Shalakya tantra in chakradatta a literary review
Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: Shalakya tantra in chakradatta a literary review
The WJPR includes peer-reviewed publications such as scientific research papers, reports, review articles, company news, thesis reports and case studies in areas of Biology, Pharmaceutical industries and Chemical technology while incorporating ancient fields of knowledge such combining Ayurveda with scientific data.
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A. K. Pandey
World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research:
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Full text available for: Shalakya tantra in chakradatta a literary review
Source type: An International Peer Reviewed Journal for Pharmaceutical and Medical and Scientific Research
Doi: 10.20959/wjpr20179-9245
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
Shalakya Tantra, a significant branch of Ayurveda, focuses on diseases affecting body parts above the clavicle, such as the ears, eyes, mouth, nose, and head. Despite its importance, there is a lack of comprehensive texts detailing treatments specific to Shalakya Tantra in Ayurvedic literature. The treatise "Chakradatta," authored by Acharya Chakrapani Datta in the 11th century, serves as a crucial reference for practitioners seeking knowledge and treatments related to this field. The text comprises 79 chapters that systematically address various diseases, clinical syndromes, and therapeutic procedures, making it an essential toolkit for Ayurvedic therapy in this domain.
The Role of Chakradatta in Ayurvedic Treatment
Chakradatta stands as a landmark publication in the Ayurvedic tradition, recognized for its focus on treatment strategies rather than the etiology of diseases. The text is structured according to the order of Madhava Nidana, which emphasizes its role as a treatment guide rather than a comprehensive analysis of disease causes. The author, Acharya Chakrapani Datta, was part of a notable lineage and communicated the wisdom of his esteemed predecessors in Ayurveda through Chakradatta. This treatise not only outlines therapeutic methods but also provides practical formulations that can be used by practitioners to address a diverse range of ailments, from common conditions to complex diseases.
Comprehensive Treatment Methodologies
One of the vital aspects of Chakradatta is its extensive discussion on different treatment methodologies. The treatise outlines specific therapeutic regimens for various conditions, including hoarseness of voice (Swarabheda), disorders of the lips and teeth (Oshtharogas), and a multitude of conditions related to the ears (Karna) and eyes (Netra). Each chapter presents medicinal formulations, dietary guidelines (Pathya), and specific procedural details for treatments such as Nasya (errhine therapy), Kaval (gargling), and Dhoompana (medicinal fumar). These recommendations not only reflect the rich tradition of Ayurvedic medicine but also provide a pragmatic approach to managing and treating physical ailment symptoms.
Emphasis on Local Applications and Formulations
Chakradatta emphasizes various local applications and formulations tailored for specific issues within Shalakya Tantra. For example, treatments for throat disorders include a variety of herbal formulations and local applications aimed at alleviating the symptoms of conditions like tonsillitis and uvulitis. Distinct powders, concoctions, and oils, such as Shatavaryadi taila for ear diseases and various kwathas for nasal problems, are detailed in the text. By organizing the treatments thematically and providing specific formulations, Chakradatta ensures that practitioners have a clear roadmap to follow in their therapeutic practices.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Chakradatta serves as a critical resource in Ayurvedic literature, particularly in the specialization of Shalakya Tantra. The systematic arrangement of treatment protocols and formulations highlighted in the text offers a practical guide for practitioners addressing ear, nose, throat, and eye conditions. The treatise reflects the cohesiveness of Ayurvedic principles and their application in clinical settings. As a result, Chakradatta remains a cornerstone for understanding and practicing Ayurvedic treatments for disorders above the clavicle, contributing to the preservation and advancement of traditional Indian medicine.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is Shalakya Tantra in Ayurveda?
Shalakya Tantra is a branch of Ayurveda that addresses diseases affecting areas above the clavicle, including the ear, eye, mouth, nose, and head, as stated by Acharya Sushrita.
Who authored Chakradatta and when was it published?
Chakradatta was authored by Acharya Chakrapani Datta in the 11th century. It is a significant Ayurvedic treatise focusing on management and treatment related to various diseases.
How many chapters and verses does Chakradatta contain?
Chakradatta consists of 79 chapters and a total of 4,800 verses, covering various diseases, clinical syndromes, and therapeutic procedures.
What are the key topics discussed in Chakradatta?
Chakradatta primarily discusses treatment methods for conditions related to Shalakya Tantra, including types of hoarseness of voice, lip disorders, dental problems, and various ear, nasal, ocular, and head diseases.
How does Chakradatta differ from Madhava Nidana?
Chakradatta focuses solely on treatment, whereas Madhava Nidana addresses both etiology and pathogenesis of diseases. Chakradatta is to be used for treatment purposes only.
What types of therapies and formulations are described in Chakradatta?
Chakradatta describes various therapies such as Kavaladharana, Nasya, and local applications, along with numerous medicinal formulations for treating specific conditions like hoarseness, dental issues, and nasal disorders.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Shalakya tantra in chakradatta 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) Taila (Thaila):
In Ayurvedic medicine, 'Taila' refers to oil, which is often used in various therapeutic contexts. Oils are utilized for their medicinal properties, promoting nourishment, and facilitating the absorption of herbs through the skin. They can also serve foundational roles in both external applications and internal medicinal formulations.
2) Karma (Karman):
The term 'Karma' in Ayurveda denotes actions or therapeutic procedures. This encompasses both internal and external practices aimed to treat health conditions or balance doshas (body energies). Karma can refer to a wide range of therapeutic interventions, including detoxification procedures, dietary adjustments, and spiritual practices.
3) Roga:
'Roga' translates to disease or ailment in Ayurveda. It encompasses the various health disorders that can affect the body and mind. Understanding roga involves analyzing symptoms, underlying causes, and treatment methods crucial for diagnosing and managing health issues effectively within the Ayurvedic framework.
4) Varti (Vartin):
'Varti' refers to a specific type of medicated suppository or a therapeutic cone used in Ayurvedic treatments. This form is mostly applied in conditions affecting the rectal or vaginal area, delivering potent herbs directly to the affected site. Vartis are pivotal for localized treatment.
5) Ghrita (Ghrta):
'Ghrita' is clarified butter (ghee) in Ayurvedic terminology, revered for its nourishing and medicinal qualities. It serves as a carrier for herbal compounds, enhancing their absorption and bioavailability. Ghrita is widely used in preparations aimed at rejuvenation and promoting overall health.
6) Yoga:
'Yoga' in Ayurveda denotes formulations or therapeutic recipes that combine various ingredients to heal or improve specific conditions. These are often herbal blends tailored to balance the doshas or address particular health issues, demonstrating the holistic approach of Ayurveda in treatment.
7) Nasya (Nashya):
'Nasya' is a panchakarma therapy that involves administering medicinal substances through the nasal passages for therapeutic purposes. This method is known to clear the head, offering relief from sinus issues, migraines, and promoting overall respiratory health. It's a vital practice in treating head and neck conditions.
8) Lepa:
'Lepa' refers to the application of medicinal pastes or ointments locally on the skin. These topical treatments are often used to soothe, heal wounds, or alleviate localized pain and inflammation. Lepa therapies are essential in Ayurveda for addressing a variety of dermatological issues.
9) Netra:
The term 'Netra' signifies the eye in Ayurvedic literature. A vital aspect of health, netra disorders are treated with specific herbs and therapies aimed at maintaining vision and treating various ocular ailments. Understanding netra health is fundamental for holistic eye care in Ayurveda.
10) Anjana (Amjana):
'Anjana' refers to an eye ointment or application in Ayurvedic practice, commonly used for treating ocular conditions. This includes preventing infections and enhancing visual acuity. Anjana embodies the use of medicinal herbs in a suitable base for effective delivery to the eye.
11) Gutika:
'Gutika' denotes a form of Ayurvedic pill or tablet that contains concentrated herbal formulations. These are designed for internal consumption to aid in treating specific ailments, aligning with the holistic principles of Ayurveda by using natural ingredients for therapeutic benefits.
12) Shiroroga (Siroroga, Shiras-roga):
'Shiroroga' pertains to disorders affecting the head, including headaches, migraines, and other cranial conditions. This category addresses symptoms that arise in the head region, emphasizing comprehensive approaches for diagnosis and treatment in Ayurvedic practice.
13) Pittaja (Pitta-ja):
Pittaja denotes conditions or diseases that arise from the imbalance of the Pitta dosha, which governs metabolism and transformation in the body. Treatment focuses on cooling and pacifying therapies, including specific diets and herbal formulations to restore balance.
14) Disease:
'Disease' refers to any abnormal condition affecting the body or mind. In Ayurveda, understanding disease involves analyzing symptoms, dosha imbalances, and environmental factors, emphasizing a holistic approach to treatment and health restoration.
15) Kavala:
'Kavala' refers to a type of mouthwash or gargle in Ayurveda, often used for oral health. This practice involves swishing or rinsing with medicated liquids, assisting in maintaining oral hygiene, soothing inflamed gums, and treating specific oral diseases.
16) Vataja (Vata-ja):
'Vataja' describes conditions that arise from an imbalance in the Vata dosha, which is associated with air and space elements. Such disorders often manifest with symptoms like dryness, pain, or erratic behavior, treated through herbal remedies and lifestyle changes that ground and stabilize.
17) Pratishyaya (Pratisyaya):
'Pratishyaya' refers to rhinitis or nasal congestion, an imbalance in the Vata, Pitta, and Kapha doshas affecting respiratory health. Treatments aim to alleviate symptoms like sneezing and nasal blockage through various herbal remedies and therapies that restore nasal health.
18) Kaphaja:
'Kaphaja' indicates diseases that stem from an imbalance of the Kapha dosha, characterized by heavy, moist qualities. Such conditions often involve congestion, lethargy, or excessive mucus production, requiring treatments that eliminate excess kapha and restore equilibrium through dietary and lifestyle adjustments.
19) Triphala (Tri-phala):
'Triphala' is a renowned herbal concoction in Ayurveda composed of three fruits—Amla, Haritaki, and Bibhitaki. Known for its detoxifying and rejuvenating properties, it aids digestion, supports gastrointestinal health, and balances all three doshas, making it a staple in Ayurvedic treatment.
20) Timira:
'Timira' pertains to visual impairments or blindness in Ayurvedic terminology. This term embodies various eye conditions that may affect vision. Treatments focus on restoring eye health through specialized herbal therapies and dietary recommendations tailored to the individual’s constitution.
21) Danta (Damta):
'Danta' refers to teeth in Ayurveda. The health of danta is crucial, and Ayurvedic texts provide extensive guidance for treating dental issues, focusing on preventive care, herbal formulations, and specific practices to maintain oral hygiene and health.
22) Shalakyatantra (Salakyatantra, Shalakya-tantra, Shalakyatamtra):
'Shalakya-tantra' is a specialized branch of Ayurveda focusing on healing ailments related to the head, neck, and upper torso. It emphasizes diagnosing and treating disorders through comprehensive methods, including surgical interventions and herbal remedies for holistic care.
23) Saindhavadi:
'Saindhavadi' denotes a type of preparation that includes rock salt (Saindhava). Frequent in Ayurvedic formulations, it is believed to aid digestion and improve bioavailability of medicinal herbs, enhancing therapeutic efficacy through its balance of taste and properties.
24) Tantra (Tamtra, Tantrism):
'Tantra' refers to systematic practices or knowledge in Ayurveda concerning specific methodologies and techniques for health care. It embodies both the rituals and clinical practices designed to treat health conditions, ensuring a comprehensive approach to patient care.
25) Gandusa (Gandusha, Gamdusa, Gamdusha):
'Gandusha' is the practice of holding medicated oil or liquid in the mouth without swallowing. It serves therapeutic purposes, including nourishing oral tissues, preventing infections, and promoting oral hygiene through the absorption of beneficial herbal constituents.
26) Kshara (Ksara):
'Kshara' encompasses alkaline substances used therapeutically in Ayurveda, including in treatments for chronic ailments like tumors and growths. It operates by its corrosive action to remove unwanted tissues while supporting healing through its therapeutic properties.
27) Madhavanidana (Madhava-nidana):
'Madhava-nidana' is a classical Ayurvedic text focused on the diagnosis of diseases. It serves as a reference for understanding the etiology of ailments, allowing practitioners to accurately diagnose conditions based on symptoms and bodily constitution.
28) Ksharataila (Ksarataila, Kshara-taila):
'Kshara-taila' denotes a type of alkaline oil used therapeutically, particularly for external applications or in specific treatments. Its properties aid in detoxifying and promoting healthy tissue regeneration, crucial for addressing various skin and growth conditions.
29) Netraroga (Netra-roga):
'Netraroga' refers to eye diseases, underscoring the focus in Ayurveda on maintaining ocular health through preventive measures and therapeutic interventions tailored to individual needs.
30) Pippalyadi (Pippali-adi):
'Pippalyadi' refers to a category of herbal formulations including pippali (long pepper) for therapeutic purposes. These formulations are often aimed at balancing doshas, enhancing digestion, and improving respiratory health, demonstrating pippali's significance in Ayurvedic medicine.
31) Madhava:
'Madhava' is recognized as an influential figure in Ayurveda, often associated with the text Madhava Nidana. His contributions helped shape the understanding of disease diagnosis and treatment methodologies, impacting the evolution of Ayurvedic practices.
32) Raktaja:
'Raktaja' indicates diseases caused by an imbalance in the Rakta dosha, associated with blood. Treatment focuses on purifying blood and addressing conditions manifesting symptoms such as inflammation, excessive heat, or skin disorders through herbal remedies and lifestyle changes.
33) Nidana:
'Nidana' translates to the name for the process of diagnosis or understanding causes of diseases in Ayurvedic medicine. It offers a framework for identifying doshic imbalances, symptom patterns, and underlying conditions guiding treatment approaches.
34) Suryavarta (Surya-avarta):
'Suryavarta' refers to a specific headache condition linked to imbalances in the Vata dosha. Symptoms often include pulsating pain in the head. Treatments address these symptoms through herbal formulations aimed at pacifying the Vata and alleviating associated discomfort.
35) Shunthyadi (Sunthyadi):
'Shunthyadi' denotes herbal formulations containing ginger (Shunthi) and is often aimed at addressing digestive disorders and respiratory issues. These formulations highlight the importance of ginger in Ayurveda for its warming and stimulating properties.
36) Putapaka (Puta-paka):
'Putapaka' refers to a cooking method used in Ayurveda during the preparation of herbal medicines. This technique enhances the therapeutic properties of herbs, ensuring complete absorption and efficacy for various health conditions.
37) Granthi (Gramthi):
'Granthi' describes lumps or nodules formed in the body, often considered benign tumors in Ayurveda. Treatment approaches typically involve the use of specific herbal formulations aimed at addressing the nature and symptoms of the growth.
38) Kashaya (Kasaya):
'Kashaya' signifies herbal decoctions in Ayurveda, created by boiling herbs in water to extract their beneficial properties. These preparations are fundamental in Ayurvedic therapy, used for internal healing and detoxification of the body.
39) Shukra (Sukra):
'Shukra' denotes reproductive fluid or sperm in Ayurveda, essential for reproductive health and vitality. Its balance is crucial for fertility, with emphasis on nourishing practices and herbal formulations aimed at optimizing reproductive function.
40) Arbuda:
'Arbuda' refers to tumors in Ayurvedic terminology, traditionally categorized based on their characteristics. Treatment focuses on herbal remedies and techniques that reduce tumor size and enhance overall tissue health.
41) Candraprabha (Candra-prabha):
'Chandraprabha' is an Ayurvedic formulation often used for detoxification and promoting metabolism. Its ingredients are renowned for enhancing bodily functions, promoting longevity, and treating various ailments associated with dosha imbalances.
42) Triphaladi (Triphala-adi):
'Triphaladi' refers to formulations containing Triphala and additional herbs aimed at digestive and detoxifying benefits. It embodies the holistic approach of combining various herbal properties for comprehensive health benefits in Ayurvedic practice.
43) Rasakriya (Rasa-kriya):
'Rasakriya' refers to the therapeutic processing of herbs and ingredients to produce potent medicinal preparations. This intricate process is essential for creating remedies that effectively address specific health issues and enhance overall well-being.
44) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
'Ayurveda' is the ancient science of life originating in India, emphasizing holistic health, balance of body energies (doshas), and natural remedies. It promotes wellness through personalized treatments, dietary recommendations, and lifestyle adjustments tailored to each individual's constitution.
45) Apamarga:
'Apamarga' refers to the plant Achyranthes aspera, known for its medicinal properties in Ayurveda. Its use encompasses various health benefits, including tackling respiratory conditions, digestive issues, and promoting overall wellness through formulations tailored to specific ailments.
46) Samgraha (Sangraha):
'Sangraha' signifies a compilation or collection in the context of Ayurvedic texts, serving as a reference guide for practitioners. This encapsulates knowledge and practices, providing structured information about diagnosis and treatment methodologies.
47) Tarpana:
'Tarpana' refers to a therapeutic process in Ayurveda involving nourishment of organs, particularly the eyes. It emphasizes hydration and revitalization using specialized herbal preparations to restore health and treat specific disorders.
48) Pathadi:
'Pathadi' refers to a specific herbal formulation aimed at addressing respiratory issues, often consisting of various herbs. These formulations leverage the therapeutic properties of the included ingredients to alleviate symptoms related to respiratory illnesses.
49) Dipika:
'Dipika' in Ayurvedic context typically refers to commentaries on classical texts that provide deeper insights into healing practices. It serves as a guide for practitioners, expanding knowledge and understanding of treatments and concepts within Ayurveda.
50) Dosha (Dosa):
'Dosha' signifies the three fundamental energies (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha) that govern physiological and psychological processes in the body. Understanding doshas is crucial in Ayurveda for diagnosing imbalances and personalizing treatment strategies to restore harmony.
51) Drava:
'Drava' means liquid in Ayurveda, often referring to medicinal fluids used in treatments. Such formulations usually include herbal decoctions, oils, or juices that facilitate therapeutic actions in the body for various health conditions.
52) Vrana:
'Vrana' denotes a wound or ulcer in Ayurveda, emphasizing the importance of healing both physical and energetic aspects of wounds. Treatment strategies encompass herbal applications, lifestyle adjustments, and possibly surgical interventions to promote proper healing.
53) Kaca:
'Kacha' refers to the immature or unripe form of something in Ayurvedic terminology, often applied to fruits or substances that have not yet realized their full therapeutic potential. Its usage emphasizes the need for maturity in formulations for optimal effects.
54) Agni:
'Agni' translates to fire and represents metabolic processes in Ayurveda. Understanding agni is crucial for digestion, transformation, and overall health, as balanced agni supports nourishment, vitality, and disease prevention.
55) Rasa (Rasha):
'Rasa' refers to taste or flavor in Ayurveda, which is linked to the therapeutic and physiological properties of substances. Each rasa (there are six primary tastes) affects dosha balance and influences health outcomes in dietary choices and herbal mediations.
56) Kala:
'Kala' signifies time in Ayurvedic philosophy, particularly in the context of treatment and dosha balance. Appropriate timing in therapies is crucial for maximal effectiveness, underscoring Ayurveda’s holistic approach in correlation with nature's cycles.
57) Drug:
'Drug' refers generally to any substance used for medicinal purposes. In Ayurveda, this term applies to herbal formulations, mineral compounds, and other natural remedies employed to prevent, diagnose, or treat health conditions.
58) Abhishyanda (Abhisyanda):
'Abhishyanda' denotes conditions in Ayurveda linked to congestion or excessive moisture, particularly in the ocular sphere. Treatments focus on restoring balance through drying and clarifying therapies that alleviate symptoms associated with these conditions.
59) Measurement:
'Measurement' pertains to evaluating dosha imbalances, symptoms, or treatment dosages in Ayurveda. Accurate measurement ensures effective treatment plans, emphasizing the importance of precision in preparing formulations and administering therapies.
60) Karnashrava (Karnasrava, Karna-shrava):
'Karnasrava' refers to ear discharge or otorrhea, a condition necessitating specific Ayurvedic treatments. Remedies aim to address underlying causes, alleviate symptoms, and promote ear health through specialized herbal formulations and therapies.
61) Krimikarna (Krmikarna, Krimi-karna):
'Krimikarna' indicates the presence of parasites or infestations in the ear. Treatment focuses on detoxifying the affected area and eradicating pests through specific herbal formulations, highlighting the comprehensive nature of Ayurvedic care.
62) Naktandhya:
'Naktandhya' refers to night blindness or difficulties seeing at night. Treatments focus on nourishing eye health through specific dietary recommendations and herbal preparations aimed at rejuvenating visual function under low light conditions.
63) Agnikarma (Agni-karma):
'Agni-karma' is a therapeutic process involving heat application for treating various conditions. In Ayurveda, it includes cauterization techniques aimed at removing unwanted tissues or promoting healing through controlled thermal actions.
64) Adhimamsa:
'Adhimamsa' refers specifically to an impacted wisdom tooth, which can cause significant discomfort. In Ayurveda, the treatment entails holistic approaches targeting pain relief and dental health, placing importance on preventing issues through herbal remedies.
65) Putikarna (Puti-karna):
'Putikarna' signifies a chronic condition in the ear characterized by foul discharge. Corresponding treatments are tailored to cleanse the ear and restore balance through herbal formulations designed to address the underlying causes.
66) Khadiradi:
'Khadiradi' refers to formulations containing khadira (Acacia catechu) and is employed for its antiseptic properties in treating various skin and ear conditions. It represents the application of specific herbs to promote health and healing.
67) Haritaki:
'Haritaki' is a foundational herb in Ayurveda, known for its detoxifying and digestive properties. This superfood is often included in various formulations aimed at rejuvenation and promoting overall health through its balancing effects.
68) Varunadi (Varuna-adi):
'Varunadi' refers to herbal mixtures containing Varuna (Crataeva nurvala) known for its urinary system benefits. These formulations aim to support kidney health and balance fluid metabolism, illustrating Ayurveda's integrative approach to body systems.
69) Vyoshadi (Vyosadi):
'Vyoshadi' pertains to a category of formulations used to address respiratory issues, often consisting of a blend of potent herbs aimed at treating cough, congestion, and related symptoms through comprehensive therapeutic action.
70) Samhita:
'Samhita' refers to a collection of treatises or texts that consolidate Ayurvedic knowledge. These foundational writings outline principles, therapies, and practices essential for practitioners, forming the basis of Ayurvedic education and application.
71) Shastra (Sastra):
'Shastra' denotes scriptures or treatises that outline rules, methodologies, or laws in Ayurveda. It encompasses structured knowledge intended to guide practitioners in diagnostics, treatments, and holistic health practices.
72) Vartika:
'Vartika' refers to commentaries or explanatory texts that provide additional insights into classical Ayurvedic texts. Such writings enhance understanding and interpretation of treatment methodologies and principles within Ayurveda.
73) Dharana:
'Dharana' signifies concentration or focus in Ayurvedic and yoga practices. It emphasizes the importance of mental clarity and meditation for holistic health, enhancing the efficacy of physical and therapeutic practices.
74) Salaka (Shalaka):
'Shalaka' denotes probes or instruments used in various Ayurvedic treatments. These tools are employed to diagnose and treat specific conditions, emphasizing precision and care in therapeutic applications.
75) Upanaha:
'Upanaha' refers to a therapeutic poultice applied locally to treat pain or swelling. The heat of the poultice helps improve blood circulation and facilitates the absorption of medicinal herbs, producing relief from localized conditions.
[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 299]