasayana signifies rejuvenation therapy in Ayurveda, aimed at revitalizing the body and mind. It focuses on nourishing tissues and promoting longevity. In the context of managing conditions like Nidranasha, Rasayana therapies can enhance vitality, improve sleep quality, and restore doshic balance.

50) Upadrava:
Upadrava refers to the secondary diseases or complications arising from primary conditions in Ayurveda. In the context of Nidranasha, Upadrava may manifest as stress-related ailments. Understanding these connections allows for comprehensive treatment approaches that address both primary and secondary health issues holistically.

51) Prakriti (Prakrti):
Prakriti refers to the innate constitution or nature of an individual in Ayurveda, determined by the unique combination of doshas. Recognizing one's Prakriti helps tailor dietary and lifestyle choices, promoting balance and preventing diseases, including those characterized by sleep disturbances like Nidranasha.

52) Aushadhi (Ausadhi, Aushadhin, Ausadhin):
Aushadhi refers to medicinal herbs or substances utilized in Ayurveda for healing purposes. These natural remedies are critical in treating various health conditions, including Nidranasha. Understanding the properties of Aushadhi aids practitioners in selecting appropriate treatments that support doshic balance and promote restful sleep.

53) Oblation:
Oblation refers to offerings made to deities, often within a religious or spiritual context. In Ayurveda, oblation practices can serve a therapeutic purpose, promoting mental peace and spiritual balance. They are believed to facilitate holistic healing of conditions like Nidranasha through spiritual alignment and positive intentions.

54) Worry (Worried, Worrying):
Worrying entails pervasive thoughts or concerns that can disrupt mental peace and lead to stress. In Ayurveda, chronic worrying is linked to insomnia (Nidranasha). To combat this condition, practitioners may turn to lifestyle changes, therapeutic practices, and psychological strategies aimed at alleviating unnecessary worries and fostering mental tranquility.

55) Langhana (Lamghana):
Langhana refers to therapeutic fasting or lightening treatments in Ayurveda, aimed at reducing excess weight or heaviness in the body. It may also apply to managing doshic imbalances. In the context of Nidranasha, langhana could help balance aggravated doshas, improving sleep quality and overall health.

56) Indriya (Imdriya):
Indriya, similar to Indriyas, signifies the sensory organs and faculties that perceive stimuli and convey information to the mind. Maintaining balance and health of the Indriya is crucial in Ayurveda, as imbalances can contribute to conditions like Nidranasha, necessitating holistic interventions for restoration.

57) Dhamani:
Dhamani refers to channels or vessels in the body responsible for circulation. The health of dhamanis is critical in Ayurveda as blockages can lead to various health disorders. Recognizing the link between dhamani health and conditions like Nidranasha is essential in developing effective treatment strategies.

58) Trishna (Trsna):
Trishna refers to thirst or craving in Ayurveda, representing desires for satisfaction or fulfillment. Excessive Trishna can lead to physical and mental unrest, potentially contributing to conditions like Nidranasha. Balancing Trishna through mindful practices is essential for achieving mental calmness and enhancing sleep quality.

59) Kshudha (Ksudha):
Kshudha translates to hunger or appetite in Ayurveda, governing nutritional needs and energy balance. An imbalance in Kshudha may disrupt physical functioning and can relate to conditions such as Nidranasha when poor dietary habits affect sleep. Understanding Kshudha contributes to comprehensive health and diet management.

60) Vyayama:
Vyayama refers to physical exercises and activities that help maintain health and fitness in Ayurveda. Regular Vyayama supports balance among doshas and enhances overall well-being. When managing conditions like Nidranasha, incorporating appropriate Vyayama can promote relaxation, balance energy levels, and improve sleep quality.

61) Jrimbha (Jrmbha):
Jrimbha signifies yawning, often associated with sleepiness or fatigue in Ayurveda. It serves as a physical indication of the body's need for rest. In conditions like Nidranasha, recognizing Jrimbha as a symptom can inform treatment approaches, emphasizing the importance of adequate sleep and relaxation.

62) Aushadha (Ausadha):
Ausadha refers to the collection of medicinal herbs and plant-based remedies in Ayurveda. It plays a vital role in treating various health issues, including Nidranasha. Understanding the specific properties of different Ausadha helps practitioners select appropriate herbal treatments aligned with an individual's needs for optimal health.

63) Asadhya:
Asadhya is a term describing conditions deemed incurable or challenging to manage in Ayurveda. Recognizing the severity of certain health issues encourages practitioners to adopt comprehensive treatment approaches and preventive strategies. Addressing conditions like Nidranasha highlights the need for vigilance in health maintenance.

64) Vyavaya:
Vyavaya refers to sexual activity or the need for companionship in Ayurveda. It emphasizes the importance of balance in human desires and activities. Excessive Vyavaya can lead to depletion of energy and imbalances in mental health, directly affecting sleep quality, thus underscoring the need for moderation.

65) Tikshna (Tiksna):
Tikshna describes sharpness or potency in Ayurvedic terms, often referring to qualities of medicines or conditions. A Tikshna condition may imply aggressive symptoms or acute pain. In the context of Nidranasha, Tikshna could signify underlying acute issues impacting sleep quality, necessitating careful management and treatment.

66) Anxiety:
Anxiety involves excessive worry or apprehension that can affect mental health and overall well-being. In Ayurveda, anxiety can contribute to insomnia (Nidranasha), with psycho-emotional imbalances leading to disruptions in sleep patterns. Effective management involves therapeutic practices addressing both physiological and psychological factors.

67) Mangala (Mangal, Mamgala):
Mangala signifies auspiciousness and positive energy in Ayurveda. Activities or rituals deemed Mangala enhance overall well-being and can positively impact mental health. Understanding Mangala's role in promoting peace and tranquility is essential in addressing conditions like Nidranasha, fostering a conducive environment for restful sleep.

68) Mantra (Mamtra):
Mantra refers to sacred sounds or phrases used in meditation and spiritual practices in Ayurveda. Reciting mantras can help calm the mind and reduce stress, which is beneficial for individuals suffering from conditions like Nidranasha. Mantras facilitate emotional balance and enhance mental well-being.

69) Vikara:
Vikara refers to a state of disturbance or imperfection in Ayurveda, often indicating the onset of a disease. Identifying Vikara is crucial for diagnosing health issues such as Nidranasha. Recognizing the signs of Vikara allows practitioners to intervene early and adopt appropriate healing strategies.

70) Gamana:
Gamana signifies travel or movement in Ayurvedic philosophy. It encompasses the movement of body and spirit within the context of health and wellness. Balancing Gamana through proper lifestyle habits is important, as excessive movement or stress can contribute to conditions like Nidranasha, affecting sleep quality.

71) Sadhya:
Sadhya refers to conditions that are treatable or manageable in Ayurveda. Recognition of Sadhya encourages positive outlooks in treatment approaches. In the case of Nidranasha, identifying it as Sadhya can lead to effective interventions aimed at restoring balance and improving overall quality of sleep.

72) Dharma:
Dharma represents the moral and ethical duties one should follow in life according to Ayurvedic philosophy. Upholding Dharma leads to harmony in life, promoting mental clarity and peacefulness. Adhering to Dharma can indirectly improve conditions like Nidranasha by fostering a balanced lifestyle.

73) Kshaya (Ksaya):
Kshaya refers to depletion or reduction in Ayurveda, often connected to the decline of vital energies or tissues. Understanding Kshaya is critical in addressing conditions like Nidranasha, as exhaustion can exacerbate sleep problems. Effective treatment aims to restore balance and vitality through holistic approaches.

74) Shayya (Sayya):
Shayya means the resting place or bed, symbolic of sleep in Ayurveda. A proper Shayya is essential for good quality sleep, directly impacting health and recovery. Recognizing the role of Shayya in conditions such as Nidranasha highlights the need for a conducive environment for restful sleep.

75) Vamana:
Vamana, or therapeutic vomiting, is an Ayurvedic detoxification technique used to eliminate excess Kapha from the body. This procedure may aid individuals with sleep disturbances like Nidranasha by restoring balance in doshas and promoting overall physical and mental health through cleansing.

[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 110]