Care and cure of geriatric diseases in shalakya tantra

Glossary definitions and references:

Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Care and cure of geriatric diseases in shalakya tantra”. 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) Karna:
Karna refers to the ear in Ayurvedic texts. It is considered one of the sensory organs, and various therapies related to Karna are discussed within Shalakya Tantra, focusing on preventing and treating ear-related disorders. Procedures such as Karna Purana (ear oil application) and Nasya (nasal instillation) are utilized to maintain Karna health.

2) Disease:
Diseases encompass a wide range of health conditions affecting individuals, particularly in geriatrics where the prevalence increases. Ayurvedic principles advocate for preventive measures and treatments that focus on holistic health, aiming to manage the symptoms and root causes effectively.

3) Drug:
A drug is a single medicinal substance or a compound prepared from natural materials. In Ayurveda, drugs are essential for therapeutic effects, and understanding their properties helps in determining their appropriate use for specific ailments and enhancing the body's healing processes.

4) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is an ancient Indian system of medicine emphasizing balance in body, mind, and spirit. It offers a holistic approach to health and disease, utilizing natural remedies, dietary measures, and lifestyle adjustments, aiming for prevention and comprehensive wellbeing.

5) Patil:
Patil signifies a surname commonly found in India, often associated with individuals in healthcare fields, including practitioners of Ayurveda. The mention of Patil in this context highlights the collaborative contribution of researchers and scholars in Ayurvedic studies.

6) Tantra (Tantrism, Tamtra):
Tantra refers to a branch or system of study within Ayurveda, often focusing on specific therapies and practices. In Shalakya Tantra, the emphasis is on conditions related to the head, ears, eyes, and throat, providing detailed methodologies for treatment.

7) Shalakyatantra (Salakyatantra, Shalakya-tantra, Shalakyatamtra):
Shalakya-tantra is a specialized branch of Ayurveda dealing with the diagnosis and treatment of diseases related to the sensorial organs, such as eyes, ears, mouth, and the head. It focuses on maintaining the health and functionality of these critical bodily systems.

8) Indriya (Imdriya):
Indriyas, the plural of Indriya, refers to the multiple sensory organs responsible for perception. Their health is paramount in Ayurveda, and specific therapies are designed to enhance their function and prevent degeneration, especially in older adults.

9) Roga:
Rogas is the plural form of Roga, referring to multiple diseases or health conditions. Understanding Rogas helps in categorizing ailments and determining appropriate Ayurvedic interventions through a combination of therapies, lifestyle changes, and dietary adjustments.

10) Yoga:
Yoga refers to a discipline that incorporates physical postures, breathing techniques, and meditation to promote overall health and well-being. In geriatric care, specific yoga practices can help enhance mobility and manage various age-related health issues.

11) Rasayana (Rasa-ayana):
Rasayana is a branch of Ayurveda that focuses on rejuvenation and longevity. It involves therapeutic practices and formulations aimed at enhancing vitality, strength, and wellness, particularly effective in combating age-related degenerative diseases.

12) Taila (Thaila):
Taila means 'oil' in Sanskrit and is commonly used in Ayurvedic practices for medicinal purposes. Various types of oils, like Tila taila, are utilized for massage, treatments, and as a base for medicated formulations to nourish the body and promote healing.

13) Water:
Water is vital for life and plays a critical role in Ayurveda. It is associated with hydration, balancing body doshas, aiding digestion, and facilitating detoxification processes. Specific therapies like Panchakarma also incorporate water in various forms to enhance health.

14) Kapha:
Kapha is one of the three doshas in Ayurveda, characterized by earth and water elements. It governs structure, stability, and fluid balance in the body. Imbalances in Kapha are linked to various ailments, particularly in the elderly, necessitating targeted management strategies.

15) Nasya (Nashya):
Nasya refers to a therapeutic procedure involving the application of medicated oils or powders into the nostrils. It is a key treatment for head-related conditions and is beneficial for the respiratory and sensory organs, enhancing overall health.

16) Akshi (Aksi):
Akshi translates to 'eyes' in Ayurveda. The health of Akshi is vital for perception and wellbeing. Ayurvedic texts elaborate on practices to maintain and treat eye health, including dietary considerations and therapeutic procedures like Anjana and Tarpana.

17) Karnaroga (Karna-roga):
Karnaroga indicates ear diseases. Ayurveda offers various treatments focused on managing symptoms and maintaining ear health through natural and herbal remedies.

18) Vagbhata:
Vagbhata was an esteemed ancient Ayurvedic author whose texts outline various medical practices and principles, including Shalakya Tantra. His works serve as a foundational reference in Ayurvedic education and practice.

19) Triphala (Tri-phala):
Triphala is a popular herbal formulation in Ayurveda, composed of three fruits: Amla, Bibhitaki, and Haritaki. It is known for its detoxifying properties, promoting digestion and wellness, and is used extensively in geriatric care.

20) Gandusa (Gandusha, Gamdusa, Gamdusha):
Gandusha is a practice in Ayurveda where liquid, typically medicated oil or herbal infusion, is held in the mouth for therapeutic benefits. It aids in oral health and can influence other bodily systems through its effects on the head region.

21) Anjana (Amjana):
Anjana refers to the application of medicinal paste or collyrium to the eyes. This practice is part of eye care in Ayurveda, aimed at enhancing vision and preventing or treating eye diseases.

22) Sira (Shira):
Shira translates to 'head' in Sanskrit. Treatments related to Shira are essential in Ayurveda, especially in Shalakya Tantra, addressing head-related disorders and promoting sensory health.

23) Tila:
Tila represents sesame seeds, often used in Ayurvedic preparations, particularly oils. Tila oil is valued for its nourishing properties and used in various treatments, including massages and internal therapies.

24) Life:
Life encompasses the biological existence and health of individuals. In Ayurveda, maintaining a balanced life through diet, lifestyle, and preventive care is essential for promoting longevity and wellness.

25) Tilataila (Tila-taila):
Tila-taila refers specifically to sesame oil. Its application in treatments is common due to its health benefits, including skin nourishment and as a base in various Ayurvedic formulations. It is used in practices like Abhyanga.

26) Abhyanga (Abhyamga):
Abhyanga is an Ayurvedic practice of self-massage using warm oils. This therapy enhances circulation, improves skin health, and promotes mental relaxation, playing a significant role in geriatric wellness.

27) Virudha:
Virudha means incompatible or contradictory, particularly in dietary contexts. Ayurveda emphasizes avoiding Virudha Ahara (incompatible foods) to prevent health issues and maintain dosha balance for overall well-being.

28) Ghrita (Ghrta):
Ghrita refers to ghee, a clarified butter used in many Ayurvedic preparations. It is valued for its healing properties, digestibility, and role as a vehicle for nourishing herbs, playing a significant therapeutic role.

29) Shigru (Sigru):
Shigru, known as Moringa, is a medicinal plant with numerous health benefits. Rich in nutrients, it is used in Ayurvedic treatments to enhance vitality, support digestion, and manage various ailments.

30) Shiras (Siras, Siro, Shirash):
Siro is another term for 'head.' Typical Ayurvedic practices involve treatments directed at Siro to manage issues linked with sensory organs and enhance cognitive health.

31) Mukha:
Mukha translates to 'face' in Ayurvedic terms. Mukha health is imperative as it relates to overall facial and sensory organ health, with specific regimens and treatments designed for maintenance and improvement.

32) Rodha:
Rodha translates to 'suppression' or 'obstruction.' In Ayurveda, addressing Rodha in the context of bodily functions or urges is essential to prevent health imbalances and disorders.

33) Anna:
Anna refers to 'food' in Ayurveda. Nutrition plays a vital role in health, and Ayurvedic principles govern dietary choices to maintain dosha balance and encourage overall wellbeing.

34) Dantadhavana (Danta-dhavana, Damtadhavana):
Danta-dhavana refers to the practice of tooth brushing in Ayurveda. It is important for oral hygiene and prevention of diseases related to the mouth and teeth, promoting overall health.

35) Abhishyandi (Abhisyandi):
Abhishyandi refers to substances that can cause obstruction when consumed. Ayurveda teaches avoiding Abhishyandi foods to ensure smooth physiological processes and prevent health concerns.

36) Katutikta (Katu-tikta):
Katu-tikta denotes 'bitter and sharp flavors,' which are emphasized in Ayurvedic treatments for their benefits in stimulating digestion and balancing doshas, particularly in addressing conditions associated with excess Kapha and Pitta.

37) Rasanjana (Rasa-anjana, Rasamjana):
Rasanjana is a type of eye medication or collyrium used for eye care, particularly to enhance vision and treat ailments relating to the eyes, reinforcing the significance of maintaining ocular health.

38) Anutaila (Anu-taila):
Anu-taila refers to a specific type of oil used in Ayurvedic nasal treatments known for its rejuvenating effects on the body and sensory organs, enhancing both physical and mental health.

39) Shiroruj (Siroruj, Siroruk, Siroruc):
Shiro-ruk indicates pain or discomfort in the head, commonly addressed in Ayurvedic practice through various therapeutic methods targeting the head, neck, and associated structures.

40) Shodhana (Sodhana):
Shodhana refers to purification processes in Ayurveda, designed to detoxify the body and balance doshas. Regular Shodhana practices are essential for maintaining good health, particularly in geriatrics.

41) Pradhana:
Pradhana translates to 'primary' or 'main.' In the context of Ayurvedic medicine, it signifies the main elements or practices essential for maintaining health and treating diseases effectively.

42) Shatavari (Satavari):
Satavari, known as Asparagus racemosus, is an herb with rejuvenating properties. It is used primarily in women's health and as a Rasayana to enhance vitality and reproductive well-being.

43) Parisheka (Pariseka):
Pariseka denotes a therapeutic pouring of liquids over the body, often used in Ayurvedic treatments to soothe and rejuvenate. It is an integral part of measures for enhancing wellness and relaxation.

44) Badhirya:
Badhirya refers to deafness or hearing impairment. Ayurveda offers various treatments, including Nasya and herbal formulations, aimed at improving hearing and treating associated conditions.

45) Samhita:
Samhita refers to ancient texts that compile Ayurvedic knowledge, principles, and practices. They serve as foundational references for practitioners, providing comprehensive guidelines for diagnosis and treatment.

46) Draksha (Draksa):
Draksha means 'grapes' in Ayurveda and is recognized for its nutritional benefits, enhancing vitality and wellness, and used in various formulations for health improvement.

47) Tarpana:
Tarpana involves a therapeutic eye procedure in Ayurveda where a medicated liquid is held around the eyes to nourish and rejuvenate them, helping to address various ocular conditions.

48) Khadira:
Khadira refers to Acacia catechu, known for its medicinal properties. It is used in Ayurvedic formulations for its benefits in treating various ailments, particularly oral and skin health.

49) Apathya:
Apathya denotes inappropriate food or actions that can lead to imbalances within the body. Ayurveda emphasizes identifying and avoiding Apathya to ensure health and balance are maintained.

50) Srishti (Srsti):
Srishti means 'creation' or 'formation.' In Ayurveda, it signifies the importance of understanding the natural laws of creation and how they affect health and the human body.

51) Kashaya (Kasaya):
Kashaya refers to astringent herbal preparations used in Ayurveda, often prescribed for their detoxifying and balancing properties. They play a significant role in treating various health conditions.

52) Dhavana:
Dhavana refers to cleansing rituals, particularly oral hygiene practices in Ayurveda. Maintaining proper Dhavana is critical for preventing dental and oral diseases.

53) Matsya:
Matsya translates to 'fish' in Sanskrit. In reference to Ayurveda, fish may be included in diets to provide essential nutrients and support overall health when prepared in a balanced manner.

54) Patola:
Patola refers to a type of vegetable known as pointed gourd, recognized for its health benefits. In Ayurveda, it is incorporated into dietary practices for its nutritional value.

55) Sthana:
Sthana refers to 'place' or 'location' in the context of Ayurvedic practice, emphasizing the importance of understanding where ailments exist in the body for targeted treatment.

56) Pathya:
Pathya refers to beneficial or suitable food and lifestyle choices that promote health and well-being. It is critical in Ayurveda to adopt Pathya for maintaining balance and preventing diseases.

57) Dugdha:
Dugdha means 'milk' and is celebrated in Ayurveda for its nourishing properties. It is often used in various formulations and as a dietary component that supports health and vitality.

58) Timira:
Timira denotes 'night blindness' or conditions affecting vision. Ayurveda provides specific treatments like Anjana and Tarpana to enhance eyesight and manage such conditions effectively.

59) Kavala:
Kavala is the practice of holding liquid in the mouth for therapeutic benefits. It is significant in oral hygiene and is believed to benefit overall health.

60) Vataja (Vata-ja):
Vataja refers to diseases caused by Vata dosha imbalances. Ayurveda provides targeted treatment strategies, including dietary adjustments and specific therapies to manage ailments associated with Vata dosha.

61) Dosha (Dosa):
Dosha refers to the fundamental energies in the body (Vata, Pitta, Kapha) that govern physiological functions. Understanding one's dosha is vital for personalized Ayurvedic treatment and maintaining health balance.

62) Danta (Damta):
Danta refers to teeth in Ayurvedic practice. Maintaining Danta health is crucial through appropriate dental care, including Danta-dhavana, to prevent oral diseases and promote overall well-being.

63) Kriya:
Kriya means 'action' or 'process' in Ayurveda, referring to therapeutic actions taken to treat ailments. Kriyas are essential in creating effective treatment plans tailored to individual health needs.

64) Pitta:
Pitta is one of the three doshas characterized by fire and water elements. It governs metabolic processes in the body, and imbalances in Pitta can lead to various health issues, requiring targeted Ayurvedic interventions.

65) Dadhi:
Dadhi refers to 'yogurt' in Ayurveda, known for its probiotic properties. It is often included in diets for promoting gut health and enhancing overall digestive function.

66) Mudga:
Mudga translates to 'green gram' and is a staple in Ayurvedic diets, recognized for its nutritional benefits and used in various dietary regimens to promote health.

67) Tikta:
Tikta means 'bitter' and is one of the six tastes acknowledged in Ayurveda. Bitter tastes are essential for stimulating digestion and facilitating the body's detoxification processes.

68) Ahara:
Ahara refers to 'food' or 'nutrition,' emphasizing the importance of diet in Ayurvedic practices. Food choices are crucial for achieving balance and promoting health within the body.

69) Kandu (Kamdu):
Kandu translates to 'itching' or 'irritation,' commonly associated with various skin and allergic conditions. Ayurveda provides treatments aimed at alleviating Kandu through herbal formulations and lifestyle adjustments.

70) Netra:
Netra means 'eye' in Ayurveda, with health pertaining to Netra being critical for overall sensory function. Various Ayurvedic practices target eye health to prevent disorders and enhance vision.

71) Snana:
Snana means 'bathing' or 'cleansing' in Ayurveda. Maintaining hygiene through Snana is essential for physical and spiritual well-being, supporting overall health.

72) Shopha (Sopha):
Sopha refers to 'swelling' or 'inflammation' in the context of health conditions. Ayurveda addresses Sopha through local treatments, dietary adjustments, and rejuvenating therapies.

73) Sarpis (Sarpi, Sarpish):
Sarpi signifies 'ghee' in Ayurveda and is highly valued for its therapeutic properties. It is used in cooking and as a medicinal base in a variety of herbal preparations.

74) Guru:
Guru means 'heavy' or 'difficult to digest' in Ayurveda, referring to foods that may be hard on the digestive system. Balancing such foods is essential for maintaining digestive health.

75) Yava:
Yava means 'barley' in Ayurveda, noted for its nutritional value and inclusion in diets to foster health benefits, particularly in digestive wellness.

[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 190]