Shalakya tantra in sushruta samhita- a literary review
Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: Shalakya tantra in sushruta samhita- 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 and S.K. Tripathi
World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research:
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Full text available for: Shalakya tantra in sushruta samhita- a literary review
Source type: An International Peer Reviewed Journal for Pharmaceutical and Medical and Scientific Research
Doi: 10.20959/wjpr20173-8058
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
Shalakya Tantra is a vital branch of Ayurveda that focuses on diagnosing and treating diseases related to the eyes, ears, nose, teeth, throat, head, and mouth. According to Acharya Dalhana, Shalakya Tantra encompasses procedures where rod-like instruments, or "Shalakas," are employed for treatment. This literature review aims to explore the diverse aspects of Shalakya Tantra found within the Sushruta Samhita, an ancient Ayurvedic text that presents substantial, though scattered, information on this field. The authors primarily seek to identify and underscore the significance of the concepts related to Shalakya Tantra as documented in various sections of the Sushruta Samhita.
Importance of Surgical Principles in Shalakya Tantra
One of the crucial concepts within Shalakya Tantra is the emphasis on surgical principles and practices as described in the Sushruta Samhita. In the "Sutrasthana" of the text, foundational definitions of Shalakya Tantra are provided, alongside the introduction of different surgical techniques, including the categorization of surgical procedures such as Chhedana (cutting) and Bhedana (opening). High importance is placed on the quality of surgical instruments, referred to as Shalaka Yantras, and their appropriate use in various treatments. Moreover, the principles of postoperative care (Paschat Karma) are highlighted, which are essential for patient recovery and minimizing complications following surgical interventions.
Therapeutic Approaches to Eye Diseases
Another significant aspect discussed in the text is the treatment methodologies for eye disorders within the realm of Shalakya Tantra. The "Uttarasthana" section elaborates on various eye conditions, including their diagnosis, symptoms, and treatment protocols. Treatments such as Tarpana (ocular rejuvenation), Anjana (ointment application), and Ashchyotana (eye drops) are systematically described, along with their indications and contraindications. The emphasis on personalized treatment methods based on Dosha (bodily constitution) highlights the individualized approach of Ayurveda, ensuring that therapy is suited to each patient’s unique condition, thus enhancing the effectiveness of treatments for various ocular ailments.
Classification and Management of Oral and Nasal Disorders
The classification and management of diseases affecting the mouth and nasal passages form another pivotal topic addressed in Shalakya Tantra. The "Nidansthana" section discusses various conditions that can afflict the mucosal tissues and frameworks of the mouth and nose, providing an extensive classification based on characteristics and symptoms. Concepts such as Nidana (diagnosis), Samprapti (pathogenesis), Bheda (types), and Lakshana (symptoms) of diverse Mukharogas (oral diseases) are clearly laid out. Treatment options include medicinal formulations and specialized therapies, demonstrating a comprehensive strategy to manage common yet challenging health issues related to oral and nasal health.
Conclusion
The Sushruta Samhita serves as a foundational text in Ayurveda, containing comprehensive knowledge on Shalakya Tantra, albeit presented in a fragmented manner. Through various sections, the work articulates essential definitions, surgical principles, specific treatment methodologies for eye, oral, and nasal diseases, highlighting the depth and breadth of Ayurvedic clinical approaches. Overall, the documentation of Shalakya Tantra within the Sushruta Samhita not only reflects the ancient understanding of health sciences but also offers valuable insights for contemporary practices in holistic health care, underscoring its relevance in modern Ayurvedic therapy. Thus, recognizing and organizing the wisdom embedded in historical texts such as Sushruta Samhita is crucial for advancing Ayurvedic knowledge and clinical practice.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is Shalakya Tantra in Ayurveda?
Shalakya Tantra is a significant branch of Ayurveda focusing on diseases of the eyes, ears, nose, teeth, throat, head, and mouth. It employs rod-like instruments for treatment and is a crucial part of Ayurvedic medical practice.
How is Shalakya Tantra described in Sushruta Samhita?
In Sushruta Samhita, Shalakya Tantra is discussed throughout various sections. It includes definitions, treatment procedures for related diseases, surgical techniques, and detailed classifications, emphasizing its importance and comprehensive nature in Ayurvedic literature.
What are the major topics covered in Shalakya Tantra?
Major topics include definitions of diseases, surgical procedures, classifications of treatments, qualities of surgeons, bandaging methods, postoperative care, extraction of foreign bodies, and a variety of drug combinations relevant to treating conditions in Shalakya Tantra.
What types of diseases are treated under Shalakya Tantra?
Shalakya Tantra addresses a variety of diseases including eye disorders, ear conditions (like hearing loss), nasal diseases, oral health issues, and related head complications, thus offering a wide range of therapeutic options.
What role does Sushruta Samhita play in Shalakya Tantra?
Sushruta Samhita serves as a pivotal text for Shalakya Tantra. It encompasses foundational principles, treatment methodologies, surgical techniques, and detailed discussions of the diseases treated, thereby governing Ayurvedic practices in this domain.
What is the significance of the instruments used in Shalakya Tantra?
In Shalakya Tantra, specialized instruments known as Shalakas play a vital role in surgical treatments. Understanding their types, qualities, and uses is essential for effective intervention and successful outcomes in treating related diseases.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Shalakya tantra in sushruta samhita- 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) Roga:
Roga, in Ayurveda, refers to various types of diseases or disorders. It encompasses a wide range of health issues affecting different body systems. Understanding the types and classifications of Rogas is essential for effective diagnosis and treatment within Ayurvedic medicine, facilitating a holistic approach to health.
2) Karma (Karman):
Karma signifies action or procedure in Ayurveda, particularly regarding treatments and surgical interventions. It involves various methodologies for addressing health issues. Each Karma is tailored to specific conditions, focusing on restoring balance and health, thus playing a crucial role in therapeutic practices.
3) Netra:
Netra translates to 'eye' in Sanskrit and represents a vital aspect of Ayurveda, particularly in Shalakya Tantra, which deals with ocular health. Understanding Netra is crucial for diagnosing vision-related disorders and implementing appropriate treatments, emphasizing the significance of eye care in Ayurvedic medicine.
4) Disease:
Disease represents any abnormal condition affecting the body's structure or function. In Ayurveda, disease diagnosis relies on understanding its root causes. Effective treatment is predicated upon identifying the balance of doshas (energies) and utilizes various approaches to restore health and harmony.
5) Sutrasthana (Sutra-sthana):
Sutrasthana is a section within the Sushruta Samhita that outlines foundational principles, definitions, and surgical procedures in Ayurveda. It serves as a crucial reference for practitioners, providing guidelines for diagnosis, treatment protocols, and the philosophical underpinnings of Ayurvedic medicine.
6) Lakshana (Laksana):
Lakshana refers to the characteristics or signs of diseases in Ayurveda. It is essential for diagnosis, guiding practitioners in identifying specific conditions through observable symptoms. Understanding Lakshana aids in formulating appropriate treatment strategies tailored to individual health issues.
7) Tantra (Tamtra, Tantrism):
Tantra in Ayurveda represents a systematic approach to understanding and treating diseases. It provides the framework for various treatments and methodologies, particularly in specialized branches like Shalakya Tantra, which focuses on disorders of sensory organs, particularly the eye, ear, nose, and throat.
8) Shalakyatantra (Salakyatantra, Shalakya-tantra, Shalakyatamtra):
Shalakya Tantra is the Ayurvedic branch focused on diagnosing and treating diseases related to the head and neck, including eyes, ears, nose, and throat. It employs various surgical and non-surgical techniques, emphasizing holistic care and the use of specific instruments for treatment.
9) Netraroga (Netra-roga):
Netraroga encompasses disorders affecting the eye, a vital focus within Ayurvedic medicine. Understanding Netraroga is essential for practitioners to diagnose and treat ocular diseases effectively.
10) Samprapti:
Samprapti refers to the pathogenesis or the process by which a disease develops in Ayurveda. It involves understanding the stages of disease progression, including causes, symptoms, and effects, which is vital for effective diagnosis and treatment planning.
11) Nidana:
Nidana represents the causes or etiology of diseases in Ayurveda. Identifying Nidana is essential for understanding the underlying factors contributing to health issues. This knowledge assists practitioners in creating effective treatment plans that address root causes rather than just symptoms.
12) Anjana (Amjana):
Anjana is a treatment method in Ayurveda, primarily involving eye medication. It refers to the application of eye drops or ointments to improve vision and treat various eye conditions. Anjana signifies the importance of localized treatments in Ayurvedic ocular care.
13) Samhita:
Samhita refers to a collection or compendium of knowledge, particularly in Ayurveda. The term is often associated with classical texts like the Sushruta Samhita, which serves as an authoritative source for Ayurvedic principles, practices, and methodologies.
14) Sushruta-samhita (Susruta-samhita):
Sushruta Samhita is a foundational text of Ayurveda, attributed to the ancient physician Sushruta. It encompasses surgical techniques, principles of medicine, detailed anatomical studies, and is considered the cornerstone of surgical practice in traditional Indian medicine.
15) Yantra (Yamtra):
Yantra refers to instruments or tools used in surgical and therapeutic procedures in Ayurveda. Colloquially understood as devices or apparatus, Yantras are pivotal in performing targeted interventions, especially in branches like Shalakya Tantra, focusing on precision in treatment.
16) Karna:
Karna denotes the ear in Sanskrit, and is a primary focus in Shalakya Tantra. Understanding Karna is essential for diagnosing and treating ear-related diseases, promoting auditory health, and highlighting the importance of comprehensive care in sensory organ health.
17) Agnikarma (Agni-karma):
Agni-karma refers to the application of heat in therapeutic practices. This technique plays a significant role in Ayurveda for treating various ailments, utilizing controlled heat to promote healing and alleviate symptoms.
18) Pratishedha (Pratisedha):
Pratishedha represents prohibition or contraindications in Ayurveda. It focuses on identifying actions that should be avoided due to potential harm or complication during treatment. Understanding Pratishedha is crucial for ensuring patient safety and optimal therapeutic outcomes.
19) Nasya (Nashya):
Nasya refers to a therapeutic procedure involving the administration of medicines through the nasal route. Commonly used for treating conditions of the head, neck, and respiratory system, Nasya highlights the versatility of Ayurvedic treatments and their focus on local application.
20) Shiroroga (Siroroga, Shiras-roga):
Shiroroga encompasses disorders affecting the head and neck. This classification includes various ailments ranging from headaches to more severe conditions. Addressing Shiroroga within Ayurveda involves understanding underlying causes and employing holistic treatment strategies.
21) Shastra (Sastra):
Shastra relates to sharp instruments or surgical tools used in various medical procedures within Ayurveda. Knowledge of Shastra is vital for practitioners to ensure proper techniques and safety measures during surgeries, highlighting the relationship between instrument quality and successful outcomes.
22) Tarpana:
Tarpana is a rejuvenation therapy, primarily for the eyes, involving the application of medicated ghee. It aims at nourishing and revitalizing the ocular region. This practice emphasizes the importance of nourishment in Ayurvedic treatments and the connection between diet and health.
23) Sira (Shira):
Shira translates to 'head' in Sanskrit. Understanding Shira is significant in Ayurveda, especially in treating conditions related to the head and neck. Knowledge of the anatomical and functional aspects of Shira plays a crucial role in delivering comprehensive care.
24) Salaka (Shalaka):
Shalaka refers to the rod-like instruments used in surgical procedures within Ayurveda, specifically in the Shalakya Tantra specialty. Knowing about Shalaka is pivotal for practitioners to perform precise interventions and ensure patient safety through the use of appropriate tools.
25) Bheda:
Bheda denotes the act of division or incision in Ayurvedic surgical practice. It is closely associated with procedures that involve cutting or separating tissues. Bheda is crucial in maintaining clarity during surgical procedures, guiding proper methodologies for effective treatment.
26) Measurement:
Measurement in Ayurveda refers to the assessment of body parts, doshas, and impacts of treatments. Accurate measurement is essential to customize therapies and ensure effective outcome, emphasizing the importance of precision in diagnosis and therapeutic interventions.
27) Mukharoga (Mukha-roga):
Mukha-roga refers to diseases affecting the face, requiring careful diagnosis and treatment planning. Understanding Mukha-roga highlights the need for comprehensive facial health assessments.
28) Lalata:
Lalata denotes the forehead within Ayurveda and is often associated with various health conditions. Understanding Lalata is significant for practitioners, as ailments in this area can reflect broader health issues and local disorders requiring targeted treatment.
29) Oshtha (Ostha):
Oshtha translates to 'lips' in Ayurveda. Knowledge of Oshtha is essential for diagnosing and treating various facial and oral diseases. Practitioners must address conditions of the lips within holistic treatment approaches to ensure comprehensive oral care.
30) Vartma (Vatrma):
Vartma refers to the pathway or channel in the body, especially in relation to sensory organs. Understanding Vartma is vital for diagnosing and treating sensory disorders, focusing on the passageway of energy and function within holistic health.
31) Mukha:
Mukha translates to 'face' and is an integral part of Ayurvedic anatomy. Understanding Mukha is crucial for practitioners to address comprehensive health issues, assess facial indicators of health, and implement appropriate treatments for facial disorders.
32) Sharirasthana (Sarirasthana, Sharira-sthana):
Sharirasthana is a section of the Sushruta Samhita that discusses anatomical and physiological principles. It serves as a foundational reference for practitioners, establishing an understanding of the body’s structure crucial for effective diagnosis and treatment.
33) Putapaka (Puta-paka):
Putapaka signifies a preparation method in Ayurveda where substances are heated or cooked down to extract essential properties. This practice emphasizes the importance of preparation methods in developing effective medicinal formulations.
34) Vidhi:
Vidhi refers to protocols, methods, or procedures within Ayurveda. It emphasizes the systematic approach to treatments, ensuring that practitioners adhere to established guidelines that promote efficacy, safety, and standardization in therapy.
35) Rasa (Rasha):
Rasa translates to 'taste' and signifies the flavor and therapeutic properties of medicinal substances in Ayurveda. Understanding the concept of Rasa is crucial for creating formulations that align with the patient’s constitution and needs.
36) Manyastambha (Manya-stambha):
Manyastambha refers to torticollis, a condition characterized by abnormal head position. Recognizing Manyastambha is essential within Ayurveda for effective diagnosis and treatment planning to ensure patient comfort and optimal recovery.
37) Bandha (Bamdha):
Bandha refers to bandaging techniques used for wound care and protection in Ayurvedic surgery. Understanding different Bandha methodologies ensures proper healing and establishes an important aspect of postoperative care.
38) Dosha (Dosa):
Dosha translates to the three fundamental energies (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha) that govern physiological processes. Identifying and balancing doshas is central to Ayurvedic diagnostics and therapeutics, aiming to restore health and harmony.
39) Danta (Damta):
Danta means 'teeth' and encompasses various conditions affecting dental health. Understanding the significance of Danta is crucial for diagnosing dental disorders and implementing appropriate treatments within Ayurveda’s broader health framework.
40) Nasa (Nasha):
Nasa refers to 'nose' and is an essential component of Ayurvedic anatomy. Understanding Nasa allows practitioners to diagnose and treat nasal conditions, emphasizing the connection between respiratory health and overall wellness.
41) Bhru:
Bhru translates to 'eyebrow.' Although often overlooked, assessing Bhru can provide insights into health conditions and imbalances. Practitioners must pay attention to changes in this area when diagnosing or treating patients.
42) Karnaroga (Karna-roga):
Karna-roga indicates diseases specifically related to the ear. Recognizing Karna-roga emphasizes the significance of ear health and guides treatment planning focused on conditions that affect auditory function.
43) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is an ancient Indian system of medicine focused on holistic healing through natural means. It emphasizes balance between body, mind, and spirit, leveraging plant-based therapies and individualized treatment protocols to enhance overall well-being.
44) Mandala (Mamdala):
Mandala signifies a circular diagram representing the structure of concepts in Ayurveda. It serves to illustrate the interrelationships of various العناصر 'elements,' providing a visual representation of health and balance within the body.
45) Pramana (Pramanas):
Pramana refers to measurement or quantification in Ayurveda. Accurate Pramana is essential for diagnostics, treatment planning, and ensuring consistency in therapeutic practices throughout Ayurvedic medicine, thus playing a vital role in patient care.
46) Sandhi (Shandhi, Samdhi):
Sandhi translates to joints, critical in Ayurveda, particularly in understanding joint-related disorders. Recognizing the role of Sandhi allows practitioners to address musculoskeletal conditions, emphasizing the interconnectedness of body systems.
47) Bhagna:
Bhagna refers to fracture or injury in Ayurveda. Understanding different types of Bhagna is crucial for practitioners to develop effective support and recovery strategies tailored to the specific needs of the patient.
48) Lekhya:
Lekhya signifies methods of skin incisions or excisions in surgical procedures. It plays a pivotal role in surgical success, especially in treating dermatological issues, requiring precise application to manage wounds effectively.
49) Shiras (Siras, Siro, Shirash):
Shirah denotes the head and its relevance in various Ayurvedic conditions and assessments. Knowledge of Shirah is essential for implementing treatment strategies focused on cranial health.
50) Seka (Sheka):
Seka means pouring or sprinkling, typically in the context of medicinal applications. Understanding Seka is important in Ayurvedic treatments, where specific techniques can enhance therapeutic outcomes, particularly in hydration and cleansing therapies.
51) Arma:
Arma translates to ulcer or sore in Ayurveda. Knowing this term is essential, as effective treatment requires understanding the underlying causes and implementing suitable healing methodologies to promote recovery.
52) Pratishyaya (Pratisyaya):
Pratishyaya refers to allergic rhinitis or nasal inflammation in Ayurveda. Understanding Pratishyaya helps practitioners devise appropriate treatment plans and manage symptoms related to respiratory and sinus conditions effectively.
53) Nasyakarman (Nasyakarma, Nasya-karma):
Nasya-karma indicates the therapeutic application of medications through the nasal route. This practice is often employed for treating head and neck disorders, highlighting the importance of localized interventions in holistic Ayurvedic treatments.
54) Lekhana:
Lekhana refers to scraping or exfoliating techniques in Ayurveda. It is often used in the management of certain skin conditions or dosha imbalances, where physical removal of impurities or tissues is required.
55) Vedhana:
Vedhana translates to 'sensation' or 'pain' in Ayurveda. Understanding Vedhana is vital for practitioners to assess patient symptoms accurately and tailor pain management strategies effectively.
56) Drishti (Drsti, Drishtin, Drstin):
Drishti means vision and encompasses the Ayurvedic perspective on ocular health. Recognizing its importance allows practitioners to develop comprehensive strategies for maintaining good eyesight and treating vision-related disorders.
57) Taila (Thaila):
Taila translates to 'oil' or 'ghee' in Ayurveda. It signifies the significance of oily preparations in treatments, enhancing absorption and providing nourishment as part of various therapeutic applications in Ayurvedic practices.
58) Hair:
Hair is considered vital in Ayurveda, representing health, vitality, and aesthetic value. Understanding the relationship between hair health and overall wellness aids practitioners in addressing conditions related to hair and scalp care.
59) Paschat-karma:
Paschat-karma refers to post-operative care in Ayurveda. Understanding Paschat-karma is crucial for ensuring proper recovery and healing, emphasizing the importance of follow-through care after procedures to enhance patient safety and outcomes.
60) Adhimantha:
Adhimantha denotes a type of headache or migraine in Ayurveda. Understanding its manifestations aids practitioners in diagnosing the condition and formulating targeted treatment strategies for pain alleviation.
61) Linganasha (Linganasa, Linga-nasha):
Linganasha refers to a specific surgical instrument used for cataract surgery in Ayurveda. Knowledge of Linganasha is essential for practitioners to ensure precision and safety during ocular surgical procedures.
62) Vishlesha (Vislesa):
Vishlesha signifies examination or analysis within Ayurvedic practices. Understanding Vishlesha enables practitioners to critically assess health conditions and apply analytical thinking to develop effective treatment strategies.
63) Badhirya:
Badhirya refers to deafness within Ayurveda. Awareness of Badhirya aids practitioners in developing strategies for diagnosing and treating auditory impairments, emphasizing the importance of hearing health.
64) Gadgada:
Gadgada refers to a specific throat condition characterized by hoarseness of voice or voice loss in Ayurveda. Understanding Gadgada is crucial for diagnosing and implementing suitable treatment strategies in throat disorders.
65) Quality:
Quality refers to the standards of medicinal products or practices within Ayurveda. It emphasizes the importance of efficacy and safety in treatments, guiding practitioners in selecting high-standard remedies and therapies for patient care.
66) Ghrita (Ghrta):
Ghrita is clarified butter used extensively in Ayurvedic formulations. It plays a significant role in enhancing the therapeutic properties of medicines and improving digestion, absorption, and nourishment in the body.
67) Bhedya:
Bhedya refers to conditions that require surgical intervention in Ayurveda. Understanding Bhedya is critical for practitioners to identify when surgery is necessary and to implement appropriate surgical techniques.
68) Vataja (Vata-ja):
Vataja denotes diseases caused by imbalances in the Vata dosha. Recognizing Vataja conditions helps practitioners in diagnosing and planning holistic treatments that restore balance within the patient’s body.
69) Marma:
Marma refers to vital points in the body that are significant in Ayurvedic healing. Understanding Marmas enables practitioners to apply therapies more effectively, addressing specific health conditions through targeted interventions.
70) Pesi (Peshi):
Peshi translates to 'muscle' in Ayurveda. Understanding Peshi is crucial in diagnosing musculoskeletal disorders and implementing effective treatment strategies to restore muscular health and functionality.
71) Snayu:
Snayu refers to ligaments or tendons in Ayurveda. Recognizing their significance is essential for diagnosing joint-related disorders and applying treatments that support musculoskeletal health effectively.
72) India:
India is the birthplace of Ayurveda, embodying a rich tradition of holistic health practices and ancient wisdom. The country's cultural and historical context forms the foundation for Ayurvedic systems and their continued evolution in modern health care.
73) Yoga:
Yoga encompasses physical, mental, and spiritual practices aimed at promoting holistic well-being. In Ayurveda, Yoga is often integrated with therapeutic approaches to foster balance, vitality, and overall health.
74) Kala:
Kala represents timing or the seasons in Ayurveda. Understanding Kala is essential for optimizing treatments, as Ayurvedic practices often align therapies with specific times of day or seasonal changes to enhance efficacy.
75) Drishtimandala (Drstimandala, Drishti-mandala):
Drishtimandala refers to the visual representation in the field of eye health. Understanding Drishtimandala is vital for implementing effective assessments and treatments in ocular disorders, ensuring a comprehensive approach to eye care.
[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 231]