Haramekhala – tantra (the first chapter on medicine)
Journal name: Ancient Science of Life
Original article title: Haramekhala – tantra (the first chapter on medicine)
The ANSCI is a peer-reviewed, open-access journal focused on Ayurveda and traditional medicines. It publishes original research, reviews, and literary studies linking traditional knowledge with modern science, covering disciplines like botany, ethnomedicine, pharmacology, and clinical research.
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
The Haramekhala-tantra, crafted by the author Mahuka in 965 A.D., is a significant ancient text focusing on medicinal practices, represented through a dialogue between Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. This translation, based on a manuscript from Banaras Hindu University, comprises 133 stanzas. The first chapter specifically addresses various medicinal remedies and treatments for ailments, while subsequent stanzas include magical spells, which are excluded from this translation. The work has historical importance as several later texts, including Cakradatta by Cakrapani, drew upon the Haramekhala for its recipes and medicinal philosophy.
Medicinal Treatments for Eye Diseases
Among the noted treatments in the Haramekhala-tantra, a series of remedies for eye diseases stands out, revealing the ancient Indian understanding of ocular health. The text prescribes various natural concoctions: for instance, a paste made of Jatiphala, bilva leaves, and haridra is recommended to alleviate side pain, while hastisundi juice, applied topically, is cited for treating eye diseases. Additional remedies include a mixture of tulasi juice, mustard oil, and sour gruel used as collyrium, which is said to effectively address issues caused by vata, pitta, and kapha, as well as night blindness and abscesses. The detailed descriptions of these treatments emphasize the sophistication of ancient medical knowledge and the reliance on herbal remedies for effective healing.
Conclusion
The Haramekhala-tantra serves as a testament to the advanced understanding of medicine in ancient India, incorporating holistic approaches to health and disease prevention. The extensive list of herbal remedies and specific treatments for conditions such as eye ailments illustrates the integration of spiritual beliefs and practical medicine in the discourse between divine entities. As a foundational text, it not only informs the historical narrative of Indian medicinal practices but also highlights the relevance of traditional knowledge in contemporary healthcare, encouraging ongoing exploration and interpretation of these ancient practices.
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.
P.V. Sharma
Ancient Science of Life:
(A quarterly multi-disciplinary scientific research journal in Ayurveda)
Full text available for: Haramekhala – tantra (the first chapter on medicine)
Year: 1986
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA
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FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is the Haramekhala-tantra and its significance?
The Haramekhala-tantra is a medicinal text written by Mahuka in 965 A.D., comprising dialogue between Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. It provides numerous remedies for various ailments and is considered a valuable work in ancient Indian medical literature.
What are the main topics covered in the first chapter?
The first chapter addresses various remedies for diseases, particularly focusing on eye, throat, cough, abdominal issues, and childbirth. It combines herbal treatments and magical spells, although the latter are excluded from the current translation.
Can you name a few medicinal plants mentioned?
The text cites several plants, including Agnimantha, Amalaki, Asoka, and Kankola. These plants are used in various formulations for treating specific ailments, showcasing the significance of herbs in ancient medicine.
How were remedies prescribed in the Haramekhala-tantra?
Remedies are prescribed through detailed instructions, often involving the preparation and application of herbal pastes or decoctions. The efficacy of treatments is often enhanced by specific timings and rituals emphasized throughout the text.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Haramekhala – tantra (the first chapter on medicine)”. 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) Milk:
Milk is a significant dietary component in traditional medicine, often used for its nourishing and restorative properties. In the context of Haramekhala-tantra, it is incorporated in various recipes to enhance effectiveness, promote health, and aid in treatment modalities, especially for women's reproductive health and digestive issues.
2) Ghi (Ghī, Ghee):
Ghee, or clarified butter, is often utilized in Ayurvedic recipes for its digestive benefits and ability to support overall health. It enhances the absorption of nutrients and is included in formulations for conditions such as yaksma (tuberculosis), promoting vitality and strength when taken with herbal preparations.
3) Pippali (Pippalī, Pīppalī, Pippalin):
Pippali, or long pepper (Piper longum), serves as an important herb in Ayurvedic medicine known for its warming properties. It's frequently used to stimulate digestion, strengthen respiratory health, and manage cough-related issues, being a key ingredient in numerous formulations for bronchial and digestive conditions.
4) Apamarga (Apāmārga, Apamārga):
Apamarga, or Achyranthes aspera, is often referenced in traditional texts for its multifaceted medicinal properties, primarily targeting abdominal conditions and promoting fertility. Its role in formulations is substantial, especially in enhancing reproductive health and managing ailments such as gulma (abdominal lump) and udararoga (abdominal swelling).
5) Water:
Water is essential in the preparation of herbal medicines and for the consumption of formulations. It acts as a medium for extraction of active compounds from herbs, facilitating their absorption and efficacy in treating a wide range of health conditions discussed in Haramekhala-tantra.
6) Honey:
Honey is revered in Ayurvedic texts for its therapeutic properties, acting as a natural sweetener and a vehicle for delivering medicinal herbs effectively. In the context of Haramekhala-tantra, it enhances health benefits, improves palatability of formulations, and possesses antimicrobial properties.
7) Eranda (Eraṇḍa, Eramda):
Eranda, or Ricinus communis, is emphasized in traditional medicine for its purgative properties and utility in treating various conditions, including yaksma (tuberculosis). It is commonly incorporated in recipes aimed at detoxification and alleviating abdominal issues, as well as promoting menstrual health.
8) Shunthi (Śuṇṭhī, Śuṇṭhi, Sumthi, Shumthi):
Sunthi, or dried ginger, is a prominent ingredient in Ayurvedic formulations known for its warming properties. In Haramekhala-tantra, it's used to enhance digestion, manage respiratory ailments, and improve circulation, often serving as a base in various herbal preparations for cough and indigestion.
9) Candana (Candanā, Camdana):
Candana, or sandalwood, is recognized for its soothing and cooling properties, making it a valuable ingredient in Ayurvedic practices. Its inclusion in Haramekhala-tantra formulations serves to address skin conditions and promote mental tranquility, enhancing the overall therapeutic profile of the remedies.
10) Parvati (Pārvatī):
Parvati, a central goddess in Hindu mythology, is featured prominently in Haramekhala-tantra as the listener and questioner in the dialogue. Her representation symbolizes the pursuit of knowledge and healing, reflecting the relationship between divine guidance and the practice of Ayurveda as a sacred healing tradition.
11) Haridra (Hāridra, Haridrā):
Haridra, or turmeric, is celebrated for its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. In Ayurvedic medicine, its applications range from skin disorders to digestive health. In Haramekhala-tantra, it is frequently mentioned in recipes aimed at promoting overall well-being and addressing various health afflictions.
12) Bilva (Bilvā, Vilva, Vilvā):
Bilva, or Aegle marmelos, is known for its therapeutic benefits, particularly concerning digestive health and respiratory issues. It is frequently included in preparations for managing coughs and colds, serving as a vital ingredient to enhance the effectiveness of traditional medicine in Haramekhala-tantra.
13) Vaca (Vācā, Vacā, Vāca):
Vaca, or Acorus calamus, is valued in Ayurveda for its cognitive enhancement and calming effects. Within the framework of Haramekhala-tantra, it's applied to bolster mental faculties and is recognized for its role in addressing disorders related to the psyche and nervous system.
14) Amalaki (Āmalakī, Āmalaki):
Amalaki, or Phyllanthus emblica, is a primary herb in Ayurveda known for its high vitamin C content and antioxidant properties. Cited in Haramekhala-tantra, it is employed for its ability to rejuvenate the body, enhance immunity, and improve digestive health.
15) Ardraka (Ārdraka):
Ardraka, or ginger, is widely acknowledged in Ayurvedic texts for its warming and anti-inflammatory properties. Its inclusion in recipes is primarily for managing digestive complaints and promoting respiratory health, playing a pivotal role in formulations within Haramekhala-tantra.
16) Mustard:
Mustard, particularly mustard oil, is often used in Ayurvedic practices for its warming effects and ability to promote circulation. In Haramekhala-tantra, it is mentioned as an ingredient that can enhance the effectiveness of various herbal medicines, particularly in topical applications for skin conditions.
17) Tantra (Tantrā, Tamtra, Tantrism):
Tantra refers to the philosophical system of texts that encompass spiritual practices and esoteric knowledge. In the context of Haramekhala-tantra, it signifies the structure and methodology of medicinal knowledge shared through dialogues between divine figures, emphasizing the sacred nature of healing.
18) Marica (Marīca, Mārīca, Mārica):
Marica, or black pepper, is an important seasoning in Ayurvedic formulations, recognized for its digestive benefits and ability to enhance the bioavailability of other herbs. It is frequently incorporated in recipes to support digestion and respiratory health within the Haramekhala-tantra text.
19) Vasaka (Vāsaka, Vashaka, Vaśakā, Vāśaka):
Vasaka, or Adhatoda vasica, is significant in Ayurvedic medicine for its effectiveness in treating respiratory ailments. Within Haramekhala-tantra, it is commonly used in formulations to alleviate coughs and bronchial issues, reflecting its central role in traditional treatments.
20) Brihati (Bṛhatī):
Brhati, or Solanum indicum, is utilized in Ayurveda for its therapeutic properties, particularly in managing abdominal disorders. It is frequently included in recipes aimed at treating cough and respiratory ailments, demonstrating its importance in treating specific health issues in Haramekhala-tantra.
21) Kushtha (Kuṣṭha):
Kustha refers to various aromatic roots, particularly Saussurea lappa, utilized in Ayurvedic formulations for their purifying and therapeutic properties. In Haramekhala-tantra, it is used to enhance fragrance, promote physical well-being, and support treatments for skin and digestive ailments.
22) Arka (Ārka, Arkā):
Arka, or Calotropis procera, is highlighted in Ayurvedic texts for its purgative and expectorant properties. Within Haramekhala-tantra, it plays a role in various medicinal preparations, especially aimed at respiratory conditions and cleansing the body.
23) Bronchial asthma:
Bronchial asthma is a significant respiratory condition addressed within Haramekhala-tantra. The text highlights various herbal remedies and formulations to alleviate symptoms and manage the condition effectively through the use of specific herbs like Pippali, Vasaka, and various others.
24) Mustard oil:
Mustard oil is often used in traditional Ayurvedic practices due to its warming properties. It finds mention in Haramekhala-tantra for its external applications to enhance the effectiveness of treatments for various ailments, particularly in managing skin and respiratory conditions.
25) Hastishundi (Hastiśuṇḍī, Hastin-shundi):
Hastisundi, or hastisundi (Hastisundi), is recognized for its application in treating eye diseases. In Haramekhala-tantra, it plays a crucial role in eye care formulations, demonstrating its significance in traditional Ayurvedic medicine for resolving ocular problems.
26) Shephalika (Śephālikā, Sephālikā, Sephalika):
Sephalika, or the flower of Mimusops elengi, is utilized in Ayurvedic formulations to promote fertility and manage various health conditions. Its mention in Haramekhala-tantra underscores its importance in reproductive health and as a part of fertility-enhancing treatments.
27) Jatiphala (Jātiphala, Jati-phala, Jātīphala):
Jatiphala, or nutmeg, is valued for its aromatic properties and health benefits in Ayurvedic practice. In Haramekhala-tantra, it is used to enhance formulations aimed at treating digestive and respiratory issues due to its warming and soothing effects.
28) Gambhari (Gambhārī):
Gambhari, or Gmelina arborea, is referenced in Ayurvedic texts for its therapeutic properties. Within Haramekhala-tantra, it is incorporated in formulations that target digestive issues and other health complaints, showcasing its importance in traditional medicine.
29) Rajamasha (Rājamāṣa, Raja-masha, Rajan-masha):
Rajamasa refers to a type of pulse used in Ayurveda, recognized for its wholesome nutritional properties and uses in digestive health. In Haramekhala-tantra, it is referred to in recipes for treating various disorders, particularly those related to digestion and overall wellness.
30) Medicine:
Medicine in the context of Haramekhala-tantra includes the traditional knowledge and practices surrounding health and healing. The text acts as a compilation of remedies and guidelines based on Ayurvedic principles, emphasizing the holistic approach to health prevalent in ancient medical texts.
31) Jiraka (Jīraka):
Jiraka, or cumin, is a common spice in Ayurvedic medicine known for its digestive and carminative properties. In Haramekhala-tantra, it is frequently included in formulations to enhance digestion and manage various gastrointestinal complaints, showcasing its significance in traditional recipes.
32) Musali (Musalī, Mushali, Muśalī):
Musali, or Asparagus adscendens, is valued for its health benefits, particularly in boosting reproductive health and vitality. Its inclusion in Haramekhala-tantra highlights its role in formulations aiming to enhance fertility and overall wellness.
33) Badari (Badarī, Bādari):
Badari, or Zizyphus jujuba, is valued for its nourishing properties. In Haramekhala-tantra, it is included in recipes targeted towards improving reproductive health and enhancing overall vitality, reflecting its significant role in traditional healing practices.
34) Palasha (Palāśa, Palāsa, Palasa, Palāśā, Pālāśa, Pala-asha):
Palasa, or Butea monosperma, is acknowledged for its medicinal properties in Ayurveda, particularly its use in managing digestive health and promoting reproductive wellness. In Haramekhala-tantra, it serves as a vital ingredient in many formulations addressing these concerns.
35) Gulma:
Gulma refers to an abdominal lump or mass in Ayurvedic terms. In the Haramekhala-tantra, specific recipes aim to treat this condition, highlighting various herbal remedies known to alleviate abdominal discomfort and support digestive health.
36) Ashoka (Asoka, Aśoka, Aśokā, Asokā):
Asoka, or Saraca indica, is significant in Ayurveda for its role in managing women's health, particularly reproductive issues. In Haramekhala-tantra, it is frequently included in formulations targeting menstrual irregularities, fertility enhancement, and overall gynecological wellness.
37) Kunda (Kuṇḍa, Kumda):
Kunda, or Jasminum pubescens, is often utilized for its aromatic and therapeutic properties. In the context of Haramekhala-tantra, it contributes to treatments aimed at reproductive health and is recognized for its gentle nurturing effects on women's wellness.
38) Sugar:
Sugar is often used in Ayurveda to enhance the taste of medicinal preparations and provide energy. In Haramekhala-tantra, it is commonly added to recipes to improve palatability and support the therapeutic properties of the herbs used.
39) Tila (Ṭila):
Tila, or sesame seeds, are rich in nutrients and frequently utilized in Ayurvedic formulations for their health benefits. In Haramekhala-tantra, they are highlighted in recipes aimed at promoting digestion, skin health, and reproductive wellness.
40) Shiva (Śivā, Sivā, Śiva, Siva, Sīva):
Siva, as a central figure in Hindu mythology, embodies the principles of creation and transformation. Within Haramekhala-tantra, His dialogue with Parvati represents the transmission of knowledge in Ayurveda, linking spirituality with the healing arts practiced in ancient traditions.
41) Salt (Salty):
Salt is a vital mineral in Ayurvedic practices, often used to enhance flavor and preserve food. In the context of Haramekhala-tantra, it is included in preparations to facilitate digestion and balance doshas, emphasizing its importance in health management.
42) Sour gruel:
Sour gruel is a traditional food preparation known for its digestive benefits. In Ayurvedic texts, including Haramekhala-tantra, it is often recommended in various medicinal recipes to enhance gut health and support digestive functions.
43) Agnimantha (Agni-mantha, Agnimamtha):
Agnimantha, or Premna integrifolia, is recognized in Ayurveda for its beneficial properties, especially in treating respiratory issues. In Haramekhala-tantra, it is included in formulations addressing coughs and other ailments related to the respiratory system.
44) Madhuyashti (Madhuyaṣṭi, Madhu-yashti, Madhuyaṣṭī):
Madhuyasti, or Glycyrrhiza glabra (licorice), is valued for its soothing properties. In Haramekhala-tantra, it is incorporated into remedies aiming at treating respiratory and digestive conditions, showcasing its effectiveness in balancing bodily functions.
45) Vajigandha (Vājigandha, Vajin-gandha, Vajigandhā, Vajigamdha):
Vajigandha, or Withania somnifera (ashwagandha), is renowned for its adaptogenic properties. In the tradition of Haramekhala-tantra, it contributes to enhancing vitality, managing stress levels, and promoting overall wellness in various formulations for maintaining health.
46) Matulunga (Mātuluṅga, Matulumga, Matulamga):
Matulunga, or Citrus medica, is often referenced in Ayurvedic texts for its flavor and therapeutic properties. Its inclusion in Haramekhala-tantra highlights its importance in formulations aimed at digestive health and promoting detoxification.
47) Aparajita (Aparājitā, Aparājita):
Aparajita, or Clitorea ternatea, is known for its cognitive enhancement benefits. In Haramekhala-tantra, it is incorporated into formulas aimed at improving mental clarity and overall cognitive functions, showcasing its significance in traditional practices.
48) Manjishtha (Mañjiṣṭhā, Māñjiṣṭha, Mamjishtha):
Manjistha, or Rubia cordifolia, is valued in Ayurveda for its blood-purifying properties. In the context of Haramekhala-tantra, it serves in formulations aimed at promoting healthy skin and addressing blood-related disorders.
49) Udararoga (Udara-roga):
Udararoga refers to abdominal diseases or disorders in Ayurvedic medicine. Within Haramekhala-tantra, specific recipes and herbal combinations are prescribed to treat this condition effectively, emphasizing the importance of diet and herbal remedies in managing health.
50) Fragrance:
Fragrance plays an essential role in Ayurveda, impacting mental and emotional well-being. In Haramekhala-tantra, aromatic herbs are often utilized to enhance mood and promote mental clarity, linking physical health with sensory experiences.
51) Cakrapani (Cakrapāṇi, Cakrapāṇī, Cakra-pani):
Cakrapani refers to a commentator on Ayurvedic texts, whose works acknowledge traditional knowledge and medicinal practices. His references in Haramekhala-tantra underline the interconnectedness of texts in enriching Ayurvedic wisdom throughout history.
52) Nagabala (Nāgabala, Nāgabalā, Naga-bala):
Nagabala, or Clitoria ternatea, is noted for its rejuvenating properties in Ayurveda. In Haramekhala-tantra, it is frequently incorporated into formulations targeting vitality and overall health, representing its significance in enhancing well-being.
53) Rudraksha (Rudrākṣa, Rudra-aksha):
Rudraksa seeds are sacred in Hinduism and Ayurveda, used for their spiritual and health benefits. In Haramekhala-tantra, they are often included in formulations that address mental clarity and promote holistic treatments.
54) Yavanika (Yavanikā, Yavānikā):
Yavanika refers to a type of pulse used in Ayurveda. It is acknowledged for its nutritional benefits and role in digestive health within the formulations cited in Haramekhala-tantra, supporting overall wellness.
55) Katphala (Kaṭphala, Katphalā, Kaṭphalā):
Katphala, or the fruit of Euphoria longan, is utilized in traditional medicine for its health benefits. In Haramekhala-tantra, it appears in recipes addressing various health complaints, showcasing its role in Ayurvedic pharmacopoeia.
56) Vidanga (Viḍaṅga, Vidamga):
Vidanga, or Embelia ribes, is recognized for its medicinal properties, particularly in digestive health. In Haramekhala-tantra, it is included in formulations aimed at managing gastrointestinal conditions, highlighting its therapeutic importance.
57) Jayanti (Jayantī, Jayamti):
Jayanti, or Krsna, is often referenced in herbal medicine for its beneficial properties. Within Haramekhala-tantra, its inclusion signifies its role in various formulations targeting reproductive health and digestive wellness.
58) Citraka:
Citraka, or Plumbago zeylanica, is noted in Ayurvedic medicine for its digestive-enhancing properties. In Haramekhala-tantra, Citraka is incorporated into recipes that address digestive issues and promote overall health.
59) Trikatu (Trikaṭu, Tri-katu):
Trikatu is a blend of three spices (ginger, black pepper, long pepper) known for its digestive and warming properties. In Haramekhala-tantra, it plays a critical role in formulations targeting digestive health and respiratory issues.
60) Jambira (Jambīra):
Jambira, or Citrus jambhiri, is valued for its flavor and digestive benefits. It is often featured in Haramekhala-tantra formulations for its ability to enhance digestion and overall health through its refreshing properties.
61) Shyonaka (Śyonāka, Śyoṇāka, Syonāka):
Syonaka, or Oroxylum indicum, is recognized in Ayurveda for its health benefits, specifically in managing respiratory disorders. In Haramekhala-tantra, it is included in recipes targeting cough and throat issues.
62) Gokshura (Gokṣura, Go-kshura):
Goksura, or Tribulus terrestris, is valued for its benefits in promoting reproductive health and vitality. Within Haramekhala-tantra, it is included in formulations aimed at addressing fertility and general wellness.
63) Khadira (Khādira):
Khadira, or Acacia catechu, is acknowledged in Ayurveda for its astringent properties. In Haramekhala-tantra, it is frequently used in formulas aimed at managing skin and digestive disorders, underscoring its therapeutic significance.
64) Shephali (Śephāli, Śephālī):
Sephali, or Mimusops elengi, is included in Ayurvedic practices for its nurturing properties in women's health. In Haramekhala-tantra, it is often used to enhance fertility and manage reproductive health issues.
65) Nishcala (Niścalā, Niścala):
Niscala is referenced as a commentator on Ayurvedic texts, contributing to the collective knowledge of ancient medicine. His works, which cite texts like Haramekhala-tantra, highlight the importance of traditional wisdom and its transmission through time.
66) Mantra (Māntra, Mamtra):
Mantras are sacred sounds or phrases in Hindu practices that hold spiritual significance. In Haramekhala-tantra, specific mantras are associated with the practice of medicine, emphasizing the interconnection of spirituality and healing within the tradition of Ayurveda.
67) Kumuda (Kumudā):
Kumuda, or Nelumbo nucifera, is referenced for its calming and soothing properties. In Ayurveda, especially in Haramekhala-tantra, Kumuda is incorporated in formulations that target emotional states and enhance wellness.
68) Kadali (Kadalī):
Kadali, or Musa paradisiaca, is recognized for its nourishing properties and inclusion in Ayurvedic nutrition. In Haramekhala-tantra, it serves as an important source for formulations aimed at promoting overall health and wellness.
69) Tulasi (Tulasī):
Tulasi, or holy basil, is revered in Ayurveda for its adaptogenic and health-promoting properties. In Haramekhala-tantra, it is included in many formulations, emphasizing its role in enhancing immunity and managing stress.
70) Kamala (Kamalā, Kāmalā, Kāmāla, Kama-la):
Kamala, or lotus, is acknowledged for its spiritual and healing properties in Ayurveda. In the context of Haramekhala-tantra, it holds significance in treatments aimed at promoting mental clarity and emotional well-being.
71) Guduci (Guḍuci, Guḍūci, Guḍūcī, Guḍucī):
Guduci, or Tinospora cordifolia, is known for its immune-boosting properties. In Haramekhala-tantra, it plays a critical role in formulations for enhancing vitality and managing infections, showcasing its significance in traditional medicine.
72) Patala (Pāṭalā, Paṭala, Pātāla, Pāṭala, Pātala):
Patala, or Stereospermum suaveolens, is recognized for its medicinal properties in managing various ailments. Within Haramekhala-tantra, it features in recipes aimed at treating respiratory and digestive disorders, reflecting its role in Ayurvedic pharmacopoeia.
73) Pitta (Pītta, Piṭṭā):
Pitta represents one of the three doshas in Ayurveda, associated with fire and metabolism. In Haramekhala-tantra, understanding Pitta's role is crucial in formulating treatments aimed at balancing health and addressing specific disorders.
74) Hingu (Hiṅgu, Hiṅgū, Himgu):
Hingu, or asafoetida, is valued for its digestive benefits and is often used in Ayurvedic recipes to enhance digestion and relieve gas. In Haramekhala-tantra, it plays an essential role in formulations related to gastrointestinal health.
75) Karsha (Karṣa, Kārṣa):
Karsa refers to a measurement unit in Ayurvedic texts, often related to herbal dosages. In Haramekhala-tantra, this measurement lends precision to the preparation of formulations, ensuring effective treatments based on traditional knowledge.
[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 167]