An Ingenious Portrayal of Mythical Traits in Bala Graha
Journal name: Ayushdhara
Original article title: An Ingenious Portrayal of Mythical Traits in Bala Graha
AYUSHDHARA is an international peer-reviewed journal. It focuses on research in Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, Homeopathy, Allopathy, and Pharmaceutical Sciences.
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
The study of Bala grahas involves the exploration of divine, non-human entities capable of imposing diseases on children. These entities, often classified based on their manifestations and gender, are central to the understanding of a section of pediatric healthcare known as Kaumarabhritya. This article aims to provide a novel portrayal of Bala grahas, enhancing comprehension of their traits and the associated medical implications. Despite being a significant subject, much of the literature surrounding these entities remains underexplored, leading to an urgent need for an engaging representation of this topic.
The Nature and Classification of Bala Grahas
Bala grahas are classified into twelve main types, with each exhibiting distinct characteristics and associated clinical presentations. For instance, the Skanda graha, believed to have a unique affinity for the color red, can manifest symptoms in affected children that bear resemblance to conditions like poliomyelitis and infantile hemiplegia. The symptoms include unilateral body weakness, inability to control tears, and severe irritability, which mirror known neurological disorders. This classification allows practitioners to connect cultural beliefs and mythological traits to actual medical conditions, thereby aiding in diagnosis and treatment.
Portrayal of Clinical Manifestations
The authors provide detailed figures and descriptions of the various manifestations associated with each Bala graha. For example, the Naigamesha graha, characterized by a goat-like face, correlates its manifestations with meningitis. It illustrates symptoms such as abdominal bloating, excessive drooling, and fluctuating body temperature. By establishing these connections, the text elucidates the parallel between mythical traits and contemporary medical conditions, suggesting a unique intersection where folklore and medicine meet in diagnosing and treating pediatric ailments.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the exploration of Bala grahas reveals a rich tapestry that intertwines mythology, medicinal practices, and pediatrics. The need for further elucidation and pictorial representation of these entities is emphasized, aiming to enhance understanding and recollection. By marrying ancient beliefs with modern medical knowledge, practitioners can offer more holistic and culturally sensitive healthcare to children, ultimately enriching the field of Kaumarabhritya and promoting better health outcomes. This study advocates for deeper investigations into this underrepresented segment of Ayurvedic medicine, positioning it as a vital area for future research.
Original source:
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Ganga N
Assistant Professor, Department of Kaumarabhritya, Bapuji Ayurvedic Medical College & Hospital, T R Nagar, Challakere, Chithradurga, Karnataka, India.
Mydhili Udayan
Fourth year BAMS student, Bapuji Ayurvedic Medical College & Hospital, T R Nagar, Challakere, Chithradurga, Karnataka, India.
Anusha Baburaj
Assistant Professor, Department of Samhitha Samskrita Siddhanta, Bapuji Ayurvedic Medical College & Hospital, T R Nagar, Challakere, Chithradurga, Karnataka, India.
Abhishek S L
Assistant Professor, Department of Shalya tantra, Bapuji Ayurvedic Medical College & Hospital, T R Nagar, Challakere, Chithradurga, Karnataka, India.
Ayushdhara:
(A peer-reviewed, bi-monthly open-access journal)
Full text available for: An Ingenious Portrayal of Mythical Traits in Bala Graha
Year: 2023 | Doi: 10.47070/ayushdhara.v10i1.1141
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA 4.0
Download the PDF file of the original publication
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What are Bala Grahas and their significance in Ayurveda?
Bala Grahas are mystical entities believed to invade human beings, especially children, causing various diseases. They embody divine, non-human forms capable of influencing health, and their understanding is crucial in Ayurveda for diagnosing and managing pediatric ailments.
How does the article depict different Bala Grahas?
The article classifies Bala Grahas into various categories based on their characteristics, manifestations, and effects on children. Each Graha is associated with specific symptoms and comparable to modern medical conditions, providing a novel pictorial representation of their traits for better understanding.
What is the purpose of illustrating Bala Grahas in the study?
The purpose of illustrating Bala Grahas is to encapsulate the complexity of their attributes, making them easier to understand. This artistic portrayal aims to enhance recall and comprehension among practitioners and students of Ayurveda, bridging traditional knowledge with modern clinical insights.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “An Ingenious Portrayal of Mythical Traits in Bala Graha”. 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) Graha:
The term 'Graha' refers to invisible organisms believed to seize children and cause various illnesses in Ayurvedic texts. These entities are considered divine non-human forms with the capability to invade human beings and manifest in different ways [see source text or glossary: Graha].
2) Bala:
The word 'Bala' is used to indicate children in the context of 'Bala graha,' which concerns the effects of these divine entities on the health of young individuals, particularly in pediatric medicine [see source text or glossary: Bala].
3) Disease:
In this document, diseases are described as manifestations of 'Bala grahas,' causing different symptoms in children that can be likened to modern infectious diseases and other health issues [see source text or glossary: Disease].
4) Lakshana (Laksana):
Lakshana refers to the symptoms and signs associated with the presence of 'Bala grahas' in children. These symptoms vary widely, often resembling modern medical conditions [see source text or glossary: Lakshana].
5) Skanda (Skamda):
'Skanda' is described as the commander of the Graha army, with an affinity for red color. Skanda Graha's symptoms in afflicted children include lacrimation, involuntary movements, weakness, and various neurological signs [see source text or glossary: Skanda].
6) Tuberculosis:
This document compares certain 'Graha' manifestations with diseases like tuberculosis, particularly abdominal tuberculosis, which has specific symptoms similar to those described for various Bala grahas [see source text or glossary: Tuberculosis].
7) Roga:
'Roga' refers to diseases or ailments. The term is used in the context of 'Graha rogas,' meaning diseases caused by the influence of Grahas, particularly focusing on pediatric disorders [see source text or glossary: Roga].
8) Vomiting:
Vomiting is a commonly described symptom in several Bala Grahas such as Antha Pootha and Poothana Graha, often associated with conditions like diarrhoea and gastroenteritis [see source text or glossary: Vomiting].
9) Gandha (Gamdha):
Gandha means smell or odor. Each Graha is said to produce a distinctive smell, which can be an important clue for diagnosing the condition in children [see source text or glossary: Gandha].
10) India:
The research and discussions about Bala Graha and its manifestations are deeply rooted in Ayurvedic traditions of India. Several conditions and treatments described pertain to the Indian context [see source text or glossary: India].
11) Bird:
Grahas such as Shakuni, which cause symptoms resembling those from certain bacterial infections, have bird-like features. In some instances, dreaming of a bird can indicate affliction by specific Grahas [see source text or glossary: Bird].
12) Kaumarabhritya (Kaumarabhrtya, Kaumara-bhritya):
Kaumarabhritya is a branch of Ayurveda dealing with pediatric medicine. Bala Graha falls under this category, focusing on diseases affecting children and their mythological origins [see source text or glossary: Kaumarabhritya].
13) Science (Scientific):
The article attempts a scientific approach to understanding Bala Graha, comparing ancient descriptions with modern infectious diseases and utilizing scientific methods for analysis [see source text or glossary: Scientific].
14) Karnataka:
Karnataka is significant as the location of Bapuji Ayurvedic Medical College & Hospital, where some authors of the study are affiliated, adding a regional context to the research [see source text or glossary: Karnataka].
15) Atisara:
Atisara, or diarrhea, is one of the notable symptoms in several Bala Grahas such as Naigamesha and Poothana, often resulting in severe dehydration and other gastrointestinal issues [see source text or glossary: Atisara].
16) Shushka (Suska):
Shushka indicates dryness or emaciation. In the context of Bala Grahas, Shushka Revati presents with symptoms like chronic emaciation and hair fall, similar to severe malnutrition [see source text or glossary: Shushka].
17) Hidhma:
Hidhma, which means hiccough, is mentioned as a symptom in Grahas like Poothana and Sheetha Poothana, reflecting respiratory or digestive disturbances in afflicted children [see source text or glossary: Hidhma].
18) Thirst:
Thirst, or excessive need to drink, is a symptom seen in several Bala Grahas like Poothana Graha, often linked with dehydration and gastrointestinal disorders [see source text or glossary: Thirst].
19) Ganga (Gamga, Ganga°):
Ganga N is one of the authors of the study, contributing to the research on Bala Graha and its various mythological and medical implications [see source text or glossary: Ganga].
20) Akshi (Aksi):
Akshi refers to the eyes. Symptoms like redness, swelling, and visual disturbances in the eyes are seen in Grahas like Skanda and Andhapoothana [see source text or glossary: Akshi].
21) Fever:
Fever is a common symptom in many Bala Grahas, indicating infection and inflammation, often seen in conditions like Skandapasmara and Naigamesha [see source text or glossary: Fever].
22) Death:
Death can result from severe afflictions of Bala Grahas if left untreated, indicating the grave importance of recognizing and managing these conditions effectively [see source text or glossary: Death].
23) Blood:
Blood, or Raktha, is referenced in descriptions of symptoms such as red discoloration or foul smells linked with Grahas like Skanda, which can indicate infection or hematological issues [see source text or glossary: Blood].
24) Anta (Amta):
Antha refers to the Graha 'Antha Pootha,' which has symptoms like vomiting, fever, and chronic diarrhea, often paralleled with modern infectious diseases such as chronic diarrhoea and vitamin deficiencies [see source text or glossary: Antha].
25) Kasa (Kasha):
Kasa means cough. It is a symptom mentioned in multiple Grahas including Pithru Graha and Revati Graha, indicating respiratory involvement in these conditions [see source text or glossary: Kasa].
26) Hair:
Hair, or Kesha, features in the context of symptoms such as hair fall seen in Grahas like Shushka Revati, which often indicates malnutrition or systemic illness [see source text or glossary: Hair].
27) Pain:
Pain appears as a symptom in various Bala Grahas, reflecting the discomfort caused by these conditions, such as in Shakuni Graha with symptoms like burning sensation or pain in joints [see source text or glossary: Pain].
28) Damsha (Damsa):
Damsha, meaning biting, is a symptom in some Grahas. For example, Skandapasmara shows symptoms like biting hair, and Shwa Graha includes biting one's own tongue [see source text or glossary: Damsha].
29) Nature:
The nature of Bala Grahas pertains to their mythological origins and sophisticated symptoms, often compared to infectious diseases, as discussed in the document [see source text or glossary: Nature].
30) Anga (Amga):
Anga refers to body parts. Bala Grahas like Skanda show symptoms involving various body parts, such as stiffness or weakness, affecting the child's overall health [see source text or glossary: Anga].
31) Vaivarṇya (Vaivarnya, Vaivanrya):
Vaivarnya, or discoloration, is a symptom of various Grahas such as Antha Poothana and Sheetha Poothana, indicating changes in skin or stool color likely due to underlying health issues [see source text or glossary: Vaivarnya].
32) Prajagara:
Prajagara, meaning being awake at night, is a symptom in Grahas like Skandapasmara. This can indicate neurological disturbances or chronic irritation in children [see source text or glossary: Prajagara].
33) Stiffness:
Stiffness, or Sthambha, is a symptom found in multiple Bala Grahas including Naigamesha, indicating muscle rigidity or joint issues often seen in neuro-muscular conditions [see source text or glossary: Stiffness].
34) Vikshepa (Viksepa):
Vikshepa, meaning clonic movements, is associated with Grahas like Pithru Graha, showing signs of neurological disturbance, possibly resembling seizure activity in the child [see source text or glossary: Vikshepa].
35) Swelling:
Swelling, or Shopha, is observed in conditions like Revati Graha, often indicating inflammation or tissue edema associated with the affliction of certain Bala Grahas [see source text or glossary: Swelling].
36) Sweating (Sweat):
Sweating, or Sweda, is a symptom noted in various Grahas such as Skanda and Shwa Graha, reflecting autonomic disturbances and possibly underlying febrile conditions [see source text or glossary: Sweating].
37) Adhmana:
Adhmana, meaning abdominal bloating, is a symptom in Grahas like Naigamesha and Poothana, often indicating gastrointestinal distress or infection in affected children [see source text or glossary: Adhmana].
38) Shakrit (Sakrt, Sakrn, Shakrin, Sakrit):
Shakrit, meaning stool, is critical in this context, as many Grahas exhibit symptoms related to bowel movements and gastrointestinal disorders, such as diarrhea in Poothana Graha [see source text or glossary: Shakrit].
39) Tantra (Tamtra, Tantrism):
Tantra, meaning drowsiness, is a symptom seen in Poothana Graha, often indicating severe systemic illness or infection which can result in fatigue and lethargy [see source text or glossary: Tantra].
40) Mushti (Musti):
Mushti, or making a fist, is a symptom in Grahas like Skanda and Naigamesha, often reflecting rigidity or spasms in the hands as part of the broader neurological involvement [see source text or glossary: Mushti].
41) Shopha (Sopha):
Shopha, as used earlier, indicates swelling, a symptom evident in disorders like Revati Graha, which might manifest due to inflammation or fluid accumulation [see source text or glossary: Shopha].
42) Sthana:
Sthana typically refers to place or location but in this context, it refers to aversion to breastfeeding in children afflicted by Grahas like Skanda, indicating feeding difficulties [see source text or glossary: Sthana].
43) Dainya:
Dainya, meaning weakness, appears in the context of symptoms for multiple Grahas. Weakness of voice or body parts is seen in afflictions such as Shushka Revati [see source text or glossary: Dainya].
44) Family:
Family context is relevant in this document as certain disorders are noted to affect families or be hereditary, as seen in conditions like Indian childhood cirrhosis [see source text or glossary: Family].
45) Indian:
The context of 'Indian' is significant in this text as the study derives from Ayurvedic practices in India, examining traditional concepts of health and disease [see source text or glossary: Indian].
46) Mutra:
Mutra, meaning urine, is referenced in symptoms like urinary retention in Poothana Graha, indicating disturbances in the urinary system due to the affliction [see source text or glossary: Mutra].
47) Vakra:
Vakra, meaning curved, is used to describe symptoms like the deviated mouth in Skanda Graha, indicating neurological or muscular afflictions resulting in abnormal postures [see source text or glossary: Vakra].
48) Kampa:
Kampa, meaning tremors, manifests in Grahas like Shwa Graha and Poothana Graha, indicating nervous system involvement with symptoms resembling conditions like rabies or other neurological disorders [see source text or glossary: Kampa].
49) Kesa (Kesha):
References to Kesha or hair include symptoms like hair fall seen in Shushka Revati Graha, often indicative of malnutrition or systemic illness in affected children [see source text or glossary: Kesha].
50) Food:
Food is integral to the context of Bala Grahas. Symptoms like aversion to food (Anna vidhwesha) indicate broader health issues such as malnutrition or gastrointestinal disturbances [see source text or glossary: Food].
51) Pani (Panin):
Pani, meaning hand, is part of symptoms described in various Grahas such as Naigamesha, where observed movements or issues could reflect broader neurological or systemic conditions [see source text or glossary: Pani].
52) Burning sensation:
Burning sensation, or Daha, is a symptom seen in Grahas like Shakuni, indicating infections or inflammations which might cause such discomfort [see source text or glossary: Burning sensation].
53) Human body:
The human body is central to the study of Bala Grahas, as these divine entities are said to invade and manifest through various symptoms affecting different body systems [see source text or glossary: Human body].
54) Shalyatantra (Salyatantra, Shalya-tantra, Shalyatamtra):
Shalya-tantra, meaning surgical practice, is one of the departments in which the authors of the study work, linking modern surgical techniques with ancient Ayurvedic procedures [see source text or glossary: Shalya-tantra].
55) Shakrimutra (Shakrit-mutra, Shakrinmutra, Sakrmutra):
Shakrit-mutra, meaning stool and urine, refers to the symptoms related to excretory functions which are central to diagnosing Graha-related diseases affecting these systems [see source text or glossary: Shakrit-mutra].
56) Malnutrition:
Malnutrition is related to several symptoms described under Bala Grahas, especially Shushka Revati Graha, which results in emaciation and other signs of severe nutritional deficiencies [see source text or glossary: Malnutrition].
57) Romaharsha (Romaharsa, Roman-harsha):
Roma-harsha means horripulation (goosebumps) and is a symptom seen in Grahas like Pithru Graha, indicating an autonomic or nervous system response to affliction [see source text or glossary: Roma-harsha].
58) Nanavarna (Nana-varna):
Nana-varna, meaning various colors, references to symptoms such as passing stools of different colors in Shushka Revati Graha, which indicates potential gastrointestinal disturbances [see source text or glossary: Nana-varna].
59) Papakarman (Papakarma, Papa-karma):
Papa-karma implies sins or demerits. It is referenced in discussing the reasons for Bala Graha afflictions, attributing some health issues to past wrongful actions [see source text or glossary: Papa-karma].
60) Green gram:
Green gram is mentioned under Sheetha Poothana Graha, where consumption of food such as green gram is linked with specific afflictions and symptoms in children [see source text or glossary: Green gram].
61) Discussion:
Discussion in this document critically reviews the mythological and medical aspects of Bala Grahas, comparing ancient interpretations to modern infectious diseases [see source text or glossary: Discussion].
62) Worshipping (Worshiping):
Worshiping relates to symptoms and signs of Graha afflictions where dreams of worshiping deities or sacred entities indicate potential health issues in the child [see source text or glossary: Worshiping].
63) Salivation:
Salivation, or excessive drooling, is a common symptom found in multiple Grahas like Naigamesha and Skandapasmara, often linked with neurological disorders [see source text or glossary: Salivation].
64) Drowsiness:
Drowsiness, or Tantra, is seen under symptoms of Poothana Graha, indicating severe systemic illness leading to fatigue and reduced alertness in afflicted children [see source text or glossary: Drowsiness].
65) Siddhanta (Siddha-anta, Siddhamta):
Siddhanta, meaning principles, refers to fundamental doctrines in Ayurveda, such as those explored by the Department of Samhitha Samskrita Siddhanta, one of the areas of expertise of the authors [see source text or glossary: Siddhanta].
66) Samrambha:
Samrambha, meaning restlessness, is described under Grahas like Skandapasmara, indicating discomfort or neurological agitation in the affected child [see source text or glossary: Samrambha].
67) Samskrita (Samskrta):
Samskrita, or Sanskrit, refers to the classical language in which Ayurvedic texts and doctrines like those described by the Department of Samhitha Samskrita Siddhanta are written [see source text or glossary: Samskrita].
68) Fragrance:
Fragrance appears in the context of Bala Grahas, which have distinct smells associated with their afflictions, aiding in the diagnosis of conditions like Skanda [see source text or glossary: Fragrance].
69) Akshiruj (Akshi-ruj, Aksiruj):
Akshi-ruk, or eye pain, is described in conditions like Andhapoothana Graha, indicating ocular symptoms possibly tied to infectious or systemic ailments [see source text or glossary: Akshi-ruk].
70) Vishakha (Visakha):
Vishakha is mentioned as a friend of Skanda who has distorted facial features and is linked to symptoms resembling epilepsy, known in this context as Skandapasmara Graha [see source text or glossary: Vishakha].
71) Haratala:
Haratala, meaning yellow or adorned with yellow apparels, is associated with dream indications of Mukhamandika Graha, which affect children’s health [see source text or glossary: Haratala].
72) Epilepsy:
Epilepsy is related to conditions described under Grahas like Skandapasmara, where symptoms such as seizures and convulsive disorders are noted and compared with modern epileptic conditions [see source text or glossary: Epilepsy].
73) Purusha (Purusa):
Purusha refers to male Grahas as classified under Bala Grahas, indicating gender-based categorization. Examples include Skanda and Naigamesha [see source text or glossary: Purusha].
74) Vamathu:
Vamathu, or vomiting, is a symptom described in several Bala Grahas like Poothana, reflecting serious gastrointestinal or infectious conditions affecting children [see source text or glossary: Vamathu].
75) Trishna (Trsna):
Trishna, meaning thirst, is a symptom seen in multiple Bala Grahas such as Sheetha Poothana, indicating issues like dehydration and gastrointestinal distress [see source text or glossary: Trishna].
[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 155]