Professional Documents
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Ayurvedic Medicine
Ayurvedic Medicine
Ayurvedic
Medicine
The Principles of Traditional Practice
SINGING
DRAGON
‘At last, a truly excellent ayurvedic textbook, ideal for herbal practitioners and students
alike as well as for other healthcare practitioners, enabling not only a proper
understanding of ayurvedic principles, but also providing a practical materia medica as a
vital reference during practice. This is a book that goes far beyond the many more
superficial books so far available on Ayurveda and other available textbooks on
ayurvedic herbs that present a largely Western pharmacological approach while
neglecting the ayurvedic applications.’
– Annie McIntyre FNIMH, MAPA, Ayur HC, Practising Medical Herbalist, UK
‘For the Western herbal clinician this book by Sebastian Pole represents an ideal and
valuable introduction to the complex discipline of Ayurveda. Written in a clear, logical
and accurate manner by an author who is well-versed in both Ayurveda and Western
herbalism, it outlines the basic principles of philosophy, diagnosis and treatment as well
as the individual properties of the extensive ayurvedic materia medica. No doubt serious
students of Ayurveda will find it essential reading.’
– Kerry Bone, BSc (Hons), Dip Phyto, FNIMH, FNHAA, AHG, MCPP, FANTA, principal of the
Australian College of Phytotherapy and Associate Professor in the School of Health at the
University of New England
‘Pole has created a multi-faceted text on ayurvedic herbs and their medicinal use. The
structure of the text is in two major parts. In the first part, he discusses the foundations,
principles, and tenets of Ayurveda. This offers a solid foundation for the utilization of
part two in which 150 herbs and formulas are profiled. […] The whole text, beautifully
presented […], is a treasure that belongs in the library of every student and practitioner!’
– Light on Ayurveda Journal (LOAJ), Vol. VI, Issue 3
AYURVEDIC
MEDICINE
of related interest
Ayurvedic Healing
Contemporary Maharishi Ayurveda Medicine and Science
2nd edition
Hari Sharma, MD and Christopher Clark, MD
ISBN 978 1 84819 069 6
eISBN 978 0 85701 063 6
Mudras of India
A Comprehensive Guide to the Hand Gestures of Yoga and Indian Dance
Cain Carroll and Revital Carroll
ISBN 978 1 84819 084 9
eISBN 978 0 85701 067 4
SEBASTIAN POLE
FOREWORD BY DR VASANT LAD
AYURVEDIC
MEDICINE
The Principles of Traditional Practice
www.singingdragon.com
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Creation is the expression of cosmic consciousness. quite often in ayurvedic pharmacology. Using
It is a journey of energy into matter. The five great these principles in herbal combinations helps to
elements are uniquely expressed both in mankind restore balance to the person’s whole system.
and plants. Originating in universal consciousness,
the five elements manifest successively into Space, While making individualistic formulas one has to
Air, Fire, Water and Earth. From Earth arise the think about the constitution and current altered
plants that become food for mankind. state (prakrti/vikrti paradigm) of the patient or cli-
ent. Charaka gives the gunas of herbal medicines
Every human cell is a centre of awareness. Each required to fulfil the indications of treatment
cell has intelligence and choice (mind). The flow according to the proper direction of samprapti
of intelligence for communication within and (pathogenesis) and the prakrti/vikrti paradigm.
between cells is the flow of prana. These factors One can make formulas in several ways: specific to
are present in plant cells as well. The cellular the dosa, specific to disease, specific to both dosa
intelligence of plants when consumed is trans- and disease, specific to the tissue or to the channels
formed into the cellular intelligence of the human affected. While making formulas one has to think
body by rasa (taste), virya (energy), vipaka about samprapti, the vector or direction of the dosa,
(post-digestive effect) and prabhava (the unique the pathways of disease, and the organ affected.
specific action of the herb). Use of two, three or With all this in mind, specific substances are used
many different herbs that share similar rasa, virya as a vehicle to carry the herbs’ other qualities –
and vipaka will promote each other’s action and rasa, virya, vipaka and prabhava – to the specific tis-
have a synergetic effect on the person’s constitu- sue or organ.
tional makeup, the functioning of the body’s tis-
sues and excreta. Ayurveda has a vast range of preparation methods
of both the substances themselves and delivery
In Ayurveda, the herbal substances (dravya), their methods of the herbs to the body. For example,
potential energy and qualities (guna(s)) and their anupana (the media through which the medicine is
ultimate action within the system (karma) are given) carries the medicinal properties of herbs to
regarded as an inseparable biochemical combina- the deep tissues without changing them. Ghee,
tion. The karmas are actions and suggest various milk, aloe vera juice or aloe vera gel is the anupana
methods of treatment depending upon the gunas. for pitta dosa. Warm water, dashamula tea or ginger
The gunas are not merely attributes or qualities; tea is the best anupana for vata dosa, while hot
ayurvedic herbal formulas take into consideration water, honey or pomegranate juice can be used for
.
the effects of these qualities such as langhana (light- kapha dosa. Ayurveda also uses yogavah×-, catalytic
ening), brmhana (nutritive), ruksana (drying), snehana agents such as ghee or honey. Ayurvedic pharma-
(oleating), svedana (diaphoretic) and sthambhana cology uses herbal remedies in many forms like
(constipating), etc. Substances are classified as sen- fresh juice form, powder form, decoction, concoc-
driya (organic) and nirindriya (inorganic). Like tion, pastes, teas, tablets, pills, asava (fermented
attracts like or like promotes like, while the oppo- juice), arista (fermented decoction), herbal medi-
site regulates or nullifies. These principles are used cated oil, ghee, milk and even soups.
ix
The soul of ayurvedic pharmacology is dravyaguna
FOREWORD
x
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Sebastian Pole, Lic OHM, Ayur HC, is an ayurve- health of the individual and the living Earth. The
dic Practitioner and Chinese Herbalist working in awakening of the link between our ecological
Bath, UK, and is also a passionate ecologist. awareness and our consciousness is at the heart of
Sebastian is a member of the ayurvedic his work; hence using organic herbs and ayurvedic
Practitioners Association and Director of the techniques to help patients heal themselves is at
Pharmacopoeia Committee as well as a member of the centre of his practice. Sebastian is the Herbal
the Register of Chinese Herbal Medicine. He has Director and founding partner of Pukka Herbs,
spent many years living in India studying The Organic ayurvedic Herb Specialists, planting
ayurveda and Yoga, has a degree in Hindi and over 1 million plants a year to benefit the land, the
Indian Religions and is a qualified yoga teacher. integrity of Ayurveda and the health of society.
He has dedicated the last 15 years of his life to pro- You can contact him at Sebastian@pukkaherbs.com
moting awareness of the connection between the
xi
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
I have written this book with huge amounts of Berger and Edward Thompson’s deep understand-
help. ing of energetic herbalism and modern science so
often steered me in the right direction. Ben Joliffe,
Firstly, my teachers have fed me with words of Claudia Mallinson and Susanna Hawkins gener-
wisdom and truth. Shri Kamal Das ji, Bal Yogi ously gave their time to read the manuscript and
Balak Das ji, Vedantananda Saraswati, Dr Michael showed me the way to clarity. All of my herbalist
Tierra, Lesley Tierra, Annie McIntyre, Pierre friends have been a continual inspiration and I
Cousins, Dr Yogesh Bendale, Dr Avinash Lele, thank you for your priceless wisdom and inspiring
Alan Treharne, Anne-Marie Lavin, Dr Jin, Mike discussions. My deepest thanks to Susie for your
Brook, and my mother and father. Herbs of praise. continual insight, inspiration and love.
Secondly, my erudite friends who have read, com- Lastly, warm thanks to all at Elsevier for trusting
mented and helped to enhance the quality of this me to come up with the goods.
book. Dr Dominik Wujastyk’s specialist knowledge
of the history of Indian medicine has been invalua-
ble, Sir Dr James Mallinson’s unique knowledge of Om Śanti
yoga and tantra has been enlightening, and Edward
xii
PHOTOGRAPHIC CREDITS
Sources for photographs used in the Plant Profiles Vamsa Lochana (fresh), Vasa (fresh), Vidanga
section are as follows. Please note that for each Plant (fresh): Sebastian Pole
Profile, the dry plant is featured in the left-hand pho-
tograph, and the fresh plant is on the right. Mustard seed (fresh): Mr Saurabh
Anthrapachaka (fresh), Bakuchi (fresh), Bala Chrysanthemum (fresh), Cumin (fresh), Damanaka
(fresh), Pit Shirisha (fresh), Tila (fresh): Foundation (fresh), Devadaru (fresh), Ephedra (fresh), Garlic
for the Revitalisation of Local Health Traditions, (fresh), Myrrh (fresh), Saffron (fresh): Shutterstock
Bangalore, India
Ajmoda (dry), Ajwain (dry), Amalaki (dry),
Safflower (fresh): Tony Harrison Anthrapachaka (dry), Aragvadha (dry), Arjuna
(dry), Ashoka (dry), Ashwagandha (dry), Bakuchi
Ashoka (fresh), Bilva (fresh), Brahmi (fresh), (dry), Bala (dry), Bhallataka (dry), Bhringaraja
Chiretta (fresh), Gokshura (fresh), Haritaki (fresh), (dry), Bhumiamalaki (dry), Bibhitaki (dry), Bilva
Jasmine (fresh), Kalamegha (fresh), Kushtha (dry), Brahmi (dry), Cardamom (dry), Castor (dry),
(fresh), Kutki (fresh), Licorice (fresh), Pomegranate Chiretta (dry), Chitraka (dry), Chrysanthemum
(fresh), Psyllium (fresh), Punarnava (fresh), (dry), Cinnamon (dry), Cloves (dry), Coleus (dry),
Sarpagandha (fresh), Senna (fresh), Tagarah (fresh), Coriander (dry), Cumin (dry), Damanaka (dry),
Turmeric (fresh), Vidari (fresh): Ben Heron Daruharidra (dry), Devadaru (dry), Dhattura (dry),
Ephedra (dry), Fennel (dry), Fenugreek (dry),
Ajmoda (fresh), Ajwain (fresh), Aloe (fresh), Frankincense (Indian) (dry), Garlic (dry), Ginger
Amalaki (fresh), Aragvadha (fresh), Arjuna (fresh), (dry), Gokshura (dry), Gotu Kola (dry), Guduchi
Ashwagandha (fresh), Bhallataka (fresh), (dry), Guggulu (dry), Gurmar (dry), Haritaki (dry),
Bhringaraja (fresh), Bhumiamalaki (fresh), Bibhitaki Hemp seed (dry), Hingu (dry), Jasmine (dry),
(fresh), Cardamom (fresh), Castor (fresh), Chitraka Jatamansi (dry), Kalamegha (dry), Kanchanara
(fresh), Cinnamon (fresh), Cloves (fresh), Coleus (dry), Kapikacchu (dry), Karavella (dry), Krishna
(fresh), Coriander (fresh), Daruharida (fresh), Jiraka (dry), Kushtha (dry), Kutaja (dry), Kutki
Dhattura (fresh), Fennel (fresh), Fenugreek (fresh), (dry), Lemongrass (dry), Licorice (dry), Lotus
Frankincense (fresh), Ginger (fresh), Gotu Kola (dry), Manjishtha (dry), Mint (dry), Mustaka (dry),
(fresh), Guduchi (fresh), Guggulu (fresh), Gurmar Mustard seed (dry), Myrrh (dry), Neem (dry),
(fresh), Hemp seed (fresh), Jatamamsi (fresh), Nutmeg (dry), Pepper (dry), Pippali (dry), Pit
Kanchanara (fresh), Kapikacchu (fresh), Karavella Shirisha (dry), Pomegranate (dry), Psyllium (dry),
(fresh), Kutaja (fresh), Lemon and lime (fresh), Punarnava (dry), Pushkaramoola (dry), Rhubarb
Lemongrass (fresh), Lotus (fresh), Manjishta (dry), Rose (dry), Safed Musali (dry), Safflower
(fresh), Mint (fresh), Mustaka (fresh), Neem (fresh), (dry), Saffron (dry), Salt, Sandalwood (dry), Sariva
Nutmeg (fresh), Pepper (fresh), Pippali (fresh), (dry), Sarpagandha (dry), Senna (dry),
Pushkaramoola (fresh), Rhubarb (fresh), Rose Shankhapushpi (dry), Shatavari (dry), Shilajit
(fresh), Safed Musali (fresh), Sandalwood (fresh), (dry), Tagarah (dry), Tila (dry), Trivrut (dry), Tulasi
Sariva (fresh), Shankhapushpi (fresh), Shatavari (dry), Turmeric (dry), Vacha (dry), Vamsa Lochana
(fresh), Trivut (fresh), Tulsi (fresh), Vacha (fresh), (dry), Varuna (dry), Vasa (dry), Vidanga (dry),
Vidari (dry): Neil Sutherland
xiii
PREFACE
This book has grown out of my love for herbal knowledge and compassion are perhaps her
medicine, Ayurveda and India. I am deeply greatest gift.
indebted to India for many things: for introducing
me to Ayurveda, yoga, vegetarianism, to delicious Ayurveda has many exciting opportunities over the
food, to healing plants, to the beautiful Himalaya, next few years but it also faces many challenges. If
the sanctity of all life, the beauty of life-giving Ayurveda is going to receive the recognition it
water and the majesty of nature and for showing deserves and be in a position to help heal those
me that spirituality and daily life can coexist in people that need it there is a great need for more
perfect harmony. In some ways, a large part of my maturity and growth within our community. There
life is dedicated to returning some of the favours needs to be more professional cohesion among
that have been bestowed on me by India’s wise practitioners the world over, better standards of
culture and friendly people. ‘Ayurvedic Medicine’ ayurvedic education, higher levels of teaching, a
is a part of this reciprocation and I offer it with all higher volume of practical reference literature pub-
my humble thanks. lished, more active herbal conservation, stronger
defence of our pharmacopoeia and more clinical
It is Ayurveda’s ability to empower individuals based research. Luckily for those of us who love
with the ability to understand and care for and benefit from her wisdom (and also for those
themselves and others that has most interested who are yet to do so) Ayurveda is in the midst of a
me. The classification of nature according to renaissance, a genuine rasayana that will see her
elemental energetic principles is so subtle and flourish the world over.
profound. It is also very accessible, tangible and
effective. The depth of insight into different To all of you who read this book I hope that it
disease causes, patterns and differentiations is offers the inspiration that writing it has given me.
one of Ayurveda’s greatest healing strengths. Nature is the inspiration; watch her, feel her,
Combining this understanding of nature with a breathe her, taste her, hear her and then offer this
clear understanding of disease empowers us to inspiration back to all who can benefit.
offer personalised and individual treatments that
effectively remove the cause of a disease as well Hari om tat sat.
as treat any uncomfortable symptoms. Sebastian Pole
Ayurveda’s ability to instil discrimination, Bath, UK
2004
xiv
ABBREVIATIONS
ADHD Attention deficit and hyperactivity IUCN International Union for the
disorder Conservation of Nature
ALT Serum alanine aminotransferase LDL Low-density lipoprotein
AST Serum aspartate aminotransferase MAO Monoamine oxidase
ATP Adenosine triphosphate ME Myalgic encephalomyelitis
CAMP Cyclic adenosine monophosphate MNIMH Member of the National Institute of
Medical Herbalists
CFS Chronic fatigue syndrome
NO Nitric oxide
CITES Convention on International Trade in
Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and NSAIDs Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
Flora
PCOS Polycystic ovary syndrome
CNS Central nervous system
SSRIs Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors
COX Cyclooxygenase
STDs Sexually transmitted diseases
FDA Food and Drink Administration (USA)
TCM Traditional Chinese medicine
GIT Gastrointestinal tract
WHO World Health Organization
xv
INTRODUCTION
Nowhere on earth is there any creature which is immortal. Yet, although death is unavoidable, a man
may avoid many diseases.
Health brings happiness.
Śa-rngadhara sam.hita- Section 1.5
This ayurvedic herbal is an overview of the won- (Quotes are translated by D Wujastyk and
ders of ayurvedic pharmacology: how Ayurveda reprinted with his kind permission from his most
understands plants, how it prepares them and how poetic translation of ayurvedic texts ‘The Roots of
these preparations are used. I have written it for Ayurveda’.)
ayurvedic specialists, herbal practitioners and
interested herbal enthusiasts alike. I hope that Broadly speaking, Ayurveda is understood to
these Ayurvedic insights give you the inspiration be the generic term for traditional Indian medicine.
to incorporate some of its deep understanding of But as well as being a medical system it includes
herbal medicine into your life and practice. It is aspects of philosophy, mythology, diet and yoga as
also relevant to note that as Ayurveda receives well as mental and spiritual refinement as part of
official recognition as a bona fide medical system its teachings.
in its own right its educational standards are also
becoming more standardised. ‘Ayurvedic Ayurveda’s medical branch uses herbal medicines,
Medicine’ attempts to meet these broader curricu- minerals, animal products, food, massage, air,
lum standards that require students to cross cul- water, heat, earth, surgery, detoxification and toni-
tural boundaries and understand traditional fication to bring about health. Ayurveda focuses
medical models as well as modern sciences. In line on preventing disease and optimising vitality as
with this I have followed the proposed core curric- much as on removing an illness. Thus it has a
ulum standards presented by the Department holistic approach to health that includes every
of Indian Systems of Medicine as well as the aspect of life in a philosophy where mind, body
European Herbal Practitioners Association in rela- and spirit are considered to be an integrated
tion to studying the ayurvedic materia medica and whole. Nothing in the world is considered to be
pharmacology. separate from anything else. Everything is inter-
connected. Practising Ayurveda is as much about
Ayurveda is literally translated as ‘science of life’ understanding your own inner nature and fulfill-
but it can also be described as ‘the way of living ing your own potential as it is about helping
with awareness and promoting longevity’. An early your patients to understand their nature and fulfil
description given in the Caraka Sam . hita written their potential.
c.150BCE–100CE says:
To achieve this end Ayurveda cultivates an inti-
It is called Ayurveda because it tells us which substances, mate understanding of and relationship with
qualities and actions are life enhancing, and which are nature, and thus observing her tastes, aromas, tex-
not. tures and qualities is a central part of learning
Su-trastha-na 30.23 Ayurveda. If we are not aware of what our nature
xvii
is and what the qualities of nature are, or we weather, time and place. It teaches dietary and
INTRODUCTION
choose to ignore them, then we will certainly behavioural adjustments that should be adopted as
become ill. We will look at the causes of illness later you mature from childhood to adulthood to old
but surely a large part of the cause of the modern age. It gives perennial advice on how to prevent
malaise must be our separation and distance from illness as one season becomes another and specific
nature and her natural rhythms. Ayurveda offers recommendations on how to adjust your daily hab-
the potential to reconnect this disassociation. its. This way of wholesome living prescribes a rou-
tine for all the different climates and geographical
Ayurveda understands that disease is due to a dys- regions of the world. It offers particular insights for
function in the inner processes of the body and men and women, children and adults. It is a univer-
mind. It is a disassociation within the whole system. sal system applicable to every individual living
This is different from our modern functional view thing/being in any part of the world, and at the
of disease that regards organs in isolation and bacte- root of Ayurveda is its focus on the uniqueness of
ria as causes of disease. Although Ayurveda under- each individual. In ayurvedic practice no one has
stands the potential of invading organisms (and the same constitution or disease (even if the ‘names’
refers to them as worms [krmi]) its primary under- are the same) and certainly no one gets the same
standing of disease is systemic rather than reduc- medicine just because they have the same disease.
tionist. Many of the causes of disease are seen as
originating from within us, as are many of the pre- ‘Ayurvedic Medicine’ is an attempt to bring some
ventative measures that can keep us at optimum of these unique theories alive so that they can be
health. For Ayurveda, health is more than the used in your daily life as much as in the clinic. My
absence of disease, it is the whole reason of living, focus on the nature of the plants is inspired by the
because without health you cannot enjoy or pursue tradition of energetic herbalism; a tradition full of
the goals of your life. Therefore Ayurveda gives insight, intuition and excellence. Understanding
insight into both the causes of disease and the herbal energetics means that you can ‘read’ a
means to obtain the best health. plant’s tastes, temperament and qualities with
your senses. Hence you are well equipped to help
Ayurveda has grown out of the accumulated both your patients and yourself whatever the situ-
knowledge and experience of hundreds of thou- ation, name of the disease and with whatever
sands of ayurvedic doctors. The main texts are ‘tools’ you have. As nature holds the answers what
actually named after renowned doctors, such else is there to study?
as the Caraka Samhita, ‘The Treatise of Caraka’,
or the Bhavaprakaśa, ‘The Light of Bhava’. To find out more about energetic herbalism I rec-
Following the ayurvedic teachings, these doctors ommend reading all that you can by Jeremy Ross,
have developed their insights by applying the Peter Holmes, Dr Michael Tierra, Alan Tillotson,
theory of Ayurveda to clinical practice and then Nicholas Culpepper, Dr Vasant Lad, Dr David
being flexible enough to adjust this theory as their Frawley, Dr Robert Svoboda, Atreya, Avicenna,
experience dictates. The texts clearly reveal this Galen, Paracelsus, John Gerard, the ayurvedic
flexibility; they are full of adaptations and inquisi- canon, the Shen Nong Ben Cao, the Chinese mate-
tive questioning which reflect a deep commitment ria medica, Dan Bensky, Giovanni Macioca, Bob
to learn and apply the truth. Different perspectives Flaws, Phillipe Sionneau, James Duke, The
on the nature of the humours (dos.a), variations on Eclectics and Christopher Hobbs. I am indebted to
the effects of the tastes, new diseases and numer- the above for the inspirational and insightful liter-
ous ways of treating the same disease are ature that has nourished my understanding and
discussed. These adjustments reveal an evolving practice of herbal medicine.
medical system, steeped in a tradition that is
respectful of its divine origins yet open to PART ONE
experiential truth.
The first part of the book covers some of the
aspects of Ayurveda that are essential to under-
The wisdom of Ayurveda is expressed as a way of
stand before using the herbal remedies in an
life that flows with the changes of the seasons,
ayurvedic way. In the first chapter, ‘A History of
xviii
Ayurveda and the Growth of the Materia Medica’, drawn together with modern phytotherapy, herb-
INTRODUCTION
I have tried to draw a picture of the culture in alism and biomedicine. In each Profile there is a
which Ayurveda has developed. I have discussed heavy emphasis on what the herbs do and when
some of the controversial areas that have arisen they should be used.
within its evolution, as well as looked at the
growth of the pharmacopoeia. Chapter 2, ‘The Sourcing
Basic Principles of Ayurveda’, is a collection from This point is close to my heart; it is very important
much of the excellent ayurvedic literature and I that you buy your herbs from reputable distribu-
encourage you to refer to these books as well (see tors. I encourage you to buy organically certified
bibliography). I have tried to collate and clarify. herbs or wild crafted herbs that are grown and
Chapter 3, ‘Ayurvedic Herbal Pharmacology and harvested with a sustainable attitude to our
Pharmacy’, looks at ayurvedic energetics and precious world. There are thankfully a lot of
includes the traditional prescriptions for using the people using herbs these days, but the irony of
herbs in an energetic manner. This chapter also this is that the destruction of the natural world
includes a discussion of the sustainable harvesting may be hastened by those trying to lead a more
of herbs and quality control methods for consistent natural life. Please check the resource guide for
production, as well as a brief discussion of current reliable suppliers.
safety issues regarding using herbs and pharma-
ceuticals concurrently. Chapter 4, ‘Ayurvedic The formulas
Therapy and Treatment’, looks at how to decide The final section is on traditional formulas. They
when to use the herbs and how to treat certain dis- are the fruits of the combined wisdom of ayurve-
ease categories. The treatment of specific diseases dic pharmacology. Ayurvedic treatment thrives on
is a whole book in itself and so I have concentrated formulas and here I have introduced some of the
on the fundamental treatment principles of the most popular ones. This is only a snippet of a mas-
dosa, dhatu, agni and ama. Chapter 5, ‘The Scientific sive pharmacopoeia. Because of the restriction on
Basis of Ayurveda’, is my attempt to show that the the use of minerals in the west I have primarily
universality of ayurvedic thought is confirmed by kept to the herbal repertoire.
scientific understanding. This introduction to
ayurvedic pharmacology will enable you to suc- We do not live in the agrarian culture that
cessfully use the Plant Profiles. Ayurveda grew up in nor do we live in isolation
from the effects of the rhythms of nature. Today
PART TWO we live in a world based on the scientific model
where herbs are commonly used alongside modern
The Plant Profiles medication. As everything has its place I strongly
Plants are the heart of the book, as it is with these
believe that it is time to integrate these practices
valuable herbs that the poetic theories of Ayurveda
and to consciously use the wisdom of traditional
can be applied. As healing is at the heart of
natural medicine within mainstream medical prac-
Ayurveda so these healing plants are at the heart
tice. For the benefit of people all over the world it
of this book. Please read the template at the front
is time natural medicine received the respect,
of the Plant Profile section to understand this sec-
support and acceptance that it deserves.
tion more fully.
‘Ayurvedic Medicine’ is an attempt to further this
integration. It is a part of the impetus that is taking
Whereas Western philosophy focuses on philoso-
place within the natural medicine community,
phising, Indian philosophy concentrates on prac-
working to preserve traditional knowledge while
tice. It directs all its attention to putting the theory
also benefiting from and adding to the vast knowl-
into practice. This is also what Ayurveda does. It
edge of modern science. Today we are facing the
applies a medical theory to a living person by
same trials that Ayurveda has always faced; how
diagnosing the cause and imbalance of disease,
to remain true to the tradition while assimilating
creating a treatment strategy and prescribing a mix
new insights and also progressing with successful
of herbs unique to that person. The Plant Profiles
treatments within the changing social and medical
are a true 'kicharee', as the classical teachings of
climate.
ayurvedic pharmacology (dravygunaśastra) are
xix
ix
x
Part ONE
Chapter 1 A History of Ayurveda and the Growth of the Materia Medica
Ayurveda is declared to be eternal, because it has no beginning, because it deals with such things that
are inherent in nature and because the nature of matter is eternal. For at no time was there a break either
in the continuity of life or in the continuity of intelligence.
Caraka Samhitā Su-trastha-na 30.27
•
3
defining context is that Ayurveda is a medical tra- for example, that brahmi (Bacopa monniera) is so
Chapter 1 A HISTORY OF AYURVEDA AND THE GROWTH OF THE MATERIA MEDICA
dition steeped in religious tradition as well as nat- effective at improving the intellect and guggulu
ural medicine, and it is based on both tradition (Commiphora mukul) so useful at reducing tumours?
and experience. How did the pioneers of Ayurveda learn to
diagnose illness with only the five senses at their
disposal? Having said this, the idea of human
HOW THE AYURVEDIC TRADITION BECAME A SYSTEM OF knowledge growing through experience, logic and
EMPIRICAL MEDICINE insight has great value. Human development is
Any history of ayurvedic development requires firmly grounded in endeavour. For Indian minds
discussing two different perspectives: a linear this duality causes no conflict as Ayurveda can be
religio-historical approach and a circular organic two things at the same time: both divinely inspired
expansion. The first perceives Ayurveda as a and open to human adaptation. This is a powerful
timeless system of medicine where its knowledge medium for expression of the truth as it is both
is perfect and divinely inspired; the second view reductionist and holistic.
is that ayurvedic medical knowledge has devel-
oped out of ritualistic healing into an empirical Taking the first paradigm, while there is nothing
medicine system that is grounded in clinical expe- inherently wrong with the claim of eternal divine
rience. origins, there are some potential problems with
this perspective. It could potentially stifle new
The introductory verses of ayurvedic texts reflect ideas within Ayurveda as, in order to gain valid-
the perspective that Ayurveda is an eternal reve- ity, there is a tendency for clinical experience to
lation. They all start with a mythological account be referenced back to a divine eternal source.
of the gods passing ayurvedic knowledge down Humble that this approach is, new ideas are not
to humans. This divine stamp is a well-known easily propagated. There is an element of this
Indian method of authenticating a text and mak- attitude displayed by the core theoretical ground
ing it orthodox (Wujastyk 2003). It is a way of of Ayurveda, having remained very similar over
bringing formerly untraditional and perhaps the last 2000 years. The relative lack of modern
unaccepted ideas into mainstream culture. Much innovative ayurvedic literature generating
of the secondary and modern ayurvedic literature improved methods of treatment, in comparison
also implies a consistent tradition that is divinely to Chinese and Western herbal medicine, is per-
inspired and eternal (see, for example, Frawley’s haps partially a result of this. It may be that the
and Svoboda’s insightful books on Ayurveda). inherent theories of Ayurveda are already com-
But, as you untangle the web of influences that plete, but effective clinical insights are always of
have affected Ayurveda, the evidence clearly benefit as new diseases and cultural habits arise.
reveals an expanding tradition that has accumula- The insistence on divine origins has stagnated
ted knowledge over time and through experience. this process of valuing both clinical experience
This latter organic perspective, first introduced by and theory.
Jan Meulenbeld (‘Reflections on the basic con-
cepts of Indian pharmacology’; see Meulenbeld It is not therefore surprising that as Ayurveda has
1987), holds that Ayurveda is a science of unfold- been under continual threat from certain Moghul,
ing truth and as a path of discovery it has not and British and, currently, allopathic forces in the last
will not remain static. These developments are 400 years, it has in some quarters been necessary
not necessarily mutually exclusive, but it is useful to fall back on its ancient roots in order to vali-
to understand the roots of different ayurvedic date and justify its presence. This has protected
traits. but also weakened Ayurveda. Its strength is really
in its present clinical excellence and the ayurvedic
The concept of a timeless tradition has great community should be harnessing powerful social
appeal, for the insights of Ayurveda are incredible forces and speaking with confidence about its
and they do appear to be divinely inspired. How ability to help our society. However, this is made
else have we learnt about the properties of so difficult when Ayurveda is presently only
many herbs and minerals? How was it discovered, recognised as an adjunctive medical system,
4
where ayurvedic doctors can only hold the posi- Holding onto the primacy of either of these two
Part ONE
tion of a third medical officer at primary health paradigms means that the complete picture is
centres in India, and complementary medicine the missed. As we shall see, Ayurveda can offer a bal-
world over holds a similarly lowly position in the ance to these extremes as it contains both para-
medical hierarchy. As a literature base of over digms within it.
2000 years, hundreds of thousands of expert phy-
sicians, millions of healed patients and numerous I think this inner debate between tradition and
positive clinical trials attest, ayurvedic treatment progression is mirrored in our everyday lives and
works and practitioners and professional registers specifically experienced when using natural medi-
should promote this, researchers should publish cine. The question is how to respect tradition while
clinical data and governments should support it integrating personal experience. Internally it is a
enthusiastically. Although Ayurveda has its roots case of communication between heart and head
in the past, its practitioners must embrace the where intuition and intellect are both valid. As we
present. Ayurveda and ayurvedic physicians shall see, intuition and intellect are both essential
deserve greater recognition than they receive for medicine to be, as Ayurveda is, truly holistic.
today.
5
Chapter 1 A HISTORY OF AYURVEDA AND THE GROWTH OF THE MATERIA MEDICA
performance was as central to maintaining health as It was out of such a cultural context that Ayurveda
eating enough food; both were needed to live and developed. Here was a fast-changing society that
flourish. To treat disease, herbs and potions were was exploring its ideals of religion, royalty, leader-
used alongside the incantations of the priests. In ship, law, medicine and family. Philosophical
fact the priests were both doctors and religious spe- insight expanded as agrarian culture flourished.
cialists. Disease spread fast in these warm and This is now known as the Vedic period (c.1500–
humid climes. Fear of illness and of the death of 500BCE) (Jamieson & Witzel 1992).
loved ones was an everyday reality. According to
their belief system disease could be imposed from The orthodox and heterodox traditions
the spiritual world, from an accident, or from the With hindsight we can see that an orthodox reli-
natural world. Here is the world in which the eter- gious tradition (astika darśana) and a heterodox
nal tradition and the empirical experience of every- religious tradition (nastika darśana) developed out
day life could meet and intermingle. of this milieu. In Indological terms ‘orthodox’
means adhering to the Vedas and ‘heterodox’
6
means not following the Vedas (e.g. Buddhism). An example of these two patterns and how they
Part ONE
The Vedas, including the Rg, Yajur, Sama and were connected can be found in an ancient Vedic
Atharva Vedas, are the receptacles of traditional prayer. It includes both the ritual and the experien-
wisdom whose oral tradition goes back at least tial approach where the priest-doctor is praying to
4000 years. They codify ritual hymns, sacrificial the plant and the disease:
rules, poetic metres and medical incantations. As
we will see, Indian medicine faced many chal- ‘He through whom you plants creep limb by limb,
lenges to become a part of the orthodox culture. joint by joint, you banish disease from him like a
huge man coming between fighters. Fly away dis-
Vedic medicine and the origins of Ayurveda ease along with the blue jay; disappear with the
It is very difficult to place the exact origins of howl of the wind, with the rain storm.’ R.g Veda
Ayurveda. Our first meeting with Ayurveda 10.97 (Trans. Wendy Doniger O’Flaherty)
proper in a fully coherent and documented format
is in the texts of Caraka, Suśruta and Bhela (150BCE– Here the invocator is both priest and doctor. Both
500CE). These texts were clearly codified long after the prayer and plant seem to play the same heal-
Ayurveda was fully established and was thriving ing role.
as an oral tradition. An earlier text is known to
have been compiled by Agniveśa, the Agniveśa Imagine the priest-doctor standing by the side of a
Samhita-, but it no longer exists, although the Caraka patient racked with fever. The room is full of the
Samhita- is said to be a revised edition of this work. heady smell of incense. The priest-doctor is chant-
There are of course medical facts found in earlier ing and praying. The smells and sounds waft
texts, but they are not classical Ayurveda with dosa, towards the delirious patient. The priest-doctor’s
dhatu and mala at the heart of their teaching. incantation is directed at the healing of the bed-
ridden patient. He is also preparing a medicinal
Prior to this codification of Ayurveda as a com- brew of special herbs that are empirically known
plete medical system it seems as though two pat- to cure fever. While feeding the infusion to the
terns emerged as Indian medicine developed. One patient he is also praying to the gods that the
represented the worship of and subordination to herbs cure the patient. This is ritual medicine;
the supernatural forces, while the other pattern prayer, invocation, sound, smell and intention. It is
was the development of ideas based purely on intermingled with the empirical human-based
empirical experience. Two concurrent and inter- medicine as well as specific disease-based herbal
linked medical traditions appeared from within knowledge.
the Vedic literature:
Medicine falls out of favour with the orthodox
Q The orthodox Vedic tradition, full of elaborate
This harmony was short lived and the role of the
religious rituals dedicated to the powerful
priest as doctor changed. At some time after the
nature divinities: Surya, the sun god, Agni, the
Atharva Vedic period (c.1000BCE), medical practice
lord of fire, Indra, the lord of heaven and thun-
fell out with religious ritual practice. As the medi-
derstorms. This was the ritual tradition where
cal experience and perhaps the clinical results of
the gods were appeased through prayer, chant-
the physician started to supersede the authority of
ing, amulets and ritual offerings. These were
the priest, the priest became superfluous to the
also the healing tools used to treat disease.
healing rite as it then was. The so-called
Q The heterodox tradition that was outside this
priest-doctor occupation divided into two roles of
ritual fold and was based on the direct experi-
priest and doctor. Society’s dependence on the
ence of medical physicians where herbs, miner-
priests for maintaining the cosmic and social
als and surgery were the healing tools.
well-being guaranteed their position at the top of
These patterns, like two rivers running through the the social ladder. The doctors’ ideas and methods
same Vedic land, later converged to form were pushed away from the centre to the outside.
Ayurveda. There was an evident paradigm shift from reli-
gious supernatural medicine being the modus oper-
andi to a scientific observation-based practice
7
being the primary medical model. There were especially through knowledge of nature and the
Chapter 1 A HISTORY OF AYURVEDA AND THE GROWTH OF THE MATERIA MEDICA
social and cultural reasons for this as well as self. This had a profound influence on develop-
empirical. ments within Ayurveda by establishing its growth
in the bed of empiricism and its acceptance by the
It must be remembered that Indian society was orthodox. It is at about this time that Ayurveda as
strictly class based, dependent on a caste system a complete medical system became codified.
with a clear division of labour and with rank deter-
mined by birth. It was a society governed by a sys- Empirical medicine
tem of ritual purity that was loosely governed by Much of the evidence from this time points to the
physical contact with people, wastes, food and fact that the empirical-based medical science of
water. Any transgression of the rules caused pollu- Ayurveda and the Indian ascetical tradition both
tion and led to a state of ritual impurity; a state that grew up outside the orthodox religious hierarchy.
excluded the transgressor from experiencing Vedic Beyond the confines of ritual and convention, phy-
healing rites and authority. As the higher priestly sicians explored the energetics of the natural
caste sought to enforce their identity as the holders world; the taste (rasa), energy (virya) and the spe-
of ritual power and this ritual purity became a more cific action (prabhava) of plants and minerals.
rigid definition of caste hierarchy it started to cause Meanwhile, the ascetics explored the inner realms
problems for the medical profession. of consciousness; the layers of the mind (buddhi,
manas, citta), energy centres (cakra) and supernatu-
Because of the requirements of their job, physi- ral powers (siddhi). These two traditions met in the
cians touched people from any caste, performed heterodox realm as they were united by their sepa-
surgery and came into contact with bodily fluids. ration from the mainstream culture. It seems evi-
The higher castes started to consider them to be dent that early ascetics used plant medicine and
extremely polluted. Physicians were finally possibly were among some of the pioneers of
excluded from the soma sacrifice (an essential reli- Ayurveda. There is some evidence for this;
gious rite) and not recognised in the social hierar- Brahmajalasuttanta of the Dighanikaya 1.1.27 and
chy (Taittiriya Sam -
. hita 6.4.9.1–2). The Manu Smrti, a 1.12 confirms that the śramanas (wandering mendi-
text codifying Hindu custom, was positively cants) used various medical techniques to earn a
aggressive in its exclusion of the physician from livelihood. A Greek writer, Strabo (c.64BCE–21CE), in
the sacrifices and asserted that food accepted from his Geography, refers to Megasthenes’ comments
a physician was like ‘pus and blood’ (Manu Smrti that these śramanas were known as physicians (see
3.108,152; 4.212,220). Physicians were out of favour Zysk’s works on Indian medicine). Later, these
and out of the orthodox fold. They were still doc- new developments were absorbed into mainstream
tors but, at this point, not included within the cen- culture as ayurvedic physicians and ascetic yogis
tral social hierarchy. became accepted by the orthodox traditions. The
Sanskritisation of early hathayoga texts, i.e.
Around this time (1000–600BCE) the Vedic religion Goraksaśataka (c.1300CE), is a good example of this.
moved into a further period of transformation as
the authority of the priests was called into ques- Despite being heavily influenced by Buddhism,
tion. The growth in the influence of the wandering Ayurveda’s primary reference point for the last
ascetic (parivrajaka) tradition, the Upanishadic 2500 years has been Hinduism (Zysk 1991). The
awareness of the possibility of liberation from the two have evolved within the same cultural frame-
perpetual cycles of birth and rebirth, and a grow- work. To summarise the Hindu worldview, ortho-
ing disillusionment with the excessively elaborate dox Hindu culture perceives reality as an existence
Vedic ritual sacrifices led to branches of knowledge in which the nature of the self (atman) is obscured
splintering from Vedic practice. These movements by a veil of ignorance (avidya). Individuals are des-
resulted in the growth of Jainism, Buddhism and tined to play out the effects of their karma in a per-
Hinduism. These were dynamic and progressive petual cycle of rebirths. Karma, the causal
traditions not content to rest on the conventions relationship that affects every action, has a reac-
of the past. They sought explanations about life tion; the results of previous actions determine our
and the universe through direct experience, and present condition and, in effect, ‘trap’ the self in
8
this physical world. This is seen as pure suffering. Indian philosophy is the theory of duality pro-
Part ONE
But, ‘from torment by three-fold misery (endoge- pounded through the Upanisads and Vedanta phi-
nous, exogenous and supernatural) arises the losophy. What we perceive as reality is really just
inquiry into the means of terminating it’ (Samkhya an illusion or maya. We experience reality as sepa-
Karika 1.1; see Radhakrishnan & Moore 1957). rate from ourselves and it is our ego nature that
From this developed the purpose of finding a way causes this duality. This representation of duality is
out of this misery. In order to fulfil this purpose of seen in the mythology of Śiva and Śakti, the two
life, to be liberated from ensnarement, the ortho- poles of masculine and feminine energy that
dox Hindu must pursue the four ends of life; these together hold all the opposites of life together. Our
are wealth (artha), sensual fulfilment (kama), reli- self-identity fragments this unconditional unity of
gious observances (dharma) and liberation (moksa). Brahman into segmented parts. Hence we feel sepa-
To ensure that these ends can be achieved rate from the whole and as a result lead a life in
Ayurveda embraces the health (arogya) of the body self-perpetuating ignorance that results in us
as its main aim. accruing numerous karmic bonds that tie us to
endless lives of rebirth in the wheel of life, known
Ayurveda is absorbed by the orthodox culture as samsara. Taking steps to alter this worldview
What is now known as Ayurveda is the blending and ‘unify’ our individual consciousness with the
of a tradition that has contained elements of purely universal consciousness is the goal of all Indian
ritual medicine as well as empirical practice. philosophical systems. They offer the path to
Ayurveda becomes Ayurveda ‘proper’ through its enlightenment and the means to get there.
association with the respected philosophical sys-
tems of Nyaya-Vaiśesika, Samkhya-Yoga and to a This experience of indivisible unity is meditated
lesser extent with Vedanta-Mimamsa. The Nyaya- on as ‘tat tvam asi’, meaning ‘that art thou’. It can-
Vaiśesika philosophy is concerned with perspec- not be described as it is ‘neti, neti’ or ‘not this, not
tives of logic and analysis, Samkhya is an that’.
ontological system that deals with the metaphysi-
cal nature of being, Yoga deals with the soteriologi- The Īśa Upanisad says:
cal methods to attain liberation, Mimamsa deals
‘It moves, It moves not,
with the knowledge of Vedic rituals and Vedanta
It is far and It is near.
deals with the esoteric nature of reality and its
It is within all this,
expression as an experience of both unity and
And It is outside all of this.’
duality or what is known as ‘non-dual’.
The result is a tension between the individual
Ayurveda has the classical philosophies of Indian experience and the ritual experience, between indi-
culture at the root of its principles. These philoso- vidual consciousness and social hierarchy. The
phies infuse Ayurveda with a solid theoretical journey through Indian philosophical literature
structure that shape its practical framework; the mirrors our own journey through our perception
ideas behind the development of matter (prakrti), of our experiences; a deep search for truth, peace
the formation of the five elements (pañcamahabhuta), of mind and undivided bliss.
how consciousness (purusa) pervades reality and
the various methods of gaining knowledge (pra-
mana), so essential to diagnosis, are all found in the THE STRUGGLE BETWEEN TRADITION AND INNOVATION IN
Indian philosophical tradition (sat darśana). In fact AYURVEDA
Ayurveda is an embodiment of these philosophies; This tension that occurred in a broad sense within
it makes the theory real. Its codification in Sanskrit Indian culture also occurred in the development of
in the Caraka and Suśruta Samhitas confirms its Ayurveda as a whole. This is shown in the earliest
absorption by conventional tradition. extant sources of ayurvedic theory and practice,
.
the Caraka Samhita, Suśruta Samhita and Astangahr-
The philosophical view of Ayurveda is infused daya Samhita. Their content clearly displays the
with this culture of attempting to understand reality. continual efforts to assimilate empirical experience
Poignant throughout later and more classical within the divinely revealed Vedic tradition. This
9
creates theoretical tension as well as confusion This is the difficulty in determining the meaning of
Chapter 1 A HISTORY OF AYURVEDA AND THE GROWTH OF THE MATERIA MEDICA
over some ayurvedic principles. the texts: on one hand they are divinely-inspired
knowledge and on the other they are evolving
For example, the Caraka Samhita starts with human debates that are seeking to unravel the
revered salutations to the divine propounders nature of nature and develop a medical system
of Ayurveda, Lord Brahma, the Aśvins and Lord that is accurate and effective. What emerges later is
Indra. The tradition says that when Brahma awoke a collective opinion drawn together by commenta-
to create the universe he also generated the wis- tors and practitioners.
dom that is Ayurveda. He passed this onto Lord
Daksa-Prajapati (the protector) who then taught it
to the Aśvin twins (the physicians to the gods) AYURVEDA AND YOGA
who taught it to Lord Indra (the lord of the uni- The development of Ayurveda continued alongside
verse). When human suffering had become so the growth of the mystical tantric and yogic tradi-
unbearable Lord Indra met with the great tions, each fulfilling their different roles. While
Himalayan sages and through his student Ayurveda concentrated on the ‘health’ of the body,
Bharadvaja passed this knowledge onto these Yoga was mindful of the state of ‘consciousness’
enlightened beings. Hence the great student and tantra with the deification and immortality of
Agniveśa came to study Ayurveda, under Ātreya, the body. Yoga is a tradition of mental and spiritual
and eventually to compile this wisdom in the refinement; the art of joining the individual-self
now lost Agniveśa Samhita that is said to be con- (atman) with the universal-self (Brahman). It rejects
tained in the Caraka Samhita. This marks the first three goals of Hinduism (wealth, sensual
Ayurveda’s claim to divine origins and its connec- pleasure, and religious duties) in preference of
tion to an eternal tradition for, as we seeking the ultimate goal of life, spiritual emanci-
know, all Indian traditions that have sought pation (moksa).
recognition by the orthodox have invoked the
authority of the Vedic deities as an expression As with many Indian traditions, philosophical
of their allegiance. differences were often overcome by a broadening
of perspective on either side. Hathayoga, growing
But as you compare the Caraka Samhita with the out of the tantric yogic tradition, seems to have
other texts, clear inconsistencies in this premise adopted many ayurvedic principles, notably
arise. Divergent theoretical opinions appear, thus the ‘purification’ of the body. The Hathayoga-
disqualifying this attempt to seek an eternal and pradipika is full of references to the dosa and
divine foundation. For example, Caraka and techniques to remove phlegm, bile or the winds
Suśruta (Caraka Samhita Sutrasthana 26.57–58, (Box 1.2). With hathayoga becoming filled with
Suśruta Samhita Sutrasthana 50.10–12) differ in their ayurvedic practices and Ayurveda adopting
opinions of the post-digestive effect of the flavours yogic attitudes, the two traditions connected. The
(see Chapter 3 on Ayurvedic Pharmacology); body became a priority in order to attain the goals
Suśruta only lists sweet and pungent as the fla- of liberation and health. Yoga, after centuries of
vours that remain after the process of digestion interest in the mind and self, became fascinated
whereas Caraka also includes sour. There were also with the body. Hathayoga adopted an ayurvedic
differences in the understanding of human physi- language, as well as similar practices, to facilitate
ology; were there three or four humours (dosa)? Is this new focus on the body. There is a very close
blood a dosa or not? (Meulenbeld 1992). Another similarity, in activity and intention, between the
example is the discussion over the energetic nature cleansing practices of the yogic satkarma and the
(virya) of herbs; are there two primary energetic purification of ayurvedic pañcakarma. This
classifications of herbs or eight? Is it just hot and movement from yogic spiritual practice to
cold or hot–cold, unctuous–dry, heavy–light and physical purification of the body has been termed,
soft–sharp? The texts seem to differ (Caraka Samhita significantly, ‘corporealisation’ (Mallinson 2002).
26.64–65; AstanÜ gahrdaya Samhita 9.12–13 from The body, as it became the terrain of spiritual
Meulenbeld 1987). experience, became the focus of spiritual
interest.
10
MODERN TIMES
Part ONE
Box 1.2 Hat. hayogapradı-pika-
Modern-day Ayurveda, as practised in India today,
The Hat.hayogaprad-I pika- is a seminal work on hat.ha-
is based on a resurgence that occurred around the
yoga that represents the contemporary approach
17th century. One cause of this may be the
to spiritual liberation using physical, breath and
increased competition that Ayurveda faced by the
meditative techniques.
coming of the Moghuls and the rise in use of
‘He in whom fat and phlegm are predominant Unani medicine. Another may be the new energy
should perform the six cleansing practices before in Ayurveda from the synthesis that occurred
pra-n.a-ya-ma. Because their dos as are in equilibrium between Ayurveda and yogic-tantric thought. Two
˙ fundamental new techniques that arose from this
other aspirants need not practise them.’
Hathayogaprad-I pika- 2.21 synthesis were the introduction of pulse diagnosis
˙
and the use of new mineral remedies. They are
‘Nauli is the foremost hat.hayogic technique. It
both central to the practice of contemporary
kindles a sluggish digestive fire, it strengthens the
Ayurveda. Pulse-taking seems to have arisen from
digestive and other functions, it produces bliss and
the Shaiva yogic tradition that thrived in South
it cures all imbalances of the dosas.’
India under the guidance of the Tamil Siddhas. It
Hat.hayogaprad-I pika- 2.34
˙
later arose in North India, with such works as the
Śarngadhara Samhita, Nadivijñana and Nadicakra
11
Chapter 1 A HISTORY OF AYURVEDA AND THE GROWTH OF THE MATERIA MEDICA
THE PRIMARY AYURVEDIC TEXTS AND TREATISES ON One of the difficulties facing ayurvedic pharmacol-
MEDICINAL SUBSTANCES (DRAVYAGUN AŚĀSTRA)
•
ogy today is the botanical identities of many of the
Sanskrit-named plants. Many are lost to history.
The central works of Ayurveda, The Great Triad
The translation of their Sanskrit name gives a tanta-
(brhat trayi), are the Caraka Samhita, Suśruta Samhita
lising indication of their potential. For example,
and AstanÜ gahrdaya Samhita; The Lesser Triad (laghu
jivaka, ‘the life giver’, still remains unidentified.
trayi) are the Madhava Nidana, Śarngadhara Samhita
12
meats, cow products, flowers, salts, oils, alcohols, For example, ‘when there is no mention of the part
Part ONE
sugarcanes, sources of water and urine. of the plant to be used, the root is to be used’.
There are some wonderful descriptions of how to
In the Caraka Samhita herbs are classified into 50 identify herbs, how to collect the fresh plants and
groups (varga) of 10 according to their primary what the ideal growing conditions are. Specific
actions (Caraka Samhita Sutrasthana 4). For example, pointers to quality are mentioned; ‘haritaki
herbs that are jivaniya or life-giving include the (Terminalia chebula) which has a small seed inside,
well-known licorice or madhuka (Glycyrrhiza glabra) more fruit and which sinks in water is considered
and the group that is brmhaniya or strength-promot- the best form for all purposes’. It includes a very
ing includes Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera). useful section on replacing an unobtainable herb
with: ‘In the absence of tagara (Valeriana wallichi)
Suśruta has also classified herbs according to kushtha (Saussurea lappa) should be used by the
groups with specific actions (Suśruta Samhita wise physician.’ The text is also full of invaluable
Sutrasthana 38,39). But instead of being titled with insights into the nature of the tastes, gunas and
a specific action they are named after the most rep- pharmacological properties of the herbs. There are
resentative herb. For example, the pippalyadi varga 24 groups of herbs and minerals listed in the
(meaning ‘the pippali, etc. group’) describes the Bhavaprakaśa and it is actually very systematic as
group of herbs that have a similar action to pippali only the herbs that should be in each group are
or long pepper (Piper longum). This is a digestive, actually listed (not always the case in other phar-
warming, carminative group of herbs that also macopoeias!). For example, only flowers are found
includes black pepper, cardamom, asafoetida and in the flower group (puspavarga) and only aromat-
calamus. Interestingly, there are also groups of ics are in the camphor group (karpuradivarga). It is
herbs classed together because of their cleansing a must for any serious student of Ayurveda.
(śodhana) effects: emetics, purgatives and vata paci-
fying herbs. Sanskrit plant names are sometimes used generi-
cally to cover various botanical species. While the
The Astangahrdaya Samhita also looks at groups of Latin nomenclature that I have used in this book to
foods and herbs. For example, it mentions five define the equivalent for the Sanskrit name is
types of liquids: water, milks, oils, sugarcanes and based on the works of numerous scholars, com-
alcoholic drinks. The Astangahrdaya Samhita follows mon clinical practice and accepted norms, it cannot
the herbal classification of Suśruta by grouping the represent hard and fast scientific certainty. The
substances according to specific actions. development of the ayurvedic pharmacopoeia is a
work in progress that will continue for many years
Later texts consolidated this trend of classifying to come.
groups of herbs based on their action. Again the
group title is usually named after the herb that is And so we can clearly see that Ayurveda has
renowned for that group’s primary action. The grown out of a dynamic tradition that has sur-
Dhanvantari Nighantu (c.500CE) lists the first group vived and thrived in the face of much intervention,
as guducyadi varga or the ‘Tinospora cordifolia, etc. influence and change. As a medical tradition exist-
group’. All the herbs in the group have the dual ing in Indian culture it has faced a complex task:
action of removing the aggravated dosa from the that of fitting into the orthodox fold while also
body as well as rejuvenating the system, just as remaining true to its holistic aspirations and prior-
guduci removes pitta as well as rejuvenating the itising its ultimate goal of the health of the patient.
blood and reproductive fluids. These requirements were not always compatible
but Ayurveda has managed to grow organically
The Bhavaprakaśa is the most commonly used into the respected position that it holds today.
materia medica today. Written by Bhavamiśra around Ayurveda is now experiencing a worldwide
the 16th century it is a compilation of many earlier revival and it faces many challenges as it blends
texts. The Bhavaprakaśa lays out the rules and with the legal, social and climatic conditions of dif-
guidelines for collecting herbal materials and ferent cultures. Ayurveda’s main challenge is
understanding the language of the pharmacopoeia. whether it can thrive as a global medical system.
13
References Wujastyk D 2003 The history of Ayurveda in the
Chapter 1 A HISTORY OF AYURVEDA AND THE GROWTH OF THE MATERIA MEDICA
14
Chapter 2
According to Ayurveda all matter is constituted of the five elements (pan~camaha-bhu-ta). Some parts of
matter are animate and others are inanimate.
Caraka Samhita- Su-trastha-na 26.10
˙
It is the opinion of the wise that if an action produces a bad result, now or later, one should not perform it.
Caraka Samhita- Vimānasthāna 3.45
˙
This chapter is an introduction to the fundamental Q Anatomy (śar×-raracana)
principles of Ayurveda. It will cover the unique Q The digestive fire (agni)
theories that give a foundation to the practice of Q Toxins (ama)
Ayurveda, ranging from ayurvedic cosmology and Q The ayurvedic mind (manas prakrti)
evolution theory to anatomy, physiology and the Q Seasonal routines
ayurvedic mind, and to an understanding of the Q Disease aetiology (roga karana)
cause and progression of disease. Q Pathology (samprapti)
15
out of a state of primordial stillness when Samkhya means ‘enumeration’. This refers to the
Chapter 2 THE BASIC PRINCIPLES OF AYURVEDA
Prakrti
Manifest Nature
Creative expression
16
matter (prakrti) co-exist; existing in a state of per- a single purpose, like that of a lamp’. That they
Part ONE
fect equilibrium, they represent the original state possess contradictory properties does not give any
of balance. Purusa is the state of passive aware- one quality priority over another. They come
ness, the saksin, the silent observer. Referred to as together for the single purpose of liberation
a masculine energy, it is formless, colourless, (moksa), the ultimate goal of all darśana(s) and con-
odourless and without discernable qualities. In scious existence. They are one force, with different
line with the Indian Upanisadic approach to aspects unfolding to be mutually ‘supportive’,
describing reality it is defined through the nega- ‘productive’, and ‘subjugative.’ They help each
tive of ‘neti, neti’; ‘not this, not that’. Prakrti in the other and keep each other in check. They are
avyakta state is the unmanifested seed that holds accountable to each other; maintaining, encourag-
the potential for all of phenomenal creation. ing, or restraining. Their varied proportions
Prakrti can be translated as ‘first action’; that force explain the variety in nature.
that contains both the spark and expression of
creation. Referred to as a feminine quality she has The disturbance of the primal balance between
form, colour and the attributes of experience. purusa and prakrti, which releases the patterns
More than this, prakrti refers to the capacity for of the guna, is a conceptual pattern. The Samkhya-
experience. This points to an active consciousness karika describes the process: ‘For the perception
that has choice, direction and will. She is both the of nature by the spirit and for the isolation
generator and the generated. [kaivalya, concomitant with moksa] of the spirit,
there is union of both. From this union proceeds
evolution’. The analogy of the seer (purusa)
THE UNIVERSAL CONSTITUENTS: GUN. A guiding the active blind (prakrti) is used. From
All experience is based on this duality between this catalyst of seeking ‘enjoyment’ and ‘isolation’
the conscious subject and the active evolutes of comes the seed of all philosophical and mystical
nature. Consciousness needs something to be con- work and debate: ‘Who am I?’; ‘What am I doing
scious of and matter needs to be experienced. here?’, ‘What is matter and what is spirit?’. This
Prakrti is held together in a balanced state of ten- ‘union’ of purusa and prakrti causes the confusion
sion by three universal constituents (guna). These or avidya of our true nature. We think that we
three aspects combine in variable proportions to are the observable and not the observer. This
create manifest phenomena. They are the causal quandary inspires all soteriologies in Indian
form of nature. They are present in every expres- culture.
sion of prakrti, be it subtle or gross; if it is ‘observ-
able’ it contains the guna. Sattva refers to qualities The evolution of consciousness
of balance, equality, and stability. It is light (laghu) The imaginative power of rajas and the elements of
and luminous (prakaśika) and holds the capacity desire (raga) that this stimulates play a role in the
for happiness. It is conscious and intelligent, mov- initial germ of creation. The first evolute from
ing inwards and upwards. Rajas generates activity, prakrti is called mahat. This is universal intelli-
change, and disturbance. It is mobile (cala) and gence. It is differentiated into buddhi as individual
excitable (upastambhaka). It is the motivator and consciousness. This intellect is determinative and
expressor. It has a centrifugal force causing disper- discriminatory. Because of its close proximity to
sion and disintegration. This movement away purusa in the evolutionary hierarchy buddhi is sen-
from the centre causes pain. Tamas is the immo- tient. Through this faculty we can discriminate
bile, still, and stuck quality. It is heavy (guru) and between eternal and transient, real and unreal. In a
causes obstruction or lack of perception (varana). It state of sattva it is virtuous, wise, detached and
moves down and is responsible for degeneration. powerful. In a state of tamas it holds to the oppo-
Through the force of tamas there is delusion and site of these properties. Here the gunas show how
confusion. the multiple variety in life manifests; sometimes
‘light’ and at others ‘dark’.
Tamas has a bad reputation for being a negative,
downward-bearing energy. To perceive it nega- As nature differentiates further it creates ahamkara,
tively is to misinterpret its role. The gunas exist ‘for the ‘I-maker’. This is individualised awareness
17
that operates as a process whereby the ahamkara Manas, the mind, is both expressive and receptive.
Chapter 2 THE BASIC PRINCIPLES OF AYURVEDA
‘owns’ different aspects of evolution as its own. It It observes, perceives and projects. It is a condi-
identifies with these aspects. We use the ‘I’ in lan- tioned mind dependent on the particular modali-
guage to refer to an individual identity that exists ties of ahamkara. The influence of the mind
in its own right. This linguistic misnomer creates comprehends and directs the organs of sense and
an intellectual and experiential inaccuracy as we action.
identify with the ‘I’ and not the source. Ahamkara
is a process necessary for the individuation that The tamasic aspect of ahamkara, propelled by the
takes place in nature’s evolution. The fault of dynamism of rajas, generates the tanmatras, the
ignorance (avidya) arises on association of aham- seed elements. They are the ‘primal measure’
kara as a ‘real’ and ‘separate’ entity. The (tat-matra) and are the causal root energies that
‘I-ness’ that perceives us as independent from hold the potential of all sensory and elemental
consciousness and not interdependent is the aham- manifestation. Śabda is sound, sparśa is touch, rupa
kara. Through this individuation the guna, as dif- is form, rasa is taste and gandha is smell. That is,
ferent aspects of nature, diversify and manifest śabda is the proto-element containing the experi-
with their own ego-identity. ence and expression known as sound. They define
the pentagal structure of the universe having five
The material world main constructive elements. Under a process
From the sattvic and rajasic aspect of ahamkara known as pañcikarana, or quintuplication, a tanma-
evolve ‘the set of eleven’ senses (indriya): the five tra transforms the causal pañcatattvas (‘that-ness’ or
sense faculties (jñanendriya), the five organs of element) into its gross and manifest form (pañcama-
action (karmendriya), and the mind (manas). The habhutas). The tattvas first exist in the sphere of
jñanendriya are the potential for experience of consciousness (mahat). They manifest as an expres-
nature. We experience the manifest world through sion of universal intelligence that has become dif-
the senses. They are receptive and receive the flow ferentiated and individuated as they pass through
of prakrti in her multiple forms. They operate on a the filter of ahamkara.
subtle and gross level; the ears perceive sound
moving in space, the skin perceives touch carried Each element (bhuta) contains a certain collection
by air, the eyes see light generated by fire, the of atoms (paramanu). They become more dense as
tongue carries taste that manifests through water they evolve through the different states of matter;
and the nose observes smells exuding from earth. ethereal to gaseous to thermal to fluid to solid.
Through these senses we know about the world; Each state of matter contains a special attribute
hearing, feeling, seeing, tasting and smelling it. (viśesa guna), which is a seed element (tanmatra).
They are the interface between the inner and outer Ethereal akaśa has śabda sound, gaseous vayu
world. For the physician they are the tools of has sparśa touch, thermogenic tejas has rupa form,
diagnosis. fluid ap has rasa taste and solid prthivi has gandha
smell. These tanmatra combine in specific configu-
The karmendriyas allow for certain actions which rations resulting in the gross elemental atoms
direct certain experiences. They are pure expres- (bhuta paramanu). This theory combines some
sion and allow the manifestation of ideas. The Vedantic thought. Essentially a Vedantic bhuta
mouth is responsible for expression that is carried (subtle element) relates to a Samkhyan tanmatra
by ether and sound. The hands are instruments of (proto-element).
grasping, utilising air and touch. The feet allow for
motion, requiring the dynamics of heat and direc- This diversity is a variation in density. Ether
tion of sight. The reproductive organs are the (akaśa) is the source element, growing out of mind.
potential for reproduction held in water and taste. They both have an expansive and limitless quality.
The anus allows for the expression of elimination Ether is the arena of activity allowing for interac-
relating to earth and smell. How we perform these tion and connection between all phenomena. It is
expressive actions is a product of ahamkara, but the expansive, light, clear, subtle, infinite and all-en-
inherent quality necessary for their manifestation compassing. It transforms into air (vayu) through
is everywhere in prakrti. motion. Air is like the wind, light, subtle, clear,
18
mobile, rough, dry, gives direction and potential for by chemical intervention. The pañcamahabhutas are
Part ONE
change. The continual movement causes friction more closely associated with ‘states’ of matter as
that creates fire (tejas). Fire is hot, sharp, penetrat- opposed to their reducible molecular elements.
ing, fluid, luminous, ascending and dispersing. It
allows for perception and warmth. It creates con-
Box 2.1 The pañcamahābhūta
densation that collects to form water (ap). Water is
the moisture necessary for life. It is fluid, heavy, ĀKĀŚA – SPACE/ETHER: the principle of all
wet, soft, cool and cohesive. It coagulates to form pervasiveness
earth (prthivi). Earth is solid and stable. It has Quality: expansive, light, subtle, clear, infinite and
resistance, is thick, heavy, dense, hard and still. all-encompassing space.
Each element contains a part of the other elements Relates to the sense of sound and the ear. It is the
within itself. arena within which ‘life’ takes place. Sound travels
through space.
Ayurveda develops the 24 tattvas of Samkhya to VĀYU – AIR: the principle of motion
create a framework for understanding the flow of Quality: like the wind, light, mobile, clear, rough, dry
vitality (rajas as prana) in the body and universe. and erratic.
It explains the anatomy of dhatus (tissues) and Relates to the sense of touch, the nerves and the skin.
srotamsi (channels) and the physiology of constitu- Sensation travels through the skin and nerves just as
tion (prakrti) through a humoral (dosa) scheme you can feel the wind on your skin.
derived from combinations of the elements.
TEJAS – FIRE: the principle of illumination
Samkhya is a scientific philosophy directed at Quality: hot, sharp, fluid, penetrating, luminous, light
explaining the human predicament of suffering, ascending and dispersing.
the evolution of consciousness and nature, as well Relates to the sense of sight and the eyes. Light and
as being a soteriology, seeking a path to liberation perception travel through the eyes due to the
from all the misidentification and misassociation metabolic activity of light-sensitive photons in the
that results in cycles of suffering. It is limited, like eyes.
any philosophy, by defining set phenomena that JALA/ĀP – WATER: the principle of stability
describe reality. It benefits from being a part of a Quality: fluid, heavy, wet, lubricating, cool, soft,
larger philosophical framework that includes other cohesive and stable.
perceptions. Ayurveda is magnified and clarified Relates to the sense of taste and the tongue. Flavours
by this larger perspective. It is given structure and tastes are only perceptible when the tongue
through the evolutionary theory of Samkhya. is wet.
As discussed above the material world is com- PR THVĪ – EARTH: the principle of stability
˙
prised of building blocks that evolve as increasing Quality: thick, dense, solid, hard, heavy and stable.
concentrations of density from the subtle to the Relates to the sense of smell and the nose. Earthy and
gross, from ether to earth. These ‘bricks’ are known dense objects give off smells.
as the ‘five great elements’ ( pañcamahabhuta) or
‘that-ness’ (tattva). They are the five primordial
elements: space/ether, air/motion, fire/heat, GUN.A: The qualities of nature
water/fluid, earth/solid (Box 2.1). The qualities of nature have a direct effect on the
physical behaviour, mental outlook and emotional
These elements combine in different proportions to balance of every individual (Box 2.2). As a broad
make up the material universe. They are relevant to example the yogic vegetarian is sattvic, the driven
Ayurveda as they form the substrate for the consti- executive is rajasic, and the slothful couch potato is
tutional humours, tissues, channels and wastes, as tamasic. I have heard it explained that a box of
well as the framework for determining tastes and matches is tamas, the striking of the match is rajas
properties of herbs and foods. They are different and the light of the flame is sattva; stillness, move-
from the periodic elements of modern chemistry that ment and light. A healthy balance of all three guna
are the irreducible components of matter, indivisible is required for a healthy existence.
19
This description of the different qualities of nature
Chapter 2 THE BASIC PRINCIPLES OF AYURVEDA
Box 2.2 Sattva, rajas and tamas gives us the language with which to understand
Sattva represents all that is illuminating, intelligent, pathology, physiology and energetic herbalism. It
creative, compassionate and pure is a vital part of this medical system that relates
Rajas represents all that is dynamic, metabolic, hot, the ‘energetic’ condition of an individual with the
restless and selfish particular remedy that is ‘qualitatively’ appropri-
Tamas represents all that is inert, still, dull, unconscious, ate for them. Simply put, a ‘cold’ and ‘wet’ disease
sluggish and ignorant gets a ‘hot’ and ‘dry’ remedy (Table 2.2).
20
TABLE 2.2 The gunas and their effects on the elements and dosas
Quality (gun.a) Element (tattva) Action (karma) Effect on dosa
˙
Hot (us.n.a) Fire Heating, digestive, moves upwards and outwards, diaphoretic (svedana) V<P K<
Light (laghu) Fire, air, space Easy to digest, reduces accumulations, reduces (laṅghana) V<P K<
Dry (ru-kśa) Earth, air Drying, astringing, dehydrating, constipating V P<K
Penetrating/sharp (tı-ks.n.a) Fire Enters deeply into the body and mind, immediate effect V P K<
Smooth (ślaks.n.a) Water Eases tension, brings together, and reduces roughness V<P K
Stable (sthira) Earth Encourages relaxation, creates sluggishness V<P<K
Soft (mr. du) Water Eases tension, increases tenderness, reduces hardness, pacifies (śamana) V<P K
Liquid/fluid (drava) Fire, water Holds together, lubricates and moistens V<P K
Subtle (su-ks.ma) Air, space Penetrates deeply into the tissues, expansive, increases awareness V P K<
Slimy (picchila) Water Heals broken bones, soothes, creates lack of clarity, plasters (lepana) V<P K
Cold (śı-ta) Water Cooling, slows digestion, contracting, moves inwards and downwards, restrains (stambhana) V P<K
Heavy (guru) Earth, water Difficult to digest, builds tissues, moves down, creates tiredness, nourishes (brmhana) V<P<K
˙˙ ˙
Greasy/unctuous (snigdha) Water Difficult to digest, lubricating, nourishing, increases love, moistening (kledana) V<P K
Dull/sluggish (manda) Earth, water Increases tissues, causes stagnation, slowness, pacifies (śamana) V<P<K
Rough (khara) Air Reduces lubrication, causes dry skin, brittle bones, increases inflexibility, scrapes (lekhana) V P<K<
Mobile (cala) Air Encourages movement and changeability, releases V P K<
Hard (kat.hin.a) Earth Difficult to digest, gives strength V P<K
Solid/dense (sa-ndra) Earth Difficult to digest, increases structural strength, mental fortitude V<P<K
Gross (sthu-la) Earth Difficult to digest, causes obstructions V<P<K
Clear (viśada) Air, space Increases clarity V P K<
21
Part ONE
Chapter 2 THE BASIC PRINCIPLES OF AYURVEDA
Figure 2.2 The three seats of the dosa: va-ta, pitta, kapha
˙
balance the dosas offer much potential for health when it is used in different situations.
and vitality, if cared for properly. ‘Constitution’ implies one’s fixed and life-long
inherited health, ‘functional principle’ implies an
The dosas are not physical entities but subtle invisible catalytic active, and ‘humour’ is often
by-products of the cosmic evolution of the five ele- used because of the European cultural familiarity
ments (pañcamahabhuta). They cannot be seen, only with the Greek humoral system of medicine.
known through inference as they manifest through ‘Humour’ comes from the Latin ‘umere’ meaning
the products of disease: phlegm, swellings, inflam- ‘moist’ and again refers to the constitutional
mation, bleeding, nervous imbalance and dry skin. make-up as well as something that can increase or
In perfect health they remain out of sight. decrease in volume as well as quality. The dosas
can have all of these tendencies, depending on the
The meaning of ‘dos a’ context.
˙ translated in many differ-
‘Dosa’ is described and
ent ways: ‘constitution’, ‘functional principle’, There are three dosas (tridosa: vata, pitta, kapha) that
‘humour’. There is no single word that accurately are discussed in detail below. The constitution is
translates the breadth of meaning implied to ‘dosa’ described in terms of the dosas.
22
Constitutional make-up means inherent nature dhatu, or a channel, becomes corrupted then it can
Part ONE
(prakrti). Each individual has a mental nature also destabilise the other dhatu and channels
(manas prakrti) as well as a physical humoral (Caraka Samhita Vimanasthana 5.1, Meulenbeld
constitution (dosa prakrti). When the humours are 1992). Hence the normally supportive dhatu can
relatively balanced the dosa prakrti brings health also become ‘faults’. The digestive fire or agni is
and support. Conversely, when there is an accu- also seen to be a source of imbalance of the dosa
.
mulation of a particular dosa (or dosas), an aggra- (Astanga Samgraha Śarirasthana 6.22). Food is also
vated state of the humours (dosa vikrti) arises. This able to corrupt the dosa and dhatu (Suśruta Samhita,
brings ill health. It is important to note that it can Sutrasthana 45.66). Thus health is not just about the
be easy to confuse vikrti with prakrti as many ‘balance’ of the dosa, it is about an overall vitality
health imbalances appear on the surface. This is and proper functioning of the dosa, dhatu, srotas,
examined further below. mala and agni.
The literal meaning of dosa is ‘fault’. This comes The dosas are also arambhakatva; able to generate
from the Sanskrit ‘dus’ meaning ‘err’ and relates disease. When the dosas are aggravated they can
to the prefix ‘dys’ (from the Greek), as in dys- be, in themselves, the beginning of disease.
functional, dysentery or dyslexia. The word dosa Interestingly, Jan Meulenbeld (1992) also points out
is commonly used to refer to the three humours that blood (rakta) can also be a causative factor in
of vata, pitta and kapha. It is also occasionally disease, as clearly seen in gout (vata rakta).
used to describe other physiological functions
such as disrupted tissues, wastes, as well as spe- The final defining characteristic of a dosa is that of
cific disorders, for example agnidosa, meaning a prakrtyarambhakatva, the ability to determine the
.
defective digestive fire (Astan ga Samgraha 6.22), constitution of a subject. A dosa determines the
amapradosa, meaning the defective toxic residue prakrti (Cakrapanidatta; Meulenbeld 1992).
(Caraka Sutrasthana 23.6), and grahanidosa, mean-
ing the disturbance of the small intestines So, when in a healthy qualitative and quantitative
(Caraka Samhita Sutrasthana 26.3; Meulenbeld condition, the dosas help manage the physiology of
1992). the psyche and body. They help to support the sys-
tem and facilitate the five elements’ assimilation
It may seem ironic that the constituents of an indi- into the body. When out of balance they become
vidual’s physiological constitution should be pathological and act as impurities in the body that
referred to as destructive ‘faults’. Yet Ayurveda damage the digestive fire, the tissues and channels.
clarifies this irony through its broad approach to
understanding the processes of the body–mind. When the dosas manifest they are actually the
result of the imperfect digestion of the higher cos-
The defining characteristics of a dosa (Box 2.3) mic forces of prana, tejas and ojas.
˙ they are
The texts define dosas as ‘faults’ because
dusanatva; they have the ability to corrupt the agni, The essences of nature: prān.a, tejas, ojas
the channels (srotas) and the tissues (dhatu) These cosmic substances are the essences of
(Astangahrdaya Samhita Sutrasthana 1.13). It is also nature. Prana is the breath behind all the vital
relevant to point out that the dosas are not the sole essence of the universe, tejas is the spark behind
causes of corruption. Caraka clearly states that if a all conscious perception and ojas is the seed
behind all nourishment and creativity. Prana
infuses the physical–mental–spiritual realms with
Box 2.3 The functions that define a dos a life, tejas gives them clarity, and ojas connects and
˙ sustains them. Ojas holds a special place in
Du-s.an.atva: to have the ability to corrupt the dha-tu
-Arambhakatva: to be able to generate disease Ayurveda as its quality and quantity have a direct
effect on the quality of life: ‘When ojas is low the
Prakr. tya-rambhakatva: to have the ability to determine
person is fearful, weak, worried, has deranged
the constitution of a subject
senses, poor complexion, weak mind, is rough
and thin’ (Caraka Samhita Sutrasthana 17.73). Its
23
beneficial qualities are seen in the lustre of the Va-ta
Chapter 2 THE BASIC PRINCIPLES OF AYURVEDA
eyes, strength of the body, resistance to disease, The vata dosa is comprised of akaśa (ether) and vayu
efficient digestion, potent fertility and lucidity of (wind). Each dosa contains aspects of all the pañca-
the mind. mahabhuta, but space and wind are predominant in
vata. Vata is the air element that is held within the
Ojas has an interdependent relationship with agni confines of ether. It shares qualities familiar to both
and tejas. Even though they have some seemingly elements. So, vata is cold, light, rough, mobile, sub-
opposite qualities agni is responsible for the correct tle, clear, dry and astringent. When vata manifests,
formation of ojas (see How herbs and nutrients these qualities are apparent. The primary site of vata
reach the tissues, below). Likewise, appropriate is the colon. It also resides in the bladder, thighs,
quality and quantity of ojas is responsible for the ears, bones and the sense of touch. The root ‘va’
generation of healthy agni. They are the perfect means ‘to spread’ and it is responsible for all move-
duality of solar vitality (agni) and lunar nurturing ment in the body; the flow of breath and blood,
(ojas) forces. Prana also plays a vital role in promot- elimination of wastes, expression of speech, it
ing ojas, and the practice of yogic pranayama and moves the diaphragm, muscles and limbs, regulates
vital breathing help to build ojas via the inherent the nervous system and it also stimulates the func-
life-force that they bring into the body. It engenders tion of the intellect. It is like a current of electricity
tranquillity, so important for the maintenance of and is responsible for regulating all electrical
ojas. When there are poor breathing habits or poor impulses in the body–mind. It is the messenger. In
air quality then ojas can be depleted. Ojas is also fact without vata the other dosas are inert. As it is
depleted by excessive alcohol, fever, ejaculation, said in the ŚarnÜ gadhara Samhita ‘pitta is lame, kapha is
orgasm (both men and women), overwork, under- lame. They go wherever the wind takes them, just
nourishment, excess sport, depression, sadness, like the clouds’ (ŚarnÜ gadhara Samhita 1.5.25). Because
irritability, anger, anxiety and stress. of this dynamic function an aggravated vata is often
involved in the movement of the other dosas around
Vata is a result of undigested prana. The weakened the body.
digestive fire cannot absorb all the potential prana
and this creates an excess of vata, hence the frenetic There are five subcategories of vata, called the five
rush of excessive vata being burnt off. Pitta is the winds (pañca vayu): Prana, Vyana, Udana, Samana,
result of undigested tejas; hence the expression of Apana (Figure 2.3).
heat and rage. Kapha is the result of undigested ojas;
hence the excessive slothfulness and stagnation that Prana vayu: This is the chief impulse. In its mac-
wallow in the system. Therefore the dosas are mani- ro-aspect, as described above, prana is the ‘life-
festations of unutilised potential (see Svoboda 1992). force’ and literally means ‘that which moves
towards’; i.e. breath, vitality, inspiration. Prana is
Ojas is the first thing to be created in the said to surf on the breath and is more than just
body of all living beings. It is ghee coloured, it oxygen, nitrogen and material gases. It is inherent
tastes like honey and smells like roasted within fresh air, fresh food, well-prepared medi-
puffed rice. cine and effective healing work. It can be directly
experienced as the tingle or warmth felt in your
Caraka Samhita- Su-trastha-na 17.74
˙ body after a good meditation, yoga session or
healing experience. It brings well-being to every
THE THREE DOS.AS: TRIDOS.A cell and promotes immunity.
While the general signs of the dosas are clinically
relevant, understanding their subdivisions adds Prana vayu’s micro-aspect as a part of the pañca
further precision to the clinician’s diagnosis. Each vayu has its chief seat in the brain and occupies the
dosa has general characteristics and then five region from the throat to the abdomen; it moves
subtypes that are a more detailed expression of inwards. It is the chief regulator of interdependent
each function. These five subtypes are a later homeostatic physiological functions:
addition, first appearing for all three dosas in the ascending–descending, inhaling–exhaling,
.
Astangahrdaya Samhita around the 6th century. assimilating–excreting and stimulating–relaxing.
24
Udana vayu: It occupies the head and throat. It is
Part ONE
responsible for controlling the tongue, speech and
moving upwards from its seat in the chest. This
upward movement regulates exhalation and the
removal of carbon dioxide wastes from the body.
It regulates belching, hiccups and communication.
It also carries memories into consciousness and
works as a partner with prana vayu to manage
memory. Problems associated with an inability to
exhale, such as emphysema, certain types of
asthma, hiccups and a croaky voice are udana vayu
problems best treated by demulcent expectorants
such as licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra) and bala (Sida
cordifolia).
25
such as gokshura (Tribulus terrestris) and haritaki hypothalamus and the balance of sadhaka pitta is
Chapter 2 THE BASIC PRINCIPLES OF AYURVEDA
(Terminalia chebula) or by using softening and lubri- often related to the balance of homeostasis in the
cating laxatives such as psyllium husk (Plantago body. Imbalances manifest as imbalanced hormone
ovata) or oily enemas. production, being excessively critical and inability
to concentrate. Use medhya herbs that nourish the
Vata is aggravated by astringent, bitter and pungent mind such as brahmi (Bacopa monniera) to cool any
flavours (as they all increase dryness), at the end of excess pitta and regulate any imbalance.
a meal, early morning and evening (‘windiest’ and
lightest times), by fear and insecurity, in early Rañjaka pitta: Occupies the liver and spleen and gives
autumn and any change in the season, at the later colour to blood by generating red blood cells from
stage of life (the driest stage), by excessive move- the bone marrow. It is responsible for the colour of
ment, by dry and cold climate, by going to bed after the body and our appreciation of the colour of life,
11pm. Dry foods, such as popcorn, aggravate vata, giving enthusiasm and vigour. Hepatitis, jaundice,
as do foods that are dry in nature such as pulses. anaemia, skin discolorations, myalgic encephalo-
myelitis, gallstones, cirrhosis and high cholesterol are
Pitta often related to a rañjaka pitta imbalance best treated
The pitta dosa is made up of tejas (fire) and jala on a pattern by pattern basis including
(water). The seemingly contradictory combination of red-yellow-coloured herbs such as manjishtha (Rubia
fire and water to form pitta is actually complemen- cordifolia) and daruharidra (Berberis aristata).
tary. Pitta exists as water or oil in the body, thus pre-
serving the tissues from the destructive aspect of fire. Bhrajaka pitta: Resides in the skin. It keeps the
sweat glands active and maintains complexion by
It is pungent, hot, penetrating, greasy, oily, sharp, regulating pigmentation. It processes the sensation
liquid, spreading and sour. Its primary function is of touch and carries messages of temperature,
transformation. It is the force of metabolic activity texture and pain to the brain. It also metabolises
in the body associated with the endocrine function, the light that touches the skin; this regulates skin
hormone levels, digestion, body temperature, colour, vitamin D production and melatonin levels,
visual perception, hunger, thirst and skin quality. responsible for sleep and mood patterns. When
Mentally it plays a role in understanding and in imbalanced it causes skin problems such as
digesting sensory impressions. Again, the five eczema, psoriasis, acne and skin cancer which can
aspects of pitta determine its location in the body. be effectively treated using sweet and bitter herbs
It resides in the eyes, blood, sweat glands, the such as aloe vera (Aloe barbadensis).
small intestine, stomach and lymph. Its primary
site is in the small intestine. Pacaka pitta: Occupies the small intestine between
the lower portion of the stomach and the ileocaecal
Ālocaka pitta: Resides in the eyes and is responsible valve as the digestive fire of the gastrointestinal
for transforming light. Ālocaka pitta gives lustre and tract. It helps to break food down into an absorbable
shine to the eyes. It moves inwards and regulates medium. It is the aspect of pitta responsible for
the dilation and contraction of the pupil. When digestion and assimilation and is regulated by the
aggravated it causes conjunctivitis, styes, blephari- health of prana vayu, hence weak prana causing
tis or glaucoma, which are treated using anti-in- weak digestion. Being purely hot and sharp pacaka
flammatories such as rose petals (Rosa centifolia). pitta expresses the inherent qualities of fire. When in
excess it can cause hyperacidity, ulcers, nausea and
Sadhaka pitta: Resides in the ‘heart’ and is the cen- diarrhoea. When deficient it can cause poor diges-
tre of ayurvedic consciousness. It controls a rhyth- tion, low appetite, bloating, constipation and leth-
mical heartbeat and the ability to digest intellectual argy. Pacaka pitta is the most commonly aggravated
information. It can transform a feeling into emo- of all the five pittas and is treated by clearing it from
tion and, when healthy, gives clarity. It functions the system with mild purgatives that are bitter and
via the neurotransmitters that are responsible for cooling such as rhubarb root (Rheum palmatum) or
the production of dopamine and serotonin. Its the more gentle amalaki (Emblica officinalis).
regulatory function is seen as controlling the
26
Pitta is aggravated by pungent, salty and sour fla- holds the joints together and is therefore involved
Part ONE
vours (as they increase heat) in the middle of a in the health of the ligaments and cartilage. When
meal, at midday, by anger and irritation, repressed aggravated there is swelling in the joints as well as
emotions, in summer and late spring, from adoles- degeneration of the bones requiring lubrication
cence to middle age, from excessive ambition and and regeneration.
in a hot and damp climate. Hot and oily foods like
garlic and fried foods disturb pitta. Avalambaka kapha: This is the nourishing component
of the lungs, bronchi, alveoli and heart. It resides
Kapha in the chest in the pleura of the lungs and the peri-
The kapha dosa is a combination of the prthivi (earth) cardium of the heart. It is the great protector. It cir-
and jala (water) elements. As the water element is culates through the heart from where it moistens
contained within the earthen structures of the tis- and nourishes the other organs and tissues. When
sues and skin, the dry earth is moistened by the deficient it creates asthma, wheezing, dry cough,
reviving water element. It is slow, heavy, cool, weakness and heart disease, which can be treated
dense, soft, greasy, unctuous, sticky, cloudy, liquid using sweet tonics such as bala (Sida cordifolia).
and sweet. Kapha literally holds the body together. When excessive it results in congestive mucous
It is cohesive, gives shape and form, aids growth symptoms, tiredness and congestive heart disor-
and development, lubricates and protects, helps ders requiring strong anti-kapha herbs such as gug-
smelling and tasting. It relates to phlegm in the gulu (Commiphora mukul).
body. It resides in the chest, throat, head, pancreas,
stomach, lymph, fat, nose and tongue. Its primary Kledaka kapha: This kapha protects the digestive
site is the stomach. tract from the acid pitta enzymes. It primarily lines
the stomach and intestines but also lubricates all
Its five aspects are: the mucous membranes of the body. It plays a
major part in digestive wellness. As it resides in
Bodhaka kapha: This is found in the tongue and the primary kapha site it can easily become aggra-
gums. It gives perception of flavours. Its presence in vated. It is directly linked with the nutrition of the
saliva plays a part in the initial stages of digestion of tissues. It mixes with the food essence, the first
carbohydrates. When aggravated it causes receding part of rasa that forms the material substrate of
gums, lack of taste or strange tastes in the mouth plasma tissue (rasa dhatu). Kapha is best treated by
that are often treated with bitter or astringent herbs focusing on clearing kledaka kapha from the stom-
as a gargle such as haritaki (Terminalia chebula). ach by using expectorants and emetics such as
long pepper (Piper longum). If kledaka kapha is defi-
Tarpaka kapha: This is the mental form of kapha cient it will cause dryness and lack of protection to
which leads to contentment. It is the fluid that nour- the stomach lining. Oppose this dryness with
ishes the brain as the cerebrospinal fluid and is also soothing demulcents like licorice (Glycyrrhiza gla-
found in the white matter of the brain (Lad 1996). bra) and shatavari (Asparagus racemosus).
All sensual experiences are carried to tarpaka kapha
and stored there. It is the bed of mental experience. Kapha is aggravated by sweet, sour and salty fla-
If deficient it results in a lack of unctuous mental vours (as they increase moisture), at the beginning
faculties involving loss of memory, insomnia, multi- of a meal, morning and afternoon, by greed and
ple sclerosis, balance problems and dry eyes requir- possessiveness, in winter and early spring, in
ing nourishing tonics such as ashwagandha childhood, from a damp and cold climate and
(Withania somnifera). If excessive it can result in from sleeping in the day.
obstructions to the cavities of the head with exces-
sive earwax, nasal secretions, eye secretions, swell-
ing of the brain and tumours requiring strong THE MAIN CHARACTERISTICS OF EACH DOS. A:
reducing therapy with herbs that penetrate deeply DOS. A LAKS. AN. A
into the tissues such as vacha (Acorus calamus). Here is an in-depth look at some of the particular
characteristics of each dosa (Box 2.4). By becoming
S’ lesaka kapha: This lubricating aspect of kapha nour- familiar with these signs you will be able to
ishes the joints as synovial fluid. Its binding aspect quickly determine the prevalent dosa. This has
27
finger. Hands, feet and abdomen are often cold
Chapter 2 THE BASIC PRINCIPLES OF AYURVEDA
28
Part ONE
Figure 2.4 The three basic pulses
K The dominance of the heavy quality in kapha feet are common. Their variable nature may
types tends towards excessive body weight. lead to some oily areas and other dry ones. The
Kapha people can easily put weight on. The veins are clearly visible through the thin skin.
thighs, abdomen and buttocks hold and store Dry skin problems are a common vata imbal-
this excess weight. They lose weight with great ance. The skin colour is dull, dark and lacking
difficulty as they have a tendency to conserve in lustre. They tan easily and their cold nature
energy. draws them towards the sun. The poor circula-
tion may lead to pale lips, nail beds and skin.
Skin: quality and complexion P Pitta is the delicate or mrdu dosa. Their skin is
V Vata types have a tendency to have dry (ruksa) easily aggravated and they cannot tolerate the
skin due to excessive movement burning off all sun. They are prone to inflammations, rashes
lubrication as well as the constitutional defi- and acne. The skin flushes easily and may
ciency of nourishing fluids. The skin looks appear red. The skin is commonly freckled or
rough and chapped. Cracks on the hands and with many moles. As pitta is a by-product of the
29
Hair: an indicator of overall tissue quality
Chapter 2 THE BASIC PRINCIPLES OF AYURVEDA
30
Part ONE
Figure 2.6 Tongue diagnosis
P Moist, medium-sized, often with a pointed red to in yogic and ayurvedic models. It is the central
tip, red, orange, purple or bluish, yellow coat- hearth that maintains the warmth of life, that
ing, raised papillae. Pitta imbalances are often transforms and transmutates substances and
found in the middle of the tongue. impressions. A healthy agni is the equivalent of
K Thick, wet, swollen, large, pale, teeth marks, good health.
thick white coating. Kapha conditions can mani-
V The vata digestion is visamagni or variable. In
fest at the front section of the tongue.
line with the typical irregular nature of this dosa
Smell (gandha) their appetite is irregular. There are symptoms
V Little body odour due to the cold metabolism of distension, flatulence and a nervous appetite.
and lack of fat tissue (meda dhatu) from which Their eyes are bigger than their stomach, they
sweat comes as a waste product. Spontaneous are sometimes hungry and at others not. Vata
sweating. types have a krura kostha. This means a ‘hard’
P Strong, rotten flesh smell due to the high pitta digestive tract. This rigid astringency means
content in the sebaceous glands. Pitta types that they are prone to constipation that requires
sweat profusely in hot weather. relaxant, oily laxatives (hemp seed or castor oil).
K Moderate and sweet aroma. Kapha types sweat Their bowel movements are irregular; some-
easily with exercise as the increased metabolism times hard and dry, at others, loose. Vata types
releases the excess sweat as a waste product. become spaced out and weakened from fasting
They can be very sensitive to strong smells due due to their inability to store reserves. They do
to the damp condition being ‘stirred up’ by best with small, unctuous, warm and regular
strong aromas. meals but have a tendency to overdo the heavy
and grounding hard-to-digest foods. Pungent
Asking (praśna) flavours help to regulate the digestive secre-
Digestion: vital reflection of metabolism tions. In a balanced state they will benefit from
The concept of ‘fire’ or agni is at the centre of Vedic sweet, sour and salty food that is oily and
religious life. This paradigm is frequently referred spiced.
31
P The pitta person has a tiksnagni that is sharp and K Kapha types are heavy sleepers who have diffi-
Chapter 2 THE BASIC PRINCIPLES OF AYURVEDA
strong. They have a fierce appetite and can digest culty waking up. Kapha people like bed. They
whatever they eat. They become easily irritable if prefer 8 hours. They have calm and smooth
they are hungry. This may lead to heartburn, as dreams that veer towards the strongly emo-
will too much pitta-aggravating food such as tional. They like a soft bed with soft covers.
spicy chutneys and oily food. Their innate heat
means that they are rarely constipated and a Energy levels
glass of milk will serve as a mild laxative. Their V Erratic energy which comes in bouts. It can be
digestive passage (kostha) is mrdu, which means bountiful and is expended to the point of
that they have a ‘soft’ alimentary canal. Fasting is exhaustion. Vata types are bad managers of
good for them but they do not tolerate it well vitality and they try to keep going with pungent
due to their desire for more energy and more fuel stimulants when really they need a rest.
to drive them on. Mild sour flavour (buttermilk P Good energy levels that are efficiently managed.
or a few drops of lime) helps to regulate their Expending energy is a buzz for a pitta and they
hypersecretion of digestive juices. Sweet, bitter may become addicted to certain intense forms
and astringent flavoured food that is cool, raw, of energy release.
unspiced and lightly cooked is best for them. Out K Solid and consistent levels of energy. They are
of balance they crave alcohol, pickles and spices. reluctant to release energy and would rather
K The kapha appetite is stable and digestion is drive than walk.
mandagni, a slow system. They have little secre- Sex drive
tion of digestive enzymes, which can be V Vata sexual appetite varies with the wind of
increased with a little bitter and pungent fla- their variable nature. They are avid fantasisers.
vour. They like food, and their need for love Intensely passionate, but they need rest once
may lead them to comfort-eat. The kostha is they have expended their energy.
madhya with regular and medium bowel move- P Their hot temperament gives them a strong sex-
ments. Medium strength laxatives are effective ual appetite. They know what they want and
for them; for example triphala. Their ability to usually get it. If not, the heat flares upwards
store energy means that they can skip meals and they can become irritable.
easily. Fasting helps to lighten the tendency to K Their consistent nature gives them a steady sex-
heaviness in kapha types. Pungent, bitter and ual appetite. Their desire to hold onto their
astringent or dry-flavoured foods keep them energy keeps them away from excessive sexual
healthy. When out of balance they will crave desire. They are very loving and compassionate.
sweet and oily food. The fire is slow to burn but once kindled it
burns brightly and for a long time. They have
Sleep excellent fertility.
V Vata types have an irregular pattern of sleep
that is usually light but when extremely tired Thermal quality
will be very deep. They can have difficulty V Vata people easily feel cold; they desire the
getting to sleep and may wake in the night. warmth of the sun or a fire and wear lots of
They average about 4–7 hours of sleep per clothes in winter to make up for their lack of
night. Sleeptalkers and -walkers have a vata subcutaneous fat. They like hot drinks and food
tendency. Teeth grinding is quite common. to keep them warm.
They dream a lot but can rarely remember P Pitta people feel warm and are averse to excess
them. Dreams are of motion, adventure and of heat. They usually wear thin and light clothes
being chased. They need a soft bed to absorb and seek out cool places in order to stay
their protruding bones. refreshed. They crave cool drinks and raw food.
P Pitta types sleep well and if they do wake up K Kapha types feel cool and wear soft and comfort-
they can fall back to sleep easily. They average able clothes. They like the warmth and warm
about 4–7 hours per night. Sleep can be dis- drinks to keep them hot and stimulated inside.
turbed by dreams as they have intense dreams
that are colourful and involve action. They pre- Signs of the dosa balance and excess are shown in
fer a hard bed with few covers. Table 2.3.
32
.
TABLE 2.3 Signs of the dosa balance and excess. Reference: Astangahrdaya Samhita-
Dos a Balanced state (sa-mya) Increased state (vr.ddhi) Decreased state (kas. a-ya) Colour
˙
Va-ta Conveys movement, inspiration, Promotes wasting, thinness, weight loss, weakness, Kapha-like symptoms: sluggish, sloth, lack of Blue, black, brown,
expiration, enthusiasm, desire, aversion to cold, desire for heat, softness and comfort, enthusiasm, no desire to speak, confusion, orange, clear
excretion of wastes experience of piercing pain, mobile pain, numbness, delirious, loss of consciousness
erratic digestion, bloating, constipation, incontinence,
urinary tenesmus, cracking joints, contraction, dry skin,
dehydration, astringent taste in the mouth, spasms,
rigidity, dark complexion, dark discolorations, dizzyness,
fear, anxiety, nervousness, loneliness, insomnia, depression.
Symptoms worse for changes in the seasons, dry and cold
climates, early in the morning, early in the afternoon
and later in life
Pitta Oversees metabolism, digestion, Causes burning, fever, inflammation, redness, bleeding, Increased signs of va-ta and kapha, poor Red, yellow, green,
regulation of appetite and thirst, sweating, septic conditions, necrosis, putrid smells, fainting, digestion, pallor, coldness red
hormones and enzymes, intelligence, aversion to heat, sour or bitter taste in the mouth,
courage, flexibility, the quality of the acidity, heartburn, loose stools, dark red urine, burning
complexion and eyesight urine, yellow, green and red discolorations, aversion to
heat, desire for cold, impatience, anger, frustration, critical,
judgemental. Aggravated by hot and humid weather,
middle of the day and night and mid-life
Kapha Gives strength, solidity, structure, Causes mucous, sticky phlegm, excess salivation, wet cough, Signs of va-ta increase; emaciation, dizzy, White
endurance, lubrication itching, coldness, heaviness, stagnation, congestion, cracking joints, dryness and anxiety
growths, cysts, tumours, dull pain, obesity, oedema,
sluggish digestion, cloudy urine, excessive desire to sleep,
sweet and salty tastes in the mouth, thick and white
discharges, aversion to wet and cold, greed, apathy,
attachment, depression. Worse for cold and damp weather,
childhood and mid-morning and mid-evening
33
Part ONE
-
Mixed constitutions (sam
. sarga and sannipata THE SEVEN SUPPORTIVE TISSUES OF THE BODY:
Chapter 2 THE BASIC PRINCIPLES OF AYURVEDA
prakr ti)
˙
SAPTA DHA-TU
The dosas commonly exist as a combination of two
The chief functions of the body tissues are said
or all three together.
to be, in order: nourishing, enlivening,
surrounding, lubricating, supporting, filling, and
Dual constitutional combinations (sam
. sarga prakrti)
˙ giving rise to an embryo.
Va-ta–kapha
.
This seemingly contradictory constitution has Astāngahrdaya Samhita- Su-trastha-na 11.4
˙˙ ˙ ˙
long bones but is not as stocky or strong as a
pure kapha. The combined elements of cold in The word dhatu is etymologically derived from the
both prakrti make them very sensitive to cold. The root ‘dha’ meaning ‘to support’. It is used in a
kapha influence can cause mucous problems and broad and specific sense. In a broad sense dhatu
digestive sluggishness. The mucous can be refers to the general support any substance or
dry and plug-like secretions that are difficult to function gives the dosas, dhatus and malas (wastes)
expectorate. as ‘that alone which supports the body is a dhatu’
(Suśruta Samhita Sutrasthana 14.18). In a specific
Va-ta–pitta sense it refers to the seven anatomical tissue-sup-
Filled with determined ambition, this constitu- ports (sapta dhatu) of the body.
tion has a healthy build that is stronger and
more defined than in a pure pitta. The mobile There are two aspects to the sapta dhatu theory as it
nature of vata can cause pitta to be pushed round is both broad and narrow in its perspective.
the body making these types very sensitive to Broadly speaking, the dhatu are structural supports
environmental and emotional changes. Their to the body, and narrowly speaking they are the
digestion has the intensity of a pitta prakrti but nourishment to those supports (Caraka Samhita
can also suffer from vata-prone anxiety causing 8.39). As structural supports they are combinations
irregularity. of the elements (pañcamahabhuta) that give the
body form. They are rasa (plasma), rakta (blood),
Pitta–kapha mamsa (muscle), medas (lipids), asthi (bone), majja
This is a very healthy and resilient constitution (marrow) and śukra (reproductive essence). These
with the strength of a kapha and the power of a seven are referred to as the stable (sthayi) or nour-
pitta. Still maintaining the kapha layer of subcuta- ished (posya) aspect of the dhatu. They are the basic
neous fat they have extra heat signs with a good tissues of the body. The other nourishing aspect of
appetite but can easily put on weight. Fortunately a dhatu is the unstable (asthayi) or potential (posaka)
they are not as sluggish as a pure kapha and regu- nutrient portion. This aspect is the dynamic part
lar exercise can keep them balanced. that nutritionally sustains the stable dhatu. The
understanding of how food and medicine trans-
Triple constitutional combination (sannipa- ta prakrti) form into this unstable portion and then nourish
Va-ta–pitta–kapha ˙ the stable portion is an important ayurvedic
This balance of all three dosas is less commonly debate.
seen and difficult to diagnose as so many of the
presenting signs are in opposition. Although a How herbs and nutrients reach the tissues
healthy combination they are very sensitive to The unstable portion has to transform into the sta-
change as the relative equality of vata can so ble tissue. Each dhatu has a membrane, known as a
easily tip out of balance. Hence, they tend to kala, that is a vital interface in the development of
manifest with a dominance of vata–pitta or a vata– a tissue. This kala houses the metabolic tissue fire
kapha constitution and should be treated accord- (dhatu-agni) that is responsible for transforming the
ingly. unstable potential portion into the stable manifest
portion. Ingested food (ahara) goes to the stomach,
All the above combinations require strict dietary and the digestive fire in the stomach (jatharagni)
control that must be adjusted with the seasons if creates an essence of food, known as ahara rasa,
they are to maintain optimum health. which contains the necessary nutrition for each
34
Part ONE
Figure 2.7 Kala- in relation to dosa. Permission – Lad 1996 Secrets of the pulse
˙
dhatu. There are various overlapping theories how this analysis it takes 35 days (5 × 7 dhatu) for śukra
this ahara rasa nourishes each individual dhatu to be formed from food essence. Due to incompati-
(Figure 2.7). Refer to Caraka Samhita Sutrasthana 28. bility between the theory and actual experience
1–5 for a good commentary on this process. this idea has been criticised by Cakrapanidatta (a
famous commentator on Caraka and Suśruta
a) The milk and curd transformation theory Samhitas) as some substances appear to create the
(ks.ı-ra-dadhi) tissues more quickly; for example, milk is said to
This is a linear pattern where there is a step-by- create śukra dhatu after just one day (Dwarkanath
step progression of nutrients transforming from 1996). Although this approach is not absolute, this
rasa dhatu through to śukra dhatu, just as milk theory is the predominant paradigm used by
transforms into sour milk and then into curds ayurvedic physicians today.
(Figure 2.8). Here rasa is completely converted into
rakta, rakta to mamsa, mamsa to medas etc. There are of course pathological consequences of
Progressively refined tissue densities develop as each particular theory. The milk-curd theory con-
each dhatu transforms into the next. It results in siders that nutrient deficiencies happen in a
śukra as the most refined nutritious substance that sequential fashion. This means that a deficiency of
creates ojas that then converts back into rasa. It plasma will lead to a deficiency of blood and so
operates on a time-scale where each kala takes five forth. Another example is that an obstruction in
days to transform the unstable portion (asthayi the fat channel leading to obesity will create a defi-
dhatu) to the stable portion (sthayi dhatu). Based on ciency in the following dhatus of bone, nerve and
35
Chapter 2 THE BASIC PRINCIPLES OF AYURVEDA
reproductive tissues. This can actually happen as of the dhatu. In this theory the food essence (ahara
obesity and infertility are frequently linked. The rasa) circulates through these interconnected chan-
next two theories allow for a more general nels nourishing each dhatu in turn. After nourish-
approach to nutrition that is dependent on the ing the rasa dhatu the remaining food essence
functional quality of each tissue. nourishes the rakta dhatu and so on. The dhatus
take what they need from the remaining nutrient
b) The irrigation transmission theory (keda–ra-kulya–) flow.
Another perspective is presented by the irrigation
(kedara-kulya) theory (literally field and channel c) The pigeon pecking selective theory
theory; Figure 2.9). It is a progressive overflow the- (khale-kapota)
ory using the metaphor of water flowing from a The third theory is the pigeon pecking (khale-ka-
tank into an irrigation channel to water the fields. pota) concept (literally land and pigeon theory;
These fields are filled consecutively and overflow Figure 2.10). Here each dhatu takes the nutrients it
in connecting channels into the next field. The field wants from the central pool of nutrition, just as a
(kedara) represents the stable portion of the dhatu. pigeon selects the grains it wants from the land
The channel (kulya) represents the unstable portion (Ranade 2001). This is a very specific approach and
36
Part ONE
Figure 2.9 Irrigation theory (kedari-kulya-)
Dha-tu metabolism
The transformation of the food-essence has four
results (Figure 2.11):
37
Chapter 2 THE BASIC PRINCIPLES OF AYURVEDA
38
vyana vayu until returning to its source, the heart. Ma-m -
. sa dhatu: muscle tissue (Box 2.7)
Part ONE
It continues its circulation with blood (rakta) as a Mamsa dhatu is responsible for all the connective
rasa-rakta continuum. The rasa thus carries the tissue (except for blood and bone) and the skeletal
nutritious asthayi portion of food to the remaining and visceral muscle. The root ‘mam’ means to hold,
dhatu as well as picking up waste products. It also so mamsa is the holder and it holds the body
circulates the vitiated humour (prakopa dosa) and together by enveloping the ligaments, tendons,
plays a part in the spread of disease around the organs, muscles, veins, arteries and bones. The
body. The like qualities of rasa aid the formation of stable aspect gives strength to the body and helps
rakta dhatu. to facilitate movement. When it is healthy mamsa
dhatu gives you a muscular build and enduring
Rakta dha-tu: blood tissue (Box 2.6) strength with the ability to be brave in the face of
Rakta corresponds to the haemoglobin portion of adversity. In excess it can lead to growths and in
blood. As it is made from both water and fire it is deficiency to wasting diseases and fatigue. It is
both a fluid and a catalyst. It carries oxygen and increased by like qualities of heavy, hard and
hormones that regulate metobolic processes and solid such as are found in ashwagandha (Withania
thus gives vitality ( jivana). Rakta literally means somnifera).
‘that which is red’ and it gives colour to life; red
blood, lustreful eyes, rosy cheeks, enthusiasm and
Box 2.7
passion. It has a direct affinity with the skin and is
responsible for its growth and health. Hence when Muscle tissue: Ma-m.sa dha-tu
blood is corrupted the skin often manifests signs of Element: earth, and secondarily water and fire
this imbalance. Blood is increased by like qualities Secondary tissue (upadha-tu): ligaments and six layers
of a liquid, unctuous, warm, heavy and blood-like of skin below the top layer
nature; iron, Vitamin A, betacarotene, red or Waste (kit.t.a): all wastes found in the cavities of the
orange foods, sweet and sour flavoured herbs such body such as navel lint, ear wax and nasal secretions
as amalaki (Emblica officinalis) and salty herbs such Qualities (gun.a): gross, solid, heavy, rough, hard,
as shilajit (Asphaltum). Any weakness in rakta is smooth
clearly shown in pale skin and tight tendons. Its Function: binding the body together (lepana),
affinity with the pitta dosa means that it if pitta strengthening, facilitating movement, nourishing fat
becomes aggravated it easily corrupts the blood tissue and waste products
and causes either haematological diseases or the
growth or wasting of the other tissues.
Medas dha-tu: fat tissue (Box 2.8)
Medas dhatu means that which supports and nour-
Box 2.6 ishes the ‘oily’ or lipid tissues. It is responsible for
Blood tissue: Rakta dha-tu the protective quality of lubrication as well as stor-
Element: water and fire ing energy in the reservoir of medas dhatu. It is
Secondary tissue (upadha-tu): blood vessels and increased by oily nuts and herbs, such as sesame
tendons and hemp seed. Snehana means affection and this
Waste (kit.t.a): Pitta dosa and acidic, inflammatory dhatu carries love for the other tissues and for
˙ other people. Someone with good-quality fat tissue
secretions
Source: liver and spleen (a sara-medas-dhatu type) loves themselves and
Qualities (gun. a): liquid, fluid, opaque, unctuous, soft, those around them, has a melodious voice and has
viscous, red colour, sweet, sour and salty a joyful nature. As the waste portion is sweat we
Function: giving vitality ( jı-vana), giving colour, commonly see how overweight people sweat eas-
nourishing the muscle tissue ily. This displays how the waste portion re-enters
the rasa-rakta continuum and is then carried to the
skin.
39
Majja- dha-tu: nerve tissue (Box 2.10)
Chapter 2 THE BASIC PRINCIPLES OF AYURVEDA
Box 2.8 Majja dhatu relates to bone marrow and nerve tis-
Fat tissue: Medas dha-tu (correctly written as sue. It fills the empty space in the body (bones,
medodhatu) brain cavity, spine and nerve channels) and is the
Element: water tissue that carries nervous electrical impulses. Its
Secondary tissue (upadha-tu): omentum around the etymological root is ‘maj’ which means ‘to sink’,
stomach and this sinking quality keeps us grounded. A
Waste (kit.t.a): sweat sara-majja person is clear thinking and focused and
Qualities (gun.a): unctuous, heavy, soft, liquid, smooth, is filled with compassion. It is nourished by wal-
oily nuts (Juglans regia) and ashwagandha (Withania
Function: oleating the joints, insulating the body, somnifera). A deficiency of majja dhatu easily leads
producing sweat, nourishing the bone tissue to feeling ungrounded, unfulfilled and increased
vata signs.
40
maintain that preservation of the śukra through factor of a dhatu is that it also nourishes (posana)
Part ONE
the discipline of brahmacarya (celibacy, appropri- the tissue (Caraka Samhita Sutrasthana 28.1–5).
ate sexual activity) leads to a long and lustrous Hence the boundaries between the dosas and the
life. Positive signs of a healthy reproductive tis- dhatus blend and part depending on the specific or
sue is exuding attractiveness, self-confidence and broad understanding of the words.
having a radiant glow.
Interestingly, the three wastes (mala) are also per-
ceived to contain dhatuness. When functioning nor-
Box 2.11 mally the three wastes support the channels (srotas)
Reproductive tissue: Śukra dha-tu of the body. They help give form to the colon, ure-
Element: water thra and sweat channels eliminating the wastes of
Secondary tissue (upadha-tu): ojas faeces (pur×-sa), urine (mutra) and sweat (sveda). Too
Waste (kit.t.a): smegma (the secretion of the glands of little of the wastes causes the channels to wither
.
the foreskin or labia) or none away (Astangahrdaya Samhita Sutrasthana 11.5, 23).
Qualities (gun.a): like a crystal, liquid, unctuous, sweet,
41
- -
Treatment focuses on restoring normal flow. It can AYURVEDIC ANATOMY: ŚARIRARACANA
Chapter 2 THE BASIC PRINCIPLES OF AYURVEDA
-
A śaya refers to the viscera or hollow organs where
food, wastes and liquids are contained, e.g.
amaśaya (the abode of ama) is the stomach. There
are seven of them.
42
Hrdaya is the heart, intimately connected with rasa THE DIGESTIVE FIRE: AGNI
Part ONE
and rakta, and is affected by their state of vitality.
Jat.hara-gni is the root of all the digestive fires in
Herbs for the heart often work via rasa and rakta
the body. As it causes the increase or decrease
dhatu. Muscle tissue is also essential to the health
of bhu-ta-gni and dha-tvagni it should be treated
of the heart; hence herbs that are good for the
with great care.
muscles are often beneficial for the heart. It is also
.
considered to be the seat of consciousness. Astāngahrdaya Samhita- (Śarı-rastha-na 3.71–72)
˙˙ ˙ ˙
Pephra are the lungs responsible for purifying The Indian Vedic culture revered agni or fire. It
blood of impurities and vitalising the system with gave them light, warmth and cooked their food.
prana and oxygen. Agnideva is the fire god who acts as a messenger
between the mortal world and the heavens. In Vedic
Pliha is the spleen that is the seat of blood where rituals humans offer oblations to the sacred fire. The
red blood cells are produced. fire takes a portion for himself and then vaporises
the rest for the benefit of the gods. The gods imbibe
Yakrt is the liver, home of rañjaka pitta and channels this nutritious fragrance and in return give life-giv-
carrying blood. ing waters and favourable environmental condi-
tions from which crops flourish and humans can
Kloma is the pancreas. feed themselves. This benevolent cycle continues as
long as both parties are happy.
Grahani is the small intestine where pitta digests
food. It is a metaphor of our own digestive system. We
eat and ‘offer’ food into the fire of our bellies. Agni
Pakvaśaya is the large intestine. digests this food and the control centres in the
brain are nourished by these fragrant ‘vapours’.
Basti is the urinary bladder. This nourishment releases the nervous impulses
which release enzymes and hormones. This stimu-
Vrkka is the kidneys. lates systemic metabolic activity so that the whole
body–mind complex functions efficiently. Hence
Śukra is said to pervade the whole body and physi- eating is seen as a sacred act that should be given
cally rests in the seminal vesicles (śukraśaya). its full attention away from stress, disturbance and
lack of awareness.
Yoni is the female genital tract including the
uterus. Agni is seen as the metaphor for all metabolic
functions in the body. It includes the digestive
Garbhaśaya is the uterus. function, sense perception, cellular metabolism
and mental assimilation. Agni is involved in many
Anda/Antarphala are the ovaries. functions: absorption, assimilation, metabolism,
digestion, perception, taste, touch, hearing, vitality,
Śiras is the head holding the brain, prana and the clarity, alertness, regular appetite, chemical com-
senses. bustion. It gives ojas or immunity, a sparkle in the
eyes and lustre to the whole body.
Marmas are special junction points. There are 107
described by Suśruta and up to 220 by other tradi- Qualities of agni: hot (usna), light (laghu), sharp-
tions in South India. The marmas are the subtle penetrating (t×-ksna), pungent (katu), luminous-clear
energy network of Ayurveda and are similar to the (prakaśika-viśada). Although these qualities are sim-
Chinese meridians. They are crucial to life and death ilar to pitta, agni is not the same. Agni represents
to the extent that if you are wounded at these points the healthy functioning of the metabolic processes
death is caused. in the body while pitta represents these qualities in
a deranged state.
43
-
When it is balanced it causes emotions that are Ama means unripe, uncooked, immature and undi-
Chapter 2 THE BASIC PRINCIPLES OF AYURVEDA
beneficial to health: courage, cheerfulness, lucidity, gested. It takes the form of kapha: sticky, heavy, vis-
optimism, enthusiasm and intelligence. It also pro- cous, slimy, unctuous, wet, cold and is sweet. It
vides energy, vitality and a system able to maintain causes blockage of the channels (srotorodha),
homeostasis. When it is out of balance it causes mucous congestion, loss of strength, lack of move-
emotions that are destructive to health: fear, anger, ment and reverse flow of vata, accumulation of
confusion, idiocy. This also leads to low energy, wastes, oedema, low digestive fire, bloating, con-
congestion and an accumulation of wastes. stipation, itchy anus, thick tongue coating, slug-
gish and slippery pulse, lack of enthusiasm and
The thirteen agni stagnation in the tissues. While it manifests similar
Jat.hara- gni symptoms to kapha, the difference between ama
This is located from the mouth to the anus and is and kapha is that ama causes obstructions to the
present throughout the gastrointestinal tract. Its channels, which causes a build-up of vata, pitta and
main function is to help digest complex foods to a kapha. Obstructions in the body cause vata to
simple form known as ‘ahara rasa’, the food reverse its flow and cause derangements to the
essence. It is of four types: visama – irregular; flow of the dosa. Astanga Hridaya Sutra
t×-ksna – intense; manda – sluggish; and sama – bal- (Sutrasthana 13.25) states that the impairment of
anced. It separates the pure nutritious portion the agni causes a fermentation of annarasa, the first
(ahara rasa) from the waste (kitta) portion, which is part of rasa dhatu. This fermented food creates ama.
further divided into the wastes (mala) of sweat, When agni is low then ama is created instead of ojas
urine and faeces. and this leads to the creation of disease instead of
vitality. This degenerative cycle becomes mutually
Five bhu-ta-gnis reinforcing so that low agni creates more ama and
These are the metabolic fires which digest the ‘ele- low production of ojas, which in turn does not
ments’. They act on ahara rasa to release the mahab- nourish agni and the whole cycle is repeated. The
hutas, the five elements which are the opposite is true in good health, and benevolent
building-blocks of the universe: space, air, fire, cycles of abundant agni, healthy tissue creation
water, earth. The bhutagni exist in the liver. and vital ojas production all coalesce to improve
the quality and quantity of life, hence creating a
Seven dha-tu-agnis literal ayur-veda (knowledge of longevity).
These are specific ‘enzymes’ that help to transform
the unstable tissue portion that helps to build the Causes of a-ma
dhatus. These are the seven tissues of the body that Mandagni (low digestive power), overeating, raw
give it material structure: skin, blood, muscle, adi- food, heavy food, cold food, contaminated food,
pose tissue, bones, nerve tissue, reproductive tissue. too wet food, incompatible food, irritating foods,
gaseous foods, fried foods, extreme emotions,
-
TOXINS: A MA irregular eating habits, dairy products, processed
When a-ha-rarasa is undigested because agni is foods, yeast, excessive sweet, salty and sour fla-
low it becomes vitiated and collects in the vour, sleeping or eating before food is digested,
stomach. It is known as a-ma. sleeping in the day as well as lack of exercise.
.
Astāngahrdaya Samhita- Su-trastha-na 13.25 Signs of a-ma
˙˙ ˙ ˙
- Feeling heavy, muzzy-headed, unclear thinking,
Ama is the unmetabolised waste that is not utilised dull eyes, aches and pains, poor circulation, joint
by the body. It can be formed from foods that are inflammation and pain, bloating, gas, skin blem-
absorbed but then not used, or that are undigested ishes, fever, lack of energy, stickiness of stools,
and create fermentation and imbalance all three phlegm and urine, foul smells (breath, sweat,
dosa. urine, stools, phlegm), sinking stool, mucous in
stool, turbid urine, lack of appetite or taste, indi-
gestion, tired after eating, a sticky or sweet taste in
44
the mouth, copious phlegm. Pulse: deep, dull, slip- Nira-ma pitta
Part ONE
pery; tongue: thick, dirty and greasy coating, swol- A red inflamed tongue, excess thirst and appetite,
len body. strong burning sensations, overly acute perception
and tissue depletion.
All the above symptoms are aggravated by the cold,
the wet and at night. The symptoms are also aggra- Treatment
vated by eating foods with a similar quality to ama; Follow normal dosa balancing programme.
heavy, wet, unctuous, sticky and sweet, cold.
Sa-ma va-ta
- A brown tongue coating, bad breath, irregular
Ama mixed with the dosa: sa-ma and
nira-ma ˙ appetite, abdominal pain, distention, gas, consti-
Sama, meaning ‘with ama’, occurs when the aggra- pation, dry and flaky skin, cracking joints with
vated dosas, dhatus and malas become mixed with pain.
ama. This is also referred to as ama-visa, which lit-
Treatment
erally means ‘poison toxins’ and occurs when ama
Purge using softening demulcents, castor oil, hiñg-
mixes with the dosa and sub-dosa. It usually only
vas.t.aka, trikat. u + aloe vera.
occurs after ama has been present in the system for
a long period of time. Nira-ma va-ta
No tongue coating, dry mouth, astringent taste,
Nirama means without ‘ama’, but the dosa is aggra- thirst, dehydration.
vated.
Treatment
Sa-ma kapha Follow normal dosa balancing programme.
Indigestion, congestion, thick sticky white phlegm,
thick white tongue coating, sour or salty taste in Modern signs of a-ma
the mouth, blocked sinus, congested and tight High triglycerides, atherosclerosis, late-onset dia-
chest, mucous in stool and urine. betes, high blood sugar levels, some forms of
depression, rheumatoid factor, the presence of
Treatment helicopylori bacteria, leukocytosis or leukocyto-
Use expectorant and emetic herbs; trikat.u, guggulu, paenia (deficient and excess white blood cells),
garlic. excess antibodies, Candida albicans in the gut and
uterus, blood urea, gout, excess platelet count,
Nira-ma kapha high IgE levels from allergic reactions, excess red
An excess kapha condition with clear, watery dis- blood cells, gall stones as a sign of excess bile, kid-
charge. ney stones as a sign of unmetabolised calcium and
oxalates, high liver enzymes (serum alanine ami-
Treatment notransferase [ALT], serum aspartate aminotrans-
Follow normal dosa-balancing programme. ferase [AST]), intraocular pressure (glaucoma),
bacterial infection, high temperature, tumours.
Sa-ma pitta
Indigestion, hyperacidity, diarrhoea, fever, toxic
blood, skin eruptions, greasy yellow tongue coat- THE AYURVEDIC MIND: MANAS PRAKR.TI
ing, bad breath, little thirst, loss of appetite, bitter
The ayurvedic concept of mind is both broad and
or sour flavour in mouth, tight abdomen, mild
illuminating. Not only does it include mental
burning, yellow urine and faeces.
activity but also a consciousness that is housed in
Treatment the heart; ‘the heart is indispensable for normal
Purge using bitter herbs; avipattikara curn.a, rhu- mental and physical activities as the entire waking
barb root, aloe vera. consciousness rests there’ (Caraka Samhita
Sutrasthana 30.6). Mind is built from different
aspects. Buddhi is intellect and is really like a mir-
45
ror reflecting universal consciousness as it cog- determined to succeed. They are effective managers
Chapter 2 THE BASIC PRINCIPLES OF AYURVEDA
nises and clarifies. It is the digestive system of the of anything: people, time, money, information. Their
mind as it discriminates between different aspects inherent heat can overbubble into irritability and
of mental ‘nutrition’. Sadhaka pitta corresponds to anger that will be soon forgotten (but not by the
buddhi. Manas is that which conceptualises, analy- vata or kapha!). They are focused on their own devel-
ses and interacts between our inner subconscious- opment, which can make them intolerant of change
ness and our experience of the outer world. It and impatient with others. They are primarily
includes memory and the ability to recall (smrti) visual in their thought processes. When imbalanced
events. Tarpaka kapha relates to memory. Ahamkara pitta can manifest as anger and they are often con-
is our ‘I’ maker and identity former that personal- fronted with the challenge of patience.
ises every experience. It makes us identify with
every experience so that we say ‘I am reading a Kapha: They have steady minds that can concen-
book about ayurvedic herbs’. There is also citta trate on a wide number of issues at a time. The
that is considered to be consciousness and aware- kapha has an excellent memory once the facts have
ness. Prana connects these different aspects into been assimilated. They remember feelings, smells
something that is known as antahkarana, the and tastes. Their love of stability makes them
inner active. ignore signals for change. They are loyal and affec-
tionate friends. They tend to avoid challenging sit-
A peculiarity is that in contrast to the nature of the uations in order to maintain status quo and protect
physical constitution (deha prakrti) the mental their conservative nature. They like a stable and
nature (manas prakrti) can be altered through regular environment. Their thought process is
action. The qualities of sattva, rajas and tamas are emotive and related to feeling. Kapha types have a
predominant in the mind and can be altered tendency to greed and are often coping with issues
according to lifestyle, diet and mental attitudes. of attachment.
Rajas and tamas, passion and lethargy, are consid-
ered to be the causes of mental disease (Caraka The mind is integrally connected with the cause of
Samhita 1.57). disease as psychological experiences are soma-
tised. As you will read below, the main causes of
Each dosa has certain tendencies: disease have a mental seed.
46
The ayurvedic understanding of the disease pro- (encouraging clearing of mucous), emmenagogues
Part ONE
cess is that certain doshic qualities accumulate in (encouraging menstrual flow) and diaphoretics
one season and are then aggravated in the next. (encouraging sweating) do this.
See Table 2.4 for a full explanation. This table is for
the seasons in the temperate climates of Europe Specific seasonal daily regimes (dinacarya-)
and North America. There are different patterns Ayurveda recommends adherence to a strict
for different climates. To understand these patterns regime of daily activities (dinacarya) that facilitate
you have to watch nature and this is at the heart of clearing accumulated dosas from the body and
learning how to live ayurvedically. Start to observe optimising health. It is also called svasthavrtta,
the different qualities and patterns of nature and referring to healthy lifestyle habits.
you will start to understand the principles of
Ayurveda. Lifestyle (svasthavr.tta)
It is important to note that regarding all lifestyle
The trick to staying healthy is to stay one step recommendations the individual prakrti supersedes
ahead of the changing seasons causing any accu- the general rules given below.
mulation of the dos.as. Reduce the dosa that will be
imbalanced in the following season before it gets Daily activities (dinacarya- )
aggravated. Hence follow a pitta-reducing diet in Rising
early spring before it gets aggravated in late spring Rise in accordance with the seasons (see seasonal
with symptoms of spring fevers and hayfever. routines below). This is traditionally at a time
Follow a vata-reducing diet in the summer before it known as brahma muhurta, between 3 and 7am, as
gets aggravated in the autumn with patterns of it is regarded as a time when we can most easily
dry skin, flare-ups of dry eczema, dry coughs and access our consciousness. As it is a vata-predomi-
cracked soles of the feet. Follow a kapha-reducing nant time kapha problems such as lethargy,
diet in the winter before it gets aggravated in the mucous, bowel congestion, sluggish liver and
spring with spring colds and allergies to tree pol- muzzy-headedness can be overcome. Sleeping into
len. See the recommendations in the treatment kapha time aggravates kapha and causes the above
chapter to know how to balance each dosa. symptoms. People who are ill, pregnant,
breast-feeding, elderly and children do not need to
The central teaching of Ayurveda is that in order rise during brahma muhurta.
to optimise your health you must clear the accu-
mulation of the dosas from your system. Any Elimination
increase in the dosas can cause illness. The dosas Evacuate the bowels and bladder. Drink hot water
exit via the orifices; primarily the bowel, bladder, to facilitate any sluggishness in the bowel. If fur-
stomach, lungs (via the mouth), uterus and skin. ther stimulation is required Ayurveda recom-
The classic herbal laxatives (encouraging bowel mends taking some mild laxatives, regulating the
motions), diuretics (encouraging urination), digestive fire and diet.
emetics (encouraging vomiting), expectorants
47
Oral hygiene lating the lymphatic system, clearing fluid accu-
Chapter 2 THE BASIC PRINCIPLES OF AYURVEDA
Clean the teeth using astringent/bitter/pungent mulation and cellulite from the skin.
flavours to clear accumulated bacteria from the
mouth and tongue and stimulate the digestive sys- Complete the massage by applying pleasant aro-
tem via the gastric reflex stimulus considered to be matic scents of essential oils of rose, sandalwood,
caused by tongue scraping. Gargle (gandusa) with jasmine or frankincense between the eyebrows and
warm water, herbal infusions or oil to treat excess at the throat.
kapha, pitta or vata in the mouth and throat.
Exercise (vya-ya-ma)
Physical hygiene Practise stimulating exercise up to the point of a
Wash the body: eyes using eyedrops (rose water mild sweat. Hathayoga postures (asana) are relevant
or corrylium), nose using nasal oil drops (nasya) or as is any metabolic exercise. Do not practise any
wash using a neti pot with a salt-water solution repetitive exercise that stresses any one part of the
(1 part salt to 100 parts water) to draw kapha body excessively (jogging, skipping, weight-lift-
osmotically from the sinuses, and lungs using ing). Exercise should not be carried out by anyone
breathing techniques (pranayama). suffering from aggravated vata or pitta, young chil-
dren, the elderly and by those suffering from indi-
.
Oil massage (abhyanga) gestion.
Massage is a central feature of the daily regime; it
cleans the body, regulates the dosa, moves dis- Washing (sna-na)
placed dosas back to the digestive tract, emolliates Use warm water to wash the body after massage
and nourishes the skin. It specifically protects from and exercise. Pitta types can have a cold bath or
old age and vata diseases while promoting good shower.
vision, sound sleep and a long life. Use a small
amount of warm oil to coat the skin and then wash Meditation (dhya-na)
off with warm water after it has been absorbed. Using meditative techniques can help to raise
Vata types can use more oil but oleating massage awareness, instil intention in spiritual practice,
should be avoided in ama conditions and with remove attachments to the things we like and
kapha accumulation. Caution should be observed aversions from the things we dislike and give clar-
with pitta skin inflammations as the unctuous ity of mind. There are many different practices
nature of oil can irritate eczema, acne and rashes. used for stilling the mind and releasing it from its
Tradition suggests starting massage at the feet and continual infatuation with the sensual and illusory
legs, then progressing to the arms and back and world. Vata types should practise creative visualis-
then to the chest and abdomen. This brings lym- ation involving order, ritual and regularity to help
phatic fluid back to the heart for elimination via harness its ‘monkey-mind’ from swinging from
the blood where toxins and wastes are cleared by thought to thought. Yantra meditation on construc-
the liver and kidneys. tive patterns may be an example of this. Pitta types
can emphasise regulatory disciplines involving
Vata: emphasise the feet, lower back, colon area, counting and harmonising the breath or focusing
neck, shoulders and head using warm organic ses- on a sense object to clear irritability and purify
ame oil. sadhaka pitta. This helps to develop clear thinking.
Kapha types can practise more dynamic forms of
Pitta: emphasise the areas over the chest, liver, meditation involving different sequences to offset
stomach and head using organic coconut or brahmi sluggish mental habits or devotional forms of
oil. meditation (bhakti yoga) that will enhance their nat-
ural tendency for compassion and giving love.
Kapha: emphasise the areas over the lower abdo-
men, chest, throat, sinuses using organic sesame or Digestive stimulation (agnidı-pana)
mustard oil. Dry massage using herbal powder Stimulate the digestive fire by taking digestive
(udvartana) or a skin brush is also useful for regu- spices such as ginger (Zingiber officinale).
48
Eating (a-ha-ra) It is important to say that the suggestions below
Part ONE
Dietary habits should result in satisfaction, nourish- are for seasonal balance and that you must always
ment and contentment. Eat until the stomach is half pay attention to any personal needs above and
full of food, one quarter full of water and the beyond this.
remainder left for digestive samana vayu to circulate.
For specific details of the appropriate foods for each An ayurvedic spring (vasanta)
dosa see the treatment chapter. The qualities of spring
Spring is a time of growth, ascendancy and new
Other considerations potential. The fresh leaves unfurl and dormant
Q Take a light breakfast of nourishing grains. seeds germinate. Spring is a time of increased
Q Chew cardamom, fennel, anise to freshen warmth and wetness from a thawing of the con-
breath. gealed damp of winter. Because of the high
Q Do not restrain any of the 13 natural urges. amount of cold and wet qualities of winter and
Q Have the meal in the middle of day when the the heavier diet that we take, kapha has also accu-
solar energy and inner agni is strongest. mulated by this time. Just as there are spring
Q Follow a wholesome occupation that accrues floods from rivers overflowing so there are inter-
good karma. This allows you to fulfil your social nal ‘floods’. The increased heat ‘melts’ this kapha
and familial duty (dharma), achieve satisfaction accumulation, causing spring colds and hayfever.
and pleasure (kama), accrue wealth for a stable This is a common time to cleanse the body and to
life (artha) and attain spiritual realisation assist the ‘melted’ kapha to flow out of the body.
(moksa). This can help kapha imbalances to be removed
Q Observe your local geographical terrain and from the body before they impact negatively on
climate and adapt your daily lifestyle your health. While vata types like spring with its
accordingly. slightly warmer and wet qualities, it is a time of
Q Live according to your stage of life: change and so appropriate attention should be
0–16: kapha stage of life given to a vata-balancing lifestyle if you have any
16–50: pitta stage of life associated vata problems. Pitta is balanced in the
50 : vata stage of life. early part of spring but can accumulate as the
Q Live according to the times of day to regulate warmth increases and this needs to be managed
your lifestyle in accordance with your daily later in the season. As kapha imbalances are the
needs. main threat during spring try and follow a
Q Ayurvedic daily cycle of dosas increasing and kapha-reducing lifestyle.
decreasing:
Q Water qualities: wet, cold, fluid, cohesive, slimy,
3am–7am, 3pm–7pm vata early morning until
unctuous, heavy.
just after sunrise, early afternoon until just after
Q Water anatomy: taste, kidneys, lungs, pancreas,
sunset (accounting for seasonal variations)
mucous membranes, bladder, blood, synovial
7am–11am, 7pm–11pm kapha morning, evening
fluid, secretions, lipids, ova, testes, knees to
11am–3pm, 11pm–3am pitta mid-morning, mid-
feet.
evening
Q Water physiology: reproduction, urination,
breast-feeding, moistens earth to give cohesion
Perform activities that reduce the aggravation of the
to physical system, saliva, mucous, pus, menses,
dosa.
lumps.
Q Water season: most active in winter, spring.
The cusp of every season aggravates vata and so a
Q Water flavour: increased by sweet and salty.
vata-pacifying regime should always be followed
Q Water asana: to decrease kapha practise more
during these times. A period of reflection and die-
vigorous postures, emphasising metabolic
tary adjustment for seven days either side of the
invigorating sequences and including back
solstices and equinoxes will promote health during
bends and forward bends to warm the kidneys
the following season.
and increasing chest opening postures to help
clear phlegm.
49
With spring being a time of cleansing the body and Q After completing your daily ablutions have an
Chapter 2 THE BASIC PRINCIPLES OF AYURVEDA
mind try to practise the yogic satkarmas: the six oil massage using organic sesame or sunflower
purificatory practices that facilitate the flow of any oil to reduce kapha from the skin.
imbalanced dosa out of the body. The Hathayoga- Q Have a hot shower to refresh the body.
pradipika (2.21–38) and Gheranda Samhita (1.12–60) Q Practising skin rubbing can be very valuable at
list the satkarma for rebalancing the dosas. If the this time of year for stimulating lymphatic cir-
humours are in excess it is necessary to reduce culation. Tradition suggests starting massage at
them; if they are deficient they should be the feet and legs, then progressing to the arms
increased. Performing the cleansing satkarma in a and back and then to the chest and abdomen.
body that is already deficient will weaken the This brings lymphatic fluid back to the heart for
humours. Evidently, most of us can benefit from elimination via the blood where toxins and
occasional cleansing but it is essential that it is wastes are cleared by the liver and kidneys.
carried out according to personal constitution, Q Dry massage using herbal powder (udvartana) is
seasonal patterns, and stage of life. The 21 types of also useful for regulating the lymphatic system,
cleansing listed in the hathayoga texts are detailed clearing fluid accumulation and cellulite from
and specific instructions of how to maintain the skin. Ayurveda recommends using chickpea
health. They are prerequisites to yogic practice. flour or other more fragrant herbs such as san-
They are divided as: dalwood or amalaki. Ensure that you do not
block your plumbing by doing this as the flours
Q Dhauti: internal cleansing including therapeutic can congeal into a sticky mass.
emesis (vamana or kuñjal) to clean the stomach Q If you can have a sauna during this early part of
and lungs spring it will help to dry the excessive secretions
Q Basti: autoenemas or mild laxatives to clean the that occur at this time of year.
intestines Q Take a cup of hot ginger and lemon water to
Q Neti: nasal cleansing using neti pot or medicated stimulate digestion and cut through any
oils to clear the sinuses mucous that has accumulated overnight.
Q Trataka: steady gazing to cleanse the skull, Q Yoga practice can include kapha-regulating pos-
sinuses and eyes tures that are dynamic, expansive and stimulat-
Q Nauli: abdominal massage to regulate digestion ing. This is really a continuation of winter
and stimulate the digestive fire practice but with a greater emphasis on elimi-
Q Kapalabhati: frontal brain cleansing to clear accu- nation via the lungs. Practise with an increased
mulations from the lungs. emphasis on breathing. Perform vigorous sun
The Hathayogapradipika also states an interesting salutation (suryanamaskara) – up to twelve
addition to all these cleansing practices, ‘that pra- rounds – until warm and breathing is deep.
nayama alone can remove the impurities’ (2.37). Also include strong backwards and forward
bends that open the chest, such as the fish
Learn these procedures with a qualified teacher. In (matsyasana) the wheel (cakrasana), the camel
spring, cleansing kapha from the lungs and stom- (ustrasana) and the tiger (vyagrasana) to
ach is emphasised. So, if therapeutic emesis does stimulate the kidneys and lungs. Also include
not appeal or is inappropriate, use pranayama to the locust (śalabhasana), spinal twists such as
benefit the lungs and seat of kapha. rotated triangle (trikonasana) and matsyendras-
ana.
Spring routine (vasanta r. tucarya- ) Q During pranayama practice emphasise frontal
Q Wake early, during brahma muhurta (3–7am), and
brain cleansing (kapalabhati) as it encourages
utilise the new-found seasonal vitality. As kapha exhalation with a spontaneous inhalation. It
is especially aggravated by sleeping in beyond greatly encourages the clearing of kapha.
7am rising early is a useful way to reduce kapha Q The spring diet should emphasise the bitter,
aggravations of fatigue, lethargy, mucous and pungent and astringent foods that help to clear
muzzy headaches. mucous and excess moisture from the body. The
bitter and pungent flavours also help to open
50
the channels of elimination. Conversely, avoid vating the skin. We often associate summer with
Part ONE
the sweet, sour and salty flavours that are heavy such problems as the inflammatory symptoms of
and cause water stagnation in the body. Your hay fever, prickly heat and other skin inflamma-
meals should be warm, light and very easy to tions. These all have some itchy, hot pitta symptoms
digest. While the nature of most foods is sweet that come to the surface with the rising heat. Hence
it is important to add these other recommended summer is naturally a time of calming and reduc-
flavours into your diet. ing pitta. As summer progresses the dry and light
Q Increase light grains such as rice, quinoa, barley, qualities increase causing vata to accumulate to
millet, corn. As pulses are considered to be eventually aggravate in the autumn. Hence, keep-
astringent they can be emphasised at this time ing vata in check is also important.
of year, with red lentils, aduki beans and chick-
peas good for clearing kapha. Q Summer qualities: light, warm, dry, penetrating,
Q Avoid ice, refrigerated foods eaten cold, eating sharp, transformative, subtle, ascending, expan-
too much, eating between meals and sleeping in sive.
the day, as these will offset the other good work Q Fire anatomy: pitta can build up in the digestive
that you are doing. system, liver, eyes, skin and heart at this time of
Q Assist elimination from the lungs by using mild year.
expectorants such as organic long pepper (Piper Q Fire physiology: sight, digestion, appetite,
longum) every day. Long pepper is a great reju- metabolism, assimilation, warmth, thermal con-
venative to the lungs and also helps to clear duction are all affected by the increased warmth
kapha. 0.5g of this can be mixed with honey and of summer.
taken twice a day to help strengthen the lungs. Q Fire flavour: pitta is increased by pungent, sour,
Honey is considered to be slightly astringent salty and so too much of these flavours in the
and warming and is the only sweetener kapha is summer may aggravate people prone to pitta
allowed as it helps to clear mucous. inflammations.
Q You will notice a dominance of yellow flowers
in the spring, and the ‘doctrine of signatures’ Summer is a perfect time to apply the wise teach-
(the idea that God has laid a signature over the ing of Swami Satyananda Saraswati and increase
earth to guide us to which herbs are good for viveka and vairagya. These refer to discrimination
which diseases or parts of the body) states that and non-attachment respectively. By discriminat-
yellow and the liver are connected. Many of ing we are choosing what is best for us and not
these yellow flowers, such as dandelion just following the perpetual attractions and revul-
(Taraxacum officinalis), benefit the liver. After the sions of our mind. By following the path of non-at-
initial course of kapha-clearing move towards tachment we can grow to be free from the
cleansing the liver of fatty and hot pitta accumu- pleasures and pain of our experiences and move
lations by using some bitter herbs. Try using towards living in the present moment.
turmeric (Curcuma longa) or daruharidra
(Berberis aristata) with organic aloe vera juice Ayurveda also prescribes that one of the main
(Aloe barbadensis). causes of illness is inappropriate attachment of
our senses to their sense objects. For example, I
An ayurvedic summer (gr-ıs.ma) like ice cream, so I eat some. I want some more as
The qualities of summer I can remember that delicious sweet creamy fla-
Summer is a time when the element of fire (tejas) is vour, and so I have some more and the next day
increased; there is more warmth, dryness and light- my nose feels congested. Now there is nothing
ness. These are qualities that increase pitta and can inherently wrong with ice cream but it must be
also cause vata to accumulate. The digestive agni used wisely so that you absorb the full pleasure
becomes easily displaced by the increase in external and nourishment that it can offer. If it is abused it
environmental heat drawing the internal fire to the will harm you; if it is used with viveka and vai-
surface. The jatharagni in the stomach moves to the ragya then it can bring you much joy.
exterior of the body reducing appetite and aggra-
51
Summer routine (grı-s. ma .r tucarya- ) fruits, tomato, garlic, onion, salt and sour dairy
Chapter 2 THE BASIC PRINCIPLES OF AYURVEDA
Q Start the day by brushing your teeth with some products as these all increase pitta.
cooling tooth powder – a dash of neem and Q It may be useful to take organic aloe vera juice
peppermint on your brush will help clear pitta (Aloe barbadensis) (50ml/day) throughout the
from the mouth. summer to clear pitta from the digestive system.
Q A light massage with coconut oil at room tem- Take it first thing in the morning.
perature will nourish the skin and clear any Q A good way of flushing pitta out of the body
heat. Wash this off with lukewarm water. is via the bowel; Ayurveda recommends
Q Try and walk with bare feet on a cool dewy amalaki (Emblica officinalis) as a mild laxative.
lawn for a calming and peaceful start to your Triphala can be mildly heating and so it is
day. best to move over to amalaki in pitta constitu-
Q Start yoga practice with some cooling and calm- tions.
ing śitali pranayama – this is an especially Q When thirsty try drinking cool herbal teas
calming and soothing practice where the tongue of peppermint, licorice, fennel and rose.
is rolled into a tube and then cool air is drawn in Another delicious delicacy is to collect a glass
through this tube and out through the nostrils. of fresh rose petals and cover them in sugar
Q Pitta can accumulate in the digestive system and overnight (in the moonlight). In the morning
especially the liver and small intestine. Do some you will have a delicious rose syrup elixir to
abdominal stretch, twist and massage exercises mix in your almond milk or just dilute with
for helping to clear pitta from your belly. Try water.
.
trikonasana (triangle series), bhujangasana (cobra), Q It is very important to watch out for pitta emo-
matsyasana (fish), matsyendrasana (twist), ustras- tions arising such as criticism, being judgemen-
ana (camel) to massage pitta out of the intes- tal, irritation and anger. If you feel a bit ‘hot
tines. As pitta can also accumulate in the eyes, under the collar’ a good trick is to hold a glass
via the liver, try doing a range of eye exercises of water in your mouth as the water cools your
to relax the eyes and increase circulation that pitta and keeps you quiet.
can carry away any excess heat. Q Before going to bed, especially if it has been
Q It is important to not do too many inverted a hot day, rub the soles of the feet with coconut
poses as these bring heat up to the head if you or castor oil to bring all the heat down to the
are a strongly pitta person. feet.
Q After yoga anoint yourself with some fragrant Q Wash the face in organic rose water and spray it
sandalwood or rose oil. Place a drop on your in your bedroom. It is important to fill the house
third eye, throat and navel to keep these centres and bedroom with fragrant roses and jasmine in
of awareness cool, calm and collected. the summer.
Q Diet in the summer should consist of sweet, bit- Q It is important to get to bed before 11pm as pitta
ter, astringent flavours and be light and easy to peaks at around midnight. Sleeping on the right
digest. side activates ida nadi in the left nostril and
Q Breakfast: eat liquid nourishing breakfasts such guarantees a blissful night’s rest.
as almond milk. Grind some soaked and peeled
almonds, mix into some warm milk (cow or An ayurvedic autumn (śarat)
rice), add saffron and some sweetener (not The qualities of autumn
honey). Autumn is a time when the air element (vayu) is
Q Lunch: eating at around noon when the sun is at predominant; there is more lightness, dryness
its zenith is best. (temporarily) and coolness. There is also the ten-
Q Supper: have a light meal of basmati rice, dency for ‘the winds of change’ to blow ever more
sprouted mung beans and green leafy vegeta- erratically. These qualities in nature have a ten-
bles. Do not eat salad at night as it will dency to aggravate vata that has already been
aggravate vata. accumulating throughout the end part of the sum-
Q In the summer it is best to avoid all dark meats mer. As vata regulates the nervous system, levels of
such as beef, lamb and pork as well as citrus moisture in the body, how relaxed we feel and
52
how well we digest food, these can easily become needs of your body and let your consciousness
Part ONE
disturbed. As the digestion is disturbed ama can flourish. Simple and true. Ayurveda and yoga both
also increase, and diseases where ama and vata mix teach us that the practice of observation is the path
together (samavata), such as arthritis, can become to understanding.
aggravated. Autumn is naturally a time of balanc-
ing vata and reducing any symptoms of wind, Autumn routine (śarat .r tucarya- )
dryness and erratic behaviour. Towards the end of Q Rising early when the world is still and calm,
autumn kapha starts to accumulate with the brush your teeth with some nourishing tooth
increase in wet and cold qualities. Remember that powder such as licorice, haritaki and mint.
in Ayurveda dosa means ‘fault’, so it is important Q Hold some warm sesame oil in your mouth for
to avoid dosa accumulation. three minutes. It has a wonderfully nourishing
effect on the mouth, strengthens the teeth and
Q Autumn qualities: light, dry, cool, erratic, rough, stops bleeding and receding gums.
mobile, subtle and clear. Q A specific autumnal practice is to then rinse
Q Air anatomy: vata can build up in the lungs, your mouth with haritaki water (1 teaspoon of
nervous system, brain, large intestine, hair, haritaki soaked in warm water overnight). After
nails, bones, skin and hands. This can cause dry rinsing you can swallow some of the haritaki, as
skin, constipation and increased anxiety, which it is the main rejuvenative for balancing vata
may cause nervousness and insomnia. and sending apana vata downwards. Apana vata
Q Air physiology: breathing, speech, nervous is one of the subtypes of vata that is responsible
impulse, touch, muscular movement, thought for moving everything downwards. As wind
movement, cellular communication, burps, hic- can aggravate constipation it is a very useful
cups and flatulence. practice for this time of year.
Q Air flavour: wind is increased by pungent, Q Massage yourself with warm sesame or maha-
astringent, bitter flavours that are found in very narayan oil. This can offset the seasonal ten-
hot spices, strong black tea and raw salads. dency to dryness, joint cracking, and stiff
Q Air asana: to decrease an excess of vata practice muscle pain. Wash off in a warm shower. Place
grounding, relaxed, opening and slow a drop of oil in your nostrils and ears to offset
movements using slow and steady breathing the damaging effect of the elements. A special
practices. oil called nasya nasal oil is prepared with herbs
that protect the nose and ears from infections
One of the main causes of disease in Ayurveda is and can be useful during the autumn.
‘crimes against wisdom’ (prajñaparadha). This Q Start yoga practice with some alternate nostril
means violating the inner sense of intuition as well breathing (nadi śodhana). The Hathayogapradipika
as ignoring past experience. Denying this wisdom says, ‘By proper practice of pranayama all
results in acting inappropriately for who you are. disease are eradicated. . . . The vayu should be
This gives you great responsibility for your health skilfully inhaled, exhaled and retained so that
and is a very empowering tool for taking control perfection is retained’ (Hathayogapradipika
of your health. Also classified under this heading 16, 18). What better time to master the art of
is the ‘restraint of natural urges’ (vegavarodha); breathing than in autumn when there are such
there should be no withholding the need of thirst, high levels of prana in the atmosphere? Nadi
hunger, sneezing, yawning, crying, urinating, defe- śodhana does what it says; it purifies the chan-
cating, breaking wind, burping, orgasm, sleep, nels of toxins, and especially vata-toxins that
waking and breathing due to overexertion (Caraka accumulate from tension and constriction of the
Sutrasthana 7.1). This does not mean wanton channels. We all know that breathing helps us to
indulgence of needs but appeals to the individual relax, but it also relaxes the subtle channels that
to follow physical needs without letting mental can easily become constricted and tight.
attractions and aversions get in the way. A teacher Q Practise asana that regulate vata and send apana
once taught me ‘graze like a cow and let your vayu downwards; this especially includes pavan-
spirit soar’, meaning live simply according to the amuktasana (the wind-relieving poses), all
53
inverted poses where the head moves below the system. Follow this programme strictly for two
Chapter 2 THE BASIC PRINCIPLES OF AYURVEDA
54
sense objects’ (asatmyendriyarthasamyoga). This invigorate the body with prana and clear excess
Part ONE
includes under-, over- or inappropriate use of the mucous, lethargy and sluggishness.
senses such as desiring something too much, too Q Practise asana that balance kapha and clear any
little, or when inappropriate for the constitution. It excess water. Do vigorous sun salutation (suryan-
boils down to inappropriate activities of the body amaskara) up to 12 rounds until you are warm and
and mind. For example, it is well known that your breathing becomes deep. Also include
excessive sweet consumption can cause pancreatic strong backwards and forward bends that open
enzyme imbalances, blood sugar problems and the chest such as the fish (matsyasana), the wheel
eventually diabetes. This is a kapha problem result- (cakrasana), the camel (ustrasana) and the tiger
ing from an excess of kapha foods and emotions (vyagrasana) to stimulate the kidneys and lungs.
(greed or attachment). If a person regularly lives Q Put some nasya nasal oil in the nose after finish-
with these habits they will get ill. ing your pranayama. The herbs in it can dissolve
the excessive amount of water that can accumu-
Winter routine (hemanta .r tucarya- ) late in the head in winter. This can help to alle-
Those having a kapha constitution must follow the viate depression and Seasonal Affective
majority of these recommendations; those who are Disorder by bringing lightness and clarity.
vata will also benefit; if pitta then keep clearing Q Winter diet should consist of warm foods that
heat from the inside of your body while keeping are mildly spicy, slightly salty and nourishing.
the exterior warm. Diet should clear kapha but not aggravate vata.
The digestive fire is usually stronger in winter
Q Sleeping late is fine in winter. Rise at 7am and as the cooler weather constricts the surface of
wash your teeth with some stimulating cinna- the body and pushes the heat back in to the cen-
mon, clove and haritaki powder. This will pro- tre of the digestive system.
tect your teeth from becoming overly sensitive Q Breakfast with a small bowl of porridge of oats,
to the cold. cornmeal (polenta), barley or rice. Add some
Q Hold some warm sesame oil in the mouth for cinnamon, cloves and honey. Although honey is
three minutes. This has a wonderfully nourish- sweet it is considered to be beneficial for kapha
ing effect on the mouth, strengthens the teeth as it can encourage clearing of mucous.
and stops bleeding and receding gums. Give Q Take a teaspoon of organic cyavanaprasha in the
the gums a good massage with your finger as morning to keep your energy and immunity
well. intact at this time of change. Cyavanaprasha is a
Q Massage yourself with warm organic sesame oil. great remedy for reducing kapha, reducing colds
Sesame is warming and can be beneficial to and promoting inner strength.
every constitution at this time of year. This can Q Lunch and supper should be wholesome meals
offset the seasonal tendency to coldness, aching avoiding too many cold, wet and damp foods
joints and ‘frozen shoulder’. Wash off in a warm that are excessively sweet, or from the fridge or
shower. freezer. Barley is one of the best grains for kapha
Q Have a hot shower, rub the oil off your skin as its drying (ruks.a) quality gently clears fluids
with a towel. from the body and can help clear sluggish
Q Drink a cup of warm water. This relaxes the digestion. Drink spicy teas throughout the day.
digestive system, kindles the appetite and Q If you are easily disturbed by the cold, wet and
encourages a healthy bowel motion. heavy qualities of winter then you may benefit
Q Begin yoga practice with some brain-cleansing from taking trikatu. This is a mixture of ginger,
pranayama (kapalabhati) or bellows breath (bhas- black pepper and long pepper and it will blow
trika); ‘Bhastrika quickly arouses kundalini. It is away any colds, coughs, poor circulation and
pleasant and beneficial, and removes obstruc- nasal drips.
tion due to excess mucous (kapha) accumulated Q After a day of hard work settle in for a relaxing
at the entrance to brahma nadi, this enables the evening. Ayurveda suggests that an occasional
three psychic knots to be broken. Thus it is the glass of dry and warming wine may be benefi-
duty of the yogi to practice bhastrika’ cial in the winter to encourage circulation and
(Hathayogapradipika 2.66/7). These practices stimulate digestion. Then it is off to bed with a
55
delicious glass of hot spicy milk. Nutmeg is a enzyme imbalances, blood sugar problems and
Chapter 2 THE BASIC PRINCIPLES OF AYURVEDA
very calming herb that promotes sound sleep eventually diabetes. This is a kapha problem
and can be added to your milk. resulting from an excess of kapha foods and
emotions (greed or attachment). If a person reg-
ularly lives with these habits they will get ill.
DISEASE AETIOLOGY: ROGA KARAN.A Another famous ayurvedic adage is ‘sarve ‘pi
roga mandagnihetavah’, which means that all
The cause of disease involves many different
disease is caused by an imbalance of the diges-
aspects from the imbalance of the dosa, to an imbal- tive fire; it is upset by extreme emotions or an
anced digestive fire (agni), to the accumulation of inappropriate diet.
ama, to the obstruction of the channels (srotas) and 3. Seasonal influences (parinama) such as climate
the deficiency of the dhatu. Internally, the movement change, geographic peculiarities or merely the
of disease is from the mind to the body where the annual cycle of seasonal variation can disturb
attitudes of greed, fear, anger, grief, arrogance, jeal- the dosa and cause disease.
ousy and hatred become somatised in the tissues. These may involve:
Ayurveda clearly states that ‘desire’ (raga) is a feel-
ing that generates pathological ‘heat’ in the mind Q Atiyoga: excessive indulgence
which generates these other emotions. Desire creates Q Hinayoga: inadequate indulgence
an obsessive attachment to various objects and this Q Mithyayoga: inappropriate indulgence.
locks us into a cycle of grasping and unfulfilment. Other causes are:
When stimulated, strong emotions create an agitat-
ing ‘friction’ that irritates digestion, the nervous 4. Inherited: these are the tendencies that we are
system and then the tissues, which can then cause a born with. It is as though we have a constitu-
range of diseases. For example, in the pathology of tional threshold which, depending on various
factors, may or may not manifest; e.g. psoriasis,
fever (jvara), accumulated heat leaves its residence in
diabetes or heart disease.
the stomach and invades the rasa tissues and dis- 5. Trauma: accidents affecting the body and
ease-causing heat spreads throughout the system. mind.
6. Divine: intervention on a subtle level from the
Imbalance of the dosa is internally caused by mithya- divine realm; e.g. magical spells.
haravihara or inappropriate food and activities: 7. Environmental: availability of food, water and
shelter have an obvious impact on health.
1. Crimes against wisdom (prajñaparadha) means 8. Karmic: disease has resulted from actions in
violating your inner sense of intuition as well as another life.
ignoring your past experience. Denying this wis-
dom results in acting inappropriately for who
you are. For example, a pitta prakrti person eating
lots of chillies while knowing that this will lead PATHOLOGY
- AND THE SIX STAGES OF DISEASE:
to inflammation and irritation. Also classified SAM. PRAPTI
under this heading is the restraint of natural The progressive stages of each disease are laid out
urges (vegavarodha); there should be no withhold- in great detail. The health of the system is opti-
ing the need of thirst, hunger, sneezing, yawning,
mised when the dosa are flowing out of the body
crying, urinating, defecating, flatulence, burping,
ejaculating, sleep, waking and breathing due to and the dhatu are nourished. The stages enumer-
overexertion (Caraka Sam ated below describe how this healthy process
. hita Sutrasthana 7.1).
2. Unwholesome attachment of the senses to becomes imbalanced:
their objects (asatmyendriyasamyoga) including
under-, over- or inappropriate use of the senses 1. Accumulation (caya)
such as desiring something too much, too little, Any of the causes of disease listed above can cause
or when inappropriate for the constitution the dosa to accumulate at their site:
(Caraka Sutrasthana 1.54). It boils down to
unwholesome activities of the body and mind. Kapha gathers in the stomach with signs of slug-
For example, it is well known that excessive gish digestion, lethargy, paleness, heavy limbs and
sweet consumption can cause pancreatic
heavy head.
56
Pitta accumulates in the small intestine with associated with, e.g. kapha in the lungs, stomach,
Part ONE
signs of acidity in the stomach, yellowing of the joints, mucous membranes and fluid parts of the
eyes, urine and stool, sensations of heat, irritabil- body; pitta in the liver, eyes, skin, intestinal lining
ity, bitter taste in the mouth and loose and smelly or glands; vata in the ears, joints, bones, skin or
stools. colon. This is when the premonitory signs of dis-
ease start; the weak cough and slight wheeze that
Vata collects in the large intestine with signs of can develop to full-blown asthma.
bloating, gas, constipation, pebble-like stool, dry-
ness, cramps, coldness, anxiety and insomnia. The dosas are now difficult to clear and require
deep cleansing techniques and pañcakarma to be
At this stage the disease is relatively easy to remove. removed.
57
References Meulenbeld J 1992 The characteristics of a dosa. The
Chapter 2 THE BASIC PRINCIPLES OF AYURVEDA
58
Chapter 3
There is nothing in the world which does not have therapeutic utility when applied in appropriate
conditions and situations.
Drugs act by virtue of their own nature and qualities at the proper time, in a given place, in appropriate
conditions and situations; the effect produced is considered to be their action (karma); the factor
responsible for the effect is their energy (vı-rya); where they act is the place (adhis.t.ha-na); when they act is
the time (ka-la); how they act is the mode of action (upa-ya); what they accomplish is the achievement
(phala).
This chapter is all about the study of the body. The qualities provide the basis for the the-
ayurvedic materia medica. It is a detailed look at the ory behind the energetics of the herbs. These
energetics of ayurvedic herbs and gives the theory qualities are parameters for potential activity;
behind the practice of using ayurvedic herbal they are not absolute. The qualities are indicators
medicine. ‘Herb’ is used to describe any ayurvedic of activity, not definitive markers of physiologi-
medicinal, be it plant-, animal- or mineral-based. cal action. Previous experience is an important
guide when determining the precise therapeutic
In Ayurveda the action of a herb is first consid- effect of herbs. The best way to learn about a
ered organoleptically (using the sensory organs). herb is to become intimately acquainted with it: a
The senses experience the qualities of the shape, herbalist must know a plant’s natural habitat,
colour, aroma, flavour and fracture of the plant. growing tendencies, climatic preferences and dis-
These qualities relate to certain pharmacological likes, shape, colour, taste, smell, harvest times,
actions that the herbs may have on the ayurvedic and most importantly, the herb must be
59
experienced personally. It is also crucial to
Chapter 3 AYURVEDIC HERBAL PHARMACOLOGY AND PHARMACY
understand its traditional use, dosage range, Box 3.1 Energetic qualities used in Ayurveda
appropriate method of administration, modern Taste (rasa): sweet, sour, salty, pungent, bitter,
pharmacology, contraindications as well as its astringent.
potential and known drug–herb interactions. Effect on the metabolic thermal body (vı-rya):
hot, cold and neutral; this category clarifies whether
Ayurveda uses natural metaphors to describe herbs warm you up or cool you down, if they
how natural remedies work in the body. It has stimulate or reduce the digestive fire, whether they
created a materia medica based on a pharmacog- are expansive or contractile by nature, whether they
nosy (the study of medicinal plants in their crude increase circulation or reduce it.
form) that describes the energetic qualities of Post-digestive effect (vipa-ka): how the taste of a
plants. This energetic approach tells you what natural substance changes after digestion and
the plant does: the taste of a plant, its tempera- cooking, hence how it influences the dos.as and
ture, its direction, where it goes in the body, what physiology in the long-term.
effect it has on the whole system and how it Effect on the digestion, fluid system and tissues
treats disease. These qualities have been deter- in the body (gun.a): the herbs have qualities of light,
mined through direct experience of the natural heavy, unctuous, drying, penetrating and soft.
world. This differs from modern chemical phar- The unique properties of the plant (prabha-va):
macology which is based on atomic structure and the plant’s unique activities above and beyond its
the quantity of active ingredients present in a particular energetics.
given compound. Tropism (sa- tmya): the affinity a plant has for
a certain organ, tissue or channel (a-śaya/
Box 3.1 lists the different energetic qualities that dha-tu/srotas).
are used in Ayurveda to differentiate the potency Constitutional (dos.a): the effect of the herb on the
of each remedy. Here is a brief summary of these constitution, i.e. whether it increases, decreases or
fundamental concepts and they will be expanded balances the dos.as.
throughout the chapter:
We will also look at the following topics in this
These energetic descriptions of the herbs are all
chapter:
based on the different qualities of nature. To use
an artistic metaphor, the theory of energetic phar- Q Herb nomenclature
macology is the canvas; this is the basis. The Q Ayurvedic preparations (bhais.ajyakalpana)
herbs are the paints that the artist uses to paint a Q Herbal carriers (anupana)
picture full of texture, depth, colour and clarity. Q Quality control in herbal medicine
How the colours of the paints are blended Q Dosage (matra vicara)
depends on the artist’s interpretation of the scene Q Ayurvedic plant actions (dravya karma)
in front of them, just as the energetic qualities of Q Herb sourcing
the herbs are merely guides along the path to Q Safety and conservation of the ayurvedic materia
finding the perfect formula for the patient. They medica
are not absolutes. This is the stroke of the brush Q Integrity management planning
that gives the picture its unique quality. The inter- Q Safety: using herbs and pharmaceutical medica-
pretations of herbal energetics are flexible and tions together.
depend on who is taking how much, of what and
when. As beauty is in the eye of the beholder, so
herbal energetics are in the senses of the experi- RASA: THE TASTES OF NATURE
encer. The skill of the herbalist lies in uniting the Rasa is a potent word; it can mean essence, juice,
theoretical framework of energetic pharmacology sap, plasma, chyle, mercury flavour and delicious
(dravya guna) with the reality of the physiological as well as meaning taste. Our experience of the
state of the patient (dosa prakrti and dosa vikr. ti). ‘taste’ of life affects our body and mind. If it is
‘sweet’ we are usually happy, while too many ‘bit-
ter’ tastes and experiences have less desirable
60
effects. The flavours of life that we put into our- (us.n.a) and cold (śita). They heat it up or cool it
Part ONE
selves become our rasa, our essence. down. For example, cinnamon is pungent and
hot, which raises temperature, while grapes are
Our bloodstream is filled with the cooked juices sweet and cooling, which can help to cool a
that we eat and drink. Whether a flavour is experi- fever.
enced as a sensation on the tongue or as an emo- Q Quality: the taste also defines whether a herb is
tion in the brain it still produces the same light (laghu) or heavy (guru) to digest and wet
physiological repercussions throughout the whole (snigdha) or dry (ruksa) on the mucous mem-
system. For example, blood pressure can increase branes. It also defines whether the herb is pene-
after a very spicy meal or after an angry moment. trating (tiks.n.a) or soft (mrdu). An example is
Hot spices such as garlic warm the mouth, stimu- black pepper, which is pungent and also hot,
late metabolism and raise the temperature of the light, dry and penetrating; it is easy to digest,
whole system. This heat also affects the conscious- dries the mucous membranes and penetrates
ness and it can transfer to the emotions and may deeply into the tissues.
cause extra passionate moments or rajasic ‘hot- Q Tropism: the taste also implies an affinity for
headed’ behaviour. How this heat is experienced, certain tissues and organs. A herb will influ-
physically or emotionally, depends on the constitu- ence the function of an organ, tissue or chan-
tional tendency. nel by tonifying or reducing, stimulating or
pacifying, drying or moistening. For example,
hot and dry herbs commonly clear wet
The taste (rasa) of each herb is determined by the
~ mucous from the lungs, can irritate the
combination of elements (pan camahabhuta) within it
plasma, blood and muscle but also reduce fat,
(Figure 3.1); the pungent flavour, for example, is
nerve and reproductive tissue, while cool and
energetically dominated by fire and air and is
bitter herbs often drain heat from the plasma,
spicy, drying and light. Every substance (dravya)
blood and liver while also reducing fat, nerve
has all the elements within it and usually one or
and reproductive tissue.
two are dominant. The secondary tastes (anurasa)
Q Doshic: the taste of each medicinal also influ-
are difficult to determine but add to the total activ-
ences the quantity and quality of each dosa. For
ity of the herb or food. A substance’s rasa is not
example, sweet builds kapha, reduces vata and
static and can change over time depending on
pitta and increases all the tissues.
when it is harvested, where it is grown, how it is
Q Direction: the taste has an effect on the move-
stored, how it is processed or cooked. For example,
ment of vata dosa by influencing the direction in
immature fruits are more sour, mature fruits more
which the five vayu move; e.g. the pungent taste
sweet, garlic is very pungent when raw but
ascends and spreads vyana vayu outward caus-
becomes sweeter on cooking, tinctures add a warm
ing sweating, while bitter descends, causing
energy to the herb and medicinal ghees add a
apana vayu to move downwards with a laxative
sweet quality to the preparation.
effect.
Tastes have certain functions and effects: Flavour is the essence of life; it affects everything
(Table 3.1).
Q Temperature: each specific taste affects the
thermoregulatory qualities within the body: hot
61
Chapter 3 AYURVEDIC HERBAL PHARMACOLOGY AND PHARMACY
62
TABLE 3.1 The six tastes of Ayurveda: Rasa, Virya, Vipaka
Rasa Sweet Salty Sour Pungent Bitter Astringent
Sanskrit Madhura Lavan.a Amla Kat.u Tikta Kas.a-ya
Dos. a action VP< K VP< ( in excess) PK V< PK KV< P KP< V KP< V
Gun. a Wet, heavy, cool Wet, heavy, warm Wet, light, warm Dry, light, warm Dry, light, cold Dry, light, cool
Vipa- ka SWEET SWEET SOUR PUNGENT PUNGENT PUNGENT
Dha- tu action All 7 Rasa Rakta All but Śukra Rakta Rakta Asthi Rasa Rakta Śukra
Ayurvedic action STRENGTHENS SATTVIC MOISTENING MOISTENS, DIGESTIVE EXPANSIVE, MOVES UP CLEARS HEAT DRIES Mucous, STOPS
Increases ojas; moistens; Softening lumps and Expels va-yu; moves liver Dries a-ma and mucous; Dries a-ma; descends LEAKAGE
difficult to digest; tumours; clears srota-m.si; stagnation; awakens stimulates agni, benefits and drains; stimulates Tightens dha-tus; cleans
increases dos.a/dha-tu/ grounding; soothes mind; holds fluids in digestion; aromatic, nervous system; benefits mucous membranes;
mala; benefits the mind nerves; nutritive to the tissues sharp, penetrating; skin; clears parasites from stops bleeding; stops
rasa dha-tu; increases opens srota-m . si and gastrointestinal tract; diarrhoea and coughs;
fluid and mucous blockages; encourages benefits liver and heals wounds
sweating; increases rañjaka pitta; clears
circulation: central and congestion from the
peripheral srota-m. si
Dose 3–30g 1–5g 1–12g 1–15g 1–15g 1–10g
Contraindications Excess medas; when Hypertension; when Itching; heat conditions; Śukra deficiency; All deficiencies; Srotorodha, Va-ta
a-ma is present; high blood is aggravated; when blood is heat conditions; acidity High va-ta, cold aggravation;
kapha high pitta; ulcers aggravated conditions; pregnancy constipation;
obstructions
Biomedical action Nutritive and tonic; Nervine; demulcent; Digestive; demulcent; Stimulant; carminative; Antipyretic; anti- Haemostatic;
laxative and diuretic; nutritive; anti-tumour laxative; cholagogue diaphoretic; vasodilator inflammatory; astringent;
demulcent and cholagogue; laxative; vasoconstrictor
emollient; antispasmodic; anthelmintic; alterative;
expectorant diuretic
Constituents Polysaccharides; Mineral salts Tannins; bioflavonoids Volatile oils; mustard Anthraquinones; Tannins
saponins; fatty acids glycosides alkaloids
Sweet (madhura) ple of ‘like increases like’ you want to increase your
Part ONE
The sweet flavour is made from the elements of sweet experiences and flavours in life to be truly
earth and water. This means that it has the nourished, loved and cherished. This will create a
qualities of these two building blocks; i.e. earth is cycle of ever-increasing benevolence.
heavy and descending and, like water, is wet and
cold (when water is subjected to heat it becomes Used in excess the heavy, unctuous and cold quali-
hot, but in its ‘primordial’ state it is cold). Sweet ties can reduce the digestive fire of jatharagni,
is the flavour of love, of sharing and of compas- increase mucous and promote congestion. It can
sion. We give sweets to friends as an act of shar- cause toxins, ama, fever, mucous, chest and breath-
ing and companionship. It is considered the most ing problems, dampness, swollen lymph glands,
sattvic of flavours and is used to heighten experi- flaccidity, heaviness, worms, fungal infections,
ence of clarity and awareness of the spiritual Candida albicans, obesity and diabetes. Exceptions
aspect of life. to this rule of sweet substances increasing kapha
are honey, mung beans and barley; they are actu-
We all know the sweet flavour. Its main receptors ally considered to balance excess moisture. As
are at the front of the tongue. Sweet comes from sweet tends to encourage accumulation it can cre-
sugars: glucose, sucrose, fructose, maltose, lactose. ate cravings and greed. Too much sweet flavour
They are made up of short (mono-) and long can create a congested and soggy quagmire!
(poly-) chains of saccharides. It is the flavour of (Bhavaprakaśa 6.1.175–178).
energy. Many carbohydrates, fats and proteins are
sweet and their potential energy is measured in Sour (amla)
kilojoules. Foods and herbs with the sweet flavour The sour flavour is made from the elements of
are considered to be tonics; they build and nourish earth and fire. Its qualities are hot, oily and light. It
all seven tissues; licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra), bala creates both dampness and heat in the body and
(Sida cordifolia) and shatavari (Asparagus racemosus) mind. It stimulates digestion via its hot and light
are sweet and nourish the deeper reproductive quality and clears dryness via its unctuous flu-
tissues. The sweet flavour increases ojas and the id-promoting properties. Sour foods make the
integrity of the immune system. Many renowned mouth moist and increase the flow of saliva. When
immune tonics have a sweet flavour and are taken in excess it draws the tissues inwards and
full of immune-modulating saponins and polysac- ‘puckers’ the lips, making the body horripilate all
charides. over. This contraction creates an emotional reluc-
tance to share things. Eating too much sour-fla-
Sweet substances and experiences increase kapha voured food encourages envy and can make your
and reduce pitta and vata. As a demulcent, soft, experience of life feel like ‘sour grapes’.
soothing and wet flavour it reduces some of the
dryness and weakness associated with vata. It is The sour flavour is found in acids: citric, lactic,
often combined with some mild pungent herbs to malic, oxalic and ascorbic. The receptors for the
help balance its cooling nature when treating vata. sour flavour are found on tastebuds on the sides of
It is a tissue healer and sweet herbs are often used the tongue. The acids have a direct effect on diges-
for hastening wound repair (e.g. aloe or licorice). tion by promoting liver function through various
Sweet benefits the mucous membranes lining the mechanisms; as sour flavours can reduce stomach
mouth, lungs, digestive, urinary and reproductive acid it also means that the liver needs to produce
systems. The sweet taste can help to clear a dry less acid-neutralising alkaline fluids. Sour flavours
throat and lungs by enhancing expectoration. Its also increase the flow of bile that helps to encour-
cooling anti-inflammatory tendencies help to age digestion of fats. Unripe fruits are sour and are
remove the intense heat of pitta or ‘-itis’ conditions commonly used as digestive chutneys in India.
(e.g. bronchitis). This is also helped by its softening Sour fruits such as amalaki (Emblica officinalis) are
mild laxative effect. It benefits the complexion, high in vitamin C and are considered to be anti-
improves hair and nail quality and is the best fla- oxidant, rejuvenating and tonic herbs.
vour for making a smooth voice. Sweet substances
that are digested properly will build all the tissues As the sour flavour aggravates pitta and liquifies
and create inherent strength. Following the princi- kapha it is not usually beneficial in hot and damp
63
conditions. It is also considered to vitiate the Salt is found in minerals and there are different
Chapter 3 AYURVEDIC HERBAL PHARMACOLOGY AND PHARMACY
blood and it is recommended that the sour flavour types of salt classified in Ayurveda: rock, sea, black,
be avoided in skin diseases. Most fermented foods pink and son~cala. Rock salt (saindhava) is considered
are sour; fermented yoghurt, sour dough breads, the best as it is very high in minerals and, unlike the
vinegar, pickles and alcohol are sour foods that other salts, does not cause such water retention and
increase heat and mucous in the body. Sour nour- it is not detrimental to the eyes. It is also the excep-
ishes all the tissues bar the deepest reproductive tion to the rule that salt is heating as it has a cooling
tissue (śukra). It is actually considered to destroy action (virya) and hence is used to rebalance high
semen. It alleviates vata and aggravations of the pitta. Salty is the rarest flavour in the ayurvedic mate-
nervous system; it draws scattered energy back in. ria medica, not found in many herbs. It is found in
It is a specific carminative useful to promote shilajit, a natural mineral rock exudate, full of
digestion while also removing gas and indigestion. numerous nourishing minerals. Seaweeds and celery
Amalaki, lemons, limes and pomegranate seeds are other examples of the salty flavour.
(Punica granatum) are the exception to the rule that
the sour flavour aggravates pitta, as they actually Salt aggravates pitta and kapha. It also disrupts the
reduce heat and inflammation. blood and is contraindicated in skin diseases as
well as bleeding problems. Its use in marinades
In excess sour can cause dizziness, thirst, burning reflects its softening quality and it is used to soften
sensations, hyperacidity, ulcers, fever, itching, masses and as a demulcent to liquefy kapha. It alle-
anaemia and skin diseases (Bhavaprakaśa 6.1.179– viates any excess of vata by stimulating the appe-
181). It can also aggravate diarrhoea, oedema and tite, moistening dryness and nourishing the
wet coughs and is not recommended when there nervous system. It is a mild laxative at a medium
are excessive congestive conditions. dose (3g) and an emetic at higher dose (5–10g). It
has a specific property of suksmagami; its subtle
Salty (lavan.a) properties help it enter the minutest channels of
Salt is predominantly made from the water and the body. Interestingly, when used externally as a
fire elements. It creates moisture and heat and is ‘salt pack’ it has warm and light qualities that
heavy and sinking. A grain dropped onto the reduce kapha and work osmotically to draw
tongue is instantly moistening. A sprinkle on food moisture out of the body and to heal wounds.
enkindles digestion. Its association with the water
element makes it a mild laxative and with the fire In excess it causes ulcers, skin diseases, water
element a digestive stimulating antispasmodic. It retention, ascites, intestinal inflammation, hyper-
is an easily recognisable flavour and its receptors tension, bleeding, grey hair, baldness and thirst
are at the front of the tongue. Its sinking and (Bhavaprakaśa 6.1.182–183).
heavy effect is very grounding for the nervous
system and this encourages stability. People who Pungent (kat.u)
are solid and reliable become known as ‘the salt of The pungent flavour is a combination of the fire and
the earth’. air elements. Its qualities are hot, dry and light as
well as penetrating and ascending. The acrid heat of
The use of salt is a good lesson in the importance hot foods and spices spreads throughout the whole
of dosage. In correct quantities it is vital to our system. Too much heat, whether climatic or dietary,
very existence and is as essential to our health as is known to cause ‘hot’ emotions ranging from pas-
water and food. It can save life when there is sion and excitement to anger and irritation. It is the
dehydration. In contrast to this a sprinkle too most rajasic and volatile of the tastes.
much will cause an ulcer and aggravate stomach
acidity. Excess salt consumption also causes water It is primarily found in the aromatic volatile oils,
retention with the concomitant results of oedema resins, oleo-resins and mustard glycosides. All
and high blood pressure. This physical holding is these compounds are used to stimulate, invigorate,
reflected in its emotional effects as it causes greed penetrate, dry and clear the accumulation of wet,
and encourages the desire for more flavour. To stagnant and congestive conditions. The essential
paraphrase a famous ayurvedic adage, it is all oils of ginger (Zingiber officinale) and black pepper
about who is taking how much, of what and when. (Piper nigrum) are often used for clearing mucous
64
congestion or warming a cold condition. Pungent creates space in the body by draining and drying
Part ONE
resins such as guggul (Commiphora mukul) and excess fluids. Too many bitter herbs can literally
frankincense (Boswellia serrata) also invigorate the ‘space you out’ and leave you feeling disorien-
flow of blood, scrape out toxins and reduce choles- tated. Many psychotropics are bitter; e.g. Psilocybe
terol. The aromatic cardamom (Elettaria cardamo- spp. It has a particular affinity for the blood (rakta).
mum) is an excellent digestive for encouraging Bitters are usually classified as ‘alteratives’ as they
sluggish digestion and removing mandagni. Unlike alter the chemical balance of the blood by clearing
the other tastes it does not have a specific taste toxins. As they encourage the flow of bile and the
bud receptor site but works through irritation of activity of the liver this may account for some of
local tissue and nerve endings. bitter’s detoxifying activity. Too much bitter fla-
vour can weaken the kidneys, reduce reproductive
Pungent herbs and foods are a panacea for kapha as tissue, and cause excess urination, and emotionally
they dry the excess moisture and mucous so prev- encourages fear and anxiety. The bitter flavour has
alent in this humour. They are often used in lung a negative effect on the strength of avalambaka
problems such as asthma or coughs where there is kapha and ojas which reside in the heart. Again, it is
aggravation from mucous and kapha congestion. all about an accurate diagnosis and using an
Pungent herbs are vital for any weight-loss pro- appropriate dose for each individual person.
gramme as they stimulate the metabolism and
reduce fat. They directly cook and burn ama as Whereas in Western herbalism bitters are com-
well as also clearing it via diaphoresis. The heat monly associated with a tonic effect, in Ayurveda
encourages vasodilation of the pores of the skin they are considered depleting. The tonic associa-
and encourages the body to sweat, therefore tion comes from the low dose, digestive-stimulat-
throwing off unmetabolised toxins through the ing and liver-promoting perspective. The depleting
skin. The pungent flavour usually increases vata and cleansing view comes from the experience that
but, in moderation, it can also help to remove the relatively larger doses of bitter herbs are cooling,
cold stiffness of vata while also encouraging the reducing, detoxifying, laxative and diuretic.
elimination of wind and digestive cramps. The Studying and applying the insights of herbalism is
heat of pungent herbs irritates pitta and should not a constant reminder to be specific. Everything is
usually be used where there is inflammation, espe- unique; how you apply the medicine, when you
cially with aggravation of the plasma (rasa) and apply it, to whom it is applied and where it is
blood (rakta) tissues. Its drying effect on bodily administered. Ayurveda clearly teaches that any
fluids can reduce semen and cause constipation. substance can be a food, a medicine or a poison
depending on how much is given, who is eating it,
In excess it creates burning, intestinal inflamma- when it is eaten and where it is taken.
tion, bleeding, dizziness, thirst, urinary retention,
lack of semen, reproductive disorders and exces- The reason that the bitter flavour is found in plants
sive dryness. Ginger (Zingiber officinale) and is often attributed to its ability to defend itself; a
cooked garlic (Allium sativum) are the exceptions to nasty-tasting plant is less likely to be eaten! The
the rule that pungent flavours aggravate vata; in bitter taste receptors are at the back of the tongue;
fact they benefit it as they increase digestion and they are the body’s way of giving us a last line of
reduce intestinal gases (Bhavaprakaśa 6.1.184–188). defence. The bitter flavour is found in sesquiterpe-
Cloves (Syzygium aromaticum), coriander nes, anthraquinones, alkaloids and some glyco-
(Coriandrum sativum), cumin (Cuminum cyminum) sides. Plants with these properties are renowned
and fennel (Foeniculum vulgare) are all examples of for their anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antipy-
herbs containing a pungent quality that do not retic and digestive secretion enhancing activities.
aggravate pitta if not used excessively. These compounds are usually found intermixed
with pungent and aromatic or astringent-tasting
Bitter (tikta) plants; all drying flavours. Neem (Azadirachta ind-
This therapeutically priceless taste is created from ica), kutki (Picrorrhiza kurroa) and kalamegha
a combination of space and air elements. Its domi- (Andrographis paniculata) are well-known ayurvedic
nant qualities are cooling, drying and light. It
65
bitters famed for their ability to clear infection, reduction in semen and dryness of the whole body.
Chapter 3 AYURVEDIC HERBAL PHARMACOLOGY AND PHARMACY
heal skin problems and purify the blood. Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia) is a bitter herb that is
an exception to the above contraindications as,
Bitter herbs clear kapha and pitta while aggravat- along with the bitter benefits, it is also an aphro-
ing vata. Excess dampness, ama and heat are disiac and tonic due to its sweet post-digestive
reduced as the bitter flavour dries and drains effects (Bhavaprakaśa 6.1.189–191).
them out of the system. When treating kapha prob-
lems bitter herbs are often combined with some Astringent (kas.a- ya)
pungent herbs to offset their cooling nature. When Astringent is the driest flavour. Made from a pre-
treating high pitta in the stomach bitters may dominance of the earth and air elements it is
aggravate acidity and should be tempered with heavy, cold and dry. As it draws inwards it dries
some sweet and unctuous herbs to balance the and reduces them. On eating something astringent
light quality in the bitter flavour. Bitters also pro- your whole mouth contracts and draws the
mote peristalsis and urination. They are often mucous membranes closer together. Having too
indicated in lung conditions, especially with infec- many ‘dry’ and unfulfilling experiences can leave
tions manifesting with green and sticky mucous. you with a lack of taste for life and even resentful
They excel at clearing itching, swelling and oozing at its lack of zest.
on the skin. A little is used as a stimulant to the
appetite as the light quality can enhance the appe- The astringent flavour is found in tannins. These
tite, regulate samana vayu, reduce mandagni and polyphenols are particularly concentrated in the
clear the palate as well as stimulate the release of bark, leaves and outer rind of fruits of plants and
digestive enzymes. Higher doses are used to kill trees. They appear to offer some form of outer pro-
worms and parasites in the intestines and blood. tection by repairing wounds and neutralising bac-
They are commonly indicated in high pitta condi- teria. They are especially soluble in water; hence
tions of the plasma, blood and liver such as hepa- the drying nature of a strong cup of tea left to
titis and jaundice. Their antimicrobial and steep for too long. Astringency is often found in
anti-inflammatory effects are salutary for treating combination with plants that also taste sweet or
heat in the intestines with dysentery, bleeding and sour. Bibhitaki (Terminalia belerica), haritaki
mucous. Bitter herbs also benefit overweight con- (Terminalia chebula), arjuna (Terminalia arjuna)
ditions as they can dry and scrape away the adhe- and guggulu (Commiphora mukul) are especially
sions and fatty accumulations. Here they benefit astringent.
obstructions to the channels and help to clear
srotorodha. Therapeutically the astringent flavour clears kapha
and pitta while aggravating vata. It is very useful
When misused or incorrectly prescribed they can where there is any leakage of body fluids; bleeding
cause too much dryness and wasting in the body (externally and internally), excessive sweating,
and mind; this can upset the nervous system caus- enuresis, diarrhoea, excess catarrh, leucorrhoea and
ing constipation, dizziness, weakness, coldness, premature ejaculation. It holds tissues together and
66
astringent herbs are often used as a wash to help as their subjective experience will all affect the
Part ONE
heal wounds. This holding effect also prevents physiological heating or cooling effect of the plant.
loose and flaccid tissue from accumulating. Using
astringent herbs is appropriate to treat sinking Hot (us.n.a)
problems such as prolapses. Its drying effect on the Heat warms, dries, invigorates and stimulates the
digestive system benefits diarrhoea by astringing tissues. Just as the sun on a hot day causes the
the bowel and stopping excessive downward flow. blood to come to the surface of the body, so ener-
This also helps absorption by drawing fluids and getically hot herbs cause our metabolism to expand
nutrients inwards. But its cold and heavy quality upwards and outwards causing the pores of the
can impair agni and reduce the strength of the skin to open. Hot substances are high in the fire
digestive fire. Astringents are used for pitta inflam- (tejas) element. Heat increases the metabolism,
mations to draw the swelling inwards, cool the encourages circulation, causes sweating, light-head-
heat and also drying any damp suppuration. edness and thirst. Hot substances are usually used
to treat cold, contracted and hypo or sluggish con-
These dry, rough and light qualities are similar to ditions. Beneficial to kapha and vata, it dries damp,
vata. Because astringent tastes contract the tissues phlegm and warms cold. As ‘like increases like’
and obstruct the flow of prana and nervous energy pungent herbs encourage agni and digestion to
in the system it is usually detrimental to vata. function at optimum level. Herbs that are heating
Astringent haritaki (Terminalia chebula) is a notable usually contain volatile oils or mustard glycosides
exception as, due to its warming energy and sweet that stimulate gastric secretions as well as assimila-
post-digestive effect, it is one of the primary vata tion of nutrients. Usna substances have a particular
tonics. In excess astringent flavours can cause vata affinity for the heart, head, liver and lungs and are
diseases like rigidity, pain in the heart, convulsions commonly used when they are imbalanced but
and retention of gas, urine and faeces (Bhavaprakaśa may damage them if used unjudiciously. Pungent,
6.1.192–194). sour and salty herbs tend to be heating.
Cold (śı-ta)
VI-RYA: THE THERMAL ACTION OF HERBS AND FOODS Cold natured herbs cool, moisten and sedate the
This is basic science. Hot substances warm and tissues and metabolism. Rather like the cold of a
cold substances cool. Herbal formulas are a combi- winter’s day causes you to shiver, energetically
nation of hot and cold remedies that are balanced cold herbs contract the muscles and narrow the
to fit the energetic makeup of the individual and channels of circulation. They are high in the water
their condition. The categories of ‘hot’ and ‘cold’ (ap) element. Cold substances are usually used to
are not absolutes but guides on the path to balance.
Though they are commonly classified alone they TABLE 3.3 The three degrees of heat
should be considered along with the other guna
Degree of heat Heating flavours
qualities of dry, unctuous, light, heavy, penetrating
and soft. In fact, Caraka lists the six secondary Hot in the third degree (hottest) Pungent (kat.u)
actions (upakarma) as energetic virya. The quality of Hot in the second degree Sour (amla)
virya is always more therapeutically important than
Hot in the first degree Salty (lavan.a)
rasa and vipaka. For example, a hot remedy such as
fresh ginger (Zingiber officinale) can be used to heat
the body to cause a sweat that has the effect of
TABLE 3.4 The three degrees of cold
cooling the body temperature. Conversely a cooling
remedy such as kutki (Picrorrhiza kurroa) can be dis- Degree of cold Cooling flavours
pensed at a low dose to stimulate the digestion via Cold in the third degree (coldest) Bitter (tikta)
its other light and dry properties and hence
Cold in the second degree Sweet (madhura)
increase metabolism and heat. Other external influ-
ences such as the time of year that the herb is used, Cold in the first degree Astringent (kas.a-ya)
the constitution and condition of the patient as well
67
treat ‘hot’, inflamed and hyper conditions. Cold
Chapter 3 AYURVEDIC HERBAL PHARMACOLOGY AND PHARMACY
benefits pitta while aggravating kapha and vata; Box 3.2 Caraka’s classification of the post-
cold-natured herbs soothe painful and inflamma- digestive effect of tastes on the dos. a
tory heat conditions. Digestion is easily damaged Sweet, salty
by cold-natured herbs and should be used cau- Digest into sweet: sweet is nourishing and
tiously when there is diarrhoea and sluggish moistening to the tissues and also has a mildly
digestion from cold. Cold herbs have an affinity laxative effect. The cooling and anti-inflammatory
for the stomach, the kidneys and the bladder and nature of sweet make it beneficial to pitta, and its wet
can weaken them if used excessively. Bitter, astrin- and building properties will increase kapha.
gent and sweet herbs tend to be cooling.
Sour
Digests into sour: this will encourage digestion,
The classification of hot and cold can be further sep-
benefit the liver, increase heat and moisture in the
arated into a hierarchy of degrees that will increase
body while also calming the nervous system. Its long-
or decrease agni in the body. This emulates the
term effect is to aggravate pitta and calm va-ta.
Vedic classification of agni representing the heating
qualities of solar fire and soma representing the cool- Pungent, bitter, astringent
ing qualities of lunar water. This is conveyed into Digest into pungent: its nature is to increase dryness,
tridosa theory with agni representing tejas and pitta, constipation and gas as well as reducing fertility. It
soma representing ojas and kapha, with vata balanced can help to reduce kapha and aggravate va-ta.
in the middle as the regulatory prana.
Part ONE
all be used to determine the energetic effect of a Any plant with a dry quality is naturally astrin-
substance but, as well as the heating (usna) and gent, absorbs moisture and therefore reduces kapha
cooling (śita) actions, the five listed below are the and greatly increases vata. They are high in the ele-
main ones used in ayurvedic herbal energetics. ments of air (vayu) and earth (prthvi), having a dry-
They are listed separately as they need the ing (ruksana) effect on the tissues. They are usually
agni-regulating effects of usna and śita to become high in essential oils and tannins and may also be
manifest, reflecting the primary importance of the heating as well (as heat dries fluids). Most plants
thermal quality of a substance. Though they usu- have tannins in them but certain barks and fruits
ally take a secondary position to the primary place are especially astringent. Arjuna (Terminalia arjuna)
of virya (hot–cold), the guna of light–heavy, wet– is dry.
dry, penetrating may occasionally have a dominant
effect. For example, the unctuous properties of Penetrating or sharp (tı-ks.n.a)
coconut and sesame oils are more therapeutically Herbs with a penetrating or sharp quality are usu-
important than their respective cooling or heating ally pungent, acrid and aromatic. They are usually
properties: high in air (vayu) and fire (tejas) elements. They
spread deeply and quickly into the tissues, open
Light (laghu) the channels and by their intense nature increase
Plants, foods and minerals that are light have a pitta and calm kapha and vata. Vacha (Acorus cala-
quality that moves upwards, assist agni, are easily mus) has penetrating properties.
digested and also remove sluggishness and
Unctuous (snigdha) Even when herbs have the same energetic pattern
These medicinals are soft, demulcent and oily. They they can have different actions and this defines
are moistening, strengthening, increase virility, fer- prabhava; sesame seeds (Sesamum indicum) and
tility and kapha. They are comprised mainly of the madanphala (Randia dumentorium) are both sweet,
water (ap) element and have a demulcent and astringent and bitter in flavour but sesame is a
moistening (snehana) effect on the tissues. They are tonic while madanphala is an emetic and reduces
usually sweet, heavy and contain a high content of any excess of the dosas. While they have similar
mucilage or essential fatty acids. Sesame (Sesamum flavours their actions are different. Each has its
indicum) seeds and oil are unctuous. own unique and individual prabhava.
69
HERB NOMENCLATURE: SYNONYMS The main forms in which herbs are administered
Chapter 3 AYURVEDIC HERBAL PHARMACOLOGY AND PHARMACY
Part ONE
decoctions (ks.×-rapa-ka kalpana-) where 1 part and tinctures
herbs is mixed with 8 parts milk and 32 parts Decocted extracts (arista) or cold infusion extracts
water and simmered until the water evaporates; (asava) of different herbs are fermented with the
this is very effective for rasayana treatments (e.g. flowers of dhataki (Woodfordia fruticosa) at a ratio
pippali vardhamana where increasing numbers of of 1 part herb to 5 parts honey to 10 parts jaggery
long pepper fruits are taken to treat asthma) as to 25 parts water. They are sealed in a wooden
well as for maximising extraction of lipid soluble barrel and left to transform into nourishing medi-
components such as saponins (cf. arjuna). Herbal cines. They are used as tonics and to stimulate the
stocks (pa.naka) are made by simmering 1 part digestive fire. They are often prescribed at doses of
herb in 64 parts water reduced to half. Rice or veg- 1–2 karsa of 12–24ml twice a day.
etable soups are then made in this stock as a part
of nourishing therapy (brmhana). Although not traditionally used in Ayurveda, tinc-
tures are commonly used these days in Western
Distilled waters (arka) countries to administer herbs. Herbs are macerated
The collected vapours resulting from condensed or percolated in water and alcohol with varying
steam; aromatic seeds and delicate flowers are weights and volumes. For example 1 part herb is
often used to make these delicious herbal waters macerated in 5 parts menstruum at a 25% alcohol
that are commonly used for the skin and emotions. ratio for 2–4 weeks and then pressed out. The result-
ing extract is then stored and has a long shelf life
Hot infusion (pha-n.t. a) from 1 to 5 years, depending on the herb. This ratio
Delicate leaves, seeds and flowers are usually is written as ‘1:5 @ 25%’ and means that 5ml tincture
infused at a ratio of 1 part herb to 8 parts freshly is equal to 1g herb and thus the dose can be accu-
boiled water. This brew is left to steep for up to rately measured. A tincture does have a special effect
12 hours. These hot teas are used for vata and kapha on the effect of the medication; the usna quality of
problems and are commonly prescribed at 2 palas, alcohol is added to the preparation, tinctures are eas-
equal to 96ml twice a day. ily assimilated and they spread quickly round the
body. They are usually taken at 1–5ml three times a
Cold infusion (hima) day with warm water, depending on the ratio of the
A cold infusion is used for steeping very delicate extract, the type of herb used and the effect desired.
aromatic leaves and flowers and in treating pitta
disorders. One part herb is steeped in six parts Gugguls
water. This is usually done overnight when the These compounds are made with a base of purified
cooling lunar energy is at its peak. Well-known guggulu (Commiphora mukul). The guggulu is boiled
preparations are made from guduchi (Tinospora in a decoction of triphala to remove impurities and
cordifolia), coriander seed, jasmine flowers and then fried in ghee and ground to a powder. To
sariva (Hemidismus indica). They are commonly make medicinal gugguls it is then triturated along
prescribed at 2 palas, equal to 96ml twice a day. with other herbs, fresh juices or decoctions of other
complementary herbs. For example, kaiśor guggulu
Herbal jams and jellies (pa-ka, leha, avaleha) is an anti-inflammatory preparation where the
These delicious preparations are often used as ton- herbs and guggulu are triturated in a decoction of
ics when there is debility. A primary ingredient is triphala and guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia).
mixed with herbs, ghee and honey or jaggery.
Cyavanapraśa is the most famous of these prepara- Trituration grinds herbs by rubbing and pounding
tions but there are numerous others made for spe- them into very fine particles that are easy to digest.
cific organs: brahmi rasayana for the intellect, Friction also adds its other function of removing
agastya haritaki leha for the lungs and bilva avelaha natural and chemical impurities. This ground paste
for the intestines. They are often complex formula- is then baked in an oven, ground to a powder and
tions with elaborate preparation procedures. They made into pills. Gugguls are specifically detoxify-
are dosed from 5g up to 1 pala of 48g twice a day. ing as guggulu has a scraping action that clears
toxins. They are prescribed in doses of up to 3 masa
of 4g twice a day.
71
Pills (gut. ika- , vat.i) Brahmi ghrta and Pañcatikta ghrta are renowned
Chapter 3 AYURVEDIC HERBAL PHARMACOLOGY AND PHARMACY
Pills are made by mixing powdered herbs with ghee compounds. Ghrta are prescribed at ½–1 karsa
sugar, honey, guggul or water and then rolled into (also known as a tola) of 6–12g twice a day.
~
small pills. They are prescribed from 1–2 gunja of
125–250mg twice a day, up to 4 masa of 4g twice Medicated oil (siddha taila)
a day. Made the same way as ghee (1 part herb:4 oil:16
water) these decocted oils are used for massage
Alkaline extracts (ks.ara) and gud.u- chı- sattva and healing wounds, strengthening bones, as hair
The dry herbs are incinerated to an ash and then tonics, skin treatments, medicated enemas, vaginal
mixed with 4 parts water. This maceration is stored douches. They are used at doses of 1–4 prasthas
overnight and then strained through a cloth until equal to approximately 750–3000ml per treatment.
there is a clear liquid. The liquid is then evapo- They are also used for nasal administration to clear
rated until a pure white solid remains. They are sinus conditions where they are prescribed at drop
~
prescribed at a dosage of 1–2 gunja of 125–250mg doses between 2–10 bindu. They can also be taken
twice a day. They are used as scraping, laxative, internally, such as when mahanarayan oil is used
diuretic and digestive treatments. A similar prepa- to clear asthma.
ration, known as a sattva, is made from the fresh
stem of guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia) pulped and Minerals (rasaśa- stra)
soaked and the resultant sediment separated and A large percentage of the ayurvedic pharmaco-
dried. It is prescribed at a dosage of 1–2 masa of poeia is of mineral and metallic origin and many
1–2g twice a day for treating fever. formulas contain some minerals. Their appearance
in ayurvedic medicine (c.800CE) marks a coming
Medicated ghee (siddha ghr. ta) together with the tantric tradition. The ayurvedic
Ghee holds a special place in Indian culture. It is the goal of long life becomes intermingled with the
most pure essence of selflessly-given milk from the tantric yogic goal of immortality. Alongside this
sacred cow. Unsalted butter is slowly simmered for esoteric union is the clear fact that minerals are
about 20 minutes until the water portion is evapo- stronger than herbs, have a longer shelf-life and
rated and the milk solids have settled to the bottom are very effective. Mineral preparations are usually
leaving the pure golden butter oil. It is sweet, cold, ‘killed’ (marana) by being calcined in very hot fires,
heavy and unctuous with a special prabhava of enter- dipped in purificatory (śodhana) fluids (cow’s
ing all seven tissues. Benefits: sweet in taste with urine, herb decoctions or sesame oil) and then
sweet post-digestive effect, enkindles agni, nourishes ground to the finest powdered ash (bhasma). The
all seven dhatus, increases ojas, calms pitta, oleates number of heatings or puta treatments indicates
the tissues, lubricates connective tissue, reduces vata, the quality of the bhasma and this can range from
carries herbs deep into the tissues, rejuvenating, ben- 10 to 1000 cycles! They become oxides or sulphides
efits the eyes, clears poisons, bestows lustre, pro- that are chemically unreactive. According to
longs life, increases intelligence, strengthens the ayurvedic tradition, this means that they are not
brain and nervous system and descends apana vayu. soluble and they are considered to be either totally
Do not use in kapha diseases with clear, white dis- or relatively chemically unreactive on the tissues.
charges and obstruction to the channels. Please note: the use of minerals is illegal in many
countries around the world as they are considered
Medicated ghees are used to nourish the nerves to be poisons. Refer to the WHO Standards, the
and mind. As ghee is so easily absorbed into the Quality Control Methods for Medicinal Plants 1998
deeper tissues it is a very beneficial vehicle that and the European Pharmacopoeia for limits and
carries the herbs deep into the body. As it is so test methods. They are catalysts that spark a heal-
nourishing and cooling it is often used for vata and ing process. From mercury, gold and diamonds to
pitta diseases. One part herb is decocted in 16 parts iron and eggshell innate materials are transformed
water until 4 parts of the water remain. This is from their ‘raw’ state to potent medicines. They are
then mixed with equal parts of ghee and simmered prescribed at low doses from ½–4 guñja of 62.5–
until all of the water has evaporated. The whole 500mg twice a day. Refer to Bhagwan Dash’s
process can also be carried out in one boiling. ‘Alchemy and metallic medicines in Ayurveda’ for
further details of this vast subject.
72
-
HERBAL CARRIERS (ANUPANA) ingredients from the higher ground. Medicinal
Part ONE
herbs which grow on termite hills, in dirty places,
This is the idea that certain substances either act as
in bogs, in cemeteries, salty ground, or on the
catalysts or messengers to the main active herb
streets, are not effective. Nor are those which
and help carry them to certain parts of the body.
have been affected by parasites, fire or frost.
The carriers are either mixed with or taken along-
.
side the medicine. Known as an anupana they are Śa-rngadhara Sam . hita-
the medium that carries the herbs to their intended
destination and enhances or moderates their effect. Herbal medicine is now being legislated by central
Milk, water, ghee, oil, herb juices, sugar, salt and governments all over the world in an attempt to
honey are all used as vehicles. raise the quality of production standards. The
World Health Organization has set standards on
Q Milk counteracts pitta and also encourages the
quality control methods for medicinal plants and
nourishing effect of ashwagandha (Withania individual nations have also set legal standards
somnifera) or shatavari (Asparagus racemosus) that herbal products must meet; good manufactur-
Q Water when hot encourages agni, clears ama and ing practice (GMP) with standards akin to the
reduces vata and kapha pharmaceutical industry. GMP is a system that
Q Water when cold reduces pitta includes assurances, checks and procedures to
Q Ghee carries the herbs deep into the tissues, ensure appropriately safe and effective medicinals
nourishes the nervous and reproductive systems are released for therapeutic purposes. These are
and it also has a catalytic (yogavahi) effect on the checks on quality and purity (Box 3.5).
herbs that helps to potentise them
The herbs should be gathered on a good day by Q Abhisyandi: These substances block the
someone in a good state of mind who is clean, channels and cause heaviness. The flow of rasa
facing the sun, silent and who has paid homage is hindered and stagnation occurs when too
in his heart to the god Shiva. When collecting much of these substances is used. They are
from normal land, one should choose one’s
73
Chapter 3 AYURVEDIC HERBAL PHARMACOLOGY AND PHARMACY
mainly unctuous and heavy in nature; e.g. Q Arśoghna: These are antihaemorrhoidal remedies
yoghurt obstructs the flow in the channels. such as chitrak (Plumbago zeylanicum) or ginger
Q Anuloma: These herbs help vayu to move in its (Zingiber officinale).
appropriate direction. They are often mild aperi- Q Artava janana: Herbs promoting the menstrual
ents and help with flatulence and constipation. flow such as myrrh (Commiphora myrrha).
They are usually aromatic and carminative Q Balya: This means strengthening and these
herbs, commonly from the Umbelliferae family, herbs are tonics. They are usually heavy and
such as fennel seed (Foeniculum vulgare) or filled with the earth element, like bala (Sida cordi-
ajmoda (Apium graveolens). folia).
Part ONE
Box 3.6 General principles of dosage sations in the body, such as sandalwood (Santalum
Low dose (0.5–3g of herb powder) balances the album) or coriander (Coriandrum sativum).
natural function of the dos.as and influences the Q Dipaniya: These herbs enkindle the digestive fire.
emotional system They indirectly digest ama. They are usually
Medium dose (3–9g) stimulates a specific therapeutic pungent, hot and dry; e.g. long pepper (Piper
effect that treats a systemic imbalance longum), black pepper (Piper nigrum) and
High dose (9–30g) either drains toxic accumulations chitraka (Plumbago zeylanicum).
or tonifies the whole system Q Garbhaśaya: These herbs have an affinity for the
uterus, such as ashoka (Saraca indica) and roses
(Rosa centifolia).
Q Grahi: These herbs dry the moisture of the body
Box 3.7 General dosage levels and of the wastes; ginger (Zingiber officinale),
Adults (12–60 years old) cumin (Cuminum cyminum).
Tea: hot infusion (pha-n.t.a) 30–96ml of a 1:8 infusion Q Hikka nigrahana: These herbs are antihiccup such
twice daily as clove (Syzygium aromaticum).
Tea: cold infusion (hima) 30–96ml of a 1:6 infusion Q Hrdaya: These herbs have a tonic effect on the
twice daily heart; arjuna (Terminalia arjuna) and ashwa-
Tea: hot decoction (kva-tha) 30–96ml of a 1:16 gandha (Withania somnifera).
reduced to 4 parts two to three times daily Q Jivaniya: These herbs are life-giving and rejuve-
native herbs such as amalaki (Emblica officinalis).
Pills/tablets/gugguls: 250–500mg two to three times
Q Jvarahara: These are antipyretic herbs for stop-
daily
ping fevers including musta (Cyperus rotundus)
Tincture: average dose of 1–10ml of a 1:5 ratio three
and kalmegh (Andrographis paniculata).
times daily or 1–9ml of a 1:3 ratio three times daily
Q Kandughna: These are antipruritic herbs such as
Children (5–12 years old) peppermint (Mentha piperita), turmeric (Curcuma
1
⁄4–1⁄2 adult dose or divide age at next birthday by 24 longa) and musta (Cyperus rotundus).
to give fraction of dose (this is known as Cowling’s Q Kanthya: These herbs are renowned for their
dose) affinity for the throat; e.g. licorice (Glycyrrhiza
glabra), long pepper (Piper longum).
Babies and young children (0–5 years old) Q Kasahara: These are antitussive herbs such as
1
⁄5–2 tsp of tea three times daily or give the herbs to vasaka (Adhatoda vasica) or long pepper (Piper
the breastfeeding mother 20 minutes prior to longum).
breastfeeding Q Krmighna: These herbs are specifically for remov-
ing parasites and worms; e.g. neem (Azadirachta
indica) or kalmegh (Andrographis paniculata).
Q Bhedaniya: These are purgative herbs that forcibly
Q Kusthaghna: These are herbs that treat skin diseases
expel the solid and liquid parts of faeces. Kutki
such as neem (Azadirachta indica) or manjishtha
(Picrorrhiza kurroa) has this effect at a high dose.
(Rubia cordifolia).
Q Brmhaniya: These are nourishing herbs that are
Q Lekhaniya: These herbs ‘scrape’ the waste residues
full of the water element; e.g. shatavari
out of the body by a drying action. They are usu-
(Asparagus racemosus).
ally bitter and pungent in flavour; for example
Q Caksusya: These herbs improve eyesight; e.g.
guggul (Commiphora mukul), myrrh (Commiphora
amalaki (Emblica officinalis).
myrrha), vacha (Acorus calamus), turmeric
Q Chhardi nigrahana: These are antiemetic herbs such
(Curcuma longa), triphala, barley and honey.
as fresh ginger (Zingiber officinale recens), pome-
Q Madakari: These are substances that cause intoxi-
granate juice (Punica granatum) or cardamom
cation, such as alcohol.
(Elettaria cardamomum).
Q Madhya: Anything that nourishes the mind and
Q Chedana: These herbs actively draw out toxins
intellect; e.g. brahmi (Bacopa monniera).
by scratching them from the tissues; guggulu
Q Mutra samgrahaniya: These herbs reduce the
(Commiphora mukul), shilajit (Asphaltum) and
flow of urine such as bhalltaka (Semecarpus
black pepper (Piper nigrum) all help to detoxify
anarcadium).
the deeper tissues.
75
Q Mutravirecana: These herbs are diuretics that Q Snehopaga: These are moistening herbs such as
Chapter 3 AYURVEDIC HERBAL PHARMACOLOGY AND PHARMACY
increase the flow of urine, such as gokshura castor oil (Ricinus communis) or tila/sesame
(Tribulus terrestris) and coriander (Coriandrum (Sesamum indicum).
sativum). Q Śodhana: These herbs actually clear the excess
Q Nidrajanana: These herbs promote sound sleep; dosas out of the body; e.g. triphala, castor oil
e.g. tagarah (Valeriana wallichi), ashwagandha (Ricinus communis) or manjishta (Rubia cordifolia).
(Withania somnifera). Q Śonita sthapana: These are haemostatic herbs
Q Pacana: These herbs directly ‘digest’ ama. They such as manjishta (Rubia cordifolia).
do not necessarily stimulate digestion as well; Q Sramsana: Herbs that are laxatives and clear
e.g. triphala. faeces before complete digestion is complete;
Q Prajasthapana: These herbs prevent miscarriage e.g. trivrut (Operculina turpethum).
such as ashoka (Saraca indica). Q Stambhana: These are astringent herbs that are
Q Pramathi: These herbs remove the accumulated constipating, stop bleeding and are drying.
dosas from the dhatus and cells; e.g. vacha They have the properties of vata and so increase
(Acorus calamus) and black pepper (Piper nigrum). it. Manjishta (Rubia cordifolia) is a renowned
Q Purisasamgrahaniya: These are intestinal astrin- astringent that stops bleeding diseases.
gents that stop diarrhoea such as bilva (Aegle Q Stanya janana: These herbs can increase lacta-
marmelos). tion; e.g. fennel (Foeniculum vulgare) and shata-
Q Rakta śodhana (rakta prasadana): These herbs spe- vari (Asparagus racemosus).
cifically clean the blood and ‘alter’ its chemistry Q Stanya śodhana: These herbs purify the breast
so that it does not cause inflammatory prob- milk; e.g. fennel (Foeniculum vulgare) and musta
lems; e.g. manjishta (Rubia cordifolia). (Cyperus rotundus).
Q Rasayani: These herbs rejuvenate the cells and Q Śukra janana: These are sperm-increasing herbs;
extend life. They are antioxidants and also e.g. ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) and safed
remove diseases; e.g. guduchi (Tinospora cordifo- musali (Asparagus adcendens).
lia), amalaki (Emblica officinalis) and haritaki Q Śukra śodhana: These herbs purify the sperm
(Terminalia chebula). such as gokshura (Tribulus terrestris).
Q Recana: These herbs are cathartics. They forcibly Q Śukrala: Herbs that increase semen and/or give
expel faeces as semi-solid diarrhoea; e.g. castor force to its ejaculation; e.g. amalaki (Emblica
oil (Ricinus communis) or rhubarb root (Rheum officinalis), ashwagandha (Withania somnifera)
palmatum). and shatavari (Asparagus racemosus).
Q Śamana: These are herbs that reduce the path- Q Suksma: These herbs are penetrating herbs that
ogenic level of a dosa to a more healthy level. can travel through the minutest channels, such
The dosa is not expelled from the body, it is as salt, neem oil (Azadirachta indica) and gotu
calmed. These are ‘palliative’ herbs; e.g. gudu- kola (Hydrocotyle asiatica).
chi (Tinospora cordifolia). Q Śula praśamana: These are anticolic herbs that
Q Samjn~ asthapana: These herbs are used to restore prevent intestinal spasms; e.g. hingu (Ferula asa-
consciousness; e.g. vacha (Acorus calamus). foetida) or cumin (Cuminum cyminum).
Q Sandhaniya: These herbs heal broken bones and Q Śvasahara: These herbs prevent breathing diffi-
hasten the repair of broken bone tissue. Guggulu culties such as somalata (Ephedra vulgaris) and
(Commiphora mukul) is famous for this. Resins vasaka (Adhatoda vasica).
have a significant role here because resins in Q Svedopaga: Herbs that induce sweating; e.g.
general are considered to relate to the blood vasaka (Adhatoda vasica).
part of plants just as the bark of trees is said to Q Trptighna: These herbs are thirst-quenching; e.g.
relate to bone tissue. The analogy is that just as amalaki (Emblica officinalis).
resin heals the bark so it heals the bone. They Q Udara praśamana: These are antiallergenic herbs;
also encourage circulation to flow to the e.g. pit shirisha (Albizzia lebbek).
wounded part of the body and hasten healing. Q Vajikarana: These are aphrodisiacs that increase
Q Śirovirecana: These are herbs that clear the ori- sexual desire, strengthen the reproductive system
fices of the head, also known as errhines. Such and nourish śukra dhatu; e.g. kapikacchu (Mucuna
herbs are vacha (Acorus calamus) or cloves pruriens), ashwagandha (Withania somnifera).
(Syzygium aromaticum). Q Vamana: These are emetic herbs. They work spe-
cifically on pitta and kapha that have accumu-
lated in the stomach. They move upwards and
76
outwards. High doses of licorice (Glycyrrhiza cies into three categories (only examples of medici-
Part ONE
glabra) are emetic as is madanphala (Randia nals used in Ayurveda are given here):
dumentorium).
Q Varnya: These herbs benefit the complexion and 1. The first category includes species threatened
skin lustre; e.g. aloe vera (Aloe barbadensis), san- with extinction. Trade in specimens of these spe-
dalwood (Santalum album) or rose water (Rosa cies is permitted only in exceptional circumstances
centifolia). (i.e. sustainably grown).
Q Vedana-sthapana: These are analgesic herbs; e.g.
cloves (Syzygium aromaticum) or ashoka (Saraca Q Kasturi (Secreto moschus)
indica). Q Kushtha (Saussurea lappa)
Q Vikasi: These herbs destroy the tone of the joints 2. The second category includes species not neces-
by loosening the ligaments; e.g. betel nut (Areca sarily threatened with extinction, but in which
catechu).
trade must be controlled in order to avoid utilisa-
Q Virecana: These herbs are purgatives that move
tion incompatible with their survival.
downwards. They dissolve undigested foods
and expel them; e.g. haritaki (Terminalia chebula). Q Papra (Podophyllum hexandrum)
Q Visaghna: These are antitoxin herbs that destroy Q Red sandalwood or rakta chandana (Peterocarpus
‘poison’ in the system; e.g. neem (Azadirachta santalinus)
indica), kutki (Picrorrhiza kurroa) and sariva Q Sarpagandha (Rauwolfia serpentina)
(Hemidismus indica). Q Chingali (Dioscorea deltoidea)
Q Vyavayi: These herbs spread everywhere in the Q Agar (Aquilaria malaccensis)
body and are then digested; e.g. ganja (Cannabis Q Aloe ferox
indica) and opium (Papaver somniferum).
Q Yogavahi: These are catalyst herbs. When they are 3. The third category contains species that are pro-
mixed with another herb they enhance its action; tected in at least one country, which has asked
e.g. ginger (Zingiber officinale), honey and ghee. other CITES parties for assistance in controlling
the trade.
Q Jatamamsi (Nardostachys jatamansi)
HERB SOURCING
Q Kutki (Picrorrhiza kurroa)
A brief comment regarding the sourcing of herbs:
as the popularity of Ayurveda and natural medi- Please follow these guidelines. There are many rep-
cine grows, along with the massive increase in utable suppliers and I have listed some of them in
global population, the burden on nature increases. the resources guide at the back of the book. It is up
One of the primary reasons for this is that many to us as herbalists and herbal medicine users to
herbs are still harvested from the wild and there is help protect the sustainability of herbal medicines.
such a financial pressure on many wild collectors Without this awareness and discipline there will
to over-harvest that this is disrupting traditional not be the tools with which to apply the incredible
practices on sustainable harvesting. pharmacology and energetics of Ayurveda.
In order to be responsible when using herbs, firstly SAFETY AND CONSERVATION OF THE AYURVEDIC
ensure that your supplier or herbal practitioner has PHARMACOPOEIA
a policy on only purchasing material from sustaina-
The sustainability of herbal medicines is a very
ble sources and is aware of the national and interna-
important issue and is affecting all users of herbal
tional laws regulating the trade of certain species.
remedies. In January 2004, Alan Hamilton, a plant
Secondly, become aware of the species that are
specialist at the World Wildlife Fund, released a
endangered, under pressure and that should not be
paper on the threat to the herbal community faced
used. Organically-certified herbs that are wild-
by the indiscriminate over-harvesting of medicinal
crafted have to be collected under strict guidelines
herbs (Hamilton 2004). In this paper he notes that
that ensure the sustainability of indigenous popula-
approximately 75% of all herbs that are used in
tions (e.g. The Soil Association’s Standards on Wild
herbal medicine come from the wild. He also
Collection). The Convention on International Trade
stated that there are 50 000 species used as medi-
in Endangered Species (CITES) lists the flora and
cines around the world and that 10 000 are
fauna that are regulated for trade. It divides the spe-
77
threatened; this means that a staggering 20% of all Q Yastimadhu (Glycyrrhiza glabra) or licorice
Chapter 3 AYURVEDIC HERBAL PHARMACOLOGY AND PHARMACY
herbal species used throughout the world are grows all over the world. A large portion of that
under threat. So is there a future for herbal medi- global supply has come from China and Turkey.
cine or will the dravyaguna śastra become obsolete? Licorice has been in demand for years as a
soothing pitta-reducing anti-inflammatory. Its
Why are herbal medicines so important to us? over-popularity and lack of controls on harvest-
In medical terms the use of herbal medicines is ing mean that Turkey is now suffering a short-
unsurpassed; they have the function of safely age of wild licorice (Plantlife International 2004).
strengthening the tissues, immunity and integrity Q Jatamamsi (Nardostachys jatamansi) or Indian
of the body while also offering the potential to spikenard only grows in the Himalayas at alti-
safely cleanse, detoxify and clear wastes from the tudes of 3500–5000m and is highly valued for its
body. Their broader value is also very significant aromatic vata-calming properties. Apart from its
(Box 3.8). limited growing habitat it takes three years to
grow to full maturity and it has been thoroughly
Box 3.8 Importance of herbal medicines plundered to the extent that it has been listed on
the CITES list as a species to be protected from
Q Herbal medicines are an integral part of nature.
international trade unless it has been cultivated.
They help to protect and increase the
biodiversity of an ecosystem. Box 3.9 lists some reasons for the threat to herbal
Q They are a valuable part of the human species.
relationship with nature and enhance our
connection with the planet. Up to 80% of the
world’s population depend on herbal medicine Box 3.9 Why is there a threat to herbal
as the primary form of medical healthcare. medicines?
Q They offer health benefits in the form of Q It is estimated that the ayurvedic pharmacopoeia
traditional medical systems, folk medical systems includes upwards of 1250 species with
and shamanic healing systems (Hamilton 2004). approximately 300 of these in regular demand. In
Q They form a major resource for the healing of India and Sri Lanka most herbs come from the
known and unknown diseases. wild. That is, in excess of 90% of herbal material
Q They offer great financial benefits, with the used in Ayurveda comes from the forests,
global market being estimated at £11 billion per mountains and plains of the Indian sub-continent.
annum. This figure is based on comparative harvesting
Q They offer spiritual benefits as guides and figures available from China and Europe where
symbols of power. greater levels of herbal medicinal production
Q They protect indigenous cultural values and occur (see Schippmann et al 2002). That is a
promote cultural integrity. Having knowledge of heavy burden for nature to bear.
local herbal medicines promotes cultural Q In other parts of the world there is similar
uniqueness, respect and value. pressure with 80% of species coming from the
wild in China and up to 99% in Africa (Williams
1996, Schippmann et al 2002).
In a fascinating paper entitled ‘Ethical revolution’
Q There is increasing pressure on natural habitats
written by eminent herbalist David Crowe and pre-
as global population increases.
sented to the Dalai Lama in New York in 2003 he
Q There is increased financial pressure on low-
suggests that one way of healing human suffering as
income communities and herbal medicines offer
well as preventing ecological destruction is to pro-
a viable source of income.
tect herbal medicines. This will reconnect us with
Q It is very difficult to monitor herbal collection.
the natural healing patterns of nature as well as heal
Q Global demand has sky-rocketed in the last
the endemic destruction of the natural world.
decade with demand increasing by 10–20% per
annum.
Some examples:
Q There is relatively little cultivation of herbal
medicines.
78
Why do herbs come from the wild? route I support by using products certified by the
Part ONE
Q That is their natural habitat. Soil Association or other similar certification agen-
Q They often require very specific habitats and cies. Uncertified products are more likely to have
may be difficult to cultivate. come from an unsustainble source.
Q Herb prices are actually very low and so there is
a lack of incentive for farmers to grow herbs as An example of a sustainable management
they can receive a greater income from conven- system
tional food crops. The working document should acknowledge that
Q They are a relatively accessible source of income the key for successful sustainable harvest/collection
to people without land or a regular job. In the over time is adaptive management, i.e. management
higher altitude region of Nepal 100% of the fam- systems that are well informed of the situation on
ilies harvest herbs and it can account for 15–30% the ground and can react quickly and appropriately
of their income. in the light of possible threats to sustainability.
Q Some authorities consider herbs grown in the
1. All herbs considered for collection to be checked
wild to be more potent and this is reflected in against local, national and international legisla-
the higher price of up to 30% more being paid tion and action plans including CITES.
for wild collected American ginseng (Panax 2. Herbs ‘Critically endangered’ on the
quinqufolium) in China as opposed to cultivated. International Union for the Conservation of
Nature (IUCN) Red List cannot be collected.
Cultivation is the only option.
What can be done?
3. An integrity management plan to be estab-
The World Health Organization has recently
lished, maintained and documented. The plan
released its recommendations for Good should be reviewed annually. Adaptive manage-
Agricultural Collection Practices (GACP) and these ment is required in line with the findings of the
could be implemented in law on a national level. integrity management plan to ensure sustaina-
Governments could include sustainability clauses bility of herbal medicines into the future.
in legal documents to ensure that the supply of
herbal medicines is sustainable. Cultivation could Integrity Management Plan to cover:
be encouraged to ensure that extra burdens on the
1. Named responsible person taking responsibility
wild are reduced. Sustainable wild harvesting pro-
for the operation and maintenance of the system.
jects could be established. This would involve
2. Collecting and harvesting areas: maps and
working with the plant collectors, liaising with
approximate hectarage. Areas used for collec-
government officials, and establishing a relation-
tion must be:
ship with the forest department.
a. geographically identified and detailed on
appropriate maps
A crucial part of sustainable wild harvesting is the
b. a minimum of 10m from conventional
use of Wild Collection Plant Monographs. This
farming areas
idea has been drawn up by Klaus Duerbeck, a con-
c. 25m from major roads, 10m from minor roads
sultant of SIPPO (a Swiss environmental consul-
d. an appropriate distance from other sources
tancy) and implemented successfully in Europe.
for contamination/pollution.
A resource study is carried out to determine which
e. collection areas should be away from paths/
species thrive in a given area, what is the popula-
trails to maintain the ambience of an area.
tion density, what needs to be harvested and when
3. Written procedures to check IUCN status
and how regularly crops can be harvested without
of herbs considered for collection, plus a justifi-
damaging resources.
cation for the harvesting of ‘endangered’ or
‘vulnerable’ species.
I strongly believe that certification is needed to
4. Ecological resource assessment survey for each
protect the future of herbal medicines. This certifi-
species being harvested, to include:
cation would inform the consumer whether herbs
a. details of ability to sustain the level of har-
have been sustainably grown and harvested. At
vesting proposed
present organic certification offers one solution to
b. re-growth patterns for each species
the lack of an international standard and this is the
79
c. impact of collection on other species in the 8. Procedures for appropriate and ongoing moni-
Chapter 3 AYURVEDIC HERBAL PHARMACOLOGY AND PHARMACY
80
the site only those parts of the plant required, to Q Where collection from widely dispersed plants
Part ONE
minimise fertility depletion is not viable for commercial collecting, cultiva-
Q Collection/harvesting must be done in a man- tion should be promoted
ner that is appropriate for each species, in a way Q Where plants are critically endangered,
that is regenerative not degenerative endangered or rare, cultivation should be under-
Q If plants reproduce by seed or spore, sufficient taken to reduce the threat to wild populations
plants must be left to mature (to reach the and to increase the genetic diversity of the spe-
reproductive age and/or to produce seed/ cies locally. Care should be taken that cultivation
spore) of such plants does not reduce the genetic diver-
Q If plants reproduce by corms or bulbs, sufficient sity of the cultivated population.
must be left in an area to sustain the species
Q If plants reproduce by root or rhizome and it is Standard on communities in herb growing
these parts that are being collected, then suffi- areas
cient numbers must be left in the ground for Care must be taken to ensure that the commerciali-
future sustainable re-growth, or rootlets and sation of medicinal plant collection and production
rhizomatous material must be replanted is a vehicle for positive community improvement,
Q Never replant an area with rootlets/rhizoma- and that it does not create social inequalities within
tous material beyond the natural density that communities (see Acknowledgement). The future
existed prior to collection/harvesting for the ayurvedic community and our use of herbal
Q If bark is collected, some form of management is medicines depends upon these communities.
required. It must be collected in a manner
appropriate to the species. Harvesting from As a community I suggest that we add a code of
recently fallen trees is permitted. Harvesting practice to our regulatory standards on a country-
bark from trunks of living trees is restricted/ by-country basis. This will include a firm commit-
prohibited. If bark is being harvested from liv- ment of ayurvedic practitioners to strive to use herbs
ing trees, it should be removed from the limbs, that are sustainably grown or sustainably collected
not the trunk. Harvest by hand, not by machine and to not use herbs on the CITES or ‘Red’ list.
Q Care must be taken to allow sufficient numbers
of mature plants to remain after harvesting/ As herbalists we are in a position of responsibility
collection to maintain the ecological integrity of with regard to what we can and cannot use in our
the collection area clinics. We are bound by professional codes of con-
Q Damage to neighbouring species, especially rare duct with regard to following the law as it stands
or threatened species, should be avoided. Special in the UK. This means that we are restricted from
care must be taken with species that grow using certain herbs in our practice. In the UK the
together in a symbiotic relationship or otherwise great vidanga (Embelia ribes), sarpagandha
depend on each other, or where similar species (Rauwolfia serpentina) and somalata (Ephedra vul-
are growing in close proximity garis) are either banned, off limits to herbalists or
Q Collection/harvesting operations that may lead dosage is regulated. This we have to accept.
to erosion must be avoided. I believe that by greater representation through
professional bodies and through attaining statu-
General standards on the approach tory self-regulation we may be able to influence
to collection versus cultivation the availability of these herbs in the future.
Q Where collection from gardens/farms/wild The same recommendation stands for ayurvedic
cannot meet the high market demand without practitioners the world over.
affecting sustainable yield, cultivation should
be promoted With regard to the products that we can buy we
Q Where it is found difficult to maintain consistent have a choice and we can influence suppliers to
quality from collection from farms/gardens/ raise their standards. Buying sustainably-harvested
wild, cultivation should be promoted and organic material fulfils the ayurvedic objec-
tives of helping patients’ health while benefiting
the health of the planet.
81
To conclude, the majority of species are not on the foods and herbs that are considered to be incom-
Chapter 3 AYURVEDIC HERBAL PHARMACOLOGY AND PHARMACY
verge of extinction but they are threatened. We, as patible (viruddha). This is based on either a quanti-
representatives of the herbal and ayurvedic tative incompatibility, an energetic incompatibility
community and carriers of the ayurvedic heritage, or functional incompatibility. For example, ghee
must make sure that we act in a truly ayurvedic and honey should not be used in equal propor-
fashion and help to prevent disease before there is tions by weight, lemons (sour) and milk (sweet)
a problem and to conserve without damaging our should not be used due to conflicting tastes and
future. We could follow the example of the temperatures, and laxatives and astringents should
Vrksayurveda (the Science of Plantlife), a c. 16th not be used together as one will negate the activity
century text by Surapala: ‘Knowing this truth of the other. This concept is further pursued in
one should undertake planting of trees since Ayurveda so that lifestyle is not incompatible with
trees yield the means of attaining dharma (life age, environment, climate, season, diet, customs or
duty), artha (wealth), kama (pleasure) and moksa state of health. This further evolves into using
(enlightenment)’. appropriate medication that is compatible with the
diagnosis, the plant’s dosage range, the patient’s
Protecting nature protects us! inherent strength and the plant’s unique proper-
ties. Following these rules reduces the chance of
any unwanted side-effects.
SAFETY: USING HERBS AND PHARMACEUTICAL
MEDICATIONS TOGETHER Within the clinical setting there is increasing con-
Because of the primary use of the allopathic medi- cern regarding drug–herb interactions as more and
cal model and the ‘last resort’ desperation of more patients are concurrently taking herbal and
patients seeking herbal medicine treatment it is pharmaceutical treatments. As health practitioners
rare to see someone who is not taking pharmaceu- it is our duty and privilege to care for our clients;
tical medication. This places herbal medicine at a hence we must monitor all aspects of their treat-
historical junction where practitioners have to con- ment and this includes all potential drug–herb
sider the effect of different types of medicines interactions. In an attempt to highlight any poten-
potentially or actually interacting with each other. tial risks the examples mentioned below are both
These interactions may be positive, neutralising or theoretical and actual. In a clinical setting, every
negative, causing exaggerated, toxic or diminish- interaction will depend on the individual constitu-
ing effectiveness, and we as practitioners must be tion of the person taking the substance including
aware of them. their age, sex, body weight and basal metabolic
rate. Appropriate diagnosis and herbal prescribing
‘Interactions’ refers to the scenario when two or will minimise any potential risks. It is always
more medicines may alter each other’s action or advisable to communicate with the patient’s medi-
bioavailability. The concern is when an ‘adverse’ cal doctor regarding the use of herbs, and if any
interaction takes place. This may be a drug–drug, adjustment to the dosage or prescription of phar-
drug–herb or herb–herb interaction. It may be maceutical drugs needs to be made it should be
‘positive’, ‘negative’, ‘high risk’ or ‘low risk’. In carried out only on the advice of a medical doctor.
Ayurveda, examples of positive interactions may
be where ginger, black pepper and long pepper are These interactions can be divided into two catego-
combined to enhance their heating and mucous-re- ries: pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic.
ducing effects. At other times extremely bitter and
cold herbs are combined with warmer herbs to Pharmacokinetic interactions
positively offset any extreme effects; the use of Pharmacokinetic interactions are based on the
neem with ginger is a common example of this. availability of herb or drug active ingredients in
This is positive synergy and the result of skilled relation to their absorption, distribution, metabo-
and appropriate herbal prescription formulation. lism and elimination. Pharmacokinetic interactions
affect what the body does to the drugs or herbs.
This idea of the compatible nature of different
herbs is prevalent in Ayurveda. There are many
82
Absorption If liver metabolism decreases then the active
Part ONE
Absorption refers to the assimilation of herbs or ingredients remain functional for longer and
drugs into the body. This occurs via the skin, hence have a longer-lasting effect. In contrast to
lungs, rectum, uterus and, primarily, via the diges- substances that increase liver metabolism, drugs
tive tract. that slow liver metabolism have an immediate
effect and can reduce liver function in a matter of
Stomach acidity days. This means that phytochemical herb com-
Drugs that reduce the production of stomach acid pounds may accumulate in the body and there
(antacids that neutralise, decrease or inhibit acid may be an increased risk of side-effects. Hence,
production) may also reduce the digestibility of the dose may need to be lowered and the fre-
herbs. The solution is to take the medications at quency of ingestion may need to be adjusted
least two hours apart. Certain herbs that improve accordingly. Some drugs that slow liver metabo-
digestion may increase the uptake of certain medi- lism are cimetidine, erythromycin, alcohol,
cations (both herbs and pharmaceuticals included) fluconazole, itraconazole and ketoconazole.
with ginger (Zingiber officinale) being a well-docu-
mented example. Elimination
Active substances from drugs and herbs are elimi-
Motility nated via the kidneys. If kidney function is
Drugs that slow or hasten gastrointestinal motility impaired then these compounds may accumulate.
may either increase or decrease the absorption of This increases the chance of accumulating high-
herbs. Conversely, herbal bulk laxatives may er-than-intended dosages of the herb. In such a sit-
reduce the absorption of drugs. The remedy is to uation it may be wise to lower the dose of the
take the medications apart and it may be necessary herbs. Some drugs that impair kidney function are
to consider adjustment of dosage. amphotericin B, methotrexate, tobramycin and
gentamicin.
Distribution
Distribution refers to the specific area a medicinal Pharmacodynamic interactions
needs to work on. The tropic affinity of herbs for cer- Pharmacodynamic interactions occur between
tain organs is one of the arts of herbal medicine; the drugs and herbs in the body, influencing how
skill of herbal formulation is to ‘aim’ a prescription the drugs and herbs affect the body. An interac-
at a certain system. With regard to drugs it is very tion between a drug and a herb may be synergis-
difficult to assess the potential of drug–herb interac- tic or antagonistic, resulting in an exaggerated or
tions apart from if there is a very narrow range of a lessened effect. Theoretically, drugs and herbs
safety index and the drug is highly protein-binding; that have similar therapeutic activity have an
warfarin and phenytoin are two such examples. increased potential of interacting. The highest
risk of interaction occurs when simultaneously
Metabolism using drugs and herbs that are anticoagulant,
Many drugs and herbs are metabolised in the liver, antiplatelet, antidiabetic, diuretic or sympathom-
after which they become inactive. If liver metabo- imetic. Hence it is essential to monitor patients
lism increases then the active ingredients are taking such drugs and herbs together.
‘digested’ more quickly and therefore have a less
enduring effect. This effect is not instantaneous as Anticoagulants/antiplatelet
drugs that enhance liver metabolism do not have Drugs: warfarin, enoxaparin, heparin, aspirin,
an immediate effect; an increase in liver metabo- dipyridamole, clopidogrel.
lism can take some weeks to occur. So, if using
medication that speeds up liver metabolism, it Herbs: guggulu, myrrh, turmeric, safflower, ginger,
may be necessary to use a higher dose of herbs to saffron, arjuna, garlic.
gain a therapeutic effect even for some weeks after
the medication has been stopped. Some drugs that Risk when used together: may cause bleeding as the
increase liver metabolism are phenytoin, carba- cumulative effect of the medicinals may move the
mazepine, phenobarbitals and rifampicin. intended therapeutic effect beyond its predicted
83
boundary. The reality of this effect depends on the ginger juice, aloe vera juice or triphala. Bearing in
Chapter 3 AYURVEDIC HERBAL PHARMACOLOGY AND PHARMACY
relative metabolic pathways of the drug and herb, mind the sensitivity of the liver in individuals who
the condition of the patient and the dose of the have suffered from hepatitis, alcoholism or liver
medicinals. Caution is advised. damage it is prudent to monitor liver function tests
in these individuals. This also seems to be the case
Anti-diabetics for certain skin diseases such as psoriasis (Blackwell
Drugs: metformin, insulin, chlorpropamide, rep- 1996). In patients with renal damage or with a his-
aglinide, gliclazide. tory of kidney infections extra care should be
taken. I recommend that you ask patients on their
Herbs: gurmar, karavela, black pepper, neem. intake form if they have ever suffered with liver or
kidney diseases and when necessary have the rele-
Risk when used together: may increase the effect vant liver or kidney function tests prior to treat-
of reducing blood glucose levels, causing hypogly- ment and adjust your prescription accordingly.
caemia. When indicated, a reduction in drug medi-
cation may be necessary. Conclusion on safety and toxicology
Having drawn attention to some of the poten-
Diuretics tial risk areas in herbal medicine it could appear
Drugs: loop diuretics (burnetanide), potassium that herbal medicine may be unsafe. This is not the
sparing-diuretics (amiloride, spironolactone, case. These points are to highlight potential risk
triamterene), thiazides (bendroflumethiazide, areas with the intention of maximising safety in
cyclopenthiazide, hydrochlorothiazide). herbal medicine. Herbal medicine and Ayurveda
have a long history of safe and effective use both
Herbs: punarnava, gokshura, coriander. from the point of view of folk medicine, self-medi-
cation and in the clinical setting. When used with
Risk when used together: if used for controlling an awareness of the patient’s appropriate diagno-
hypertension then the synergistic effect may cause sis, pattern discrimination, constitution, digestive
hypotension. When indicated, a reduction in drug strength, sex, age, medication, medical history and
medication may be necessary. an appropriate knowledge of the herbs used it
maximises both safety and efficacy.
Sympathomimetic
Drugs: antihypertensives (beta-blockers, monoam- Acknowledgement
ine oxidase [MAO] inhibitors), anticonvulsants The example of a Sustainable Management
(phenytoin), bronchodilators (ephedrine, epineph- System Standards was written in conjunction with
rine, salbutamol), decongestants (ephedrine). Victoria Stoneman and with the help of the
Soil Association’s Standards on Wild Collection
Herbs: ephedra, bala. available from www.soilassociation.org.
84
13:1477–1517. Online. Available: www. Schippmann U, Leaman DJ, Cunningham AB 2002
Part ONE
springerlink.com/app/home/contribution.asp? Impact of cultivation and gathering of medicinal
wasp=82db32db68574c8f9ff3025cd98c8df9& plants on biodiversity: global trends and issues.
referrer=parent&backto=issue,5,10;journal,12,103; Inter-Department Working Group on Biology
linkingpublicationresults,1:100125,1 Diversity for Food and Agriculture, FAO,
Rome
Low Dog T 2002 Safety, toxicity, drug interactions
and contraindications of botanicals. Proline Williams VL 1996 The Witwatersrand multi trade.
Botanicals Veld and Flora 82:12–14.
Plantlife International 2004 Herbal harvests with a
future. Online. Available: www.plantlife.org.uk/ Further reading
html/press_office/press_office_latest.htm January
Dash B 1986 Alchemy and metallic medicines in
2004
Ayurveda. Concept Publishing
Rang H, Dale M, Ritter J 1999 Pharmacology.
Harkness R, Bateman S 2003 Handbook of drug–
Churchill Livingstone
herb and drug supplement interactions. Mosby
85
Chapter 4
The aims of ayurvedic treatment (cikitsa) are to bal- perception and it includes Suśruta’s threefold
ance the dos. as, dhatus and malas, clear any obstruc- methods of diagnosis (trividha pariks.a): palpation
tions in the srotas, reduce ama and to establish a (sparśana), looking (darśana) and questioning
healthy agni, prana, tejas and ojas. These treatments (praśana). Caraka has mentioned that direct percep-
are consolidated by rejuvenation therapy (rasayana) tion (pratyaksa) includes using the five senses,
with the result of increasing the quality of life. meaning that listening, feeling, looking, smelling
Treatment is based on: and tasting should also be included. The natural
aversion to tasting and smelling the patient and
Q Diagnosis: the eightfold examinations and the
their excretions means that this information is
ten assessments
obtained by questioning. Later on diagnosis
Q Treatment principles
became systemised according to the eight locations
Q The balance of excess and deficiency
(astasthanapariksa; first mentioned between 1474
Q Understanding the disease process
and 1538 in the Jvaratimirabhaskara of Camun.d.a)
Q Treatment strategies
that should be examined (Wujastyk 2001).
Q Building an ayurvedic formula
Q Recognising the signs of successful treatment
The eightfold examinations (as• t• asthāna-
and good health.
parı̄ks• ā)
Please refer to Chapter 2 and the section covering
DIAGNOSIS ‘The main characteristics of each dos.a: dos.a laks.an.a’
for further details.
The starting place of a successful treatment is a
clear diagnosis. Ayurvedic diagnostic methods are
The following diagnostic examinations should be
founded on the three methods of knowing (pra-
taken as part of the whole pattern that emerges
mana). These are: direct perception (pratyaks.a), tex-
from the multiple diagnostic clues, and not in
tual authority (aptopadeśa, śabda) and inference
isolation.
(anumana). The most clinically useful is direct
87
Pulse (na-d. ı- parı-ks.a-) Pitta: long, narrow, pointed, inflamed, ulcerated,
Chapter 4 AYURVEDIC THERAPY AND TREATMENT
Investigations include the rate, depth, strength, raised red papillae, swollen and red edges, red
length, quality of the pulse and also revealing the tip. A tongue extended with force, like an arrow,
prakrti and vikrti of the patient. It is essential to reflects high pitta with its sharp and penetrating
study the pulse under the guidance of an adept (tiksna), liquid (drava) and hot (usna) properties.
practitioner. It is a vast subject and is expertly cov- Kapha: large, swollen, thick, soft, wet, covered in
ered in Dr Lad’s ‘The Secrets of the Pulse’. saliva, swollen and wet edges with scallops
indicating mandagni, swollen tip indicating heart
Tongue (jihva- parı-ks.a-) congestion, swollen in the centre indicating lung
It is relatively easy to get accurate information congestion. The kapha tongue just flops out of
from observing the tongue, hence it is covered in the mouth as though it is too large for their
some detail here. Tongue diagnosis includes the mouth. These reflect the unctuous (snigdha),
shape, colour, coating and geographic peculiarities fluid (drava), soft (mrdu), slimy (picchila), smooth
of the tongue (indentations, swellings, lines, (ślaksana) and cold (śita) qualities of kapha.
cracks, raised papillae) and revealing the nature of
the dos.a, reflecting the regulatory function of vyana, Colour
prana and udana vayu, the functioning of agni, qual- Vata: pale, reflecting cold or poor nutrient metabo-
ity of plasma (rasa) and blood tissue (rakta dhatu) lism due to a deficiency of rasa or rakta dhatu,
and the state of ama. purple-blue reflecting stagnation of circulating
vyana vayu from cold. There may be dark or
It is important that the patient extends the tongue black discolorations.
in a relaxed manner and fully extend it without Pitta: red, reflecting high pitta in rasa or rakta dhatu,
being tense. The tongue should not be held out for orange (especially orange sides) from high pitta
too long. If it is necessary to observe for long then consuming rakta dhatu, purple-red due to high
ask the patient to put the tongue back into the pitta condensing rasa and rakta dhatu resulting in
mouth and then extend it again. Observe the viscous and sluggish circulation that in extreme
tongue under a natural light. Certain substances conditions turns a black-red.
like coffee, tobacco and cough sweets can discolour Kapha: pale due to the cold restricting circulation.
the tongue coating. Drinking hot drinks and eating There can also be a pale-blue colour from con-
spicy meals can make the body redder. Certain fla- gestive heart disorders due to aggravated ava-
voured drinks may leave an orange coating. lambaka kapha.
Taking antibiotics can give the tongue a thick coat-
ing or a shiny-peeled appearance. Location
Vata: normally observed at the back of the tongue
A normal tongue is medium sized in relation to associated with the state of the colon.
overall body size, is a fresh pink colour, with a thin Pitta: observed in the middle portion of the tongue
and moist coating without any markings. associated with the stomach and small intes-
tines. The sides of the tongue relate to the liver
Shape and form and many pitta imbalances are seen here.
Vata: small, thin, cracked, dry, deviated, quivering, Kapha: reflected in the condition of the tongue in
short, indentations, sunken concave spots, scal- the front portion associated with the lungs,
loped and dry edges indicating malabsorption chest and heart.
and low agni due to the erratic digestive power of
visamagni, cracked edges, depressed at the back of Coating
the tongue indicating low ojas, cracked just at the Tongue coatings are measured by their colour
front indicating lung dryness. Vata types are often (white, yellow, dirty yellow, pale yellow, black),
anxious about extending their tongue and find it depth (thick, thin) and texture (dry, wet, greasy).
difficult to extend very far. An extremely short The tongue coating is an easily observable marker
tongue is a sign of low ojas. These all reflect the of the efficacy of treatment and the movement of
dry (ruksa), rough (khara), mobile (cala), light disease. If a coating moves from thick to thin it
(laghu) and deficient (kasaya) qualities of vata. is a positive sign, and from yellow to white it is a
88
beneficial sign, and vice versa. If the tongue Vata: bitter, astringent.
Part ONE
becomes dry it is a negative sign. Pitta: pungent, rotten, acrid.
Kapha: sweet.
Vata: dry, non-existent, thin, white
Pitta: yellow, dirty yellow. If it is greasy as well
Volume and frequency
this indicates that pitta and ama have mixed
It is worth noting the drinking habits with regard
together. If yellow and dry the pitta and vata
to urination, as coffee, tea, some herbs and phar-
have mixed together. Pitta can cause a total
maceutical diuretics can all increase the frequency
absence of coating, resulting in a red, glossy,
and volume of urine.
shiny tongue due to intense heat ‘burning’ the
coating away as a sign of excess pitta, causing a Vata: low volume and increased frequency due to
weak and deficient condition from metabolising the high amount of dryness (ruksa), cold (śita)
available nutrients too quickly. and anxiety in the system. Tendency to urinate
Kapha: white, thick white, wet, clear. If the coating at night.
is thick white and greasy kapha and ama have Pitta: high volume, less frequent due to its fluid
mixed together. If the coating is a pale yellow (dravya) and hot (usna) qualities.
then kapha has mixed with pitta. Kapha: high volume, normal frequency. Tendency
to urinate at night.
Central crack
The central crack indicates the flow of prana Temperature
through the heart or spine. If the crack extends to Vata: cold.
the tip of the tongue then it indicates a congenital Pitta: hot.
heart weakness. A deviated crack can indicate spi- Kapha: cool.
nal curvature. A crack can also appear from high
kapha, causing the two sides of the tongue to swell. Diagnostic signs
These symptoms paint a picture of the internal
Urine (mu-tra parı-ks.a-) fluid metabolism.
Observations include the colour, odour, volume, fre- Vata: excessive frequency, excessive nocturnal uri-
quency, temperature and times of day and night nation (more than once), very pale or dark col-
that urine is passed, revealing the nature of the dos.a. our, frothy, cold, moving pain in urethra and
bladder, lack of complete voiding, dribbles,
Normal urine is yellow, straw coloured, passed incontinence, urinary tenesmus, deficiency of
with ease, no retention or dribbling. the tissues.
Pitta: dark red colour, burning sensation, sharp
Colour
pain on elimination, acute infections, foul smell-
Urine colour can be affected by the diet, supple-
ing, reduced frequency.
ments or herbs. It also reflects the functionality of
Kapha: lack of complete voiding with oedema,
medas-dhatu, ambuvahasrotas and mutravahasrotas as
cloudy urine, sweet smelling urine, slow to fin-
well as the state of vata, pitta and kapha. B vitamins
ish urination, lack of force and urination at
can make urine yellow; beetroots and other red
night.
foods can colour the urine a darker hue; anthraqui-
none laxatives can give an orange tint to the urine. Ayurveda also includes a method of diagnosis
using oil as an interpretation of the state of the
Vata: clear or concentrated, reflecting the predomi- dosas. Refer to Lad’s Introduction to Ayurveda for
nance of cold or dryness in the system. more details on this.
Pitta: dark yellow, red.
Kapha: pale, turbid, revealing the presence of Faeces (mala parı-ks.a-)
mucous. Observations should include regularity, odour, col-
our, form, consistency, and sinking or floating
Odour qualities of the stool, revealing the state of the
Foods that are eaten can be detected in the urine, digestive system and the dos.a quality. This is not
as with the infamous asparagus aroma. the most elegant part of the diagnosis but is an
89
absolutely essential part of the questioning to Kapha: pale stools due to low agni and a sluggish
Chapter 4 AYURVEDIC THERAPY AND TREATMENT
Normal stools are light brown, soft, easy to pass, Pathogenic symptoms may be black stools, indicat-
regular shape, not sticky and without undigested ing upper gastrointestinal tract bleeding, coffee
food. granules, denoting a peptic ulcer, white stools,
indicating obstructive jaundice, or dark brown
Regularity stools, indicating ama.
The motility of the intestines and the transit time
of undigested matter is gauged by how long it Form and consistency
takes for insoluble fibre and undigested food parti- This reveals the fibre content of the diet and the
cles to pass through the system. ability of the large intestine to absorb fluids back
into the body.
Vata: has a tendency to constipation due to a dry
(ruksa), rough (khara) and cold (śita) contractile Vata: small, dry, knotty, ‘rabbit droppings’
nature. May only pass stools once a day or passed with lots of gas due to the dry (ruksa)
every other day. Vata types have a krura kostha and rough (khara) property of vata. Stool can
that is ‘hard’ relating to poor peristalsis, painful also be pencil thin due to intestinal spasms.
and irregular evacuations. Dryness can also be caused by lack of fibre in
Pitta: fast metabolism, mrdu kostha and highly the diet.
greasy (snigdha) nature of the intestines encour- Pitta: loose, unformed, cow-pat-like due to the hot
age regular bowel motions of rapidly-excreted (usna), liquid (drava) and oily (snigdha) quality
stools twice a day. of pitta.
Kapha: regular and slow to pass due to their slow Kapha: large, moist, elephant-logs, containing
(manda) quality. They have a madhyama kostha, mucous due to the gross (sthula), slimy (picchila)
giving regular bowel movements. and unctuous (snigdha) nature of kapha.
Vata: dark, due to concentration of liquids. Sinking stools can indicate ama in the system,
Pitta: yellow, green due to excessive stomach acid while floating stools are generally considered to be
and bile. healthy, except when there may be poor fat diges-
tion, which can also cause floating stool.
90
Body symmetry (ākr.ti parı-ks.a-) Voice (śabda parı-ks.a-)
Part ONE
Observation should include the balanced propor- This includes the sound, pitch and volume of the
tion of the body structure, prominence of bones, voice. The meaning of śabda can be extended to
veins and fat in the body revealing the structural include the other sounds of the body; breath, intes-
aspects of the predominant dos.a. tines and joints, which reveals the predominance
and quality of any dos.a.
Vata: has an irregular bone structure, unusually
tall or short, thin and out of proportion, with Vata: a dry, hoarse and high-pitched or quiet voice.
slender fingers, arms and legs. They have pre- A fast talker, jumps from topic to topic with
dominant joints with knobbly knees and erratic rhythm and focus. The vata predilection
elbows. They have thin lips, small eyes, dark to expending energy is reflected in their love of
marks on the face, thin facial hair and a pointy, speech. Vata is very sensitive to excess noise.
crooked nose. You can often clearly see the Pitta: a loud and sharp voice. Focused, persuasive,
bones on vata types. dominates conversation, argumentative, chal-
Pitta: has a medium, balanced build with lenging and due to their impatience they tend to
defined muscles. They have medium-sized red finish other people’s sentences.
lips, rosy cheeks, sharp eyes, fair or orange Kapha: a moist, soft, deep and calm voice. A sweet
facial hair, and a medium-sized nose. The ener- melodious voice that is pleasant to listen to.
gy-efficient pitta has a proportionally
balanced frame. Skin (sparśa parı-ks.a-)
Kapha: often has big bones with a stocky body that This includes the temperature, dryness, moisture,
is well built, with wide shoulders and hips. The firmness and smoothness of the skin, revealing the
joints are not easy to see. They often have excess quality of the plasma tissue (rasa dhatu).
fat, especially around the omentum, buttocks
and cheeks. They have broad lips, large eyes, Vata: vata types have a tendency to have dry
luscious eyelashes, thick eyebrows, pale face, (ruksa) skin due to excessive movement burn-
thick facial hair and a big and broad nose. They ing off all lubrication as well as the constitu-
have short and stubby fingers. tional deficiency of nourishing fluids. The skin
looks rough and chapped. Cracks on the hands
Eyes (dr• k parı-ks.a-) and feet are common. Their variable nature
Observation includes the colour, shape and clarity may lead to some oily areas and other dry
of the eyes and reveals the quality of the nervous ones. The veins are clearly visible through the
tissue (majjā dhatu). thin skin. Dry skin problems are a common
vata imbalance. The skin colour is dull, dark
Vata: grey, dark blue or dark brown. Different- and lacking in lustre. They tan easily and their
coloured eyes. Vata eyes are small in relation to cold nature draws them towards the sun. The
the head size and are at irregular levels or close poor circulation may lead to pale lips, nail beds
together. They are often dry eyes that itch. The and skin.
sclera is often dull. The eyebrows will be thin Pitta: pitta is the delicate or mrdu dosa. Their skin is
and irregular. easily aggravated and they cannot tolerate the
Pitta: any light colour indicates pitta. A yellow sun. They are prone to inflammations, rashes
or blood-shot sclera is a common sign when and acne. The skin flushes easily and may
there is excess pitta in the system. Pitta eyes appear red. The skin is commonly freckled or
are light-sensitive and they often require with many moles. As pitta is a by-product of the
sunglasses. They have sharp and piercing blood tissue (raktadhatu) they have deep red
eyes. The eyebrows and eyelashes are bal- lips. A pitta type is easy to spot in an embarass-
anced. ing situation as they blush very easily.
Kapha: smooth brown colour. Large, oval-shaped Kapha: healthy skin that appears thick and oily.
eyes with a white sclera. Their eyebrows are They have smooth skin. It has a slight ‘pasty’
lush and bushy, often joining in the middle. The look. Their cool nature draws them to the sun.
eyelashes are thick, oily and long. They burn easily but will soon tan.
91
The physician also relies on the tenfold assess- TREATMENT PRINCIPLES
Chapter 4 AYURVEDIC THERAPY AND TREATMENT
kapha and combinations thereof Box 4.2 Techniques used in Ayurveda to treat
Q State of imbalance (vikrti): imbalances of the dos
disease
• . .
as 1. Reducing (langhana) where there is an excess.
-
Q Quality of the tissues (sara): deficient, excess and Purification (śodhana) or palliation (śamana) are
vitiated states of the dha-tu prescribed for reducing any excess pathologies.
Q Quality of the body (śarı̄ra sam . hanana): strong, 2. Tonifying (br• m •
han• a) where there is deficiency.
weak or average Sweet and nourishing tonics (rasa-yan• a) are
Q Body type (śarı̄ra praman
- . a): tall, short, large or given for building strength.
thin 3. Drying (ru-ks• an• a) therapy is used to alleviate any
-
Q Daily habits (satmya): daily and seasonal excess fluids in the system. Herbs that are
routines, hobbies, likes and dislikes diuretic or remove mucous dry the system.
Q Mental constitutional quality (manas prakrti):
4. Oleating (snehana) treatments moisturise
including the mental nature and an assessment dryness and give unctuousness to the tissues
of the functions of intellectual analysing (dhı̄), by using oily and demulcent substances.
memory retention (dhr.ti), memory recalling 5. Fomentation or sweating (svedana) therapy
(smrti) as well as emotional tendencies
•
reduces coldness, heaviness, stiffness, a-ma and
- -
Q Digestive power (ahara śakti): strong, erratic, trapped heat in the body by using steam and
sluggish or balanced diaphoretic herbs.
- -
Q Energy levels (vyayama śakti): ability to exercise, 6. Astringent (stambhana) therapy is used to slow
endurance and capacity the excessive flow of bodily fluids with tannin-
Q Age (vayas): young, middle-aged or elderly. rich herbs (Charaka Sam •
hita- Su-trastha-na 22).
92
the typical site of the affected dos.a and remain and ova), while plasma (rasa) is nourished with
Part ONE
within the normal signs and symptoms for that sweet fruit and vegetable juices like grapes (Vitis
dos.a. For example, an excess of vata usually con- vinifera), as juice nourishes juice.
fines itself to the colon, thighs, hips and ears
with the concurrent vata signs of gas, bloating, See Appendix 1 (Table A1.5) for a table of which
constipation, pain, aversion to cold, stiffness, herbs and foods build or reduce the tissues.
rigidity and ringing in the ears.
Q Deficient (ksaya) or too little heat, moisture,
physical strength, digestive strength, mental UNDERSTANDING THE DISEASE PROCESS: DOS.A DŪS.YA
strength and also includes deficient states of SAM.MŪRCANA
the dos.a and dhatu; e.g. deficient blood tissue See Chapter 2 for a more detailed discussion on
(rakta dhatu) means that there may be anaemic pathogenesis and samprapti.
signs of paleness, shortness of breath and
palpitations. The disease process follows a clear path. A dis-
Q Vitiated (prakopa) meaning that the dosas, dhatus turbed dos.a can upset the digestive fire (or vice
and agni are aggravated and deranged. They will versa). This creates ama. The dos.a can then mix
often mix with other dosas in this vitiated state, with this ama and may spread from its ‘home’ site
causing complex patterns that are difficult to and locate at a foreign site and manifest as disease.
treat; e.g. anaemia caused by pitta, causing com- For example, vata can accumulate at its main site
plications of insomnia due to high vata arising in the colon with symptoms of bloating, flatulence
from the lack of plasma and blood tissue. See and constipation. If the blockage continues and the
Appendix 1 (Table A1.2) for a chart of the dhatu accumulated vata does not move out then it
in a state of deficiency or excess. becomes aggravated. It is in the nature of vata to
move and it commonly rebels upwards. This
Excess pathologies are treated using the principle immediately upsets the digestive fire, which leads
of samanya-vaiśesika (equal–opposite) (Caraka to food not being properly digested. Toxins accu-
Samhita Sutrasthana 1.45, 30.29: ‘Substances having mulate and combine with vata and they both ‘over-
properties of heaviness, lightness, cold, heat, flow’ and locate at a vulnerable site. Vulnerable
unctuousness get increased when other substances vata sites may be the nervous system, ears, bones,
having similar properties are added. On the other hips or joints. The disturbed agni will also mean
hand substances having dissimilar qualities that the dhatus are not properly nourished and
decrease their quantity’). This means using weakness will start. An unstable nervous system
substances with qualities that are opposite to the with excess anxiety are the early signs of vata dis-
disease. In principle, this is an allopathic approach: ease, while later on arthritis may develop with
for example, cold-inducing herbs are used for degeneration of the joint, causing deformity and
treating heat, dry-natured herbs for damp, pain.
hot-quality substances for cold, and moisture-en-
hancing herbs for dryness; neem (Azadirachta ind- This pattern of disease follows a set diagnostic pat-
ica) is a superb heat-clearing herb, while cinnamon tern according to disease causation and pattern dif-
(Cinnamonum zeylanicum) is renowned for clearing ferentiation known as nidana, which is divided into
cold. five subcategories:
Q Nidana: aetiology and disease causation
Conversely, according to the principle that like
Q Purvarupa: prodromal disease symptoms
increases like, deficient pathologies are treated by
Q Rupa: disease symptomology
using herbs with similar properties to the defi-
Q Upaśaya: diagnosis based on trial and error
ciency. In principle, this is a homoeopathic
Q Samprapti: disease pathogenesis.
approach of using similar substances to treat the
imbalance: for example, reproductive essence These categories are defined in detail in such diag-
(śukra) is increased with seeds such as gokshura nostic texts as Madhava Nidana, a text written
(Tribulus terrestris) as seeds increase seeds (sperm between 650 and 950CE.
93
Nidāna: aetiology and disease causation Q Griping or cramping pain
Chapter 4 AYURVEDIC THERAPY AND TREATMENT
Nidana is based on the cause of the disease such as Q Irritated colon causing the need to eliminate the
low digestive fire or inclement environmental fac- bowel but an inability to do so.
tors. These are usually general causes and are not
especially dos.a specific. For example, in irritable In vataja:
bowel syndrome (grahani) the causes are: Q Pain, cramp, watery stool, painful diarrhoea,
flatulence during and after digestion, stool is
Q Atisara: diarrhoea/food poisoning/antibiotics/
liquid mixed with solid, passed with difficulty,
food intolerances
exhaustion after passing stools, bloating, exces-
Q Taking too rich a diet for long periods, espe-
sive hunger and thirst, dark circles under the
cially after diarrhoea: brmhana diet with weak
eyes, dry skin, stress and anxiety.
digestive system
Q Poor absorption of nutrients
In pittaja:
Q Eating inappropriate foods for digestive capac-
Q Burning, loose, yellow stools with undigested
ity: prajñaparadha
food, feels hot to pass stool, burning anus after
Q Long-term digestive weakness: mandagni
defecation, sour eructation with bad smell, acid-
Q Parasites (parasites, amoeba, colitis, giardia,
ity, thirst, skin eruptions, spots, aggressive, angry.
Candida albicans): krmi.
In kaphaja:
Pu-rvaru-pa: prodromal disease symptoms
Q Large volume of stool with mucous that is a
Purvarupa are the early warning signs before a
pale colour, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite,
named disease sets in. They may be general or
sticky sweet taste in the mouth, cough, saliva-
dos.a-specific and their correct identification can
tion, heaviness in the chest, eructation with foul
help direct appropriate preventative treatment. To
smell and sweet taste, suppression of libido,
continue the example of grahani:
lethargy and tiredness.
Q Thirst, lethargy and heartburn, delayed
digestion Tridoshic:
Q Taking a long time to digest foods, weakness, Q All symptoms.
acidity increased, bad taste in mouth, loss of
appetite, abdominal distension, borborygmus. Upaśaya: diagnosis based on trial and error
Despite the best intentions and highest levels of
Ru-pa: disease symptomology knowledge the practitioner cannot always discern
Literally meaning ‘form’, rupa classifies the specific the correct pattern. When this happens then it is
signs and symptoms of each particular dos.a imbal- incumbent on them to attempt a diagnosis based
ance according to each disease name. This is on a specific treatment. This may be either similar
pure disease pattern differentiation at its best, to or opposite to the disease. For example, it may
and reveals how Ayurveda can be so specific and be difficult to determine the exact nature and loca-
why it treats the same disease name with different tion of heat–cold, wet–dry or vata–pitta–kapha in
and often seemingly contradictory treatment strat- the body and the practitioner may have to try a
egies. It guides the practitioner to a set of symp- diagnostic formula that is weighted in a certain
toms that may fit a particular pattern and this in direction. The either beneficial or negative
turn guides the vaidya to specific herbs and treat- response results in the provisional diagnosis being
ment plans. confirmed or denied.
94
Sam - TREATMENT STRATEGIES
. pra pti: disease pathogenesis
Part ONE
Samprapti is divided into six different parts and
A successful treatment relies on a treatment strat-
reflects the particular qualities of a disease mani-
egy that is directly related to the diagnosis. A diag-
fest according to each dos.a.
nosis of high vata with obstructed apana vayu in the
lower abdomen due to low agni means that the
1. Sam . khya: this is disease enumeration into the treatment strategy must focus on balancing vata,
different states of a disease. For grahani this is
removing the obstructed apana vayu, increasing
divided into four types; vataja, pittaja, kaphaja
agni and nothing else.
and tridosaja.
2. Vikalpa: this categorises the specific quality of a The main treatment strategies to be considered are
symptom to a particular dos.a. For example, listed in Box 4.3.
vataja grahani can be caused by dry, pungent,
bitter, astringent and overly unctuous cold Treat the dos.a
foods, varied eating habits, overactive mind. Treating the dosas is a primary focus in ayurvedic
Vata gets aggravated and covers the suppressed treatment because any imbalance of the humours
agni manifesting as intestinal pain and cramps, causes disruption to health. Ayurveda makes con-
bloating, anxiety, dry skin, erratic hunger tinual efforts to reduce any excess of the dosas. It
and thirst, darkness of eyes, watery diarrhoea aims to balance all the dosas within the boundaries
with undigested food that is passed with diffi- of each individual’s potential for health. It is a rela-
culty and discomfort, and flatulence during tive situation as some people have a natural ten-
and after digestion. Hence the symptoms are dency to be healthy while others inherit a weaker
vata type symptoms and the disease is ‘of constitution. Everyone has a fixed balance of the
vata’ (vataja). dosas that is determined from conception (Box 4.4).
3. Pradhanya: this refers to when a disease is This is the measure of that person’s optimum
due to two or more dos.a and defines which is health. Under certain circumstances different pro-
the predominant imbalance; this dictates portions of the dosas may increase and even become
treatment. When there are different diseases deranged (prakopa). For example, in a vata constitu-
manifesting it is important to prioritise the tion vata will increase when there is stress, irregular-
primary disease in order to prioritise the treat- ity and cold weather. Every vata type will be taxed
ment strategy. under such conditions but even if a vata-reducing
4. Bala: this determines the strength of the disease. lifestyle is followed some will still be unable to
If all the symptoms (rupa and purvarupa) of a reduce the increasing vata. Others will ignore the
disease are manifest then it is stronger than if warning signs, or be unable to avoid them, and the
there are just a few symptoms present. dosas will become deranged and the onset of insom-
5. Vidhi: this describes the prognosis of a disease nia and digestive imbalance will ensue. The ability
according to whether it is easy to cure (sadhya), to remain healthy depends on the constitutional
difficult to cure (krcchra sadhya), incurable level of each dos.a, the aggravated level of the dos.a
(asadhya) or incurable but can be managed and the strength of the aggravating forces.
through continuous treatment (yapya). The early
stage of a disease involving only one dos.a is
usually easy to cure; increasing chronicity and Box 4.3
multiple dos.a involvement makes an absolute Q Treat the dos.a
cure more difficult. Q Treat the agni
95
4: the highest value, indicating a strong predilec-
Chapter 4 AYURVEDIC THERAPY AND TREATMENT
96
Part ONE
Box 4.5 General treatments for relieving va-ta
Q Emphasise foods that are warm, soupy and easy acceptable. Reduce intake of barley, corn, millet,
to digest. buckwheat and rye. Avoid all others.
Q Eat at regular times, and eat to less than full. Q Fruits: favour sweet, sour or heavy fruits, such as
Q Practise relaxation. berries, bananas, avocados, grapes, cherries,
Q Avoid yeast, coffee, tea, tobacco, drugs and lemons, limes, fresh figs, peaches, melons, plums,
extremely spicy foods. pineapples, mangoes and papayas. Cooked
Q Favour foods that are warm, heavy and oily. apples and pears are acceptable, as are soaked
Q Reduce foods that are cold, dry and light. prunes and raisins. Avoid dried fruits, uncooked
Q Favour foods that are sweet (e.g. wheat, milk, apples, pears, pomegranates, cranberries.
rice), sour (e.g. vinegar, yoghurt, umeboshi Q Vegetables: asparagus, beets, cucumbers, carrots
plums, citrus fruit) and salty. and sweet potatoes are the best. Peas, green leafy
Q Reduce foods that are spicy, bitter (e.g. coffee, vegetables, celery, summer squash, winter squash
chillies, green leafy vegetables) and astringent and potatoes are best well cooked in oil or ghee
(e.g. apples, beans). with mild spices. Seaweeds are very beneficial. It is
Q Dairy: all dairy products nourish the nervous best to avoid the Brassica family: brussels sprouts,
system. Always boil milk before you drink it, mix broccoli, cauliflower and cabbage. Also avoid
with cardamom seeds and drink it warm. Don’t Solanaceae family: peppers, aubergines, potatoes
take milk with a full meal or eat with fruit. Use and tomatoes. Raw vegetables, especially onions,
organic milk. If allergic, substitute with almond or are banned.
rice milk. Ghee is beneficial. Avoid ice cream and Q Spices: most of them reduce va-ta, especially
powdered milks. asafoetida, cardamom, cumin, coriander, ginger,
Q Sweeteners: all sweet flavours are good for fennel, dill, cinnamon, salt, cloves, mustard seed,
nourishing the nervous system. Reduce refined black pepper.
white sugar. Q Nuts: all nuts and seeds are good in moderation,
Q Oils: all oils nourish the nervous system. especially soaked.
Emphasise flax, hemp, sesame, ghee, olive, Q Beans: avoid all beans, except for tofu and mung
sunflower, evening primrose, borage and fish oils. dhal and occasionally red lentils.
Use these internally and externally. Q Meat and fish: chicken, turkey, eggs and seafood
Q Grains: rice (basmati, brown, wild), wheat, oats reduce va-ta; beef should be avoided.
(cooked) and quinoa are very good. Amaranth is
carminatives, demulcent laxatives and enemas; lic- emotions, in summer, from adolescence to middle
orice, triphala, linseed and ginger. Then tonify the age, from excessive ambition, a hot and damp cli-
nervous system using nourishing tonics such as mate. If out of balance there is a natural tendency
ashwagandha, bala, safed musali and shatavari. for pitta types to be attracted to these destabilising
influences.
Va- ta-relieving diet (nervous-system-nourishing diet)
How to balance pitta
Use this diet to help relieve nervous tension,
As pitta is ‘hot’, ‘oily’ and ‘intense’ it is aggravated
cramps, pain, anxiety, insomnia, bloating, constipa-
by these tendencies. It is best balanced by their
tion, dryness (Box 4.5).
opposites: cooling, calmness, loving, compassion
and moderation.
See Chapter 2 for more ideas on vata lifestyle.
Q Decrease pungent, salty, sour foods (chillies,
Pitta treatment spices, salt, pickles, fermented foods, i.e. alcohol)
How pitta is aggravated Q Decrease aggression, competition
Pitta is aggravated by pungent, salty and sour fla- Q Decrease hot environments
vours (as they increase heat), in the middle of a Q Increase sweet, bitter and astringent foods:
meal, at midday, by anger and irritation, repressed grains, fruits, asparagus, lettuce
97
Chapter 4 AYURVEDIC THERAPY AND TREATMENT
Q Increase cooling drinks: aloe vera juice, rose See Chapter 2 for more ideas on pitta lifestyle.
water, peppermint, coriander
Q Increase calming massage with light oils: Kapha treatment
almond, coconut, grapeseed How kapha is aggravated
Q Increase compassionate meditation and uncom- Kapha is aggravated by sweet, sour and salty fla-
petitive yoga. vours (as they increase moisture), at the beginning
of a meal, morning (6–10am) and evening
Pitta is generally alleviated by clearing pacaka pitta (6–10pm), by greed and possessiveness, in winter,
from the digestive system. Use purgatives, chola- by a cold, heavy and damp natured diet, in child-
gogues and alteratives: amalaki, neem, triphala, hood, from a damp and cold climate, sleeping in
rhubarb. Then use nourishing but cooling tonics the day, lack of movement and laziness. Because
such as aloe vera, shatavari, licorice and guduchi. like attracts like, there is a natural tendency for
kapha types to be attracted to these qualities that
Heat-reducing diet (pitta) (inflammation-reducing diet) tip them out of balance.
Use for skin inflammations, itching, joint pain, hot
flushes, acidity, ulcers, anger, irritation, infections, How to balance kapha
fever (Box 4.6). As kapha is ‘slow’, ‘damp’ and ‘heavy’ by nature,
and has a tendency to be attracted to and therefore
98
Part ONE
Box 4.7 General treatments for relieving kapha
Q Avoid yeast, salt, cheese, yoghurt, chocolate and
Q Fruits: lighter fruits, such as apples and pears, are
refined sugars and flours.
best. Reduce sweet, heavy or sour fruits such as
Q Avoid overeating, especially at night.
oranges, bananas, pineapples, figs, dates,
Q Do not eat when you are not hungry. Do not eat
avocados, coconuts and melons, as these fruits
between meals.
increase mucous.
Q Do not eat cold foods.
Q Sweeteners: use honey to reduce mucous.
Q A primarily vegetarian diet is highly
Reduce sugar products.
recommended.
Q Beans: all beans are fine, except tofu.
Q Include ginger in your daily diet; take a pinch of
Q Nuts: reduce all nuts.
fresh ginger root with a few drops of lemon juice
Q Oils: reduce all oils; flax, corn and sunflower are
before each meal.
acceptable.
Q Favour foods that are light, dry and warm.
Q Grains: increase barley, corn, buckwheat, quinoa
Q Reduce foods that are heavy, oily and cold.
and millet. Do not take too much wheat, rice or
Q Favour foods that are spicy, bitter and astringent
oats, as they increase heaviness and mucous.
(e.g. ginger, asparagus, tea).
Q Spices: include all spices except for salt. Salt
Q Reduce foods that are sweet, salty and sour (e.g.
increases water retention and mucous.
cakes, crisps, lemons).
Q Vegetables: increase asparagus, aubergine,
Q Dairy: low-fat milk is best. Always boil milk before
beetroots, broccoli, cabbage, carrot, cauliflower,
you drink it (making it easier to digest) and take it
celery, garlic, ginger, green leaves, kale, onion,
warm. Do not take milk with a full meal, or with
potato, pumpkin, radish, sprouts. Reduce okra,
sour or salty food. Add some cardamom or
olives, tomatoes, cucumbers, sweet potatoes and
ginger to whole milk before boiling it to help
summer squash.
reduce any mucous-generating properties. Use
Q Meat and fish: white meat from chicken or turkey
goat’s milk or water milk down 50/50. A little
is fine, as is seafood. Avoid or reduce red meat
ghee is fine. Avoid cheese, yoghurt and buffalo
and pork.
milk.
increase these qualities, it is best balanced with Fluid- and mucous-reducing diet (kapha)
opposites: increase movement, activity, light diet, (diet to clear phlegm, mucous and sticky accumulations)
warm environment, less oils and fats, more dry Use this diet to clear mucous, heaviness, sinus con-
foods and environments. gestion, thick tongue coating, tiredness, sluggish-
ness, high cholesterol, oedema (Box 4.7).
Q Decrease sweet, sour, salty foods (sugar,
yoghurt, salt) See Chapter 2 for more ideas on kapha lifestyle.
Q Decrease cold, refrigerated, damp, wet food (ice,
dairy, out-of-season fruits) Treat the agni
Q Decrease sluggishness Another primary aim of cikitsa is the health of the
Q Increase bitter, astringent and pungent foods digestive system. Its proper functioning is vital to
(asparagus, tea, spices) health as ‘sarve ‘pi roga mandagnihetavah’: ‘All dis-
Q Increase exercise, dynamic behaviour: astanga
99
A few ayurvedic dietary rules
Chapter 4 AYURVEDIC THERAPY AND TREATMENT
Box 4.8 The four types of agni Q Leave 4–6 hours between meals with no snacking.
Visama-gni
•
Q Fresh breath is a sign that the previous meal has
This is an irregular appetite and digestive system with been digested.
signs of variable hunger, bloating, indigestion, Q Eating in between meals weakens the agni.
intestinal cramps, constipation, dry stool, Q Eating foods with cold, wet and heavy qualities
borborygmus and gas. It is common in va-ta types. weakens the agni.
Use sweet and pungent flavours. Include hingashtaka, Q Drink hot water or ginger water to stimulate
trikatu and chitrak (Plumbago zeylanica) before you eat. agni.
Q Do not overeat or undereat as both disrupt
Tı-ksnāgni
• •
digestive power.
Intense hunger but poor digestion is a pitta sign. Also,
Q Treat agni with occasional fasts; use a monodiet
thirst, parched mouth, dry throat, loose stool and a
(e.g. khicadi), hot lemon water and a seasonal
burning sensation in intestines.
cleanse to keep digestion healthy.
Use mild sour flavours to dilute excess acid. Include
Q Agni is increased by pungent, sour and salty fla-
shatavari (Asparagus racemosus), guduchi (Tinospora
vours, so start a meal with these flavours.
cordifolia) and amchur (Mangifera indica) to balance
Q A low dosage of bitter taste taken before a meal
pitta.
increases the secretion of hydrochloric acid in
Manda-gni the stomach, increasing digestion.
Weak hunger is a kapha sign. Also slow digestion, Q Agni-stimulating and increasing herbs are gin-
heavyness after a meal, sluggish bowels, bulky stool, ger, black pepper, cayenne pepper, chitrak
feeling cold, sweet craving, stimulant craving. (Plumbago zylanica), cinnamon, long pepper
Use pungent and bitter flavours. Include trikatu, vacha (Piper longum), guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia),
(Acorus calamus) and cinnamon (Cinnamonum kalmegh (Andrographis paniculata). Use a small
zeylanicum). dose (0.5–1g) before meals to enkindle the
digestive fire.
Sama-gni
Q Agni tonic herbs that build enduring diges-
Balanced hunger and digestion; food is digested within
tive strength are pushkaramoola
4 hours with no excess craving or lack of interest.
(Inula racemosa), kushtha (Saussurea lappa),
Use all 6 flavours and a balanced diet to maintain
cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum), musta
samagni.
(Cyperus rotundus).
Q Yoga exercises to balance agni: stimulating the
Tissue fires: dha-tvagni fire practice (Agnisarakriya), abdominal massage
Another common factor in disease is the imbalance (nauli), lighting the skull breath (kapalabhati),
of the tissue fires. If they are excessively active bellows breath (bhastrika), peacock (mayurasana),
then they consume any available nutrients and forward bend back stretching pose (paścimot-
cause tissue wasting; if they are underactive then tanasana), fish pose (matsyendrasana), the sun sal-
they cause an excess of the dhatu and an obstruc- utation (suryanamaskara).
tion of the channels.
Treat the dha-tu
See Appendix 1 for herbs that treat the dhatvagni of It is vital to the success of the treatment to aim the
each tissue. medicinal formula at a specific tissue where the
disease is manifesting. This makes the treatment
Therapeutic treatment for balancing agni precise and accurate.
The best advice is to follow the body. Try to eat
when hungry, gently stoking the digestive fire See Appendix 1 for tables describing the following:
with small meals and trying not to smother it with
foods that are excessively cold, heavy or wet. Q The signs of dhatu excess and deficiencies
Do not aggravate it with excess spicy, oily or fried Q Tissue disturbance (dhatu dusti) caused by the
foods. dosas invading the tissues
Q Herbs that treat the dhatus.
100
The quality of a dhatu can be determined by the treatments for each pattern. This is patient-centred
Part ONE
quality and volume of its waste excretions along medicine at its best. Refer to the main texts, espe-
with the presenting signs and symptoms. For cially the Madhava Nidana, for a listing of disease
example, if there is excess mucous in a vata person names and categorisation of the different patholo-
then you may want to look at the quality of the gies of each disease. Along with the holistic ener-
tissue fire in rasa dhatu as it may be unable to getic approach, specific herbs known for their
transform the nutritious food resulting in excess curative effects on certain illnesses are also pre-
mucous. If there is too much mucous in a kapha scribed. For example, the therapeutic action of
type you may just need to address the diet and prabhava tells us what specific diseases individual
the overflowing symptoms will reduce. If there herbs treat; tulsi (Ocimum sanctum) treats fevers
is premature hair loss then you may need to and bilva (Aegle marmelos) treats diarrhoea, almost
address the metabolism of the tissue fire, the diet, regardless of the pathology.
or both, but the treatment should be directed at
regulating asthidhatvagni and eating bone-building See the Plant Profiles for the unique idiosyncrasies
foods. of each herb.
When a dos.a enters a dhatu it can create associated Śodhana: detoxify the whole system
symptoms that exacerbate certain tendencies of the and remove a-ma with pañcakarma
.
dhatu. Taking rasa dhatu as an example; remember Reducing therapy (langhana) uses different cleans-
that rasa dhatu is rooted in the heart, is related to ing techniques (śodhana and śamana) to remove ama
the skin, lymph and plasma, that its secondary (see also the next section) and the aggravated
product is menstrual fluid and breast milk and dosas. Śodhana is primarily done through the prac-
that its waste product is kapha. If vata enters rasa tice of pañcakarma. Pañcakarma represents the five
dhatu there will be more deficient rasa signs with detoxifying therapies that remove the ama that has
dryness, cracked skin and poor circulation; if pitta mixed with the dosas. It is usually used for long-
enters rasa dhatu there will be more heat signs term chronic conditions that are stubborn and dif-
affecting the organs associated with rasa, such as ficult to resolve. It is prescribed on a constitutional
skin inflammations, sore throat and fevers and if basis when the patient has sufficient strength and
kapha enters rasa then there will be excess rasa in the appropriate season. The weak and elderly
signs such as damp skin and lung problems with should not undertake the therapies, nor should
mucous, cysts and swollen lymph glands. they be performed in the summer or winter.
Pañcakarma is a specialised subject and its study
Knowing these diagnostic signs and what they and practice takes much time and skill. Refer to
relate to, and most importantly how to differenti- technical literature for further details. Below is a
ate them, are the skills of the physician. summary of the techniques.
Interpreting them correctly, devising an appropri-
ate treatment plan and then selecting suitable These cleansing techniques give a clear insight into
herbs, diet and lifestyle regimen is the best path to the ayurvedic view on the movement of disease.
effective treatment. The process of pañcakarma reverses the sequential
progress of illness through the six stages of disease
Treat the disease (vya-dhi) by guiding the diseased dosas and ama back
It is of course vital that you know the name of the through the three major pathways:
disease. Knowing the ayurvedic name of a disease
allows you to refer to the traditional wisdom, as The inner path (antar ma-rga)
recorded in the texts, on how to treat it. This This is the central passage that runs from the
allows you to make a differential diagnosis based mouth to the anus. It is the entire length of the
on the variable patterns of the disease, making digestive tract. Even though it is inside the body it
your prescription specific to the patient’s present- actually comes directly into contact with the out-
ing symptoms and not just a disease name. This is side world. It is the pathway first affected by the
the real gem of practising Ayurveda. The same dosas as it is the site of the first and second stages
disease is treated in many ways, giving specific of disease: accumulation (caya) and aggravation
101
011
(prakopa). The dosas are relatively easy to clear from 1. Therapeutic emesis (vamana): emetic herbs such
Chapter 4 AYURVEDIC THERAPY AND TREATMENT
here. Pañcakarma draws the dosas and ama back as madanphal (Randia dumentorium), vacha
into this inner path before they are expelled. (Acorus calamus) and rock salt are given together
with strong decoctions of licorice (Glycyrrhiza
Outer path (ba-hya ma-rga) glabra) to clear kapha and pitta from the stomach
This is the periphery of the body including the rasa and lungs.
and rakta tissues. When disease appears here it has 2. Purgation (virecana): strong cathartic and
already entered the third stage of the disease pro- laxative herbs such as jaiphal (Croton tiglium),
cess (prasara). It has started to spread through the aragwad (Cassia fistula), haritaki (Terminalia
chebula) or castor oil (Ricinus communis) are
lymphatic system and tends to manifest on the skin.
given to clear pitta and kapha from the
intestines.
Middle path (madhyama mārga)
3. Enemas (anuvasana and niraha): in anuvasana
In between the inner and outer path, the middle
basti enemas, unctuous medicated oils and
path houses the vital organs of the brain, heart, ghees are used for pure vata diseases where
lungs, liver, bladder and reproductive system. The there is good digestion. For niraha basti ene-
remaining tissues of muscle, fat, bone, nervous and mas, herbal decoctions using vata reducing
reproductive tissue are also held in this central res- herbs and formulas, such as dashmoola and
ervoir. When an aggravated dos.a arrives here dis- rock salt, are used in vata diseases where
ease has already started to locate and manifest (the digestion is weak.
fourth and fifth stages of disease: relocation 4. Nasal cleansing therapy (nasya): the head is
(sthanasamśraya) and manifestation (vyakti)). The steamed and medicated oil, such as anu tail, is
deepest tissues of the whole system are now applied to clear diseases from the head.
‘infected’ with imbalanced dosas and ama. This is 5. Blood-letting (raktamocana): pitta and blood tox-
the main site of chronic disease and the final and aemia is reduced by either giving blood or,
sixth stage of disease is expressed here; the unique more traditionally, by leeches. Suśruta intro-
characteristics of the disease (bheda). duced the use of blood-letting instead of one of
the basti treatments.
As vata is the energy behind the actual movement After pañcakarma should always come a period of
of disease it must be pacified to return the disease tonification (brmhana) and rejuvenation (rasayana).
along the path that it came. This is the purpose of This means using tonic herbs and a nourishing
pañcakarma; to oleate and sweat the subtle chan- diet. Ayurveda does not just leave a clean system,
nels, to enkindle the digestive fire, to calm vata and it nurtures it back to full strength. See the section
loosen the aggravated dosas. This has the effect of below on treating the gunas.
purifying the opening of the channels so that the
disease can flow back from the middle and outer Pacify the disease and remove a-ma
paths to the inner path from where it can be with śamana
expelled. This is the theory behind the clinical Where pañcakarma is inappropriate due to the
excellence of ayurvedic medicine. strength of the patient, the season or lack of avail-
ability, simple restorative treatments can be car-
Each level is carried out stage by stage. Firstly, ried out. This is known as śamana and results in
the accumulated dosas and ama must be loosened. the pacification of the disrupted dosas. Anyone
Medicated oil massage (snehana), steam treat- can incorporate these practices into their daily life
ments (svedana), digestive herbs and a simple as it is a medical treatment as well as an excellent
diet are used to help to dislodge the toxins that preventative. It is a perfect regime for anyone
have become fixed in certain parts of the body whose health is compromised or who has a sensi-
and to guide them back to the digestive tract. tive constitution. This treatment strategy is most
When this is finished the system is prepared for amenable to use in the Western clinical setting
the treatment that helps to evict the dosas. The and most lifestyles. It is practical, applicable and
second stage is the acts of cleansing. These are effective.
carried out sequentially with a five-day rest in
between:
102
Śamana are a tongue coating, bad breath, tiredness after
Part ONE
1. Dipana: enkindling the digestive fire by using eating, lethargy, feeling muzzy headed.
pungent, hot, drying herbs to stimulate the agni.
2. Pacana: digesting ama toxins and undigested res- Āmapacana uses many of the same herbs as dipana
idues. but instead of taking them before a meal they are
3. Vrata or ksun–nigraha: fasting.
taken afterwards and usually at double the dose.
4. Trsna or ern–nigraha: fasting from water.
These hot herbs literally burn the ama. The indica-
5. Vyayama: exercise and yoga.
–
6. Atapa: lightening, drying and reducing the dosas tion for using pacana is when there is hunger but
by sitting in the sun and raising the metabolism. not enough ‘fuel’ to fan the digestive flames. These
7. Maruta: lightening and drying the body by sit- spices are the fuel. Of course, when there are
ting in the wind and by breathing practices. already inflammatory conditions, such as ulcers,
caution must be taken.
1. Dı-pana: enkindling the digestive fire
Q Vata mixed with ama (sama vata) affects the
The digestive fire is enkindled like a fire is built.
colon causing stagnation in the lower abdomen;
Just as laying little bits of dry wood onto a fire
constipation and bloating are followed by pain,
feeds the flames, light and easy-to-digest food will
diverticulitis and may progress to arthritis and
help the digestive system to grow stronger. On the
sciatica.
other hand a big damp log will cause a fire to
Q Pitta mixed with ama (sama pitta) upsets the
smoulder, just as a heavy rich meal is hard to
centre of the abdomen and stagnates the liver,
digest and can clog the whole system. One of
gallbladder and small intestine as well as the
Ayurveda’s central tenets is that ‘like increases
blood as a whole. As pitta is hot and oily it
like’. Fire is increased by fire and, in order to build
creates hot and damp inflammatory conditions
the strength of the digestion, fire-like and pungent
in these areas and can cause a bilious liver,
spices such as dry ginger and long pepper are
ulcerated mucous membranes and infected
taken before meals. These agni-activating herbs can
blood.
be used constitutionally; fresh ginger for vata, long
Q Kapha mixed with ama (sama kapha) stagnates in
pepper for kapha and the warming but not exces-
the stomach, chest, lungs and nasal area.
sively hot coriander seed for pitta. Use about 1–2g
Because the nature of kapha is to be wet, cold
of each before a meal, then follow a sensible diet to
and heavy it has these effects in these areas
optimise healthy flames:
causing copious mucous, sinus congestion and
lymphatic congestion.
Q Avoid: cold things, ice, too much refrigerated
water, salads in winter, eating without hunger, Specific methods of reducing ama are listed below.
eating too much for your digestive capacity.
Q Increase: light eating, warm meals, hot water, Herbal therapy
eating a small piece of fresh ginger mixed with The bitter flavour reduces, dries and drains ama.
lime juice and salt before a meal, having a The pungent flavour destroys and digests it. The
short walk before you eat. optimum method for the treatment of ama is the
combination of these flavours. Here are some
–
2. A mapa-cana: removing toxins examples of herbal combinations to clear ama
Whenever there is low digestive fire ama accumu- mixed with each dos.a:
lates. It is a sticky, thick, wet substance that blocks
Q Sama vata: 1 part ginger (Zingiber officinale) and
the channels of circulation (nutritional, nervous
1 part guggul (Tinospora cordifolia).
and mental); this is the germ of all disease (sroto-
Q Sama pitta: 1 part turmeric (Curcuma longa) and
rodha). It lowers immunity, stagnates energy and
1 part daruharidra (Berberis aristata).
dulls the mind. We all have some in varying
Q Sama kapha: 1 part long pepper (Piper longum)
degrees. Some examples of diseases mixed with
and 1 part guduchi (Commiphora mukul).
ama are high cholesterol, Candida albicans, hepatitis,
asthma, chronic fatigue syndrome, allergies, gall- NB: be careful of excess use of bitters in a sama vata
stones, arthritis and tumours. Other signs of ama condition or of excess pungent flavour for pitta
types.
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033
Herbs for reducing ama:
Chapter 4 AYURVEDIC THERAPY AND TREATMENT
Part ONE
This means to fast from liquid intake. Extreme as ana), shoulder stand (sarvangasana), triangle pose
this may sound, it can be very beneficial in water (trikonasana), matsyendra’s pose (matsyendras-
diseases and kapha imbalances such as oedema, ana), twists, forward bends, abdominal lock
diabetes or kidney problems. It reduces the stress (uddiyana bandha), abdominal churning (nauli),
on the water channels in the body (ambuvahasrotas). alternate nostril breathing (nadi śodhana) and the
It also has the emotional effect of confronting your cooling breath (śitali pranayama) all help to bal-
inner thirst which, when out of balance, can over- ance excess heat in the system. To balance pitta
flow into desire. Grasping and holding onto sen- yoga should be practised slowly to regulate and
sual experience may manifest as a ‘thirst’ for food, moderate the system.
drugs or extreme experiences. Fasting from liquid Q For kapha there are lung-expanding, thyroid-
can help to redress this imbalance. Always follow and kidney-strengthening and metabolism-rais-
the guidance of a trained health professional when ing exercises. The dynamic sun salutation (surya
fasting from liquids. namaskara), camel (ustrasana), bow (dhanurasana),
wheel (cakrasana), locust (śalabhasana), fish (mat-
5. Vya-ya-ma: exercise syasana), two angled pose (dvikonasana), lying
Exercise is good for you. But what sort of exercise spinal twist, neck lock (jalandharabandha) and
is best? The modern phenomenon of sports mas- bellows breath are all beneficial. To balance kapha
sage therapists and physiotherapists as well as the yoga practice should be vigorous and invigorating.
steep increase in obesity and diseases related to a
-
sedentary lifestyle suggest that many of us are not 6. Atapa seva: sunbathing
taking the correct type of exercise in the appropri- This treatment is very useful for lightening the
ate amount. Ayurveda supports all exercise as long body, increasing the agni and treating bhrajaka pitta.
as it is the one for you. Pounding the heavy con- Many conditions are improved by sitting in the
crete streets is not appropriate exercise for a vata sun: certain types of eczema, psoriasis, arthritis,
type with a constitution with such a delicate bone depression and water retention, to name a few.
structure. Vata types should do more relaxing and Again it all comes back to who is doing what, how
gentle exercise. Kapha people can do more vigorous and when. With the present holes in the ozone
exercise and it should be done regularly. Pitta layer everyone must take care, especially fair-
should exercise regularly but moderate their ten- skinned pitta types, and should take extra precau-
dency to compete and push themselves. tions and apply aloe vera gel when they go out in
the sun.
Although the classical texts do not mention yoga
the two disciplines have blended over the last few 7. Ma-ruta seva: wind-bathing
hundred years. There are yoga practices that can This practice of receiving air is wonderful. How
be used to reduce the dosas, strengthen the dhatus, often do we just go outside and breathe? It specifi-
increase agni and calm the mind for each humoral cally relates to the yogic practice of pranayama and
type: of becoming inherently tuned into deep slow
breathing using a deep inhalation and long exhala-
Q For vata there are pelvis-opening, balancing, tion. It is about imbibing prana; the life force surfs
inverse and lower abdominal manipulating on the breath and flows deep into our tissues.
poses. The forward bend (paścimottanasana), Specific problems such as asthma, bronchitis and
squatting poses, crow, tree pose (vrksasana), emphysema greatly benefit from this practice. Also
eagle pose (garudasana), plough (halasana), cat people with a tendency to experience excessive
(marjarasana), equal breath (sama pranayama), anxiety and fear in their lives benefit from watch-
perennial lock (mahabandha) and humming bee ing the breath flow in and out of themselves. It
breath (brahmari pranayama) all help. To balance balances pranavahasrotas, the channel carrying the
vata yoga practice should be calming, grounding life-force around the system. This has a direct
and relaxing. effect on the nervous system and manovahasrotas
Q For pitta there is an abdominal focus with long of the mind. In fact the breath is the connecting
limb stretching and inverse postures. The cobra principle between the body and the mind. A calm
105
055
breath leads to a calm mind and relaxed body. ayurvedic tonics are chayawanaprash, ghee and
Chapter 4 AYURVEDIC THERAPY AND TREATMENT
Sitting in the wind and doing breathing practices walnuts (Juglans regia).
also helps to dry kapha and reduce excess ama
(Hat.hayogapradipika 2.35,65). Aphrodisiacs (va-jı̄karan.a)
This refers to herbs that nourish the reproductive
After integrating these practices into your life you organs, increase fertility, promote libido as well as
are ready for rejuvenation. In fact, these practices prevent ageing. Herbs such as kapikacchu (Mucuna
alone will rejuvenate you; they will improve your pruriens), ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) and
quality of life, your experience of life and they amalaki (Emblica officinalis) are renowned repro-
may well extend it. ductive tonics as well as being antioxidants.
Rejuvenate with tonics and aphrodisiacs: This may also involve treating ama and the gunas
rasa-yana and va-jı-karan.a within such treatments. The diagnosis guides you
Rejuvenation involves brmhana (building therapy) to the treatment principle and this guides you to
using tonic herbs such as ashwagandha (Withania the correct part of the materia medica, enabling you
somnifera), shatavari (Asparagus racemosus) and bala to select the correct herbs for the pattern that is
(Sida cordifolia) to nourish all the tissues, build the presented.
strength, enhance ojas and strengthen immunity. It
also involves eating building foods like nuts, ghee See the plant profiles in Chapter 6, and Appendix
and dairy products. 1, for herbs that treat each dos.a, dhatu and agni.
106
excess kapha from rasa dhatu, and to tonify the slug- Q Good digestion without any signs of discomfort,
Part ONE
gish digestive fire. The following herbs could be belching, flatulence or borborygmus
selected: Q Clear voice
Q Relief from any pain or discomfort
Q Disease-specific: vasa (Adhatoda vasica) is a spe-
Q Proper functioning of the senses: hearing, feel-
cific herb for treating asthma and also reduces ing, seeing, tasting and smelling
kapha Q Clear complexion
Q Dos.a-specific: pippali (Piper longum) treats kapha
Q Appropriate length and quality of sleep: 6–8
dos.a and treats phlegm hours/night
Q Dhatu-specific: dry ginger (Zingiber officinale)
Q Regular elimination of stool, urine and sweat
treats kapha in the rasa dhatu Q Constant energy with good stamina and ability
Q Agni-specific: tulsi (Ocimum sanctum) increases
to exercise
agni and clears phlegm and asthma. Q Enthusiasm for life
Thus combined, the synergistic effect of the for- Q Balanced emotions: neither too happy with suc-
mula balances the forces that our health hangs on: cess nor too sad in times of difficulty
dos.a, dhatu, mala and agni. Q Regularly compassionate, generous and calm.
107
077
CASE STUDIES
Chapter 4 AYURVEDIC THERAPY AND TREATMENT
The purpose of these case studies is to give some Q Nourish the plasma tissue
simple examples of how to arrive at an accurate Q Strengthen the digestive fire
diagnosis based on the presenting signs and symp-
toms of the patient, form effective treatment prin- The treatment principle is to first normalise her
ciples and then create a unique formula based on bowel movements and digestion. She took triphala
this pattern differentiation. (a mix of amalaki, haritaki and bibhitaki) 4 pills at
night with 1 teaspoon of psyllium and hot water.
She started to sip hot ginger water throughout the
CASE STUDY 1: INSOMNIA day and then to take ½ tspn hing-hashtaka with
A 32-year-old woman presented with insomnia as her food. She was asked to only eat warm food
her primary complaint. On further enquiry she and if she was under stress to avoid too much
revealed that she was always bloated by the end solid food (eating preferably soups). She took the
of the day, only had a bowel movement every main formula as prescribed.
other day and had recently been aware of her
heart racing when under pressure. She also has Her bowels soon normalised. The awareness of her
dry skin, low body weight and a light menstrual heartbeat and the feeling of having a tight chest
flow. She worked for a legal company, working to stopped altogether. This helped enormously. She
tight deadlines. Her appetite was good; in fact if has now learnt a simple meditation technique and
she did not eat regularly then she felt weak. feels much more in control of her life.
Despite her hunger she did not always digest her
food well.
Box 4.10 Formula: insomnia
Tongue: small, thin, pale, small cracks in the cen- Disease-specific (vyādhi pratyanı-ka): jatamansi and
tre, dry and dirty coating at the back. tagarah 20g
Dos.a-specific (dos.a pratyanı-ka): ashwagandha 15g
Pulse: thin, weak, no depth, a little rapid and Dha-tu-specific (dha-tu pratyanı-ka): amalaki and
strongest at the distal point. licorice 10g
Agni-specific (agni pratyanı-ka): cardamom 5g
Diagnosis 1 tsp twice a day with warm almond milk
The diagnosis is high vata, with ama in the lower
abdomen and deficiency of plasma tissue (rasa
dhatu). The disease category is insomnia (anidra)
with poor digestion (ajirna).
CASE STUDY 2: ACIDITY
A 45-year-old man came complaining of heartburn
The high vata is fanning her digestive flames but after eating. He had hypogastric distension, burning
also disturbing her digestive ability to absorb the feelings in his stomach and chest and a sour taste in
food, hence the bloating. The constipation comes his mouth. He had loose bowel motions and a
from anxiety and tension in the tissues. The pri- strong appetite but did not feel that he digested
mary complaint, insomnia, is caused by stress and everything properly. He had a red face, felt warm
vata rebelling upwards instead of moving down and was very active but occasionally felt dizzy if he
and out. The high vata is bringing an excess of dry- was stressed. The heartburn was aggravated by
ness (ruksa) and lightness (laghu), which weakens wine, vinegar, spicy food and eating late at night.
the plasma tissue’s ability to nourish the heart and
keep her grounded. Tongue: red body with a thin yellow coating at the
back.
Treatment principle
Q Normalise bowel movements and descend vata Pulse: rapid and jumpy. Very wiry in the middle
Q Calm the nervous system position in both arms.
108
Diagnosis Tongue: small, dry, cracked in the middle with some
Part ONE
The diagnosis is high pitta in the stomach with an red spots on the sides. Quivering and pale body.
intense (tiksna) digestive fire that is disturbing the
digestive system and causing ama. The disease cat- Pulse: weak, thin and faint all over but wiry in the
egory is acidity (amlapitta) and diarrhoea (atisara). middle positions.
Lad V 2002a Ayurvedic cleansing techniques: Atreya 1999 Ayurvedic healing for women: herbal
Śamana, Part one. Ayurveda Today January:1–6 gynaecology. Samuel Weiser
Lad V 2002b Ayurvedic cleansing techniques: Frawley D 1989 Ayurvedic healing. Motilal
Śamana, Part two. Ayurveda Today March:1–6 Banarsidas
Wujastyk D 2001 The science of medicine. Blackwell Lad V 1996 Secrets of the pulse: the ancient art of
Press Ayurvedic pulse diagnosis. Ayurvedic Press
The primary texts: Madhava Nidana, Caraka Samhita,
.
Suśruta Samhita and Astanga Hrdaya Samhita.
110
Chapter 5
By knowing one science alone one cannot arrive at a proper conclusion. Therefore a physician should
study other sciences in order to arrive at a correct diagnosis.
Suśruta Sam.hita- Su-trastha-na 4.6
This chapter is an attempt to find some connec- We can look at how these scientific concepts relate
tions between ayurvedic theory and modern sci- to the ayurvedic understanding of matter. As dis-
entific understanding. Ayurveda and energetic cussed in Chapter 2, Ayurveda reduces all of mat-
medicine as a whole are sometimes criticised for ter to the five elements (pañcamahabhuta; Box 5.1).
being too general; their holistic concepts appear These are understood to be the framework of
alien to the scientific mind. Whereas Ayurveda nature. They too are influenced by the natural
perceives the body as a matrix of interconnected forces of temperature, pressure and volume. We
systems, allopathic medicine focuses on the can say that the ayurvedic theory of matter shares
detail of the individual parts. Ayurveda excels at some characteristics with the scientific view.
understanding the whole picture, allopathy at
determining the minutiae. I am interested in how When we go on to look at the different groups of
each perspective can enhance the horizon of the elements we can find correlations between them
other. Here we can explore how allopathy can be and the humours. Gases such as hydrogen,
understood more fully through ayurvedic con- helium and oxygen seem to have similar natures
cepts and vice versa. Although the comparisons and qualities as vata; they are light and ethereal.
are not always exact, they reveal that the funda- Pitta is found in the reactive metals of phospho-
mental theories of Ayurveda are universal. rus and magnesium which share reactive, meta-
bolic and combustible qualities. Kapha is found in
the heavy and denser elements of carbon, iron
ELEMENTAL AYURVEDA
and the metals that are the solid building blocks
Chemistry is the science of matter. Simply put, the of matter. This shows that at room temperature
scientific understanding of matter is based on the some of the elements are vata gases, some pitta
atom that is made from a nucleus, protons and elec- interactive liquid–solids and some are kapha
trons. Atoms combine to make molecules that form non-reactive solids.
the various states of matter. They literally give form
to our world. These states of matter can be solid,
liquid or gas depending on various factors such as AYURVEDA, ATOMIC STRUCTURE AND PHYSIOLOGY
temperature, pressure and volume. Water is a clear Here I want to explore some similarities between
H[DPSOHDWURRPWHPSHUDWXUHLWLVOLTXLGEHORZÝ& the dosas and modern physiology.
LWLVVROLGDQGDERYHÝ&LWLVDYDSRXU VHH
Bloomfield & Stephens 1996). Va- ta
Vata can be seen as the master control system. Its
co-ordinating nature is mirrored by the regulatory
111
function of DNA existing in the nucleus of every bolic. The water controls the fire from raging out
Chapter 5 THE SCIENTIFIC BASIS OF AYURVEDA
cell. Vata is the regulator that facilitates and of control. Pitta’s character also relates to the func-
guides the functioning of the cells just as the tion of bile and hydrochloric acid that are also both
DNA holds the genes that regulate the organism’s liquid and combustive. The digestive functions of
evolution. We also know that at the centre of pitta are found everywhere from cellular metabo-
every atom is space and that vata’s expansive lism to the digestive system itself. Just as enzymes
nature is dominated by the elements of space and are catalysts, so pitta is a metabolic catalyst for the
air. Space contains and limits the movement of whole system.
air. This air quality relates to vata’s messenger
nature and it is this transferring activity that Pitta is implicated in the endocrine system where
moves information and nutrition across the cell an imbalance often manifests as an excess or lack
membranes. of heat in the body. For example, menopausal hot
flushes, from an imbalance in the oestrogen–
The nature of vata is also intimately related to the progesterone levels, are a display of excess heat,
functioning of the nervous system. The nervous while low thyroid function, due to low levels of
system is the communication network linking the thyroxine, causes feelings of coldness that reveal
mind and body just as vata is considered to be the a deficiency. Both conditions are often treated with
principle that regulates the movement of informa- pitta-balancing herbs. Another example connecting
tion and feedback mechanisms around the whole pitta and hormonal balance is that just as pitta
system. The chemical transfer of messages in the manages the appropriate growth from childhood
brain is even known to involve a gas, nitric oxide
(NO). Vata disorders often involve disorders
releasing gas, creating space and erratic move- Box 5.1 The five elements of Ayurveda
ments; from digestive gases causing bloating, to Q Earth (pr. thvı̄), the element that has qualities of
osteoporosis causing holes in the bones, to nervous being dense and heavy, is made from the
system disorders causing spasms and shaking. nucleus, proton and electron as the proton and
Parkinson’s disease is an example of this; an excess electron give mass and substance to an atom.
-
Q Water (ap), that is the connecting and structural
of the enzyme monoamine oxidase (MAO) reduces
the production of the neurotransmitter messenger element, is the cohesive tendency that holds the
dopamine, which results in the instability of the atom together and helps it join with other
atoms to make molecules. As atoms seek
nervous system.
stability through linking with other atoms by
balancing the positive and negative
Pitta
electromagnetic forces they are innately
Pitta has the quality of being the manager and
cohesive.
metaboliser. At a cellular level, pitta manifests in Q Fire (tejas), the element that relates to
the mitochondria that transform raw matter into combustion and metabolism, is seen in the
energy. As discussed in Box 5.1, adenosine molecular energy and release of adenosine
triphosphate (ATP) is released from the triphosphate (ATP) that occurs in cellular
mitochondria and is the universal currency of metabolism. On the atomic level electrons hold
energy. The mitochondria are often referred to huge potential and when electrons are freed
as the ‘powerhouse’ of the cells and pitta is the from their orbits huge amounts of energy are
powerhouse of metabolic functions. Pitta both unleashed. In molecules such as ATP the energy
releases and manages energy. Some of pitta’s is held in high-energy phosphate bonds and is
physiological activities can be correlated to released when these bonds are broken.
some of the functions of amino acids that help -
Q Wind (vayu), the force of motion, is reflected in
Part ONE
the release in hormones that influence the different The development of the embryo is also divided
stages of maturity. into three distinct layers. The unified egg cells
divide into the ectoderm, mesoderm and endo-
Kapha derm. The ectoderm relates to the outer covering
At a cellular level kapha gives structure to the and develops into the nervous system and skin
cell and is found in the fatty acid phospholipid that are both influenced by vata. The mesoderm,
bilayer that makes up the cell wall. Kapha col- the middle germ layer, develops into the vascular
lects in all other lipid tissue in the body as it system that includes the blood, lymph, heart, mus-
coats and protects the inner organs. Its predomi- cle, bone and urinary systems that are primarily
nance of the earth and water elements appears pitta in nature. (Although bone is frequently asso-
as the moisture in the body: interstitial fluids, ciated with vata, some of its functions, such as
intercellular fluid, cytoplasm, synovial fluid, cer- managing red blood cell production from the bone
ebral fluid and the myelin sheath. It also plays marrow, can be related to pitta.) From the endo-
an important role as connective tissue that is an derm, the inner germ layer, comes the inner layer
interwoven matrix of tissue that links the tissues of the mucous membrane lined digestive tract, res-
of the body together. Kapha is the container just piratory system and urinary system that are regu-
as the earth contains water: cytoplasm within lated by kapha.
cell wall, blood and lymph in the vessels, tissues
within skin, chyme within the gastrointestinal This three-tier pattern is then replicated in every
tract, and the neurons within the myelin sheath. structure in the body from blood vessels, to bones
to organs and to the mucous membranes; they
These structural and cohesive roles reflect the each have an inner epithelium layer through which
anabolic and creative kapha tendencies that exist substances pass (vata), a middle layer containing
internally. Interestingly, substances that are con- muscles, blood and lymph (pitta) and an outer
sidered to build kapha also increase semen, ova serous layer that holds structures together and
and reproductive essence: seeds, nuts, fruits and binds to the organism as a whole (kapha).
tonic roots. Kapha is about creating, building and
holding onto energy. Kapha diseases often involve Digestion
too much of this ‘holding’ tendency, with conges- Another connection between ayurvedic theory
tive heart disease, high cholesterol levels and and modern physiology is the process of diges-
obesity being examples of diseases with patterns tion. The functional processes of vata, pitta and
involving accumulation and congestion. kapha are mirrored by the activities of ingestion,
digestion and assimilation. For example, if diges-
tion moves too fast (vata) food cannot be digested;
AYURVEDA AND BIOLOGICAL FUNCTION too slow and it putrefies (vata); too much digestive
As we have seen the ayurvedic dosa system is a tri- secretion (pitta) burns the stomach and intestinal
partite model of natural processes. The processes lining; too little digestive secretion (kapha) means
of regulation–coordination, combustion–transfor- that the food is not broken down. This link is fur-
mation and generation–cohesion are represented ther represented by the metabolic processes of
by the functions of the vata, pitta and kapha catabolism, metabolism and anabolism, which
humours respectively. Here we can trace these help to release (vata), activate (pitta) and store
functions and systems through the body’s exist- (kapha) energy. If any of these processes become
ence. either excessive or deficient then they lead to dis-
ease. (See Tillotson et al 2001 for further insights
Conception into the physiological links between Ayurveda
Biologically, this tripartite nature is mirrored in the and modern science.)
movement together (vata) of sperm and ova that
results in their union and fertilisation (pitta) that Homeostasis
leads to the growth (kapha) of the embryo. The universality of Ayurveda is reflected in its
search for balance; its goal is the equilibrium of
113
133
the dosas, dhatus, agni and malas, just as the Like the heat of fire or the liquidity of water,
Chapter 5 THE SCIENTIFIC BASIS OF AYURVEDA
nature of all biological systems is homeostasis. Ayurveda is innate and its inherent nature is
Both Ayurveda and modern physiology recog- eternal.
nise that health is achieved through balance and
Caraka Sam. hita- Sutra-stha-na 30.27
regulation of the internal systems. Ayurveda
describes this regulation via the humoral con-
References
cepts of vata, pitta and kapha while modern medi-
cine determines it through chemical pathways Bloomfield MM, Stephens LJ 1996 Chemistry and
and feedback mechanisms. Each has its place; the living organism. John Wiley, Chichester
however, knowing how to utilise each particular
Tillotson AK, Tillotson NSH, Abel R, et al 2001 The
paradigm is the important question.
one earth herbal sourcebook. Kensington
Publishing Corporation, New York
114
Part TWO
Chapter 6 Plant Profiles
PLANT PROFILES
117
Shilajit 273 Turmeric 282 Vidanga 290
Chapter 6 PLANT PROFILES
118
DOSAGE (a traditional theory that the Creator has stamped
Part TWO
Daily dosage limits for dried, concentrated and a divine imprint on nature and that these charac-
tinctured herbs. Dosage is a slightly controversial teristics [growing conditions, leaf shape, colour or
issue because it is not absolute for every herb or smell] indicate a practical use; for example the
person. There are no standardised dosages for stalk of garlic has a hollow tube and it is indicated
these herbs, but there are reference ranges. I have for breathing problems, while vacha [Acorus cala-
given the dosages that I use in my practice and, mus] thrives in damp conditions and is used to
where they are given, that are recommended in clear mucous and catarrh). Also notes on the
the ayurvedic texts. One clear incompatibility in idiosyncratic (prabhava) nature of the herb, folk-
the profiles is the comparison between the dry lore, legal issues, special ‘carrier’ mediums (e.g.
herb dose and the tincture dose. This inconsist- honey), environmental concerns.
ency exists as tinctures extract more active ingre-
A NOTE ON REFERENCES
dients, are more easily assimilated and are
I have used many varied sources for reference
stronger than just the dry herb; therefore, where
material including primary and secondary
relevant, I have recommended a proportionally
resources. The reader is referred to the bibliogra-
lower dose. The tincture doses are not tradition-
phy to find references to clinical and textual data.
ally ayurvedic but are extrapolated from Western
I have used data based on human clinical trials
herbal medicine use and my own clinical experi-
and in vitro experiments and have purposefully
ence.
avoided any clinical trials carried out on animals
NOTES for ethical reasons.
Comments that are of particular interest, growing
conditions, example of the doctrine of signatures
119
AJMODA
Chapter 6 PLANT PROFILES
-
Common name Celery seed (E) Sanskrit A ja-moda Latin Apium graveolens–Semen (Umbelliferae)
120
CONTRAINDICATIONS SAFETY DOSAGE
Part TWO
High pitta; hyperacidity. It is No drug–herb interactions are 250mg–5g per day or 3–15ml per
safe in pregnancy despite mis- known. day of a 1:3 @ 60% tincture.
taken concerns regarding the
contraindicated apiol being con-
tained in celery seed (Bone
2003).
NOTES
Q Ajmoda grows in dry soil; according to the ‘doctrine Q It regulates pra-n.a, uda-na, sama-na and apa-na va-yu,
of signatures’ this indicates its ability to oppose which helps to balance the entire nervous system.
moisture and absorb damp mucusy conditions. Q While there is some concern regarding the
-
Q It clears ama and general stagnation; it has an phototoxicity of its furanocoumarin content, celery
aromatic nature that warms and disperses cold, wet seed is a very safe remedy. Caution should be
and damp symptoms. observed if using ultraviolet treatment (Bone 2003).
Q Its pungent aroma is expansive and opening and,
121
AJWAIN
Chapter 6 PLANT PROFILES
Common name Bishop’s weed (E), Ajwain (H) Sanskrit Yava-nı-, Yava-nika- , Agnivardhana
Latin Trachyspermum ammi syn. Trachyapermum copticum, Carum copticum/roxburghianum/ajowan,
Ptychotis ajowan–Semen (Umbelliferae)
122
CONTRAINDICATIONS SAFETY DOSAGE
Part TWO
Acidity; high pitta; during preg- No drug–herb interactions are 250mg–5g per day or 3–15ml per
nancy. known. day of a 1:3 @ 60% tincture.
NOTES
Q This aromatic member of the Umbelliferae family Q It reduces va-ta and kapha due to its hot and
thrives in the dry, sandy soil of central and Western penetrating nature.
India, Gujarat, Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh. Q One of its Sanskrit names, agnivardhana, means
Q It can be used alongside or instead of ajmoda as ‘strengthening the digestive fire’.
they have very similar properties.
123
ALOE
Chapter 6 PLANT PROFILES
Common name Aloe vera (E) Sanskrit Kuma-rı- Latin Aloe indica/vera/barbadensis–Herba/ Succinum (Liliaceae)
The Indian name for aloe vera is Dı-pana Enkindles the digestive
kuma-rı- meaning ‘young maiden’, fire for pitta
-
which reveals its affinity for the A mapa-cana Encourages the
female menstrual cycle and its clearing of ama
Vis.ahara Destroys poisons
rejuvenative powers for maintain-
Plı-hayakr.dvr.ddhiha- ra Reduces
ing youthfulness.
inflammations of the spleen and
ENERGETICS liver
Rasa (taste) Bitter, sweet Granthi Clears tumours
Vı-rya (energy) Cold Visphot.a Removes pustules
Vipa-ka (post-digestive effect)
BIOMEDICAL ACTION
Sweet
Emmenagogue, cholagogue, vul-
Gun.a (quality) Heavy, unctuous, eczema, urticaria, ulcers, acne.
nerary, alterative, anti-inflamma-
slimy Specific for use in jaundice and
tory, demulcent, laxative,
Dos.a effect VPK= as the gel and viral hepatitis.
immune enhancing, antiviral,
juice; dried gum powder (bola) Digestion The gel of the inner
antitumour
aggravates V portion of the leaf is a mild laxa-
Dha-tu (tissue) All tissues INDICATIONS tive as its bitter principle works
Srotas (channel) Digestive, excre- Gynaecology The gel and juice via the liver to encourage the
tory, circulatory, female repro- are salutary when there is excess release of bile. This effect can
ductive bleeding or clots. As kumari help to regulate blood sugar in
clears the liver it directly affects diabetics and lipid levels in
CONSTITUENTS hypertriglyceridaemia (Plaskett
raktavahasrotas and the flow of
Saccharides Polysaccharides;
pitta in the blood. This affects the 1996). As it is a cooling and
acetylated galactomannan
artavasrotas, the menstrual chan- demulcent herb that directly
known as acemannan or aloev-
nel, as it is responsible for regu- clears pitta and heals mucous
erose, glucose
lating the uterus. It is a membranes it is a specific for
Phytosterols ß-sitosterol
wonderful tonic for the female hyperacidity, peptic ulcers,
Fatty acids Gamma-linolenic
reproductive system. Its cooling ulcerative colitis and any
acid
and unctuous properties make it bleeding from the intestines
Enzymes, amino acids
very effective for treating the hot (Murray 1992). Its ability to
Vitamins B, C, E, choline
and dry symptoms of meno- regulate bacteria levels in the
Glycosides Anthraquinones; aloe
pause (Bhavaprakaśa). intestines indicates use in
emodin, aloin, barbaloin (in
Skin The gel contains polysac- Candida albicans and as a remedy
outer leaves)
charides that are specifically for improving gastric and
(Murray 1992, Williamson 2002)
healing for the skin and mucous intestinal function (Bland 1985,
AYURVEDIC ACTION membranes (Murray 1992). It has Murray 1992, Bone 2003). The
Vran.aropan.a Wound healing an affinity for bhrajaka pitta and dry and powdered extract of the
activity enhances the quality of the skin; leaf (also known as cape aloes) is
Bhedanı-ya Purgative (powder) used topically to treat psoriasis, strongly purgative and benefits
Rasa- yana Rejuvenative for the ulcers, eczema, seborrhoeic der- pitta types. It should only be
skin, intestines and female repro- matitis and mouth ulcers. One of used in the short term.
ductive system the best ayurvedic herbs for Eyes As a netrarogaghna herb it
Kuma- rı-rogaghna Alleviates men- healing burns, scars, wounds destroys eye diseases. Applied
strual diseases and stretch marks. Very benefi- externally it is very soothing for
A-rtavajanana Promotes menses cial taken internally for hot, eye inflammation and eyelid
Raktapitta Alleviates bleeding inflamed pitta conditions: swelling.
124
COMBINATIONS matory skin diseases (use SAFETY
Part TWO
* (juice) Rose, shatavari, manjish- externally and internally). No drug–herb interactions are
tha for excessive menstrual * (powder) Myrrh, turmeric is known.
bleeding and menopause. used as a uterine cleanser.
(powder) Fennel, cardamom to DOSAGE
* (juice) Shatavari, licorice, musta *
for GIT inflammation. prevent griping. (Powder/bola) 100–500mg per
* (juice and gel) Turmeric, neem, day (short-term only), (juice)
kutki, manjishtha for inflam- CONTRAINDICATIONS 10–200ml per day, (gel) exter-
During pregnancy (powder). nally, as needed.
Powder in vata constipation.
NOTES
Q Aloe grows wild in the dry parts of India and is The herbs are ground together with aloe pulp until
excellent at opposing dryness. the mixture is dry. This adds pitta-reducing qualities
Q It is a marvellous vehicle for carrying medicines to to the preparation.
all the tissues, especially the plasma, blood and Q Its most famous preparation is kuma-rı- a-sava, a
reproductive tissues. naturally fermented medicated wine for treating the
Q It is considered to be a ‘hero’ herb in that it has an above conditions.
affinity for all the seven tissues and it regulates all Q Mix with ginger for va-ta and turmeric for kapha to
three dos.a. This makes it the perfect vehicle to carry enhance its regulating effects on those dos.a.
the prescription to the correct part of the body. Q Kala bol is the solid gum obtained after boiling the
Q It is a common ‘trituration’ ingredient in many whole leaf juice. It is a strong purgative.
formulas; e.g. a- rogyavardhinı- and kaishore guggul.
125
AMALAKI
Chapter 6 PLANT PROFILES
-
Common name Indian gooseberry (E), Amla (H) Sanskrit A’malakı-, Dha-trı- Latin Emblica officinalis–
Fructus (Euphorbiaceae)
126
anaemia due to excess bile vitiat- COMBINATIONS CONTRAINDICATIONS
Part TWO
ing the blood, and hair loss from * Haritaki, psyllium for constipa- Caution in high kapha and ama.
excess pitta burning the roots of tion. Contraindicated in cases of diar-
the hair (Bhavaprakaśa, Paranjpe * Shatavari, licorice for acidity, rhoea, and dysentery at high
2001). The oil is especially good ulcers and gastrointestinal tract doses.
at alleviating hair loss and early (GIT) inflammation.
* Arjuna, bala, bibhitaki for heart SAFETY
greyness. It is a renowned rejuve-
conditions with arrhythmia. No drug–herb interactions are
native and adaptogen famed for
slowing age (vayahsthapana), * Guggulu for hyperlipidaemia. known.
increasing virility, promoting * Gurmar, turmeric, neem, shila-
jit, black pepper for diabetes. DOSAGE
immunity and inducing balanced 250mg–30g per day or 1–15ml
* Kutki, neem and guduchi for
health (satmikarana). Consider liver disorders. per day of a 1:3 @ 25% tincture.
using amalaki as an immune
restorative and hepatoprotective
during radiotherapy and chemo-
therapy treatments.
NOTES
Q The tree that yields these gooseberry-like fruits and has a sweet post-digestive effect. Amalaki is a
grows throughout India. The Varanasi variety is rare exception to the rule that sour aggravates pitta
considered to be the best. (As.t.a-ngahr. daya Sam.hita- ).
Q The fruits of the cultivated variety are large and Q Amalaki’s prabha-va is having a sattvic effect that
fleshy, while the wild fruits are small. raises the quality of consciousness and the overall
Q Its massive Vitamin C content is one of the highest in wellbeing of the body.
the vegetable kingdom (20 times that of an orange), Q Amalaki relieves va-ta via its sour taste, pitta by its
and it is heat stable due to the tannin content sweet taste and cold energy, and kapha by its
maintaining stability. The stability of the Vitamin C astringent taste and dry nature; it thus calms all three
content in Cyavanapra-śa- has been questioned dos.as.
(Bhattacharya et al 1999, Khopde et al 2001). Q Clinical trials report a cardioprotective effect as well
Q Although amalaki has a predominantly sour flavour it as a reduction in serum cholesterol levels indicating
can increase the agni and digestive function without an antiatherogenic effect (Tillotson 2001).
aggravating pitta. It is energetically cooling
127
ANTHRAPACHAKA
Chapter 6 PLANT PROFILES
Common name Indian ipecac (E) Sanskrit Antra-pa-caka Latin Tylophora indica/asthmatica–Folium
(Asclepiadaceae)
128
ARAGVADHA
Part TWO
-
Common name Purging cassia (E), Amaltas (H) Sanskrit Arag-vadha Latin Cassia fistula–Fructus, Folium
(Caesalpiniaceae)
ENERGETICS
Rasa (taste) Sweet
V ı-rya (energy) Cold
Vipa-ka (post-digestive effect)
Sweet
Gun.a (quality) Heavy, unctuous
Dos.a effect VPK–
Dha-tu (tissue) Plasma, blood
Srotas (channel) Digestive,
circulatory
CONSTITUENTS aggravated. As a gentle laxative * Amalaki for bleeding condi-
Glycosides it is used in children, the elderly tions.
Anthraquinones Fistulic acid, and in pregnancy where consti- * Nagkeshar, gotu kola for piles.
sennosides tutionally appropriate. It CONTRAINDICATIONS
Sugars Saccharose descends apana vayu and clears Even though it is traditionally
Sterols flatulence. It is a specific remedy used in pregnancy, as it causes a
(Swami Prakashananda to help ease the discomfort of downwards movement it must
Ayurveda Research Centre 1992, piles (Bhavaprakaśa). be used with caution.
Williamson 2002) Skin By helping to eliminate
pitta toxins from the rasa and SAFETY
AYURVEDIC ACTION No drug–herb interactions are
Kus• t• haghna Alleviates skin rakta dhatu it benefits skin
aggravations by cleansing the known.
diseases
Kan.d.u-ghna Stops itching blood. Most useful for hot and DOSAGE
Recana Laxative damp skin conditions with itch- 2–15g per day.
ing, suppuration and inflamma-
Sram . sanottama The best bowel
cleanser tion (Caraka Samhita, Williamson
Jvaraghna Reduces fevers 2002). NOTES
Anulomana Directs vata down- Bleeding Helps in bleeding from Q This medium-sized tree grows
129
ARJUNA
Chapter 6 PLANT PROFILES
Common name Arjuna myrobalan (E), Arjun (H) Sanskrit Arjuna, Kakubha Latin Terminalia arjuna–
Cortex (Combretaceae)
130
* Sariva, sandalwood, neem, CONTRAINDICATIONS DOSAGE
Part TWO
manjishtha for skin problems Pregnancy, constipation. 1–6g per day (dried bark) or
with inflammation. 3–15ml per day of a 1:3 @ 45%
SAFETY
* Guggulu, frankincense, myrrh tincture.
for high cholesterol and con- No drug–herb interactions are
gestive disorders. known.
NOTES
Q Arjuna is a huge tree growing up to 25m. It loves Q Decocting the bark activates the triterpenoid
riverbanks and lots of water, growing all over India saponins. It has traditionally been boiled with milk or
and Sri Lanka. used as a medicated ghee, Arjuna ghr.ta, to add to its
Q Arjuna is also the name of the legendary hero tonic properties (Cakrapa-n.idatta, Tillotson 2001).
figure of the Mahabharata. He brings strength, Q Although originally classified in Caraka as a
fortitude and protection to his family just as arjuna raktastambhana herb, used for stopping bleeding, it
brings these qualities to the body. was only later writers (Va-gbhat.a, Cakrapa-n.idatta) who
classified it as beneficial for the heart (hr.daya).
131
ASHOKA
Chapter 6 PLANT PROFILES
Common name Ashok (H) Sanskrit Aśoka Latin Saraca indica–Cortex (Caesalpiniaceae)
132
ASHWAGANDHA
Part TWO
Common name Winter cherry (E), Indian ginseng (E), Asgandh (H) Sanskrit Aśva-gandha Latin Withania
somnifera–Radix (Solanaceae)
133
conditions caused by ‘stress’ as COMBINATIONS advisable to monitor blood glu-
Chapter 6 PLANT PROFILES
it has a specific affinity for the * Pippali for enhancing tonic cose in susceptible individuals
majja dhatu and helps to regu- effect; useful in asthma and (Low Dog 2002).
late the movement of vyana vayu coughs.
DOSAGE
in the heart. Its tropism for the * Bala, licorice, satavari in repro-
ductive disorders. 3–9g per day dried root or
nervous system benefits multi-
* Brahmi, mandukparni, vacha 6–15ml per day of a 1:3 @ 45%
ple sclerosis (Tillotson 2001). It
in nerve disorders. tincture.
both relaxes frayed nerves and
tonifies the central nervous sys- * Guggulu, frankincense, tur-
meric in arthritic and conges-
tem to enhance tolerance to NOTES
tive disorders.
Q Ashwagandha thrives in the
stress. It is a nourishing nervine
as opposed to a heavy sedative. CONTRAINDICATIONS sandy, loamy soils of the drier,
Reproductive Its rejuvenating Caution in excess pitta and ama more temperate parts of India –
with congestion. Caution in Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh
effect on śukra dhatu helps to
pregnancy; although tradition- and Gujarat – and Sri Lanka.
alleviate asthenospermia
Q Commercially the roots are
(increasing sperm motility), oli- ally used in India during preg-
nancy to strengthen the uterus graded into four qualities: A is
gospermia (increasing sperm
and health of the mother and 7cm long and clear white
count) and poor sexual perfor- inside, B is 5cm long and clear
mance, and helps to reduce child. Its spasmolytic activity on
white inside, C is 3–4cm in
impotence (Bhavaprakaśa, the uterus has led certain quar-
length and D is small rootlets
Paranjpe 2001). Its unique action ters of Western phytotherapy to
with a slightly yellow colour.
or prabhava is to promote sexual restrict its use in pregnancy (see Q It is the best herb for nourishing
potency and sperm production. McGuffin et al 1997). va-ta and is used in all va-ta
External application of ashwa- SAFETY disorders affecting the bones,
gandha oil is used for impo- No drug–herb interactions back, knees, hips, ears and
tence. are known. There are some colon. Use internally and
Gynaecology Excellent tonic to theoretical interactions between externally.
the uterine muscles. Used in ashwagandha and immunosup-
Q The botanical species suffix
134
BAKUCHI
Part TWO
Common name Psoralea fruit (E), Babchi (H), Bakuchi (H) Sanskrit Bakuci Latin Psoralea corylifolia–
Fructus (Leguminosae)
135
Chapter 6 PLANT PROFILES
NOTES
Q Grows throughout the sandy loamy plains of psoriasis and vitiligo. The furanocoumarins,
central and east India. The black variety is containing psoralens, promote pigmentation but are
commonly used today (as opposed to the white also considered to carry a high risk when used with
variety also mentioned in Suśruta). It is a small great exposure to UV light. While its therapeutic
shrub growing up to 150cm in height. efficacy is indisputable caution is advised.
Q It has a controversial history due to occasionally Q Its traditional use is considered safe used at a low
causing inflammatory skin eruptions when used dose for internal consumption with moderate
externally in conjunction with UV therapy for exposure to sunlight. The seeds can be ‘purified’ by
soaking in ginger juice for 7 days.
136
BALA
Part TWO
Common name Indian country mallow (E) Sanskrit Bala- Latin Sida cordifolia–Radix (Malvaceae)
137
reducing drug efficacy due to steroids (dexamethasone) by DOSAGE
Chapter 6 PLANT PROFILES
opposing activity, ephedrine (e.g. enhancing clearance levels and 500mg–5g per day or 3–15ml of a
Sudafed) by additive sympatho- thus reducing effectiveness of 1:3 @ 25% tincture.
mimetic effects inducing further the drug (Treasure 2000).
toxicity and arrhythmia, and
NOTES
Q This small shrubby perennial is renowned for its arthritis, nervous system disorders and
tough stem and root and grows all over India and paralysis.
Sri Lanka. Q Often taken with milk and almonds to enhance
Q Soft, sweet and demulcent bala is a rejuvenative for tonic effects.
va-ta disorders; it is a superb tonic for the nervous Q The ephedrine content of the root is 1⁄15 of that
system. These nourishing properties of bala offset found in ephedra; the seeds contain a quarter of
the potentially va-ta-aggravating, nervous-system- the amount per gram usually found in ephedra
stimulating properties of ephedrine. (Tillotson 2001).
Q Bala is used as a primary ingredient in massage oils Q Recently banned in USA for internal use due to
(bala siddha taila and na-ra-ya-n.a taila) for treating ephedrine content.
138
BHALLATAKA
Part TWO
Common name Marking nut (E), Bhilawa (H) Sanskrit Bhalla-taka Latin Semecarpus anacardium–Semen
(Umbelliferae)
139
Chapter 6 PLANT PROFILES
NOTES
Q The tree grows throughout India. Q Prepared properly it is considered to be the king of
Q Bhallataka refers to its penetrating sharpness and it all rasa-yana substances.
is likened to a javelin. Q It can cause an allergic rash in pitta constitutions.
Q It must only be used following purification by a Other signs of toxicity are itching, burning, excess
specific process that includes being boiled in water, thirst and a reduction in urine.
milk, ghee and mixing with jaggery, resulting in Q While following a bhallataka regime it is advised
am.rtabhalla-taka. that the patient avoid all spices, heat and pitta-
aggravating activities.
140
BHRINGARAJA
Part TWO
.
Common name Eclipta (E), Bhangra (H), Maka (M) Sanskrit Bhr. ngara-ja, Keśa-raja Latin Eclipta alba–
Folium (Compositae)
141
Lungs Its pungency can help COMBINATIONS * Manjishtha, ashoka, lotus node
Chapter 6 PLANT PROFILES
alleviate mucous and treat * Amalaki, sariva, triphala for for bleeding conditions from
asthma and bronchitis. hair problems from high pitta. high pitta.
Reproduction Its rasayana prop- * Manjishtha, kutki, neem, pip- CONTRAINDICATIONS
erties rejuvenate deficiencies in pali for hepatitis and liver con-
ditions. Any signs of cold in the diges-
śukra dhatu, helping to build tive system.
sperm quality and quantity. The * Jatamamsi, brahmi,
shankhapushpi for mental dis-
seeds especially are used for this. SAFETY
orders from high vata and pitta.
Gynaecology It helps to prevent No drug–herb interactions are
excessive uterine bleeding * Black pepper for stimulating known.
rasa and rakta dhatu agni and
by clearing pitta from the treating anaemia. DOSAGE
artavahasrotas and uterus. * Turmeric, neem, licorice for 250mg–5g per day or 5–15ml per
dermatological conditions due
day of a 1:5 @ 25% tincture.
to high kapha and vata.
NOTES
Q Although there are three types described in Q Use externally and internally for alopecia and skin
Ayurveda (white-, yellow- and blue-flowered) the inflammations.
white is most commonly used. Bhringaraja is an Q It has different energetic classifications. In early
annual, liking damp or wasteland areas, and grows texts its vı-rya appears to be pungent, but in more
all over India. modern texts it appears to be cooling. Its effect on
Q A classic rejuvenative for preventing ageing and protecting the liver, healing the skin, reducing
slowing signs of old age. bleeding and calming the mind certainly reflect a
cooling emphasis.
142
BHUMIAMALAKI
Part TWO
Common name Phyllanthus (E), Stone breaker (E) Sanskrit Bhu-mya-malakı- Latin Phyllanthus amarus/
niruri (erroneously)–Folium (Euphorbiaceae)
143
CONTRAINDICATIONS SAFETY DOSAGE
Chapter 6 PLANT PROFILES
NOTES
Q This small shrub grows to a height of 60cm. Its actually Phyllanthus amarus but it is often
leaves resemble those of amalaki. erroneously named as Phyllanthus niruri. This variety
Q Numerous studies indicate that bhumiamalaki from is actually native to the West Indies and is not
India should be used. The species found in India is found in India (Bagchi et al 1992).
144
BIBHITAKI
Part TWO
Common name Beleric myrobalan (E), Baheda (H) Sanskrit Bibhı-takı¯ Latin Terminalia belerica–Fructus
(Combretaceae)
145
* Gokshura, coriander, CONTRAINDICATIONS DOSAGE
Chapter 6 PLANT PROFILES
bhumiamalaki, manjishtha for High vata. Dry symptoms in the 250mg–3g per day or 3–15ml of a
urinary stones and infections. lungs, skin, bowels. 1:3 @ 25% tincture.
* Brahmi, jatamansi, tagara for
insomnia. SAFETY
No drug–herb interactions are
known.
NOTES
Q It is a large tree growing all over India and Sri Lanka. Q It is heating but does not aggravate pitta.
Its small brownish fruits feel very dry. Q Its astringency can aggravate va-ta.
-
Q It is a specific rasayana for kapha and kapha sites – Q The alcoholic extract is also a cholagogue.
throat, lungs, eyes and hair. Q Ripe fruit is astringent, and unripe is more laxative;
Q It has an astringent effect on the mucous this is its prabha-va or unique action. Even though it
membranes while stimulating movement. It clears is astringent it is also a laxative.
kapha and a-ma from urinary, digestive and Q Use with honey to clear kapha. This is very good for
respiratory systems. sore throats.
146
BILVA
Part TWO
Common name Bael fruit (E), Bengal quince (E), Wood apple tree (E), Bel (H) Sanskrit Bilva, Śiva-droma
Latin Aegle marmelos–Fructus immaturus & maturus (Rutaceae)
ENERGETICS
Rasa (taste) Astringent, bitter
V ı-rya (energy) Heating
Vipa-ka (post-digestive effect)
Pungent
Purı-s. asam.grahan.iya Binds stool disease (Yadav et al 1989). The
Gun.a (quality) Dry, light
Śothahara Removes swellings fresh fruit is more of a laxative
(immature)
Śu-laghna Alleviates colic used in summer to cool the sys-
Dos.a effect VK<, P in excess
Va- takaphahara Alleviates vata tem. It is very heavy to digest
Dha-tu (tissue) Plasma, blood
and kapha and should only be taken in
Srotas (channel) Digestive,
eliminatory BIOMEDICAL ACTION small amounts.
147
Chapter 6 PLANT PROFILES
NOTES
Q This thorny tree produces fruit all year round. emerged from the churning of the milky ocean.
Q The immature fruit pulp is best used for diarrhoea It is also a ‘trifoliate’ or triśikha, a leaf having three
and IBS. It can be made into a jam or avaleha and sections; this also relates to the sacred trident
used as a nutritive healer. (triśu-la) that Shiva carried on his itinerant
Q The fruit juice from the ripe fruit is commonly wanderings. Hence it is also known as śhiva-droma
available in India at fruit-juice stalls as a summer or Shiva’s tree.
cooling drink. Q The root is one of the ingredients in the famous
Q It is commonly found near Shiva temples as the dashmoola formula. It sedates va-ta and calms the
leaves are used in worship (pu-ja-); the juice is said to nerves. It is also used in inflammatory conditions of
cool the hot poison that Shiva drank after it the uterus.
148
BRAHMI
Part TWO
Common name Bacopa (E), Herpestis (E), Jalabrahmi (H) Sanskrit Brāhmı̄ Latin Bacopa monniera–
Folium (Scrophulariaceae)
149
* Cloves (2 parts), cardamom CONTRAINDICATIONS DOSAGE
Chapter 6 PLANT PROFILES
(1 part), pippali (1 part) as None known. 2–6g per day dried or 5–30ml of
brahmi rasayana with 10 parts a 1:5 @ 25% tincture. The fresh
brahmi and 40 of sugar; use SAFETY
juice is popular in India: 3 tsp
this as an anti-inflammatory No drug–herb interactions are
per day.
and nerve tonic. known but caution is advised
with antiepileptic and anti-
depressant medication.
NOTES
Q It is a creeping annual and spreads along the banks in North India. Gotu kola’s other name is
of rivers as creativity and awareness spread man.d.u-kapar.nı-.
throughout us. It is a water-loving plant. Q It is combined with ghee or milk to enhance its
Q Bacopa monniera is the authentic brahmi and tonifying, nerve-nourishing and pitta-cooling
preferred by vaidyas in treatment. It is also known effects.
as Jalabrahmi , ‘Water brahmi’. Q Its cold nature can hinder digestion and so it is
Q It is often confused with gotu kola (Hydrocotyle recommended to be used with agnı- dı-pana herbs
asiatica), which is also generically known as brahmi to protect the digestive fire.
150
CARDAMOM
Part TWO
Common name Cardamom (E), Elaichi (H) Sanskrit Ela- , Su- ks. ma- Ela- Latin Elettaria cardamomum–
Fructus (Zingiberaceae)
151
Chapter 6 PLANT PROFILES
NOTES
Q Cardamom is a perennial that thrives in the tropical Q It is excellent at antidoting the mucous-generating
jungles of south-west India and Sri Lanka. and a-ma-genic quality of dairy products.
Q Ayurveda distinguishes two types: suks
- ma (small) and Good to use with children’s digestive upsets and
. Q
152
CASTOR
Part TWO
Common name Castor oil (E), Rendi (H) Sanskrit Eran.d. a Latin Ricinus communis–Semen/Folium
(Euphorbiaceae)
153
Chapter 6 PLANT PROFILES
NOTES
Q A native of Africa, the castor plant grows all over Q Important ingredient in simhanada guggul
India as a small perennial shrub. (+triphala-, sulphur, guggulu) for treating
Q Of the two varieties, red and white, the white is arthritis.
used medicinally. Q The oil is occasionally added to chapattis in India as
Q The whole seed is exceedingly toxic (i.e. causes a home remedy to clean the intestines.
death) if eaten whole due to the toxicity of the Q Low dose (5ml) is a laxative, high dose (>10ml) is a
protein ricin. Ricin is denatured after pressing and is purgative.
rendered harmless. Q External applications are superb for pain, growths
Q The leaf and the root are also highly prized and congestion.
medicines for arthritis.
154
CHIRET TA
Part TWO
Common name White chiretta (E), Chiretta (H), Kirat (H) Sanskrit Kira-ta-tikta, Bhu--nimba Latin Swertia
chirata–Folium (Gentianaceae)
155
CHITRAKA
Chapter 6 PLANT PROFILES
Common name White leadwort (E), Chita (H) Sanskrit Citraka, Agni, Jvala Latin Plumbago zeylanicum–
Radix (Plumbaginaceae)
156
Part TWO
NOTES
Q Chitraka is a perennial with beautiful white flowers some of its harsh irritant properties. Often
that thrives in the east and south of India and all combined with ghee into a rejuvenating
over Sri Lanka. compound.
Q The red variety is Plumbago indica. It is hotter than Q Chitraka can be purified in lime juice to alleviate
the white variety. some of its harsher hot and penetrating qualities.
Q It is a superb herb for all diseases caused by Q External application of the paste causes blistering.
manda-gni, low digestive fire. It should always be This is therapeutically employed in vitiligo and
used in combination with other herbs to moderate arthritis to stimulate peripheral circulation.
157
CHRYSANTHEMUM
Chapter 6 PLANT PROFILES
Common name Chrysanthemum (E), Indian chrysanthemum (E), Gundandi (H) Sanskrit Sevantı¯ Latin
Chrysanthemum indica/morifolium–Flos (Compositae)
158
Part TWO
NOTES
Q Grown all over India for use in worship. The flowers Q Chrysanthemum morifolium is sweeter to taste,
have a sweet smell and fragrant aromas, and are more specific for the eyes and clearing mild
considered to be the food of the gods. headaches from pitta–va-ta.
Q Chrysanthemum indica is intensely bitter and better
159
CINNAMON
Chapter 6 PLANT PROFILES
Common name Cinnamon (E), Ceylon cinnamon (E), Cassia (E), Dalchini (H) Sanskrit Da-ru-sita-, Twak
Latin Cinnamomum zeylanicum/cassia–Cortex (Lauraceae)
160
* Arjuna, turmeric, guggulu for CONTRAINDICATIONS can occur rarely due to cin-
Part TWO
circulatory or cardiac High pitta. Bleeding signs, namic aldehyde acting as a
problems. especially of the GIT. Caution mucous membrane irritant
* Pippali, vasa, vamsa lochana in during pregnancy as it is a (Bone 2003).
lung congestion. uterine stimulant.
* Myrrh, turmeric, ginger, DOSAGE
ashoka in uterine SAFETY 1–9g per day or 3–15ml per day
congestion. No drug–herb interactions of a 1:3 @ 45% tincture.
are known. Allergic reactions
NOTES
Q The famous ‘quills’ come from the zeylanicum species. Q Twak is a very good all-round herb for regulating
This species is called da-ru-sita- or sva-dutvak, ‘the va-ta; it circulates va-ta by stimulating vya-na va-yu.
delicious bark’. It is native to Sri Lanka and is more Q There are numerous other Cinnamomum species that
commonly known as Sinhali twak. The making of the are used medicinally (camphora, burmanni, iners,
quills is a traditional art, where the bark is peeled loureirii, massoia), from all over South East Asia.
from coppiced stems. Q Tamalapatra (Indian bay leaf) is Cinnamomum
Q Cinnamomum cassia mainly comes from China. It tamal. It is a digestive stimulant with a hot quality
comes as broken pieces of bark and is slightly that is commonly used to reduce vāta. Used in
warmer and more astringent than the delicate and avipattika-ra cu-rn.a to balance the digestive fire.
sweet zeylanicum quills.
161
CLOVES
Chapter 6 PLANT PROFILES
.
Common name Cloves (E), Lavang (H) Sanskrit Lavanga Latin Syzygium aromaticum–Flos (Myrtaceae)
162
Part TWO
NOTES
Q Indigenous to the Moluccas it is now cultivated Q It reduces kapha and va-ta by its hot and bitter
around tropical Asia as a medium-sized evergreen. quality and reduces pitta by its cool action. This
Q The contradictory classification of its ‘hot’ rasa and cold action of cloves is displayed via its anti-
‘cold’ vı-rya energy is interesting. It reflects that inflammatory effect; it also feels cool as you
ayurvedic energetics are based on empirical evidence, draw air through your mouth when chewing a
subjective experience and therapeutic results. clove.
163
COLEUS
Chapter 6 PLANT PROFILES
Common name Coleus (E) Sanskrit Ma-kandı- Latin Coleus forskohlii–Radix (Labiatae)
164
CORIANDER
Part TWO
Common name Coriander (E), Cilantro (E), Dhaniya (H) Sanskrit Dhanyāka Latin Coriandrum sativum–
Folium/Semen (Umbelliferae)
165
* Sariva, pit shirisha for skin CONTRAINDICATIONS DOSAGE
Chapter 6 PLANT PROFILES
allergies, vasa for respiratory None known. A very safe remedy. 1–30g per day or 3–15ml per
allergies. day of a 1:3 @ 45% tincture.
SAFETY
* Licorice, pippali for coughs.
No drug–herb interactions are
* Fresh ginger for fever.
known.
NOTES
Q This annual member of the Umbelliferae, like fennel meaning ‘bed-bug’, alluding to the smell of
and cumin, is an aromatic carminative. the fresh leaves.
Q The flower water is a fantastic antispasmodic. Q Often used with sugar to add to its anti-pitta
Q This is a world-famous remedy whose effect.
English name comes from the Latin ‘koros’
166
CUMIN
Part TWO
Common name Cumin seed (E), Jira (H) Sanskrit Jı-raka Latin Cuminum cyminum–Semen (Umbelliferae)
167
Chapter 6 PLANT PROFILES
NOTES
Q Cumin is a very small annual plant thriving in the Q Use roasted after a meal as a great folk remedy
hot and dry areas of Rajasthan and Gujarat. ‘cure-all’ for digestive problems.
Q Although it is a pungent herb it does not aggravate
168
DAMANAKA
Part TWO
Common name Mugwort (E), Davana (H) Sanskrit Na-ga-damanı-, Damanaka Latin Artemesia vulgaris–
Folium (Compositae)
Emmenagogue, haemostatic, positive effect on circulation can moxibustion for warming the
alterative, analgesic, anthel- ease muscular pain (Gogte 2000). channels in Chinese medicine.
mintic, antispasmodic, diapho- External Specific treatment using
retic, bitter tonic, antibacterial fresh leaf poultice to remove
169
DARUHARIDRA
Chapter 6 PLANT PROFILES
Common name Indian berberry (E), Daruhaldi (H), Darvi (H) Sanskrit Dāru-haridrā Latin Berberis
aristata/chitria–Radix (Berberidaceae)
170
DEVADARU
Part TWO
Common name Himalayan cedar wood (E), Deodar (H) Sanskrit Devada-ru Latin Cedrus deodara–Lignum
(Pinaceae)
Ka-sahara Alleviates coughing alleviate kapha and dry excess the Indian Forest Department
Hr• daya Nourishes the heart mucous. It is also used when and sources must come from
Vedana- stha- pana Analgesic there are fevers that are affecting certified dealers. The essential
Va-takaphahara Alleviates vata breathing (Gogte 2000). oil usually comes from the
and kapha Pain Devadaru is an excellent uprooted stumps of felled trees.
anti-inflammatory that relieves
BIOMEDICAL ACTION
cold, spasm and contraction in
Carminative, antispasmodic, aro-
the muscles. Its pungent and
matic, analgesic, cholesterolae-
warm properties increase circu-
mic, diaphoretic
171
DHATTURA
Chapter 6 PLANT PROFILES
Common name White thorn apple (E), Datura (H) Sanskrit Dhattu-ra Latin Datura metel/stramonium–
Folium (Solanaceae)
172
EPHEDRA
Part TWO
Common name Ephedra (E) Sanskrit Somalata- Latin Ephedra sinensis/gerardiana–Folium (Gentaceae)
173
Chapter 6 PLANT PROFILES
NOTES
Q Ephedra grows in the Himalayas at an altitude of Q Ephedra can cause night sweats, palpitations,
2000–4000m. nervousness and excess urination (especially in va-ta
Q Its very rajasic and stimulating nature can injure the and pitta types); discontinue if these symptoms arise.
body fluids; being hot and dry it opposes ojas. Q Recently banned in USA due to ephedrine content.
174
FENNEL
Part TWO
Common name Fennel (E), Sounf (H) Sanskrit Śata-pus• pa, Madhurikā Latin Foeniculum vulgare–Fructus
(Umbelliferae)
175
CONTRAINDICATIONS the body at twice the normal rate DOSAGE
Chapter 6 PLANT PROFILES
None known. Fennel is a very when taken with fennel (Low 500mg–9g per day dried or
safe herb. Dog 2002, Harkness & Bratman 3–15ml per day of a 1:3 @ 45%
2003). tincture.
SAFETY
There is some theoretical concern
that ciprofloxacin is cleared from
NOTES
Q Fennel is a hardy perennial that thrives in dry, hot Q It specifically warms and strengthens agni and
climates and is opposed to wet, damp, cold digestion. Its special quality is that it does this without
conditions. aggravating pitta or other heat signs.
Q The ‘sweetness’ of anethole is common in the Indian Q Helpful for digestion to chew some roasted seeds
variety (Bown 1995). after meals.
176
FENUGREEK
Part TWO
Common name Fenugreek (E), Methi (H) Sanskrit Met.hika- Latin Trigonella foenum-graecum–Semen
(Fabaceae)
177
1993). Its ability to strengthen * Nutmeg, ashwagandha, DOSAGE
Chapter 6 PLANT PROFILES
asthi dhatu indicates its use in kapikacchu, bala for male 2–50g per day or 3–30ml per day
osteoporosis, back pain, struc- reproductive problems. of a 1:3 @ 45% tincture.
tural weaknesses and hair loss. * Punarnava, guggulu, trikat.u for
External A poultice made from swollen arthritic conditions.
NOTES
the powder is very useful for CONTRAINDICATIONS Q Fenugreek grows wild as a
drawing infections, boils, splin- High pitta. small, leafy shrub in the north
ters and arthritic swelling from of India but is now cultivated
the body. SAFETY everywhere as an annual crop.
As a known hypoglycaemic Q The leaves are a delicious
COMBINATIONS there may be a positive interac- vegetable.
* Gurmar, turmeric, neem, trikat. u tion and it is advisable to moni- Q It enters the sweat channels
in diabetes.
tor patients on diabetic and its characteristic aroma is
* Guggulu, turmeric in high medication. The claims that fen- soon noticeable on the body
cholesterol.
ugreek interacts with warfarin odour.
* Fennel, cumin, coriander for appear to be mistaken, but it Q It is part of a famous formula
bloating and constipation.
does appear to inhibit iron known as caturbı̄ja. This
* Ashoka, shatavari for men- contains fenugreek,
strual problems. absorption at a high dosage
(Bone 2003). chandrashura (Lepidium
* Shatavari, fennel for milk pro- sativum), krishna jiraka (Nigella
duction.
sativa) and yavani.
178
FRANKINCENSE (INDIAN)
Part TWO
Common name Frankincense (E), Indian oli–banum (E), Salai guggul (H) Sanskrit Śallakı-,
Kapitthapar. n. ı, Konkanadhu-pa Latin Boswellia serrata–Resina (Burseraceae)
.
179
COMBINATIONS * Shatavari, rose, safflower for SAFETY
Chapter 6 PLANT PROFILES
* Guggulu, myrrh, turmeric in menstrual pain, cysts and No drug–herb interactions are
inflammatory and arthritic con- fibroids. known.
ditions with kapha–vata aggra-
vation. This combination may CONTRAINDICATIONS DOSAGE
also be used in high choles- Caution during pregnancy due 3–9g per day resin in decoction,
terol. to its vigorous ‘moving’ nature. 250–750mg three times per day
* Gokshura, ashwagandha, bala Low dose in pitta prakrti and of a 1:4 concentrated powder, or
for male sexual debility. with weakened digestion as gas- 2–10ml per day of a 1:5 @ 90%
tric irritation may occur. tincture.
NOTES
Q Frankincense is a medium-sized tender tree Q Tastes disgusting when used in decoctions!
growing up to 10m in height. Q High resin content requires tincture to be at 90%
Q The best-quality frankincense comes from the volume of alcohol.
driest areas, especially Rajasthan and Gujarat, and is Q If using tinctures add 10% licorice first as a saponin-
gathered at the hottest time of year. containing suspending agent to prevent
Q The resin is extracted as an exudate from the precipitation and to reduce its harsh flavour.
branches.
180
GARLIC
Part TWO
Common name Garlic (E), Laśuna (H) Sanskrit Laśuna, Rasona Latin Allium sativum–Bulbus (Liliaceae)
181
depending on the condition; it CONTRAINDICATIONS direct evidence that garlic and
Chapter 6 PLANT PROFILES
balances, restores and regulates. Pregnancy, as its hot and sharp warfarin will interact but caution
External With kapha–vata skin qualities can disturb the foetus, is advised. Caution with hypo-
disorders garlic is very useful as but it is fine for lactation (Low tensive medication as garlic
a paste or oil: ringworm, fungal Dog 2002). Conditions where the reduces diastolic blood pressure.
infections, ear infections. An blood is vitiated: skin conditions Avoid garlic for 10 days prior to
external oil rub may benefit or bleeding. Also in other pitta operative surgery. There may be
arthritis, sciatica, oedema problems, hyperacidity, high a positive interaction with statins
(Paranjpe 2001). blood pressure from heat, ulcers. by increasing the cholesterol
As it is overly stimulating it may lowering effects and monitoring
COMBINATIONS
also be contraindicated in prema- is advised (Low Dog 2002, Braun
* Ginger, fennel, chitraka, hingu, ture ejaculation and spermator- & Cohen 2003, 2004, Harkness &
black pepper for digestive
weakness. rhoea. Bratman 2003).
* Pippali, licorice, ajwain for SAFETY DOSAGE
coughs.
Caution in patients taking anti- 1–3 cloves per day, 6–15g dry or
* Guggulu, pushkaramoola, arjuna platelet medication as it may 1–6ml per day of a 1:3 @ 45%
and bibhitaki for the heart.
potentiate anticoagulation effects tincture.
of these medicines. There is no
NOTES
Q The bulb is pungent, the leaves are bitter, the stem the mind and create desire. It is an inappropriate
is astringent, the tips of the stem are salty and the food for those practising a sattvic or yogic lifestyle.
seeds are sweet. Q Avoid too much heating activity (exercise,
-
Q As a tonic for vata it is best taken fried with ghee. sunbathing, anger) while taking garlic to maximise
Q It is considered to be extremely rajasic or passion its therapeutic benefits and reduce the chance of
inducing. Its heat and penetrating nature aggravate any aggravations.
182
GINGER
Part TWO
-
Common name Ginger (E), Adrakh (H), Sont (H) Sanskrit Ardraka (fresh), Śun.t. hı- (dry), Viśvabhes. aja
Latin Zingiber officinale–Rhizoma (Zingiberaceae)
183
anti-inflammatory (Tillotson CONTRAINDICATIONS SAFETY
Chapter 6 PLANT PROFILES
2001). Energetically, its sweet In high pitta with heartburn, Ginger may increase the absorp-
post-digestive effect is cooling. ulcers and sweating. Not more tion of allopathic medication.
It also nourishes the śukra dhatu than 2g per day of dry ginger in Theoretical interaction with anti-
and reproductive system as a pregnancy. According to the coagulant medication is not
whole. Commission E monograph even proven by human clinical trials.
fresh ginger is contraindicated Used at less than 3g per day it is
COMBINATIONS
in pregnancy, but this is a theo- safe in patients susceptible to
* Cinnamon, lemongrass for a retical supposition (Blumenthal haemorrhage or taking warfarin
cold to induce sweating.
Pippali, vasa for a cough with 1998, Low Dog 2002). While or aspirin. It may reduce the
*
high kapha and aggravated vata. ginger is widely used during effect of antacids, as it increases
* Black pepper, pippali as a part pregnancy to alleviate nausea, gastric secretions (Mills & Bone
of trikat.u, The Three Pungents keep the dose low. Apply care 2000, Low Dog 2002, Bone 2003).
formula used for kapha, low and treat according to the pat-
digestion and respiratory com- DOSAGE
tern presented. Caution in high
plaints. This is often combined Fresh: 1.5–5g per day or 2–10ml
blood pressure, peptic ulcers,
with honey to add to its drying per day of a 1:2 @ 90% tincture;
gastro-oesophageal reflux and
effect. dry: 1–2g per day or 0.5–2ml per
skin diseases with inflamma-
* Arjuna, guggulu in congestive tion. Not recommended in
day of a 1:2 @ 90% tincture.
heart conditions and poor cir-
culation. patients with gallstones due to
its cholagogue effect.
* Turmeric, rose for menstrual
pain.
NOTES
Q Ginger is a perennial that thrives all over India and Q As it increases digestion of nutrients it may also
Sri Lanka, especially in hot and damp environments. increase assimilation of pharmaceutical drugs.
Q Fresh ginger will not aggravate pitta as much as dry. Q The anti-inflammatory action is a very good
Q Fresh ginger is better for calming an aggravated example of the prabha-va or ‘unique effect’. Its post-
va-ta and for sweating. It is harder to digest and digestive quality is sweet. This means that its long-
better as a laxative than dry ginger. term effect is anti-inflammatory and nourishing
Q Dry ginger, being hot, is better for stimulating while its initial activity is warm and stimulating to
agni and clearing kapha; it dries water in the colon digestion. It blocks inflammatory prostaglandins and
(gra-hı-) but it still removes constipation as its thromboxane.
penetrating quality ‘breaks up’ (vibandhabhedinı-)
impacted faeces.
184
GOKSHURA
Part TWO
Common name Puncture vine fruit (E), Caltrops (H), Gokhru (H) Sanskrit Goks• ura Latin Tribulus
terrestris–Semen, Herba (Zygophyllaceae)
185
combination to tonify the kid- * Brahmi, gotu kola and SAFETY
Chapter 6 PLANT PROFILES
neys and strengthen the lower jatamansi for nervous system Caution with antipsychotic
back. imbalances. drugs (especially MAO inhibitor
* Ashwagandha, kapikacchu, * Kapikacchu for Parkinson’s medication) as its harmala alka-
tila/black sesame seeds, disease. loid content may speed up the
frankincense for male * Neem, manjishtha and gotu breaking down of the medication
reproductive deficiency with kola for inflammatory skin
in the digestive system, thus
impotence and for encouraging conditions.
spermatogenesis. reducing the effectiveness of the
* Equal parts of guduchi and drug.
* Shatavari, rose, saffron, mus- amalaki in rasayana curna;
taka for female reproductive a general tonic formula for DOSAGE
and gynaecological problems. enhancing immunity and
1–9g per day as decoction,
Also useful post-partum for reproductive strength.
3–15ml per day of a 1:3 @ 25%
strengthening the uterus.
CONTRAINDICATIONS tincture.
Dryness. Caution during preg-
nancy as it moves downwards.
NOTES
Q Its diuretic effect is balanced by its valuable Q The fruit, aerial parts and root are used in Ayurveda.
moistening and nourishing effect on the mucous The aerial parts appear to have the widest
membranes. spectrum of rejuvenative activity for the
Q It is a rejuvenative for pitta and a balancer for vāta. reproductive system. The fruits are best known for
It specifically moves apāna vāyu downwards. their lithotropic activity and for their action on the
Q A main ingredient of gokshuradi guggulu. A superb skin.
formula for clearing stagnation and vāta in the
urinary system.
186
GOTU KOLA
Part TWO
Common name Indian pennywort (E), Gotu kola (S), Kula kudi (H) Sanskrit Man.d.ūka-par.nı̄
Latin Centella asiatica–Folium (Apiaceae) Syn. Hydrocotyle asiatica
187
CONTRAINDICATIONS metabolism it should not be DOSAGE
Chapter 6 PLANT PROFILES
Large doses can be narcotic and used with benzodiazepines or 1–30g per day as an infusion,
cause a vata headache or dizzi- barbiturates. Caution with hypo- 3–15ml per day of a 1:3 @ 25%
ness. Caution during pregnancy. glycaemic and cholesterol-lower- tincture or 25ml per day fresh
ing medication. juice.
SAFETY
As it inhibits liver enzymes
responsible for barbiturate
NOTES
Q Hydrocotyle refers to the aquatic habitat of this (Namjoshi et al 1978). There seems to be some
perennial creeper and the cup-like shape of the discrepancy in the texts but both Suśruta and
leaves. Another Sanskrit name, man.d.u-kı-, means that Va-gbhat.a, as well as the Bha-vapraka-śa, state that
‘like a frog’ it is always near water. It thrives the two are different plants but have the same
throughout India and Sri Lanka. There is both a medhya or mind-enhancing activity.
small-leafed and a broad-leafed variety. Q An excellent herb for rejuvenating and restoring
Q Gotu kola is the Singhalese name. cerebral function often taken with ghee to enhance
Q As gotu kola grows alongside rivers, many of which this effect.
are heavily polluted in India, make sure that your Q One of the great meditator herbs. High in sattva.
supply is cultivated. Q Its prabha-va is to optimise brain function (medhya).
Q There is a fair amount of ayurvedic debate as to Q It is best used as a cold extraction as heat can
whether Bacopa monniera or Centella/Hydrocotyle destroy its properties.
asiatica is the real brahmi. According to The Q Fresh herb juice is considered the strongest way to
Ayurvedic Formulary of India, Bacopa is brahmi and use gotu kola, so if you are using the dried herb the
Centella/Hydrocotyle is Man.d.u- ka-pa-.rnı- leaves must be vital and green to ensure efficacy.
188
GUDUCHI
Part TWO
Common name Guduchi, Giloy (H) Sanskrit Gud. u-cı-, Amr. ta-, Cakra-laks. an.a Latin Tinospora cordifolia–
Caulis (Menispermaceae)
189
candida-like symptoms (krmi, formulas for male sexual dys- * Gurmar, tumeric, amalaki, shi-
Chapter 6 PLANT PROFILES
NOTES
Q It has very interesting energetics. It is bitter, Q Its prabha-va is to clear toxins (a-ma).
astringent, pungent, yet heating and also sweet Q Specific for clearing a-ma; + ginger for a-mava-ta,
post-digestively. Its bitter and astringent quality + pipali for a-makapha, + neem for a-mapitta.
clears pitta and kapha, its heating energy burns Q It is also known as cakralaks.an.a- meaning ‘marked
a-ma, while its enduring sweet effect regulates va-ta with a circle’, as the transverse section of the vine
and gives it an aphrodisiac quality that nourishes stem clearly reveals a cartwheel pattern.
reproductive fluids.
190
GUGGULU
Part TWO
Common name Indian bedellium (E), Indian myrrh (E), Guggul (H) Sanskrit Guggulu, Deva-dhu-pa Latin
Commiphora mukul–Resin (Burseraceae)
191
throat and promote the immune COMBINATIONS SAFETY
Chapter 6 PLANT PROFILES
NOTES
Q Growing in dry, arid areas (Gujarat, Mysore) 0.5–1kg Q Commonly used in combination with other herbs
of resin is collected annually from each plant. in the ‘guggul’ formulas: triphala guggul,
Guggulu is a small thorny tree that is difficult to gokshuradi guggul, kanchanara guggul.
harvest without damaging it. Q It is one of the best herbs for va-ta conditions:
- -
Q According to the Bhavaprakaśa there are five arthritis, pain, gynaecological inflammations, back
varieties. The dark brown (mahis.a-ks.a) and yellow- pain, urinary system.
brown (kanaka) guggulu varieties are preferred. Q Va-ta is regulated by its sweet flavour and warm
Q Therapeutically a fresh component (nava guggulu) energy.
and an old component (pura-n.a guggulu, stored for Q Pitta is alleviated by its astringent taste.
over a year) are used; the new is considered to be Q Kapha is reduced by its bitter, astringent and
more nourishing and rejuvenative, while the old is pungent tastes.
a specific remedy in cancers and for scraping toxins Q Its traditional connection with the spiritual realm is
out of the body. affirmed by its other Sanskrit name Devadhūpa, the
Q The purification (śodhana) process is mentioned in incense of the gods.
Bha-rat Bhais.ajya Ratna-kara where the guggulu is Q Guggullipid is a registered medicine and brand
purified by boiling it in triphala, milk, cow’s urine, name; standardised extract of the oleogum resin
vasa or Vitex nirgundi and turmeric and removing was recently implicated in interfering with
the ‘scum’ that comes to the surface. It is then pharmaceutical drug metabolism.
fried in ghee, dried and ground to become
Suddha guggulu.
192
GURMAR
Part TWO
.
Common name Periploca of the wood (E), Gurmar (H) Sanskrit Madhu-vina- śinı-, Mes.a-śr.ngı-
Latin Gymnema sylvestre–Folium (Asclepiadaceae)
193
HARITAKI
Chapter 6 PLANT PROFILES
Common name Chebulic myrobalan (E), Harde (H), Hara (E) Sanskrit Harı̄takı̄, Abhayā Latin Terminalia
chebula–Fructus (Combretaceae)
194
* Bibhitaki, pippali in kapha con- CONTRAINDICATIONS DOSAGE
Part TWO
stipation. Do not use during pregnancy 3–9g per day in a decoction,
* Cardamom, fennel, ajmoda for due to its laxative and descend- 250mg–5g as powder, or
indigestion and bloating. ing nature. 3–12ml per day of a 1:3 @ 25%
* Vasa, anthrapachaka, pippali in tincture.
cough and asthma. SAFETY
No drug–herb interactions are
known.
NOTES
-
Q There are seven types of haritaki – vijaya, rohin
-
. ı, Q It has all flavours bar salty; it is a common feature
- - - - - - -
putana, amr. ta, abhaya, jı vantı and cetakı – which for rejuvenative plants to possess a full spectrum of
grow in different areas of India. Vijaya-, growing in tastes, e.g. amalaki.
the Vindhaya Mountains, is a rounder fruit and is Q Its special action is to alleviate any excesses and to
said to be the best. Rohin.-ı grows in Northern India balance all three dos.as: pitta due to its sweet, bitter
(Paithan), pu-tana- grows in Southern Pakistan and astringent tastes, kapha due to its astringent,
(Sindhu), amr. ta- and abhaya- varieties grow in bitter and pungent tastes, and va-ta due to its sour,
Bhagalpur district in Eastern India in Bihar, jı-vantı- in sweet and pungent tastes.
Saurashthra in Gujarat, and cetakı- in the Himalayas. Q Use with rock salt for kapha.
Q Haritaki is a very large tree growing throughout the Q Use with sugar for pitta.
deciduous forests of India and Sri Lanka at altitudes Q Use with ghee for va-ta (Bha-vapraka-śa).
up to 2000m. Q Using it with warm water promotes its anuloma or
Q Images of the Medicine Buddha show him holding laxative effect.
Terminalia chebula. This represents the respect and Q It is cooked with castor oil (1:4) to make gandharva
awe in which haritaki was held for maintaining haritaki, a demulcent purgative for alleviating va-ta.
health and curing disease. Also combined with amalaki and bibhitaki to make
Q Its ironic activity, both laxative and astringent, reveals triphala.
the diverse actions of this remarkable herb. As a Q Its prabha-va or unique action is to balance all three
decoction it is more astringent as the tannins are dos.as. Its other prabha-va is that while it is a laxative
water-soluble, and as a tincture or powder it is more it is also nourishing. Its sweet post-digestive quality
laxative. nourishes śukra dha-tu and enhances immunity.
Q Used unripe increases its laxative effect (balharitaki)
195
HEMP SEED
Chapter 6 PLANT PROFILES
Common name Hemp seed (E), Bhang ke beej (H) Sanskrit Vijaya- , Siddhi Latin Cannabis indica–Semen
(Urticaceae)
NOTES
Q An annual growing all over India, mainly in Bihar, pitta and va-ta in excess causing insomnia, low
Bengal, Himachala and Uttar Pradesh. libido and sluggishness. It is a vyava-yi, meaning
Q Most modern research points to use of the cold- that it spreads rapidly throughout the system
pressed oil. before being digested (Bha-vapraka-śa).
Q The seed is not a common ayurvedic medicine but Q It is famously used on Shivaratri, the night of Lord
is used as food in areas where the plants grow. Shiva. It is the festival when social taboos are lifted
Q Medicinally the flowering plant has been used in and devotees get divinely intoxicated (mast) by
India as a traditional medicine in Ayurveda. Known drinking a delicious beverage called t.han.d.a--ı, a
as bhang it is used as an appetite stimulant, for mixture of almonds, pistachios, milk, sugar and
reducing interocular pressure, as an boiled bhang leaves.
antispasmodic, as an aphrodisiac and for relieving Q The flowering buds and resin are currently illegal
pain. It reduces va-ta and kapha but can aggravate for use in most countries of the world.
196
HINGU
Part TWO
.
Common name Asafoetida (E), Devil’s dung (E), Hingu (H) Sanskrit Hingu, Sahasra-vedhı- Latin Ferula
asafoetida/foetida–Resin (Umbelliferae)
197
CONTRAINDICATIONS SAFETY DOSAGE
Chapter 6 PLANT PROFILES
High pitta; inflammatory condi- No drug–herb interactions are Use a low dose – 100mg–1g per
tions of the liver and brain; preg- known. day or 1–3ml per day of a 1:3 @
nancy. 75% tincture.
NOTES
Q Primarily from Iran, Pakistan and Afghanistan and inflammatory effects. Raw is fine for chest
some parts of Kashmir. conditions requiring stimulation.
Q Store in an airtight container away from other Q It is usually blended with flour or maize to be used
aromatic herbs as its smell spreads everywhere. It’s as a powder. Pure hingu should dissolve in water
not known as ‘devil’s dung’ for nothing! leaving a milky-white colour to the water without
Q The resin is collected as an exudate from the root. any residue settled at the bottom of the glass.
Q For digestive, nervous and gynaecological Q The main ingredient in hiñgvas.t.akacu-rn.a, a major
purposes it should only be used fried in oil or digestive formula for regulating apa-na va-yu.
ghee as this reduces some of its harsher
198
JASMINE
Part TWO
Common name Jasmine (E) Sanskrit Ja-tı- Latin Jasminium grandiflorum/officinale–Flos (Oleaceae)
kapha types of depression, ten- * Shatavari, mustaka, rose, man- absolutes; they should not be
sion or nervousness as its light- jishta in menstrual pain and taken internally.
ness can increase vata if used in excessive bleeding.
excess.
199
JATAMAMSI
Chapter 6 PLANT PROFILES
Common name Indian spikenard (E) Sanskrit Jat.a--ma-m.sı-, Bhu- ta-jat. a- Latin Nardostachys grandiflora
syn. jatamansi–Rhizoma (Valerianaceae)
200
CONTRAINDICATIONS SAFETY DOSAGE
Part TWO
Use with caution during preg- No drug–herb interactions are 250–500mg three times per day
nancy. High doses will cause known but caution with sedative, as powder, 1–10g per day dried
nausea, colic and urinary prob- antihypertensive and antidepres- root or 3–12ml per day of a 1:3 @
lems. sive medication. 45% tincture.
NOTES
Q This high Himalayan herb is CITES (Convention on Q It grows at an altitude of 3000–5000m.
International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Q Its lightness prevents some of the dulling effects of
Fauna and Flora) Appendix 3 listed and must be other nervines.
from a cultivated source to be exported from India Q Its special action (prabha-va) is as a brain
and Nepal. If you buy it without proof of certification rejuvenative.
you are probably depleting natural stocks.
201
KALAMEGHA
Chapter 6 PLANT PROFILES
Common name King of bitters (E), Andrographis (E) Sanskrit Kālamegha Kirāta, Mahātikta, Bhūnimba
Latin Andrographis paniculata–Folium (Acanthaceae)
Part TWO
kapha. immunodysfunction. prove beneficial as a liver pro-
Skin Hot, inflammatory skin con- * Manjishtha, neem, daruharidra, tective when taking hepat-
ditions, sores and eczema are rose for pitta aggravation of the ic-harmful tricyclic
effectively treated. It can also be blood. antidepressants (Brinker 1998).
used externally as a wash or in a * Neem, brahmi, turmeric in skin
problems. DOSAGE
cream (Paranjpe 2001).
Urine Useful when pitta aggra- * Punarnava, coriander, rose, 1–6g per day dried or 5–15ml
gokshura for urinary infections. per day of a 1:5 @ 25% tincture.
vates the urinary channel
(mutravahasrotas) causing urinary CONTRAINDICATIONS
infections with dysuria, pyuria, Pregnancy. It may aggravate NOTES
haematuria and proteinuria digestion in some people (vata Q This small green annual shrub
(WHO monograph 1999). constitution). High vata. Must be grows throughout India in
COMBINATIONS balanced with ‘hot’ herbs if there the shade. It is intensely bitter.
* Kutki, guduchi, ginger for are any cold signs. A superb herb for any
fevers. derangement of pitta.
SAFETY
* Black pepper for infectious No negative drug–herb interac-
Q Scandinavia’s most popular
203
KANCHANARA
Chapter 6 PLANT PROFILES
Common name Mountain ebony (E), Kañchanara (H) Sanskrit Ka-ñchana-ra Latin Bauhinia variegata–
Cortex (Caesalpiniaceae)
204
* Manjishtha for bleeding CONTRAINDICATIONS
Part TWO
disorders. NOTES
Pregnancy; constipation.
Q Kanchanara is a medium-sized
* Punarnava, manjishtha, neem SAFETY tree growing all over India at
for skin disorders.
No drug–herb interactions are altitudes up to 1800m.
* Guggulu, frankincense, Q An excess can cause vomiting.
bakuchi, ginger, ashwagandha known.
for osteoporosis. Q The main ingredient in
DOSAGE kanchanara guggul which is
1–10g per day or 3–15ml of a 1:3 used to treat lymphatic
@ 45% tincture. swellings.
205
KAPIKACCHU
Chapter 6 PLANT PROFILES
Common name Cowhage (E), Kapikacchu (H) Sanskrit Kapikacchu, Ātmagupta- Latin Mucuna pruriens–
Semen (Fabaceae)
NOTES
Q This creeping twine grows all over India, especially that have MAO-inhibiting (MAOI) activity and
in the tropical regions. hence enhance the efficacy of the L-dopa (Stuart
Q There is a black and a white variety. Fitsimmons MNIMH, pers. comm.).
Q As L-dopa is broken down by MAO in the mucous Q It can be rajasic or overstimulating in excess.
membranes of the intestines it is traditionally Q Often combined with milk and honey to add to its
combined with Tribulus terrestris in Parkinson’s restorative effects.
206 disease. Tribulus contains some harmala alkaloids
KARAVELLA
Part TWO
Common name Bitter gourd (E), Bitter melon (E), Karella (H) Sanskrit Kāravella Latin Momordica
charantia–Fructus immaturus (Cucurbitaceae)
207
* Neem, garlic for worms. SAFETY
Chapter 6 PLANT PROFILES
NOTES
* Amalaki in acidity and inflam- Caution in patients on hypogly-
Q This annual creeper is cultivated
mation. caemic medication.
all over India for its fruiting
* Neem, manjishtha, kutki in
skin disorders. DOSAGE vegetables.
5–10g dry per day or 3–15ml of Q Although it is bitter it does not
CONTRAINDICATIONS a 1:2 @ 40% fresh tincture. aggravate va-ta (tiktam-va-talam).
Pregnancy, as it has a bitter and Q Successful clinical trials have
descending effect. used the equivalent of 60ml of
the fresh juice per day.
208
KRISHNA JIRAKA
Part TWO
Common name Black cumin (E), Love-in-the-mist (E), Kalonji (H) Sanskrit Kr• s• n• a-Jı-raka, Ka-lika-, Ka-la-ja-jı-
Latin Nigella sativa–Semen (Ranunculaceae)
209
DOSAGE
Chapter 6 PLANT PROFILES
NOTES
1–10g per day dried or 3–12ml of
Q It thrives in the dry climate of Western India but originally comes from
a 1:3 @ 45% tincture.
the Mediterranean region.
Q In the ayurvedic texts it is classified along with the other ‘cumins’ –
210
KUSHTHA
Part TWO
Common name Costus root (E) Sanskrit Kus• t• ha Latin Saussurea lappa–Radix (Compositae)
211
or pain from obstructed prana CONTRAINDICATIONS
Chapter 6 PLANT PROFILES
212
KUTA J A
Part TWO
Common name Kutaj (H), Kureya (H) Sanskrit Kut.aja Latin Holarrhena antidysenterica–Cortex, Semen
(Apocynaceae)
213
Chapter 6 PLANT PROFILES
NOTES
Q The kutaja tree with white flowers that comes from Indrayava has a hot energy and is best for digesting
Saharanpur is considered to be the best variety. It a-ma.
grows up to 9m in height. Q Kutaja is said to have originated from the monkey
Q The bark should come from trees that are more servants of Lord Rāma whose blood turned to
than 10 years old to ensure appropriate activity. amrita, the immortal nectar, after they were slain.
Q It is often confused with Wrightia tinctoria, which is Lord Indra then restored them to life.
not medicinally useful. Q It is presently banned for use in the UK under the
Q The seeds are called Indrayava, which means 1977 Medicines Order (www.mhra.gov.uk).
‘Indra’s seed’. Indra is the lord of divine realm.
214
KUTKI
Part TWO
Common name Picrorrhiza (E), Kutki (H) Sanskrit Kat.uka- Latin Picrorrhiza kurroa, scrofulariiflora–
Rhizoma (Scrophulariaceae)
215
* Ashwagandha, chiretta, licorice in a weak digestive system. Do SAFETY
Chapter 6 PLANT PROFILES
in compromised immunity and not use in pregnancy. Some No drug–herb interactions are
low ojas. authorities mention concern known.
* Rhubarb root, senna, fennel, about its immune-stimulating
ginger, cardamom in constipa- DOSAGE
properties contraindicating it in
tion or diarrhoea. 500mg–2g per day dried root or
autoimmune diseases, although
3–12ml per day of a 1:3 @ 25%
CONTRAINDICATIONS this is not reflected in its tradi-
tincture.
High vata. Can cause diarrhoea tional use.
and flatulence. Use with caution
NOTES
Q This hardy perennial grows at high altitudes in the Q Picrorrhiza kurroa is presently CITES Appendix 3
Himalayas, usually 2500–3600m. It should be listed and suppliers must have a certificate to prove
slightly black inside the root. source of cultivation. In light of the increased trade
Q Use with warming aromatic herbs to prevent any in P. scrophulariiflora it is prudent to ensure that
intestinal griping. your supply is also from a cultivated source.
Q Once known as dhanvantarigrasta, ‘the plant that
216
LEMON AND LIME
Part TWO
Common name Lemon (E), Bara nimbu (H); Lime (E), Nimbu (H) Sanskrit Jambira, Nimbu-ka Latin Citrus
limonum/acida or medica–Fructus (Rutaceae)
217
Chapter 6 PLANT PROFILES
NOTES
Q Although lemon can aggravate a pitta that is already Q Their general use is as a nourishing as well as a
out of balance it is a world famous cooling remedy. detoxifying remedy; they clear excess acids, toxins
Q Although lemon and lime have slightly different and congestion, while nourishing deficiency and
energetics, with lime being slightly more sour yet weakness.
less pitta-aggravating, they essentially have the Q They can be used as a vehicle (anupa-na) to send
same therapeutic uses. remedies to the liver.
218
LEMONGRASS
Part TWO
Common name Lemongrass (E) Sanskrit Bhu--tr• n• a Latin Cymbopogon citratus–Folium (Graminaceae)
219
LICORICE
Chapter 6 PLANT PROFILES
Common name Licorice (E), Jethimadh (H) Sanskrit Yas. t. ı-madhu Latin Glycyrrhiza glabra–Radix
(Leguminosae)
220
conditions as ME and chronic * Guduchi, manjishtha, pippali is advised with corticosteroids,
Part TWO
fatigue syndrome (CFS). The sat- for liver disorders. especially prednisolone.
tvika nature of licorice calms the * Ashwagandha, bala, shatavari Hypokalaemia can occur over
mind (Frawley & Lad 1994, Mills for nervous exhaustion. extended periods (4–6 weeks)
-
& Bone 2000). * Triphala for eyewashes. and so diligence is advised
Urine Its cooling action and unc- CONTRAINDICATIONS when blood pressure increases
tuous nature are beneficial in High kapha. Contraindicated in in any patient taking licorice, or
inflammations of the urinary choleostatic liver disorders, with elderly patients or those
tract and it should be used to hypertension, congestive heart with hypertension or cardiac,
treat cystitis and painful, burn- failure or oedema. During preg- renal or hepatic disease. It can
ing urination (Gogte 2000). nancy and breast-feeding up to exacerbate the effects of a high
Skin It is a useful emolliating 3g per day is safe. Be vigilant in salt diet. It may counteract the
herb for preventing itching with long-term use. contraceptive pill. It has a posi-
dry skin. Its anti-inflammatory tive interaction with NSAIDs by
pitta-reducing effects are com- SAFETY reducing the gastric irritation
monly employed to treat red, Care in osteoporosis as it inhib- and ulceration they can cause
hot, inflamed skin disorders. its calcium and potassium (Low Dog 2002, Bone 2003,
absorption. It can exacerbate Braun & Cohen 2003, 2004).
COMBINATIONS potassium loss when used with
* Bala, pippali, tulsi, bibhitaki, potassium-depleting drugs (thi- DOSAGE
haritaki, anthrapachaka for 0.5–10g per day dried, 3–12ml
azide diuretics, laxatives) and
lung congestion. per day of a 1:3 tincture, or
this can increase sensitivity to
* Fresh ginger, ephedra for influ- cardioactive glycosides. It 2–6ml per day of a 1:1 fluid
enza causing lung impairment.
extends the activity of cortisone extract.
* Fennel, shatavari, amalaki,
kutki for ulcers and GIT in the blood by decreasing
inflammation. plasma clearance and so caution
NOTES
Q Licorice grows all over the world. In northern India strength to the whole formula while also
it is a perennial shrub that has an intense network neutralising any harsh aspects of stronger herbs
of underground creepers. (e.g. bitters/anthelmintics).
Q Specifically classified as useful for the quality of the Q Often mixed in ghee to enhance its healing effects
eyes and the skin, this action works via its affinity on inflammatory mucous membrane conditions
for calming and cooling pitta while also nourishing and to promote its rasa-yana effect on śukra dha-tu.
va-ta and majja- dha-tu. Q Licorice’s popularity has caused it to be
Q Traditionally used as a detoxicant herb to overharvested from the wild. Make sure you buy
harmonise a formula and enhance the properties of licorice from a sustainably cultivated source.
the other herbs. Its sweet taste gives balya and
221
LOTUS
Chapter 6 PLANT PROFILES
Common name Lotus (E) Sanskrit Padma, Kamala Latin Nelumbo nucifera–Radix, Nodus, Folium, Semen,
Stamen, Flos (Nymphaeaceae)
222
Part TWO
NOTES
Q The lotus grows all over the lakes of India, their heart and reproductive system. The stamen,
flowers opening in the morning and closing at kiñjalka, is astringent, aphrodisiac, and again
dusk. benefits pitta with burning. The flower stalk, mr. n.āla,
Q There are three main medicinal varieties – white, increases breast milk. The root, śa-luka, is astringent,
red and blue. stops bleeding, heals the colon. The roots benefit
Q All parts of the lotus are used. The petals, sam . mu-ladhāra and base chakra tissues, the seeds
vartikā, are best for cooling pitta, bleeding, thirst, anāhata and heart chakra tissues.
painful urination. The seeds, padmabı̄ja, clean the Q Neelota (Nymphoea stellata) is also used in certain
blood, are good for pitta, and a tonic to the preparations such as chywanaprasha.
223
MANJISHTHA
Chapter 6 PLANT PROFILES
Common name Indian madder (E), Manjith (H) Sanskrit Man-jis• t• ha Latin Rubia cordifolia–Radix
(Rubiaceae)
224
bleeding (Madanaphala Nighantu, agents helping to draw excess * Guggulu, turmeric for tumours
Part TWO
Bensky & Gamble 1986). calcium from the system. Also and accumulations all over the
Tumours/accumulations used to stop haematuria body.
Manjishtha breaks accumula- (Frawley & Lad 1994, Mills & * Arjuna, licorice, myrrh, tur-
tions of kapha in the bladder, Bone 2000, Paranjpe 2001). meric in fractures.
liver and kidneys. Mind Its cooling effect on sadhaka * Gokshura, shilajit for bladder
and kidney stones.
Urine Its pitta-reducing quality pitta has a balancing effect on the
helps to clear pittaja prameha, emotions and is used in epilepsy * Sandalwood, gokshura, corian-
der for urinary discomfort with
particular types of diabetes and agitation with high pitta burning.
involving repeated infections, (Paranjpe 2001).
boils, inflammatory conditions, CONTRAINDICATIONS
COMBINATIONS High vata.
neuropathy, retinopathy and
nephropathy. Also for * Neem, turmeric, gotu kola, aloe
vera in skin conditions with SAFETY
manjishtha prameha where the high pitta. No drug–herb interactions are
excessive urination is also
* Lotus node, amalaki in bleed- known.
coloured red. It is also a specific ing with raktapitta.
for gradually dissolving kidney DOSAGE
* Safflower, shatavari, guggulu
and bladder stones as the anth- in congestion of the uterus 0.5–10g per day dried or 3–12ml
raquinones act as chelating with pain. per day of a 1:3 @ 25% tincture.
NOTES
Q This tall, creeping plant has long thin roots and stimulating property. However, this goes against
grows throughout the subcontinent of India, Nepal, many of its therapeutic activities and my
Iran and Afghanistan. experience and so I have listed it here as cooling.
Q The red root has a specific affinity for the blood and Q Manjishtha has recently been banned in Germany
all imbalances affecting it. due to concerns about its alizarin content acting as a
Q It is one of the primary herbs used to clear potential carcinogenic. This is despite the fact that
excessive pitta. the studies were carried out on Rubia tinctoria not
Q In all the texts that mention manjishtha it is Rubia cordifolia (Blomeke 1992). As noted above
classified as hot (us.n.a) as it has a circulatory- manjishtha is used for removing tumours in
Ayurveda.
225
MINT
Chapter 6 PLANT PROFILES
Common name Mint (E), Peppermint (E), Horsemint (E), Pudı- na (H), Puthia (H) Sanskrit Pudı-na
Latin Mentha piperita or arvensis–Folium (Labiatae)
226
Organization (WHO) stones to move into the bile duct DOSAGE
Part TWO
recommends caution in patients and if they are too large they 1–30g per day or 3–20ml per day
with gallstones as it may cause may become stuck (WHO 1999). of a 1:3 @ 45% tincture.
NOTES
Q There are different classifications of the various mints Q Regarding energetics, the dose and method of
as ‘heating’ or ‘cooling’ (see Aristotle, Galen; Tierra taking the remedy are all important. A low dose is
1992, Bensky & Gamble 1993, Holmes 1989). It is a relaxing, benefiting a va-ta stagnated by
lengthy debate! Mentha piperita appears to have constriction; a medium dose (preferably taken at a
both qualities; its pungency acts as a stimulant cool temperature) benefits the anti-inflammatory
diaphoretic while its sweet and bitter flavour has needs of pitta; and a high dose of a hot drink clears
anti-inflammatory activity. The menthol appears to kapha. This returns us to the human nature of
be both stimulant and anti-inflammatory. herbalism and Ayurveda; it is all about the person,
Q Ayurvedically speaking, peppermint reduces all their individual constitution and condition as well
three dos.as; its warming pungency dries kapha via as the dose of the medicinal herb.
diaphoresis, its sweet cooling effect reduces pitta; Q Mentha arvensis is also commonly used in India and
and its relaxing sweet pungency reduces va-ta. The has a specific antispasmodic and emmenagogue
stimulating effect of high doses may aggravate action.
va-ta. The Nighan.t.u ratna-kara describes Mentha Q Mint is not mentioned in the early ayurvedic
arvensis as pungent in taste, hot in energy and literature.
pungent post-digestively.
227
MUSTAKA
Chapter 6 PLANT PROFILES
Common name Nut grass (E), Motha (H) Sanskrit Mustaka, Musta Latin Cyperus rotundus–Rhizoma
(Cyperaceae)
228
Fever It directly treats all the * Shatavari, ginger, rose in gynae- DOSAGE
Part TWO
causes of fever: low agni, ama cological problems with pain, 0.5–12g per day or 3–15ml of a
and excess pitta in the rasa dhatu. intermittent bleeding and an 1:3 @ 25% tincture.
Its diaphoretic effect can be very irregular cycle.
useful for clearing ama and * Guduchi, neem, daruharidra
excess heat from the plasma and for liver congestion. NOTES
blood while also rectifying the * Tulsi, kalmegh for fevers from Q Mustaka grows all over India as
high pitta. a grassy shrub.
digestive fire (Gogte 2000).
CONTRAINDICATIONS Q Its aromatic nature moves and
COMBINATIONS relaxes va-ta. Its prabha-va is to
Do not use a high dose in exces-
* Sariva, coriander, cardamom in sive vata aggravation as it can be
prevent spasms and muscular
pitta digestive problems. constriction caused by nervous
too drying.
* Bilva, kutaja, pomegranate rind tension.
for diarrhoea. SAFETY
* Hingu, turmeric, cinnamon, No drug–herb interactions are
kutki for yeast and parasite
known.
infections.
229
MUSTARD SEED
Chapter 6 PLANT PROFILES
Common name Mustard seed (E) Sanskrit Siddha-rthaka, Sarsapa, Ra-jika Latin Brassica nigra/juncea–
•
Semen (Brassicaceae)
230
MYRRH
Part TWO
Common name Myrrh (E), Bdellium gum (E), Bol (H) Sanskrit Bola, Daindhava, Rasagandha Latin
Commiphora myrrha/molmol–Resina (Burseraceae)
231
CONTRAINDICATIONS contact dermatitis in sensitive 5–10ml per day of a 1:5 @ 90%
Chapter 6 PLANT PROFILES
Pregnancy, excessive uterine individuals (Bone 2003). tincture. Only use in the short-
bleeding, kidney problems. term (up to 4 weeks continu-
DOSAGE
ously), as it is hard to digest.
SAFETY 3–12g per day dried resin, 250–
No drug–herb interactions are 750mg three times per day of a
known. May cause nausea or 1:4 concentrated powder or
NOTES
Q This desert-loving, thorny shrub is collected as an agent containing saponins such as licorice to
exudate from the branches and then dried for use. prevent this. If using tinctures add 10% licorice first
Q Although similar in use to guggul, myrrh’s primary to prevent precipitation and to reduce its harsh
action is on the female reproductive system flavour.
whereas guggul’s is on arthritic conditions and Q As a resin it can tax the kidneys, so use
cholesterol levels. intermittently: 6 weeks on, 2 weeks off.
Q Myrrh tastes revolting in decoctions; use as a pill or Q It is a very strong herb so use it as less than 10% of
concentrated powder when you can. a formula, as traditionally prescribed.
Q The resin in the alcoholic extract precipitates in
232
NEEM
Part TWO
Common name Neem (E), Margosa (E), Nim (H) Sanskrit Nimba Latin Azadirachta indica–Folium, Semen,
Cortex, Resin (Meliaceae)
233
infusion of the leaves as a reduce any inflammatory disor- CONTRAINDICATIONS
Chapter 6 PLANT PROFILES
mouthwash. The young twigs ders. High vata, wasting and debility.
are used as the Indian tooth- Any condition with cold signs.
COMBINATIONS
brush. Considered to be bad for the
Fevers Useful in high fever from * Turmeric, gotu kola, heart and unpleasant for the
manjishtha, guduchi, rose for
pitta and accumulations of ama; inflammatory skin conditions. mind by the Bhavaprakaśa.
especially in the intermittent
* Kutki, licorice, shatavari, hari- SAFETY
fevers of malaria-like diseases taki, amalaki for intestinal
No drug–herb interactions are
(Paranjpe 2001). inflammation.
known.
Reproduction As with many bit- * Myrrh for mouth ulcers and
ter herbs it reduces śukra dhatu gingivitis. DOSAGE
and lowers sperm count. It has * Black pepper, castor oil in 0.5–5g per day or 3–15ml per
an affinity for the uterus and can intermittent fevers with ama. day of a 1:3 @ 25% tincture.
NOTES
Q Neem thrives as a large tree in well-drained soil all inflammation in the skin, muscles and deeper
over India at altitudes up to 1000m. It is a tender tissues.
tree, not surviving in temperate climates where Q Also a very effective insecticide/fungicide in the
there is excessive rainfall. garden; spray an infusion on the plant for excellent
Q Often confused with Melia azadirachta (this is organic results.
known as maha-nimba in Ayurveda). This is a tree Q It is a very strong herb. As with all very bitter and
with very similar properties that can survive in concentrated flavours it should only be used short-
hardier climates. term at high doses. Use for up to a month
Q Used in the famous pañcatiktaghr . ta, a medicated maximum. However, if used at a low dose then it
ghee incorporating five bitter herbs used for can be used for longer.
234
NUTMEG
Part TWO
Common name Nutmeg (E), Jaiphal (H) Sanksrit Jātı¯-phala, Mada-śaun.d.a Latin Myristica fragrans–
Fructus (Myristicaceae)
235
* Ashwagandha, gokshura, SAFETY
Chapter 6 PLANT PROFILES
236
PEPPER
Part TWO
Common name Black pepper (E), Kalimirch (H) Sanskrit Marı̄ca Latin Piper nigrum–Fructus (Piperaceae)
237
COMBINATIONS irritate the mucous membranes. & Bratman 2003). Other sources
Chapter 6 PLANT PROFILES
* Ginger, long pepper as part of Hyperacidity; dryness as it can report that in its whole form it
the famous trikat.u formula for aggravate vata in excess. is a short-term bioavailability
lung problems with sticky enhancer, increasing nutrient
mucous. SAFETY
absorption, quickening absorp-
* Tulsi, vamsa lochana, haritaki, The piperine content of black
tion and reducing blood levels
bibhitaki for cough from kapha pepper, when used as an iso-
of medication (Williamson
excess. lated ingredient, has been asso-
Tulsi, neem in fevers of the 2002).
* ciated with enhancing blood
kapha and pitta variety. levels of certain medication DOSAGE
* Gotu kola, myrrh, turmeric in such as propranolol, theophyl- 1–5g per day dried or 1–2ml of a
stagnation of the capillary
line and rifampicin, as it may 1:5 @ 70% tincture. Due to its
beds.
inhibit drug metabolism in the intense hot quality as well as
* Aloe vera juice to stimulate ras- liver if used over long periods safety issues, do not use at a
adhatvagni and this can help
treat anorexia, anaemia and of time at high doses. Hence all high dose (>5g per day) for long
amenorrhoea. patients taking drugs that are periods of time. A low dose is
metabolised in the liver must be safe for long-term use.
CONTRAINDICATIONS carefully monitored if black
With an excess of heat and pepper is prescribed (Harkness
inflammation black pepper can
NOTES
Q This parasitical creeper grows up host plants and Q Often combined with honey to dry moisture and
thrives in the humid climates of south-west India excessive secretions.
and Sri Lanka. Q Its stimulating quality is very powerful and its rajasic
Q The fruit is first green, then red, then yellow and quality must be balanced with other sweet herbs.
finally goes black on drying. Q Chavya (Piper cubeba) is used in formulas to clear
Q Green pepper is less heating, does not aggravate kapha. See candraprabha- va-ti in the formula
pitta and is sweet after digestion. section.
Q White pepper comes from soaking the mature fruit
238
PIPPALI
Part TWO
Common name Long pepper (E), Pipal (H), Pimpli (H) Sanskrit Pippalı̄ Latin Piper longum–Fructus (Piperaceae)
239
Nerves Its ability to nourish majja CONTRAINDICATIONS per is prescribed (Harkness &
Chapter 6 PLANT PROFILES
dhatu, due to its sweet vipaka, Excess pitta and inflammations Bratman 2003). Other sources
helps in vata disorders and also of the intestines. report that in its whole form it is
to nourish the brain. a short-term bioavailability
SAFETY
enhancer, increasing nutrient
COMBINATIONS The piperine content of long
absorption, quickening absorp-
* Ginger, black pepper as trikatu pepper, when used as an isolated
tion and reducing blood levels of
for low agni, kapha, ama and ingredient, has been associated
weak lungs. medication (Williamson 2002).
with enhancing blood levels of
* Haritaki, licorice, pushkara- certain medication such as pro- DOSAGE
moola for allergic rhinitis, hay-
pranolol, theophylline and 1–5g per day powder or 5–15ml
fever and atopic asthma.
rifampicin, as it may inhibit drug of a 1:5 @ 60% tincture. Due to
* Gokshura, kappikacchu, ash- metabolism in the liver when it safety issues do not use at a high
wagandha for male reproduc-
tive function. is used over a long period of dose (>5g per day) for long peri-
time at a high dose. Hence all ods of time. Low dose is safe for
* Kutki, neem, bhumiamalaki in
hepatitis. patients taking drugs that are long-term use as attested to by
metabolised in the liver must be the vast amount of ayurvedic
carefully monitored if long pep- formulas containing pippali.
NOTES
Q Pippali thrives in more temperate conditions than (1:1 reduced to 1) and drunk daily. 1 long pepper is
black pepper. added daily for 14 days (up to 14 pippali) and then
Q Its sweetness gives it rejuvenative properties and its reduced by the same ratio for 14 days. Excellent for
oiliness makes it less drying and not as excessively asthma where there is no dairy intolerance.
heating as black pepper. Q Pippali moola, Piper longum–Radix, is also used in
Q The fresh green pippali reduces pitta and increases Ayurveda. It has similar properties as the fruit, but is
kapha. a more ‘condensed’ heat. Combining it with trikat.u
Q Often boiled with milk for deficient lungs. Pippali makes chaturushna, The Four Pungents. It has the
vardhanam is a cumulative treatment where 1 long same properties as trikat.u but is slightly stronger.
pepper is boiled in a glass of milk and water
240
PIT SHIRISHA
Part TWO
Common name Shirish (H), Siris (H) Sanskrit Pitta-Sı-rs. a Latin Albizzia lebbeck–Cortex (Leguminosae/Mimosa)
241
POMEGRANATE
Chapter 6 PLANT PROFILES
Common name Pomegranate (E), Anar (fruit) (H), Anardana (seeds) (H) Sanskrit Da-d• ima Latin Punica
granatum–Fructus, Semen, Pericarpium (Punicaceae)
242
* Rhubarb root following a dose CONTRAINDICATIONS DOSAGE
Part TWO
of the rind to loosen the tape- Constipation. 0.5–5g of the rind in diarrhoea
worm from the gut wall. Avoid the use of the rind in and tapeworms. Drink the juice
* Arjuna, bala, ashwagandha for pregnancy. freely. 1–3g of the roasted seeds
strengthening the heart. as an appetiser.
* Shatavari for the menopause SAFETY
with the fruit and seed. No drug–herb interactions are
known.
NOTES
Q Originally from Persia, this small tree now grows all Q Although most herbs with a sour flavour are
over India. classified as aggravating to pitta, pomegranate is
Q Its traditional ayurvedic classification verifies one of the exceptions (As.t.āngahr.daya).
this fruit as truly beneficial to both men and Q The bark is banned for use in the UK under the
women. 1977 Medicines Order (www.mhra.gov.uk).
243
PSYLLIUM
Chapter 6 PLANT PROFILES
Common name Psyllium husk (E), Isaphgul (H), Isabgol (H), Blond psyllium (E) Sanskrit Aśva-karn• a-bı-ja
Latin Plantago ovata–Semen (Plantaginaceae)
244
Part TWO
NOTES
Q This small annual thrives in dry regions and is to an aggravation of kapha and an accumulation
abundantly cultivated in Gujarat. The husk is of a-ma.
separated from the pink seed. Q Similar usage to Plantago psyllium and P. indica (the
Q As it is very wet and heavy it can dampen the darker brown and black varieties) but P. ovata is
digestive fire when used to excess. This can lead more mucilaginous.
245
PUNARNAVA
Chapter 6 PLANT PROFILES
Common name Indian hogweed (E), Gadhapurana (H) Sanskrit Punarnavā Latin Boerhaavia
diffusa–Radix (Nyctaginaceae)
246
excessive menstrual bleeding. CONTRAINDICATIONS
Part TWO
NOTES
The punarnavoside is considered Diarrhoea.
Q This water-loving, creeping
to be the antifibrinolytic agent
SAFETY perennial flowers during the
(Paranjpe 2001, Williamson
No drug–herb interactions are monsoon and grows all over
2002). India and Sri Lanka.
known but caution with seda-
COMBINATIONS tive, antidepressive and antiepi- Q Three varieties are discussed in
* Coriander, gokshura, kala- 1–10g per day dried or 3–15ml of punarnavadi guggulu, the
megha in urinary tract infec- a 1:3 @ 25% tincture. famous ayurvedic formula for
tions. reducing water retention and
* Guduchi, dry ginger in arthri- congestive heart conditions,
tis, vatarakta and amavata. and treating oedematous
* Guduchi, shilajit in diabetes. inflammatory joint diseases.
* Ashoka, manjishtha in uterine
bleeding.
247
PUSHKARAMOOLA
Chapter 6 PLANT PROFILES
Common name Indian elecampane (E), Poharmool (H) Sanskrit Pus• kara-mu-la, Ka-sa-ri Latin Inula
racemosa–Radix (Asteraceae)
248
SAFETY DOSAGE
Part TWO
No drug–herb interactions are 2–6g per day dried or 3–15ml of NOTES
Q It grows in temperate climates
known. a 1:3 @ 25% tincture.
and thrives at 2500m in the
Himalayas.
-
Q Also known as kasari, an enemy
249
RHUBARB
Chapter 6 PLANT PROFILES
Common name Rhubarb root (E), Revand chini (H) Sanskrit Amla-vetasa, Kan• kus• •t ha Latin Rheum pal-
matum/officinale/australe–Radix (Polygonaceae)
250
* Manjishtha, shatavari, amalaki SAFETY DOSAGE
Part TWO
for high pitta and ulceration in It may reduce the absorption of 0.5g is astringent and constipat-
the GIT. iron (Harkness & Bratman ing, 1g is laxative, 3g+ is purga-
* Turmeric, myrrh, pippali for 2003). It may cause griping and tive and it is also haemostatic
female reproductive stagna- should be used with appropri- when used at up to 9g per day in
tions with ama.
ate antispasmodics. Laxatives a decoction. As a tincture use
CONTRAINDICATIONS containing anthroquinone gly- 1–6ml per day of a 1:3 @ 25%.
Pregnancy and breast-feeding cosides should not be used at a
as emodin is excreted through high dose for more than 2
the breast milk. Vata-type of weeks at a time due to the NOTES
Q It grows at 2500–4000m in the
diarrhoea with weakness. Gout potential risk of causing an elec-
trolyte imbalance if diarrhoea is Himalayas.
due to oxalic acid content. Use
Q The root should be 3 years old
with caution in intestinal caused. Hence caution with car-
prior to harvesting.
inflammation; never use in diac glycoside medication, thi-
Q Originally imported from China
intestinal obstruction with azide diuretics and concurrent
and Tibet as Rheum palmatum
abdominal pain of unknown hyperkalaemia from long-term
and officinale, the Indian
origin. Avoid in physical debil- laxative abuse due to potential species is Rheum australe.
ity as it drains the energy and problems caused by further Q Suitable for short-term use only
prana downwards. electrolyte imbalance (WHO as it can cause habituation of
1999). the bowel.
251
ROSE
Chapter 6 PLANT PROFILES
Common name Rose (E), Gulab (H) Sanskrit Śata-patrı- Latin Rosa centifolia/damascena–Flos (Rosaceae)
252
CONTRAINDICATIONS
Part TWO
NOTES
None known, although caution
Q Roses thrive in acidic soil and grow up to 3m in height.
during pregnancy.
Q Out of the hundreds of varieties any fragrant variety can be used
SAFETY medicinally.
It may reduce the absorption of Q Gulkand – rose petal jam – is highly recommended as a cooling spread
iron (Harkness & Bratman 2003). or drink which also acts as a mild laxative.
Q Traditionally made into an attar which is a divine mixture of
DOSAGE sandalwood oil with rose vapour infused through it – gulab attar.
1–10g per day or 5–15ml of a 1:2
@ 50% fresh tincture. Drink rose-
water freely (5–50ml per day).
253
SAFED MUSALI
Chapter 6 PLANT PROFILES
Common name White musali (E), Musi (H) Sanskrit Musalı- (Safed is Hinate) Latin Asparagus adscendens–Radix
(Liliaceae)
ENERGETICS
Rasa (taste) Sweet, bitter
Vı-rya (energy) Cold
Vipa-ka (post-digestive effect)
Sweet
Gun.a (quality) Moist, unctuous, INDICATIONS and malodorous urination
heavy Reproduction As it directly nour- (Gogte 2000).
Dos.aHIIHFW93ï.LQH[FHVV ishes the śukra dhatu it is used as
Dha-tu (tissue) All tissues, espe- COMBINATIONS
a sweet tonic and rejuvenative
cially plasma, reproductive * Ashwagandha, bala, kapikac-
for the reproductive system. It chu, frankincense, gokshura,
Srotas (channel) Reproductive,
treats infertility, premature ejacu- guduchi for male reproductive
digestive, lactation
lation, impotence and low sperm problems.
CONSTITUENTS count. It also nourishes artavaha- * Shatavari, turmeric, bala, lic-
Glycosides Asparagin srotas and promotes healthy ovu- orice for female gynaecological
Saponins Sarsapogenin, dios- lation in women (Bhavaprakaśa). conditions such as discharge,
genin Gynaecology Useful during preg- dryness and infertility.
(Paranjpe 2001) nancy as a nutritive tonic for * Fennel, ajwain for improving
lactation.
mother and foetus. Post-partum
AYURVEDIC ACTION it replenishes lost fluids, prana, * Amalaki, manjishtha, licorice
Rasa- yana Rejuvenative, espe- for intestinal inflammation.
ojas and improves the quantity
cially to the reproductive system CONTRAINDICATIONS
and flow of breast milk. It is also
Jı-vaniya Prolongs life With excess mucous, congestion,
used in chronic leucorrhoea.
Va- jı-karan.a Aphrodisiac kapha or ama.
Digestion Its sweet and unctuous
Śukrala Increases sperm produc-
properties treat intestinal inflam-
tion SAFETY
mation caused by dysentery and
Ojovardhana Increases ojas No drug–herb interactions are
food intolerances. All cases of
Pittaśamaka Cools and alleviates known.
high pitta benefit. It softens the
pitta
stool and may be helpful in pit- DOSAGE
Stanya Increases breast milk and
taja types of haemorrhoids 3–15g per day dried or 3–15ml of
eases the flow
(Nadkarni 1954). a 1:3 @ 25% tincture.
BIOMEDICAL ACTION Urine Its cooling and soothing
Adaptogen, demulcent, anti- effects are beneficial for mutrava-
inflammatory, aphrodisiac, hasrotas and conditions involving
galactagogue, diuretic aggravated pitta with painful
254
Part TWO
NOTES
Q There is some dispute over the true species of rejuvenative properties that also benefit the female
musali. Asparagus adscendens grows as a climbing reproductive and menstrual cycle. It is also used
shrub with typical asparagus-like striated leaves in for strengthening the lower back, bones and
northern India. Chlorophytum borivillianum, also of kidneys when boiled with milk (cow or almond) and
the Liliaceae family, is also a contender for the safed mixed with digestive spices to enhance nutritive
musali ‘award’ as it has lily-like straight leaves which quality.
various textual references state as necessary. Q Equal parts of kapikacchu, gokshura and safed
Q There is also a black variety, kali musali, that is musali make musalı- cu-rn.a, which is renowned for
considered to be Curculingo orchioides from the its reproductive tonic properties.
Amaryllidaceae family. This has the same virilising
255
SAFFLOWER
Chapter 6 PLANT PROFILES
Common name Safflower (E) Sanskrit Kusumbha Latin Cartharmus tinctorius–Flos (Compositae)
256
DOSAGE
Part TWO
0.5–9g per day dried or 5–20ml NOTES
Q Used as a replacement for the more expensive and clinically stronger
per day of a 1:5 @ 25% tincture.
saffron (Crocus sativus).
At high doses it clears conges-
Q This is a very useful herb for the skin and blood circulation.
tion in the blood tissues and
Q The dried flowers should only be kept for one year.
channels; at low doses it regu-
lates blood flow.
257
SAFFRON
Chapter 6 PLANT PROFILES
Common name Saffron (E), Kesar (H) Sanskrit Kun• kuma, Ghusr• n• a Latin Crocus sativus–Stigmata (Iridaceae)
Part TWO
urination. No drug–herb interactions are NOTES
Q Saffron is also known as
known.
CONTRAINDICATIONS ghusrina as it is sacred to
Pregnancy, as it stimulates the DOSAGE Ghrishneshvara, Lord Shiva.
flow of blood in the uterus. 100–250mg per day (1–5 Q It is a very sattvic herb; its
259
SALT
Chapter 6 PLANT PROFILES
Common name Salt: rock, sea, black, Sambar Sanskrit Lavan. a, Saindhava, Sa-mudra-, Vid• a, Sauvarcala,
Sa-kambharı-ya, Audbhijja Latin Sodii chloridum
260
Part TWO
NOTES
Q Saindhava rock salt comes from open mines inland. Q Sauvarchala salt is made from rock salt with sodium
It is considered the best salt as it is easy to digest chloride, sulphide and carbonate. It has a hot vipa-ka
and does not cause water retention as readily as and stimulates the appetite.
the other types. It is also classified as netrya and is Q Audbhida (Potassium nitre) is also known as fossilised
beneficial to the eyes. salt. It increases kapha.
Q Sea salt (Sodic muras) contains many trace minerals Q In excess, salt causes oedema, hypertension, high
and aggravates kapha. blood pressure, flaccidity of the skin, early greying
Q Sambar salt comes from lake Sambar in Rajasthan. and loss of hair, depletion of śukra, impotence,
It greatly increases pitta. acidity, bleeding, corruption of plasma (rasa) and
Q Bid lavan
-
. a is also known as black salt or kalanamak blood (rakta).
in Indian markets. It is a manufactured product Q When used externally as a ‘salt pack’ it reduces
made from rock salt and sodium carbonate (sarjaks. kapha, clears fluid swellings and acts as a light and
ara) with amalaki and haritaki. It directs va-ta drying substance.
downwards. Q Essential for life in the correct proportions.
261
SANDALWOOD
Chapter 6 PLANT PROFILES
Common name White sandalwood (E) Sanskrit Candana (Śveta), Srı--gandha Latin Santalum album–
Lignum (Santalaceae)
Part TWO
* Arjuna, cardamom, guggul for nava for urinary infection with No drug–herb interactions
chest pain and stagnant prana pitta aggravation. known but as it may interfere
vayu. with the cytochrome P-450
CONTRAINDICATIONS
* Shatavari, amalaki, guduchi, None known, but caution during enzyme caution is advised with
mustaka for intestinal inflam-
pregnancy due to its moving pharmaceutical medications that
mation.
properties. Avoid in kidney dis- are also metabolised through
* Brahmi, gotu kola, this pathway.
shankhapushpi for nervous eases due to its high volatile con-
tension and agitation. tent. Do not use for longer than DOSAGE
* Guduchi, manjishtha, kalmegh 6 weeks due to its dispersing 0.5–5g per day of powdered
for skin inflammations. nature (Tillotson 2001). heartwood or 3–12ml of a 1:3 @
* Vasa, anthrapachaka, pushkar- 50% tincture.
amoola for lung congestion.
NOTES
Q Native to the south-west Indian region of Mysore as Q Quality is an issue with the essential oil. The wood
a medium-sized evergreen tree. It is parasitical and contains 2–6% volatile oils. Good quality oil should
requires a host plant to live on for about the first 15 contain 90% santalols but these are often only in
years of its life. the 60–70% reference range.
Q The historical restriction on cultivation has led to an Q Rakta chandana or red sandalwood (Pterocarpus
illicit trade in this valuable crop and demise in its santalinus) has similar properties that benefit pitta,
population. This limitation has recently been lifted clear heat from the digestive tract and stop
and hopefully we will see the return and bleeding. It is CITES Appendix 2 listed with a special
proliferation of this excellent medicine. proviso on the ban of the trade in logs, wood-chips
Q It must come from a sustainable source where the and unprocessed broken material.
girth of the tree is allowed to reach 60cm and be Q Sandalwood contains the perfect energetic
over 25 years old. Most sandalwood on the market combination of flavours to balance pitta – bitter,
is not from a sustainable source. Be cautious of astringent and sweet.
adulteration with castor oil and cedarwood oil. Q Used in religious ceremonies as a purifying scent.
Q A species from Australia, Santalum spicata, has Q It has a specific effect on a- jña- cakra that is very
recently become available. While there is a useful for pitta/va-ta constitution and enhancing the
replanting programme in place the sustainability of quality of meditation.
this programme is disputed. This species is not as
potent as Santalum album.
263
SARIVA
Chapter 6 PLANT PROFILES
Common name Indian sarsaparilla (E), Sugandhi (H) Sanskrit Sa-riva, Ananta-mu- la Latin Hemidismus
indica–Radix (Asclepiadaceae)
264
Male fertility Classified as * Gotu kola, rose, brahmi for
Part TWO
‘hot’ emotions and disturbed NOTES
śukrala, a sperm-increasing herb,
Q Sariva grows throughout
it is of value in fertility problems pitta.
central and south India and in
and low libido. Its saponin con- * Ashoka, manjishtha, shatavari, Sri Lanka. It is a thin, creeping
tent is considered to have a ste- rose for bleeding.
plant growing up to 3m. It
roidal effect that enhances the * Gokshura, ashwagandha, safed
musali, shatavari in male infer- spreads throughout the
production of testosterone. circulatory system and cools
tility.
any area of excessive heat.
COMBINATIONS CONTRAINDICATIONS Q Another name for it is ananta-
* Neem, manjishtha, guduchi, None known. mu-la, ‘the eternal root’, as its
gotu kola, sandalwood, licorice
for skin inflammation. SAFETY root spreads for a long way
underground and it survives
* Coriander, gokshura, sandal- No drug–herb interactions are
periods of climatic stress (e.g.
wood for urinary infections. known.
droughts).
* Coriander, fennel, cumin for -
Q Śvetasariva, white sariva
pitta digestion. DOSAGE
1–10g per day dried or 3–15ml of (Hemidismus indicus), and
* Haritaki, bilva, kutaja in diar-
rhoea. a 1:3 @ 45% tincture. kr.s.n.asa-riva, black sariva
(Cryptolepis buchanani), are
* Guduchi, daruharidra, turmeric
for inflammatory arthritis. mentioned in the texts.
Q Its use is very similar to
265
SARPAGANDHA
Chapter 6 PLANT PROFILES
Common name Rauwolfia (E), Indian snake root (E) Sanskrit Sarpagandha Latin Rauwolfia serpentina–
Radix (Apocynaceae)
266
Part TWO
NOTES
Q Sarpagandha is a thin shrub growing up to 1m in Q Only use under the guidance of a trained herbalist
height. It grows all over India and Sri Lanka. as misuse can cause severe reactions.
Q It is an exceptionally powerful herb and must be Q It has a controversial reputation due to the isolated
used with caution and only when true high blood alkaloid reserpine causing such strong side-effects.
pressure or tension is diagnosed. The whole root is much safer.
Q Check the legal status of using this herb as it is Q It is CITES Appendix 2 listed and must be sold with
subject to various rulings in different countries. It the appropriate trade documents.
is banned for use in the UK unless prescribed by a
doctor.
267
SENNA
Chapter 6 PLANT PROFILES
Common name Senna (E) Sanskrit Ra-ja-vr• ks• a, Ma-rkan.d. ika Latin Cassia angustifolia–Folium (Leguminosae)
268
SHANKHAPUSHPI
Part TWO
Common name Shankhapushpi (H), Shankhahuli (H) Sanskrit Śan• khapuspı-, Śan• khinı- Latin Evolvulus
alsinoides–Folium (Convolvulaceae)
269
Chapter 6 PLANT PROFILES
NOTES
Q Shankhapushpi is a small creeper growing all over listed in Indian Medicinal Plants as shankhapushpi.
wasteland in India. Clitoria ternata is used in south India for
Q Caraka considered this the best of all the nervine shankhapushpi. Although these different species are
herbs. used interchangeably for their medhya properties they
Q The exact species of shankapushpi is used do not necessarily compare in other actions. My
interchangeably around India. In the translation of experience is with Evolvulus alsinoides.
the Bha-vapraka-śa that I have used shankhapushpi is Q All these species are multi-branched, indicating its
classified as Convolvulus pluricaulis, as it is in the ability to ‘spread’ throughout the nervous system.
Ayurvedic Formulary of India. Evolvulus alsinoides is
270
SHATAVARI
Part TWO
Common name Wild asparagus (E), Shatavar (H) Sanskrit Śata- varı- Latin Asparagus racemosus–Radix
(Liliaceae)
271
Male fertility Whenever there is * Ashwagandha as a uterine CONTRAINDICATIONS
Chapter 6 PLANT PROFILES
low sperm count and irregular- tonic and for infertility (male Acute lung congestion, high
ity consider using shatavari and female). kapha, low digestive fire, high
(Bhavaprakaśa). * Ashwagandha, kapikacchu, ama.
Urine Very useful in dysuria gokshura, amalaki for boosting
sperm quality and quantity. SAFETY
with hot and smelly urine with
haematuria. * Fennel, ajmoda for increased No drug–herb interactions are
breast milk. known.
Anabolic Shatavari’s rasayana
properties increase mamsa dhatu * Amalaki, manjishtha, kutki for DOSAGE
intestinal inflammation.
building body mass, muscle tis- 3–30g per day dried or 3–15ml of
* Licorice, vasa, neem for lung
sue and nourishing the blood. It heat and high pitta problems. a 1:3 @ 25% tincture.
nourishes ojas and can enhance * Coriander, sandalwood, gok-
immunity in the treatment of shura for urinary difficulty,
cancer (Tillotson 2001). pain, bleeding.
Nerves It nourishes majja dhatu
and calms the nerves. It specifi- NOTES
cally nourishes the brain and Q Thriving all over tropical India and Asia, it grows a mass of tuberous and
reduces vata disorders: spasms, juicy roots. It is a thorny perennial with striated leaves.
pain and insomnia. Q Top quality shatavari is peeled to become yellow shatavari.
272
SHILAJIT
Part TWO
Common name Mineral pitch (E), Vegetable asphalt (E), Bitumen (E) Sanskrit Śila--jit Latin Asphaltum
273
SAFETY DOSAGE dose of 12g per day and it needs
Chapter 6 PLANT PROFILES
No drug–herb interactions are 2–3 pills three times per day or to be taken for two months to
known. 500mg–5g per day. The Caraka attain maximum benefit.
Samhita recommends a minimum
NOTES
Q There are four varieties mentioned in the mountains of Asia and in Europe. These variable
Bha-vapraka-śa: red, yellow, blue and black. The black factors account for the different varieties as well as
variety appears to be the best for medicinal for the variable energetics and chemical
purposes. constituents.
Q The origins of shilajit are not absolutely certain but Q Its prabha-va is to be able to cure any disease when
it appears to be the result of a complex of factors used with other appropriate medications.
including the composted residue of certain resin- Q To ‘purify’ it, shilajit is often macerated in a decoction
or latex-containing plants, the local environment of triphala and bhringaraja and left to dry
.
from where it comes, the temperature, the (Sa-rngadhara Sam.hita).
humidity and the geological nature of the rock that Q Good-quality shilajit should not smoke on burning.
it exudes from. It has been found all over the
274
TAGARAH
Part TWO
Common name Indian valerian (E), Tagar (H) Sanskrit Tagara Latin Valeriana wallichi–Radix
(Valerianaceae)
275
oppose the heaviness of taga- CONTRAINDICATIONS cooling herbs. Contraindicated in
Chapter 6 PLANT PROFILES
NOTES
Q Tagarah is a hardy perennial surviving the rigours of Q It balances all the five va-yu as excessive movement is
the Himalayan climate, growing at an altitude of up restrained and insufficient movement stimulated. By
to 4000m. relaxing constriction it opens the channels for va-ta
Q In prolonged usage (>6 weeks) it can increase to flow freely.
tamas and feelings of inertia and stagnation in the Q It is traditionally associated with the cerebrospinal
system. fluid, manova-hasrotas and rasa dha-tu.
Q It can be added to a bath to help induce a deep Q Useful to combine with a light and stimulating herb
sleep. to offset excessive dullness.
276
TILA
Part TWO
Common name Sesame seed (E), Til (H) Sanskrit Tila Latin Sesamum indicum–Semen (Pedaliaceae)
277
SAFETY
Chapter 6 PLANT PROFILES
DOSAGE Q The black variety is considered more nutritious and beneficial to the
278
TRIVRUT
Part TWO
Common name Trivrut (H), Nishoth (H) Sanskrit Tri-vr• ta Latin Operculina turpethum/ipomea–Radix
(Convolvulaceae)
279
TULSI
Chapter 6 PLANT PROFILES
Common name Holy basil (E), Tulsi (H) Sanskrit Tulası-, Vis• n• u-priya- , Divya- Latin Ocimum sanctum–Folium
(Labiatae)
280
CONTRAINDICATIONS
Part TWO
In respiratory infections with NOTES
Q Tulsi is a prolific shrub growing to about 75cm.
high pitta without other cooling --
Q There are different varieties: śrırama tulsi is the green variety, krishna
herbs.
tulsi is the red type and vrina tulsi is the larger variety.
SAFETY Q It is commonly found in Hindu courtyards and is used as part of the
281
TURMERIC
Chapter 6 PLANT PROFILES
Common name Turmeric (E), Haldi (H) Sanskrit Haridra- Latin Curcuma longa–Rhizoma (Zingiberaceae)
282
doses and mixed with other bitter ance with pain, tumours and sitate dosage adjustment (Bone
Part TWO
herbs. It is also a renowned anti- clots. 2003, Treasure 2000).
bacterial (Bone 2003). * Neem, guduchi as anti-inflam- DOSAGE
Joints It treats inflammation of matory treatment with a kapha–
pitta pathology. 1–10g per day dried root or
the joints, alleviates pain and
* Guggulu, arjuna, amalaki for 3–15ml per day of a 1:3 @ 45%
strengthens the joints and ten-
heart conditions such as angina tincture.
dons. Useful for treating gout,
and atherosclerosis.
arthritis, broken bones and
wounds. * Neem, kutki, long pepper for
liver disease. NOTES
Heart Turmeric nourishes the
* Ginger, licorice, cloves in sore Q Although at high doses it can
heart by virtue of its raktavardhaka throats and fevers. aggravate pitta, used judiciously
and blood building quality. By * Neem leaf externally for infec- it is an excellent remedy for all
increasing blood flow and reduc- tions and inflammations. diseases of rasa and rakta. It has
ing total cholesterol turmeric * Myrrh for pain and bruises. a particular affinity for blood-
helps the functions of the heart. * Frankincense, guggulu, black related disorders.
It has an antiplatelet activity and pepper, musta, triphala for Q Traditionally popular with yogis
283
VACHA
Chapter 6 PLANT PROFILES
Common name Calamus root (E), Sweet flag (E), Vach (H) Sanskrit Va- ca- , Ugragandha Latin Acorus
calamus–Rhizoma (Araceae)
284
CONTRAINDICATIONS
Part TWO
Pregnancy or breastfeeding. Use NOTES
Q It is mainly cultivated in north India as an evergreen rhizome.
one month on, one month off.
Q Acorus gramineus also grows in India.
DOSAGE - -
Q Four varieties are mentioned in the Bhavaprakaśa but Acorus calamus is
tincture. Q Always combine it with other aromatic herbs to offset the emetic
285
VAMSA LOCHANA
Chapter 6 PLANT PROFILES
Common name Bamboo manna, the inner pith of bamboo (E), Vam• śa-locana (H) Sanskrit Vamśa-
locana, Tavaks• ı-rı- Latin Bambusa arundinaceae (Graminaceae)
286
VARUNA
Part TWO
Common name Three-leafed caper (E), Varuna (H), Varna (H) Sanskrit Varun.a Latin Crataeva nurvala–
Cortex (Capparidaceae)
287
VASA
Chapter 6 PLANT PROFILES
Common name Malabar nut (E), Vasaka (H), Adusa (H) Sanskrit Va-sa- , Va-saka Latin Adhatoda vasica,
syn. Justicia adhatoda–Folium (Acanthaceae)
288
CONTRAINDICATIONS tussive medication (Braun &
Part TWO
NOTES
Pregnancy (safe post-partum); Cohen 2003, 2004).
Q It is exceptionally powerful and
high vata.
DOSAGE should only be used under the
SAFETY 0.5–1.5g per day powdered leaf guidance of a herbalist.
No negative drug–herb interac- or 2.5–7.5ml per day of a 1:5 @ Q Only use short-term (up to 6
tions are known but it may cause 45% tincture. weeks maximum).
Q Excess use can cause
a positive interaction with anti-
hypotension.
289
VIDANGA
Chapter 6 PLANT PROFILES
Common name Embelia (E), Viranga (H), Vaividanga (H) Sanskrit Vid• an• ga Latin Embelia ribes–Fructus
(Myrsinaceae)
290
DOSAGE
Part TWO
1–15g per day or 3–15ml per day NOTES
Q It grows all over India as a small Q Use a high dose to kill worms
of a 1:3 @ 25% tincture.
shrub. and follow with a purgative.
Q The tincture has proven the Q It is presently banned for use in
most effective way to clear the UK under the 1977
worms. Medicines Order.
291
VIDARI
Chapter 6 PLANT PROFILES
Common name Vidarikand (H) Sanskrit Vida- rı- Latin Pueraria tuberosa–Radix (Fabaceae)
292
References British Herbal Medicine Association 1983 British
Part TWO
herbal pharmacopoeia. BHMA
Atreya 1998 Practical Āyurveda. Samuel Weiser
British Herbal Medicine Association 1992 British
Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India 2001
herbal compendium. BHMA
Government of India
Burstein NL et al 1984 Aqueous flow in human
Bagchi GD et al 1992 Distinguishing features of
eyes is reduced by forskolin, a potent adenylate
medicinal herbaceous species of Phyllanthus occur-
cyclase activator, Experimental Eye Research
ring in Lucknow District. International Journal of
39:745
Pharmacology 30:161–168
Chen J, Chen T 2004 Chinese medical herbology
Bartram T 1995 Encyclopedia of herbal medicine.
and pharmacology. Art of Medicine Press
Grace Publishers
Duke J 2004 Phytochemical database. Online.
Bensky D, Gamble A 1993 Chinese herbal medi-
Available: www.ars-grin.gov/duke
cine: materia medica. Eastland Press
Dwivedi S, Gupta D 2002 Efficacy of Terminalia
Bhattacharya A et al 1999 Antioxidant activity of
arjuna in chronic stable angina. Indian Heart
active tannoid principles of P. emblica (amla).
Journal 54:441
Indian Journal of Experimental Biology 37:676–
680 Dwivedi S, Jauhari R 1997 Beneficial effects of
Terminalia arjuna in coronary artery disease. Indian
Bland J 1985 The effect of orally consumed aloe
Heart Journal 49:507–510
vera juice on gastrointestinal function in normal
human beings. Preventative Medicine March/ Dwivedi S, Udupa N 1989 Terminalia arjuna: phar-
April:1 macognosy, phytochemistry, pharmacology and
clinical use. A review. Fitoterpia 60:413–420
Blomeke B 1992 Formation of genotoxic metabo-
lites from anthraquinone glycosides present in Frawley D, Lad V 1994 The Yoga of herbs: an
Rubia tinctorium. Mutation Research 265:125–127 Ayurvedic guide to herbal medicine. Lotus Press
Blumenthal M 1998 The complete German Gogte V 2000 Ayurvedic pharmacology and
Commission E monographs: therapeutic guide to therapeutic uses of medicinal plants. Bhavan’s
herbal medicines. American Botanical Council Book University
Bone K 1996 Clinical applications of Ayurvedic Harkness R, Bratman S 2003 Handbook of drug–
and Chinese herbs. Phytotherapy Press herb and drug supplement interactions. Mosby
Bone K 2003 A clinical guide to blending liquid Holmes P 1989 The energetics of Western herbs.
herbs. Churchill Livingstone Snow Lotus
Bown D 1995 The encyclopedia of herbs and their Khopde SM et al 2001 Characterizing the antioxi-
uses. Dorling Kindersley dant activity of amla (P. emblica) extract. Current
Science 81:185–190
Brala PM, Hagen RL 1983 Effects of sweetness per-
ception and caloric value of a preload on short Koul IB, Kapil A 1993 Evaluation of the liver pro-
term intake. Physiology and Behavior 30:1–9 tective potential of piperine, an active principle
of black and long peppers. Planta Medica 59:413–
Braun L, Cohen M 2003 Drug–herb interaction
417
guide. Journal of Complementary Medicine Nov–
Dec:78–86 Lad V 1998 The complete book of Ayurvedic home
remedies. Piatkus
Braun L, Cohen M 2004 Complementary medicine
interactions. Part 1. Journal of Complementary Low Dog T 2002 Safety, toxicity, drug interactions
Medicine May–June:78–85 and contraindications of botanicals. Proline
Botanicals
Brinker F 1998 Herbal contraindications and drug
interactions. Eclectic Medical Publishers
293
Maclean W, Lyttleton J 2002 Clinical handbook of Thyagarajan SP, Thiruneelakantan K, Subramanian
Chapter 6 PLANT PROFILES
294
Chapter 7
-
Asava, aris.t.a: medicated Kva-tha: decoctions 311
wines 295 Siddha ghr. ta: medicated
Avaleha: medicinal jams 296 ghees 313
Cu-rn.a: powder Siddha taila: medicated
preparations 297 oils 314
Guggulu: pills made Vat.ı-: tablets 315
with Commiphora mukul 304 References 316
This section examines some of the most popular They enter the blood quickly, are tonifying and
ayurvedic formulas, listing their ingredients, dos- build strength in each particular organ or tissue
age and therapeutic uses. They are grouped accord- system. The normal dose range is 12–24ml twice
ing to formula category in alphabetical order. The per day. See Chapter 3 to read more about asavas
creation of specific formulas is at the heart of the and aristas.
ayurvedic tradition and practice. These traditional
formulas are the repository of knowledge passed Some common formulas and their indications are
down by generations of ayurvedic doctors. They listed in Boxes 7.1 and 7.2:
are formulated to have multiple and synchronous
actions on the dosa, dhatu, agni and ama as per the -
required treatment strategy. Their precise Box 7.1 A savas
formulation has left herbal creations that are Candanaa-sava: Urinary and reproductive problems,
ayurvedic works of art. urinary tract infections, burning sensations, bleeding
disorders, reproductive problems, reproductive tonic.
Diseases, be they inherent, invasive, or internal
Dra- ks. a-sava: Digestive disturbances, indigestion,
to the body, are said to originate from karma,
sluggish digestion, lack of appetite, bloating,
the dos.a, or from both. To cut through them,
constipation.
one should use the best compounds, made of
Hi ñgva-sava: Digestive disorders, bloating, flatulence,
the finest ingredients, which take away suffering.
colic, appetite-stimulant.
The method of preparation enhances the Kanaka-sava: Respiratory disorders, asthma,
potency of the formula. bronchitis, cough, wheezing.
. Kuma-rı-a-sava: Liver disorders, jaundice, ascites,
Śa-rngadhara Sam.hita- hepatitis, cirrhosis.
Pippalı-ya-sava: Lung disorders, coughs,
See Chapter 3 for a description of how these for-
malabsorption, fevers.
mulas are made.
Punarnavaa-sava: Urinary disorders, water balance
295
Chapter 7 52 COMMON AYURVEDIC FORMULAS
296
-
used as a prophylactic in times of excessive sexual CURN.A: POWDER PREPARATIONS
Part TWO
activity as well as a tonic in cases of debility. Use - -
AVIPATTIKARA CURN.A
when there is infertility, low libido and sexual
weakness. Box 7.4
COMBINATIONS Ingredients
Q Usually combined with a personalised treat- Each 1g contains:
ment regime. Shunthi Zingiber officinale 12.9mg
Maricha Piper nigrum 12.9mg
CONTRAINDICATIONS Pippalı- Piper longum 12.9mg
Avoid in hot weather for pitta types or with indi- Haritakı- Terminalia chebula 12.9mg
gestion. Bibhitakı- Terminalia belerica 12.9mg
DOSAGE Amalakı- Emblica officinalis 12.9mg
1–3tsp (5–20g) morning and evening. Musta Cyperus rotundus 12.9mg
Bida Sodii chloridum 12.9mg
NOTES Vidanga Embelia ribes 12.9mg
Q The herbs are a mixture of phlegm-clearing,
Ela Elettaria cardamomum 12.9mg
ama-reducing, digestive-fire-increasing and Tamalpatra Cinnamomum tamala 12.9mg
reproductive tonics. Lavanga Syzygium aromaticum 143mg
Q It is taken with milk as a vehicle to help carry it Trivrut Operculina turpethum 286mg
deep into the tissues. Try with almond milk if Sharkara Saccharum officinalis 429mg
dairy is unsuitable.
Q Often used in winter as a tonic. Method of preparation
Q There are numerous formulas for cyava- All the herbs are made into fine powder and mixed
napraśa. Caraka Samhita is the first source of this together to make a homogeneous mixture
legendary formula, and it is also (Bhaisajya Ratna-valı-: amlapitta-dhika-ra).
•
ENERGETICS
some minor changes. It is not mentioned Rasa (taste): Bitter, pungent, astringent
in Suśruta Samhita. V×-rya (energy): Cooling
Q Certain plants mentioned in Caraka have Vipa-ka (post-digestive effect): Sweet
a doubtful identity, such as jeevanti. Other Gun.a (quality): Light, dry
herbs including agaru (Aquilaria agallocha), gam- Dos.a effect: PV<
bhari (Gmelina arborea), kakanasa (Martynia dian- Dha-tu (tissue): Plasma, blood, muscle
dra), karkatashringi (Pistacia interrima), Srotas (channel): Digestive, excretory
kushta (Saussurea lappa), kaghu kantakari
(Solanum xanthocarpum), mashaparni (Teramnus AYURVEDIC ACTION
labialis), mudgaparni (Phaseolus trilobus), naga D×-pana Enkindles the digestive fire
keshara (Mesua ferrea), nilotpala (Nymphoea Pa- cana Digestive
stellata), patala (Stereospermum suaveolens), Pittaśamana Pacifies pitta
prishniparni (Uraria picta), shalparni Pittaśodhana Clears pitta from the body
(Desmodium gangeticum), shyonaka (Oroxylum Amlapittana-śaka Clears acidity
indicum), varahikand (Dioscorea bulbifera) and Virecana Laxative for pitta
yashthimadhu (Glycyrrhiza glabra) are also Anulomana Redirects rebellious vata downwards
mentioned in Caraka Samhita but, for reasons
BIOMEDICAL ACTION
of sustainability, availability and manufacturer
Carminative, antacid, laxative, cholagogue, anti-
choice, are not always included. There is a
emetic, neuralgic
solid history of variation within the
cyavanapraśa formula and so appropriate INDICATIONS
amendments appear acceptable. Gastrointestinal tract Avipattikara curna is a use-
ful laxative for pitta aggravation with heat, thirst and
constipation. It mildly purges the bowel carrying
inflammatory acid toxins out of the intestines.
297
. -
In signs of nausea, hiccups, belching and vomiting, HINGVAS.T.AKA CURN.A: The Asafoetida
Chapter 7 52 COMMON AYURVEDIC FORMULAS
agnima-ndyaroga-dhika-ra).
Q Licorice and shatavari for ulcers.
Q Kaiśor guggulu for inflammation caused by pitta
leaving its site in the small intestine and causing ENERGETICS
hot swellings. Rasa (taste): Pungent, salty
CONTRAINDICATIONS V×-rya (energy): Hot
Pregnancy. Vipa-ka (post-digestive effect): Pungent
Gun.a (quality): Light, dry, penetrating
DOSAGE Dos.a effect: VK<, P
2–5g three times per day. Dha-tu (tissue): Plasma, blood
NOTES Srotas (channel): Digestive, excretory, respiratory
Q Trikat.u enkindles agni. AYURVEDIC ACTION
Q Triphala cleans the intestines and clears acids. D×-pan×-ya Enkindles the digestive fire
Q Musta reduces pitta. -
Amapacana Digests intestinal toxins
Q Vidanga clears pitta and is a mild laxative. Va-ta-nulomana Redirects vata downwards
Use rhubarb root instead if vidanga cannot Śu-lahara Alleviates pain
be used.
Q Ela and tamalapatra reduce acidity. Use fennel BIOMEDICAL ACTION
instead of tamalapatra if it is unavailable. Carminative, digestive, laxative, anthelmintic, anti-
Q Lavanga increases the digestive fire without spasmodic, expectorant
aggravating pitta. INDICATIONS
Q Trivrut is the main herb in the formula .
Gastrointestinal tract Hingvastaka is a superb rem-
and purges the bowel. Sugar is cooling and edy for digestive disturbances that have a nervous
clears acid. Take with warm water to prevent component. Symptoms such as bloating, flatulence,
griping from aggravated vata. borborygmus, lower intestinal pain and constipa-
tion are all signs of apana vayu not regulating the
descent of the digestive energy. Other signs might
be frequent belching, hiccups and indigestion. It
can help people who are prone to a ‘nervous stom-
ach’, who eat on the move, and who have erratic
.
digestion. Hingvastaka helps to regulate samana vayu
operating in the middle of the abdomen and this
298
allows apana vayu to descend easily. It can also help
Part TWO
Guduchi Tinospora cordifolia
floral imbalances by eradicating pathogenic bacte-
Dhanvyas Fagonia cretica
ria such as Candida albicans, Entamoeba histolytica
Katuka Picrorrhiza kurroa
and Shigella spp. This helps to clear ama, a dirty
Parpat Fumaria indica
coating on the back of the tongue and bad breath.
Neem Azadiracta indica
Lungs Its positive effects on correcting the flow of
Yastimadhu Glycyrrhiza glabra
vata can help with various respiratory disorders.
Kutaja Holarrhena
By reducing mucous in the lungs it clears the way
antidysenterica
for prana to flow freely. It can be included in for-
Chitraka Plumbago zeylanica
mulas to treat asthma, bronchitis and shortness of
Usheer Vetivera zizanoides
breath.
Vacha Acorus calamus
COMBINATIONS Devadaru Cedrus deodara
Q Extra trikat.u for more kapha-related mucous dis- Kantakari Solanum xanthocarpum
orders in the lungs and digestive system.
Method of preparation
Q Avipattikara curna when there are heat, acidity
All the herbs are made into fine powder and mixed
and pitta problems.
together to make a homogeneous mixture
Q Triphala when there are more systemic signs of
(Bhaisajya Ratna-valı-: Jvara-dhika-ra).
ama. •
CONTRAINDICATIONS
Pregnancy, due to its descending action and hing ENERGETICS
content; aggravated pitta. Rasa (taste): Bitter, pungent, astringent
V×-rya (energy): Cooling
DOSAGE Vipa-ka (post-digestive effect): Pungent
1–2g three times per day. Gun.a (quality): Light, dry
Dos.a effect: PK<, V
NOTES
Dha-tu (tissue): Plasma, blood
Q All the herbs stimulate agni, direct vata down-
Srotas (channel): Respiratory, water
wards and clear ama.
Q It is the ayurvedic digestive enzyme. AYURVEDIC ACTION
Q Used before a meal it helps to stimulate the Jvarahara Alleviates fevers
appetite and descend apana vayu, helping to Yakr.duttejaka Tonifies the liver
-
reduce anorexia and lack of appetite. Amapacana Removes ama; especially pitta-
Q Used in the middle of a meal it helps regulate inflammatory toxins
samana vayu. Pittaśodhana Clears pitta from the system
Q Used at the end of the meal it helps to remove Raktaśodhana Cleans the blood
ama and undigested food. Caks.us.ya Benefits the eyes
- - BIOMEDICAL ACTION
MAHA SUDARŚANA CURN.A: The Formula for Alterative, febrifuge, antipyretic, cholagogue, anti-
Creating Lustre viral, diaphoretic, diuretic, decongestant
299
- -
influenza, acute phases of myalgic encephalo- PUS.YANUGA CURN. A
Chapter 7 52 COMMON AYURVEDIC FORMULAS
300
Śvetapradara Gynaecological pacifier CONTRAINDICATIONS
Part TWO
-
Artava śamana Treats leucorrhoea Constipation; very high vata.
Stambhana Prevents leakage of fluids
DOSAGE
Kas.a-ya Astringent
1–5g three times per day with rice water.
BIOMEDICAL ACTION
NOTES
Haemostatic, vulnerary, uterine tonic, circulatory
Q This is a complex formula involving multiple
regulator, menstrual regulator, vasoconstrictor,
actions. Astringents such as amrabija, arjuna,
alterative, anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic
lodhra, bilvamool, kutaja, nilotpal and patha all
INDICATIONS hold blood in its proper channels and clear
Gynaecology Pusyanuga is indicated for all female kapha congestion.
menstrual disorders involving congestion in the Q Cooling herbs such as sariva, chandan, daruha-
artava srotas (female reproductive channel). ridra and yastimadhu help to clear pitta.
Conditions involving excessive bleeding such as Q Menstrual regulators such as mustaka, lodhra
metrorrhagia, fibroids and endometriosis are and patha help to normalise the cycle.
treated with this formula. Excess water stagnation Q Antispasmodic vata-reducing herbs such as
with uterine tumours, ovarian cysts and leucor- katphala, mustaka, yasthimadhu and sunthi
rhoea are dried up and reduced. Dysmenorrhoea help with pain and uterine tension.
due to high pitta and kapha is regulated as the Q Tonics such as sariva, draksa, yasthimadhu,
obstruction causing the pain is removed. arjuna and mustaka all help to nourish rasa and
Menstrual irregularities such as mid-cycle bleeding rakta, hence building the blood count.
and perimenopausal flooding are normalised. All Q It is known as pusyanuga as the plants in this for-
inflammations and irritations, such as in thrush mula should be collected when the moon is in the
and vulvodynia, are treated. pus.ya constellation in December and January.
Pregnancy With a restless foetus and mid-term
- -
bleeding pusyanuga is indicated. It is also of great SITOPALA DI CU RN.A: The Sweet Cough
benefit post-partum to astringe the uterus muscles Powder
and purify the stanya srotas (lactation channel).
Blood Conditions involving excess bleeding, Box 7.8
especially from the bowel and urinary system, are Ingredients
astringed and rectified. It specifically focuses on Each 100g contains:
rakta dhatu, and the reckless movement of blood Pippali Piper longum 13g
flooding out of its channel is addressed by Twak Cinnamomum zeylanicum 5g
reducing the stagnation that is causing the over- Vamsa lochana Bambusa arundinacea 25g
flow. The blood nourishing action of the herbs help Elae Elettaria cardamomum 7g
to treat anaemia. As a vasoconstrictor it tonifies the Sitopala, Rock candy Saccharum officinalis 50g
capillaries and assists the relaxation–contraction Method of preparation
cycle in the capillary beds. All the herbs are made into fine powder and mixed
Nerves Irritations of the nervous system causing together to make a homogeneous mixture
pain and uterine spasms are soothed. .
(Śa-rngadhara Sam -
. hita).
COMBINATIONS
Q Kañcanara guggulu with fibroids, endometriosis
ENERGETICS
and fibroids.
Rasa (taste): Sweet, pungent
Q Kaiśor guggulu with breast cysts and uterine
V×-rya (energy): Heating
tumours with heat signs.
Vipa-ka (post-digestive effect): Sweet
Q Punarnavadi guggulu in leucorrhoea, water reten-
Gun.a (quality): Light, unctuous
tion and swollen breasts.
Dos.a effect: VPK=, P in excess
Q Shatavari and ashwagandha for infertility and
Dha-tu (tissue): Plasma, rakta
menstrual irregularity.
Srotas (channel): Respiratory, digestive
301
AYURVEDIC ACTION Q Sitopala literally means ‘rock candy’ and refers
Chapter 7 52 COMMON AYURVEDIC FORMULAS
Ka-saśva-sahara Alleviates cough and asthma to the cooling, demulcent pitta- and vata-reliev-
(pitta-type) ing properties of the preparation.
Pratisa-rahara Clears colds and allergies Q With high pitta signs include more pitta-
D×-pana Enkindles the digestive fire reducing herbs.
Jvaraghna Alleviates fevers
CONTRAINDICATIONS
Da-haghna Reduces burning sensations
None known.
BIOMEDICAL ACTION
DOSAGE
Expectorant, antiasthmatic, antiallergenic, febri-
1–5g three times per day.
fuge, diaphoretic, bronchodilator
INDICATIONS -
TRIKAT.U CURN.A: The Three Spices Formula
Lungs Sitopaladi is the classic formula for coughs
and colds arising from an excess of vata, pitta and
kapha. It is useful when there is shortness of breath, Box 7.9
asthma with wheezing from contact with cold Ingredients
weather, bronchitis and chest congestion due to 100g contains:
high kapha. When prana vayu is obstructed due to Shunthi Zingiber officinale 33.3g
aggravated ślesaka and avalambaka kapha then this Maricha Piper nigrum 33.3g
formula clears the congestion and frees the flow of Pippali Piper longum 33.3g
air. It is a specific for coughs with copious white or
Method of preparation
yellow-tinged sputum, sore throat, high fever and
All the herbs are made into fine powder and mixed
a muzzy head.
together to make a homogeneous mixture
Nose Use sitopaladi curna for sinus congestion,
(Bha-vapraka-śı-a, Bhaisajya Ratnavalı-:
a dull headache that feels as though there is a •
paribha-s.a-prakaran.a).
tight band around the head, and a runny
nose.
Allergies For seasonal and allergic rhinitis from ENERGETICS
allergies to dust, mould and airborne pathogens, Rasa (taste): Pungent
combine with other herbs to reduce mast cell V×-rya (energy): Heating
proliferation. Vipa-ka (post-digestive effect): Pungent
Gun.a (quality): Light, dry
COMBINATIONS
Dos.a effect: VK<, P , can aggravate V in excess
Q Trikat.u for severe mucous.
Dha-tu (tissue): Plasma, blood, muscle, fat
Q Mahasudaśana when there is fever and inflam-
Srotas (channel): Digestive, respiratory, fat,
mation from high pitta.
eliminatory
Q Pitshirisha, anthrapachaka and haritaki for
allergic reactions that affect the respiratory AYURVEDIC ACTION
system. D×-pana Awakens digestion
Pa-cana Digests toxins
NOTES -
Amana-śaka Destroys toxins
Q Use with 1¼4 teaspoon of honey to enhance its
Ka-saśva-sahara Alleviates coughs and asthma and
transport to the lungs.
benefits breathing
Q The vamsa lochana helps to alleviate pitta
Sthaulyamedoghna Removes fat and obesity
fevers, infected phlegm and haemoptysis. It is a
Rasa-yana Rejuvenative, especially to kapha and the
very effective expectorant.
lungs
Q Cardamom, long pepper and cinnamon help to
Pinasaghna Alleviates nasal congestion
reduce kapha and vata.
Q Long pepper helps to rejuvenate the under- BIOMEDICAL ACTION
lying weakness in the respiratory system Carminative, appetiser, digestive, expectorant,
( pranavahasrotas). bronchodilator, diaphoretic
302
INDICATIONS Q Use before meals as a dipaniya, a digestive
Part TWO
Gastrointestinal tract Trikatu is the remedy for stimulant, and after meals as a pacaniya, an aid
stimulating a sluggish agni. It is indicated when- to digestion.
ever there is low digestive activity with sluggish-
ness, bloating, abdominal pain and flatulence due
- -
to high kapha or vata. It also helps in conditions of TRIPHALA CURN.A: The Three Fruits Powder
poor nutritional assimilation due to parasites, a
leaky gut or low enzyme secretions. May help in Box 7.10
IBS, Candida albicans, diarrhoea from cold or food Ingredients
intolerances to damp, wet and heavy foods. It is a Each 100g contains:
specific remedy to help burn ama and undigested Haritaki Terminalia chebula 33.3mg
toxins in the digestive tract and bloodstream. Bibhitaki Terminalia belerica 33.3mg
When there is nausea due to excess phlegm this Amalaki Emblica officinalis 33.3mg
can help.
Lungs As trikat.u rejuvenates the lungs it is used Method of preparation
whenever there is a cough, wheezing or breathing All the herbs are made into fine powder and mixed
difficulties with clear, sticky and white phlegm. together to make a homogeneous mixture
Used in asthma, bronchitis, pneumonia, cough and (Bha-vapraka-śa).
colds. A superb remedy for hayfever and acute
allergic rhinitis as an immediate way of drying up
ENERGETICS
the copious nasal secretions; it has antiallergenic
Rasa (taste): Sweet, sour, pungent, bitter, astringent
effects. Also used in sinus congestion and chronic
V×-rya (energy): Cooling
nasal blockage. It has an affinity for all the orifices
Vipa-ka (post-digestive effect): Sweet
of the head and clears a muzzy head, clears
Gun.a (quality): Light, dry
blocked ears and treats sore throats.
Dos.a effect: VPK=
Metabolic With low metabolism, hypothyroid and
Dha-tu (tissue): All tissues rejuvenated
the concurrent increase in weight, low energy and
Srotas (channel): All channels cleansed, especially
lowered immunity, trikat.u can be part of a treat-
channels of elimination
ment strategy. Where there is high cholesterol it
may be indicated to encourage digestion of the CONSTITUENTS
excess lipids via enkindling medas-dhatu agni. With Tannins, alkaloids, sennoside, ascorbic acid
any feeling of coldness trikat.u can help to warm (Vitamin C), bioflavonoids, mucilage
the body.
AYURVEDIC ACTION
COMBINATIONS Pa-cana Toxin digester
Q Triphala in congestion, constipation, excess D×-pana Appetiser
mucous. Rasa-yana Rejuvenative
Q Used in numerous formulas as a digestive tonic Anulomana Mild laxative, redirects the flow
to assist the digestion of the formula and to downwards
correct vata and kapha. Netrarogaghna Treats eye disorders
Pramehaghna Alleviates diabetes
CONTRAINDICATIONS
Caution in pregnancy; high pitta; hyperacidity in BIOMEDICAL ACTION
the stomach. Laxative, colon tonic, aperient, alterative, anti-
inflammatory, carminative, expectorant,
DOSAGE
antioxidant, antimicrobial
2–3 capsules or 1–2g two to three times per day.
INDICATIONS
NOTES
Digestion Traditionally used for maintaining a
Q Traditionally combined with honey to make a
healthy digestive tract. Use when there are signs of
paste. Honey is said to clear mucous and help
sluggishness, constipation, bloating, flatulence,
with cleansing.
abdominal pain and indigestion. It can help to heal
303
ulcers, inflammations, haemorrhoids and general Q As a powder, tablet or capsule it has a stronger
Chapter 7 52 COMMON AYURVEDIC FORMULAS
from the ayurvedic formulary. Dha-tu (tissue): Plasma, blood, muscle, fat, bone,
Q Triphala means ‘three fruits’. nerve, reproductive
Q Some of its therapeutic action is believed to Srotas (channel): Urinary, water
come from its possessing five of the six tastes
AYURVEDIC ACTION
(all but salty). It causes an enduring and deep
Lekhana Scrapes toxins
cleansing of the tissues.
Śodhana Purifies the blood
Q Although sometimes classified as a laxative it is
Mu-trala Diuretic
very mild, does not cause dependency and thor-
Vrkka aśmar×-hara Treats renal calculi
oughly detoxifies the digestive tract.
Va-tarakta Antigout
304
BIOMEDICAL ACTION Q It soothes an inflamed pitta and heals the
Part TWO
Diuretic, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, lith- membranes that this damages.
agogue, aphrodisiac Q It reduces the adhesions and accumulations of
kapha by scraping them away and clearing
INDICATIONS
downwards.
Urine A traditional tonic for the genitourinary
Q Drink with musta decoction or coriander seed
tract. Indicated in infections: cystitis, nephritis,
cold water infusion.
incontinence with burning, frequency, cloudy
urine, albuminaria, bleeding, excessive or
KAIŚOR GUGGULU
obstructed urination with high vata–pitta. Used to
prevent and reduce stones caused by kapha.
Box 7.12
Reproductive Specific application in male sexual
dysfunction: premature ejaculation, nocturnal Ingredients
emissions, spermatorrhoea. Used for prostatitis Each 250mg pill contains:
and benign prostatic hypertrophy. Also used in Haritaki Terminalia chebula 7.75mg
female disorders such as leucorrhoea, endometrio- Bibhitaki Terminalia belerica 23.26mg
sis and infertility. It is a superb rejuvenative for the Amalaki Emblica officinale 7.75mg
reproductive system when there is any weakness Guduchi Tinospora cordifolia 11.63mg
due to obstruction in the reproductive (śukravaha- Shunthi Zingiber officinale 5.81mg
srotas) or urinary (mutravahasrotas) channels. Marich Piper nigrum 5.81mg
Back Lower back problems, lumbago and kidney Pippali Piper longum 5.81mg
infections with high vata. Vidanga Embelia ribes 5.81mg
Jaypala Croton tiglium 0.73mg
COMBINATIONS Trivrut Operculina turpenthum 0.73mg
Q Shilajit in sexual dysfunction. Suddha guggulu Commiphora mukul 186.05mg
Q Punarnavadi guggulu in bladder and kidney
Triturated with the decoction of:
stones. Haritaki (Terminalia chebula)
Q Sandalwood and coriander in enlarged prostate.
Bibhitaki (Terminalia belerica)
CONTRAINDICATIONS Amalaki (Emblica officinalis)
Pregnancy. Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia)
305
Kustaghna Benefits skin conditions Q Trikat.u digests the toxins in the tissues and
Chapter 7 52 COMMON AYURVEDIC FORMULAS
-
306
BIOMEDICAL ACTION DOSAGE
Part TWO
Anti-inflammatory, lymphatic, antitumour, 500mg–1g three times per day.
antiplatelet, diuretic, reduces cholesterol, alter-
NOTES
ative, decongestant
Q This is the anti-kapha formula when there is such
INDICATIONS a degree of stagnation that the ama has con-
Growths Kañcana-ra guggulu is a specific for clear- gealed to form a palpable mass.
ing all growths and fluid-based accumulations in Q Kanchanara is very astringent and dries excess
the body. It specifically reduces swellings and kapha and reduces the lipid tissue.
lumps (soft/hard/palpable/fixed/moveable) by Q Guggulu scrapes the adhesive tissue away from
drying the excess kapha. It is a favoured formula the channels and works especially on mamsa
used in cancer caused by excess kapha. Also and medas-dhatus.
consider it in anal fistulas, abscesses and chronic Q Triphala, trikat.u, varuna, ela and twak all aid the
skin lesions. digestion and elimination of the excess kapha by
Thyroid It is also a specific herb for hypo- and enkindling the digestive fire as well as clearing
hyperthyroid. It has a balancing activity on thyrox- the toxins out through the urinary channel and
ine production; increasing any deficient produc- the bowel.
tion and decreasing any excess. It also clears
swellings in the neck and goitre. PUNARNAVADI GUGGULU
Lymph It is a specific herb for swollen lymph
Box 7.14
nodes, cervical adenitis, scrofula, Hodgkin’s dis-
ease and swollen glands in general. When medas- Ingredients
dhatu-agni becomes deficient and kapha becomes Each 250g pill contains:
aggravated then lymphatic accumulations and Triphala Three Fruits 16.86mg
growths can occur. It effectively flushes the lym- Guduchi Tinospora cordifolia 22.47mg
phatic system of toxins, sluggishness and accu- Trikatu Three Spices 16.86mg
mulated wastes. It may also be beneficial as a Vidanga Embelia ribes 5.62mg
decongestant where the sinuses are blocked Dantimool Croton tiglium 11.24mg
because of a sluggish lymphatic system. Trivrut Operculina tarpenthum 56.78mg
Gynaecology Used for polycystic ovary syndrome Shuddha guggulu Commiphora mukul 89.89mg
(PCOS), fibroids and vaginal discharge. It is a fan- Chitrakmool Plumbago zeylanicum 5.62mg
tastic remedy for treating endometriosis as the Saindhav Sodium chloride impure 5.62mg
kanchanar astringes the bleeding while the other Suddha bhallatak Semicarpus anacardium 5.62mg
ingredients scrape and eliminate the adhesions. Punarnava Boerhaavia diffusa 11.24mg
Skin In inflammatory skin disorders with oozing Triturated with the decoction of:
this is a very effective formula. When toxins are Punarnava Boerhaavia diffusa
obstructing the deeper tissues of medas-dhatu and Shunthi Zingiber officinale
the fat tissue then kañcana-ra guggulu is the Eranda mool Ricinis communis radix
appropriate formula.
Method of preparation
Obesity When there are signs of excess weight
All the cu-rn.as are made into fine powder and mixed
with a sluggish lymphatic system and high choles-
terol, kañcana-ra guggulu is indicated.
with suddha guggulu to make a homogeneous mixture
that is then triturated with punarnava, shunthi and
COMBINATIONS eran.d.a mula. The mixture is then dried, powdered and
Q Turmeric, myrrh and frankincense for growths made into tablet form (Bhaisajya Ratnavalı-, Śodhana ref-
•
307
Gun.a (quality): Dry, light COMBINATIONS
Chapter 7 52 COMMON AYURVEDIC FORMULAS
308
ENERGETICS Arthritis Triphala guggulu treats rheumatoid and
Part TWO
Rasa (taste): Bitter, pungent, astringent, sweet osteoarthritis that have symptoms that are aggra-
V×-rya (energy): Heating vated by cold, wet, damp conditions when vata
Vip×-ka (post-digestive effect): Pungent and ama have accumulated. It has a specific action
Gun.a (quality): Light, dry on ślesaka kapha and the synovial fluid in the
Dos.a effect: VPK=, P in excess joints.
Dha-tu (tissue): Plasma, blood, muscle, fat
COMBINATIONS
Srotas (channel): Circulatory, digestive, respiratory,
Q Bitters in pitta aggravations; kaiśor
excretory
guggulu.
AYURVEDIC ACTION Q Demulcent tonic herbs in vata aggravations;
Lekhana Scrapes toxins yogara- ja guggulu, bala
Śodhana Blood purifier Q Diuretics in kapha aggravations; punarnavadi
Bhagandara Treats anal fistula guggulu. Use bitter and pungent flavours.
Śothaghna Alleviates oedema
CONTRAINDICATIONS
Arśoghna Treats haemorrhoids
Caution in aggravated pitta. Contraindicated in
Srotorodhaghna Alleviates obstructions to the
conditions caused by dhatu kasaya when there is
channels
weakness of the tissues.
Va-taghna Alleviates vata
DOSAGE
BIOMEDICAL ACTION
500mg–1g three times per day.
Reduces cholesterol, laxative, carminative, alterative,
anti-inflammatory NOTES
Q Triphala cleans the bowels, regulates the flow of
INDICATIONS
apana vata and is an alterative by virtue of its
Heart Cardiac pain from atherosclerosis, angina,
ama-cleansing properties.
chest congestion. Triphala guggulu has many clini-
Q Pippali enkindles agni, burns away ama and
cal trials attesting to its ability to reduce choles-
relieves vata-type pain.
terol. Also used for oedema of the heart and the
Q Guggulu scrapes the channels and clears ama
whole body.
out of the system, specifically works on medas-
Gastrointestinal tract Poor digestion with ama-
dhatu and is an anti-inflammatory.
and kapha-like symptoms: slow digestion, low
Q Low dhatvagni causes the channels to become
metabolism, tiredness, obesity. Helps with deep-
blocked. This srotorodha creates an obstruction to
seated toxins and long-term constipation as it cor-
the flow of vata around the body. When a dhatu
rects the flow of apana vata downwards in the
becomes blocked vata becomes pratiloma and
digestive tract. It has a traditional use for treating
flows in the wrong direction. Triphala guggulu
haemorrhoids and fistulas via its agni-enkindling
clears obstructions in the channels. It works so
effect. It both stimulates digestion and scrapes tox-
effectively in cases of obesity and congestion
ins away. It corrects medas-dhatu-agni to enable
because it enkindles medas-dhatu-agni. This
lipid tissue to metabolise nutrients efficiently.
helps to maintain a balanced fat tissue and
Lungs Used in congested lung conditions to clear
clear the ama from the medas-vaha-srotas. This
excess kapha from the plasma and chest: asthma,
prevents vata from rebelling back to the stom-
bronchitis, phlegmy cough. Also for sinus conges-
ach and fanning the flames of agni. This breaks
tion, nasal drip and rhinitis.
the repetitive cycle of eating and then craving
Immunity Used as part of a strategy to strengthen
more, not due to real hunger but due to stagna-
the whole system by removing the causes that
tion in the fat tissue. The flow of prana in the
necessitate a response to accumulated pathogens;
body is smoothed. Its ability to encourage elimi-
combats allergies, repetitive colds, boils and infec-
nation points to its use in all forms of
tions in kapha types by strengthening agni and
congestion.
clearing mucous toxins.
309
–
YOGARA JA GUGGULU Dha-tu (tissue): Plasma, blood, muscles, bone, nerve
Chapter 7 52 COMMON AYURVEDIC FORMULAS
310
NOTES AYURVEDIC ACTION
Part TWO
Q Guggulu is the leading herb and combines with Va-taśamana Pacifies vata and nervous system
triphala, chitraka and vidanga to clear vata tox- Anulomana Directs the flow of vata downwards
ins from the joints and muscles. Ka-saśva-sahara Alleviates cough and asthma
Q Karchur, hapusha, devadaru and twak all Jvarahara Alleviates fevers
encourage circulation to the joints. Śu-laghna Alleviates pain
Q Shatapushpa, dhanyaka, jirak, talispatra, ela,
BIOMEDICAL ACTION
ajmoda and ajwain all act as antispasmodics to
Expectorant, antiasthmatic, nervine, febrifuge,
reduce vata. With saindav they all help to digest
analgesic
the formula and treat the root cause of the
problem. INDICATIONS
Q Maricha, shunthi, lavanga, citraha, pippali and Nerves Daśamula is indicated for aggravations of the
pippalimool all warm the coldness in the joints. nervous system and pain when there are signs of
Q Ashwagandha, lohabhasma, yavkashar and sha- debility. It is used as a decoction or enema for lower
tavari all nourish the nerve, bone and muscle back pain, sciatica, tremors, Parkinson’s disease and
tissues to aid regeneration. inflammation in the pelvic and sacral region.
Q Guggulu, usheer, amalaki, gokshura and musta Lungs For dry cough and respiratory weakness
all help to clear inflammation. when there is high vata daśamula can be used as a
tonic to strengthen the system.
- Fevers When the immune system is depleted
KVATHA: DECOCTIONS
- - and is not throwing off fevers the decoction can
DAŚAMULA KVATHA: The Decoction of Ten cause diaphoresis and release the trapped ama
Roots toxins.
311
Q There is considerable adulteration of this for- BIOMEDICAL ACTION
Chapter 7 52 COMMON AYURVEDIC FORMULAS
mula today as many of the ingredients are diffi- Alterative, antipruritic, anti-inflammatory, haemo-
cult to obtain and unsustainably harvested. The static, circulatory stimulant, laxative, diuretic
.
pañcanga (root, stem, leaf, flower and fruit) parts
INDICATIONS
of the laghu pañcamula plants are often used.
Skin This bitter formula directly clears heat from
Check your source to ensure that you know
the plasma and blood. When pitta overflows into
what you are using and that the supply is
the tissues it can irritate the skin, and mañjis.t.hadi
sustainable.
clears these inflammatory toxins from the site of
bhrajaka kapha. It clears heat by cleansing the liver,
~ -
MAN JIS.T.HADI KVATHA: Manjishtha Formula purifying the blood, increasing diuresis and pro-
Decoction moting bowel movements. These actions combine
to reduce itching, redness and swelling. Especially
Box 7.18 useful in stubborn conditions where there are
Ingredients chronic lesions that have become deep-seated into
Equal parts of: the muscle tissue with purpurea, itching, lichenifi-
Manjishtha Rubia cordifolia cation, scarring and desquamation. Used in
Bakuchi Psoralea cordifolia chronic eczema, psoriasis, acne, acne rosacea,
Neem Azadiracta indica systemic lupus erythematosus and vitiligo.
Agnimantha Clerodendron phlomoides COMBINATIONS
Haritaki Terminalia chebula Q Kaiśor guggulu for internal tumours.
Daruharidra Berberis aristata Q Punarnavadi guggulu when oedema and heavy
Amalaki Emblica officinalis suppuration are present.
Vasaka Adhatoda vasica
Satavari Asparagus racemosus CONTRAINDICATIONS
Bala Sida cordifolia Not in pregnancy.
Yashtimadhu Glycyrrhiza glabra DOSAGE
Patol Trichosanthes dioica 50ml of the decoction twice per day.
Usheer Vetivera zizanoides
Guduchi Tinospora cordifolia NOTES
Rakta chandan Pterocarpus santalinus Q The bitter manjishtha and daruharidra clear
Tvak Cinnamomum zeylanicum high pitta, are anti-inflammatory, invigorate
the blood, and remove chronic lesions.
Method of preparation Q Bakuchi helps to heal the depigmentation and
1 part of the formula is decocted in 16 parts water lichenification of the skin.
until 4 parts remain. This is then strained and stored Q Bala, shatavari, yasthimadhu and amalaki all
(Bhaisajya Ratna-valı-; Ku.s.t. hadhika-ra).
• help to nourish the skin and rasa dhatu by
removing itching and dryness induced by
heat.
ENERGETICS
Q Neem, agnimantha, vasa, patol, usheer, red san-
Rasa (taste): Bitter
dalwood and guduchi all reduce inflammation,
V×-rya (energy): Cooling
burning, redness and itching. They work
Vipa-ka (post-digestive effect): Pungent
directly on rañjaka and bhrajaka pitta by remov-
Gun.a (quality): Light, dry
ing the excess heat out of the tissues.
Dos.a effect: PK<, V
Q Twak benefits the skin and helps to digest the
Dha-tu (tissue): Plasma, blood, muscle
formula.
Srotas (channel): Circulatory, urinary, excretory
Q Red sandalwood is CITES-listed; replace with
AYURVEDIC ACTION sariva if necessary.
Kus.t.haghna Alleviates skin diseases
Further kvathas are listed in Box 7.19.
Va-taraktaghna Alleviates gout
Raktapittaśamaka Reduces bleeding
312
10–20g per day with warm water
Part TWO
-
Box 7.19 ADDITIONAL KVATHAS
Maha-mañjis..ta-di kva-tha: Skin disorders from high Uses A famous uterine tonic that is taken during
pitta, itching, inflammation and infection. pregnancy to enhance the strength of the mother
Maha-sudarśana kva-tha: Chronic fevers, coughs. and the foetus. Also used in other gynaecological
Varun.a-di kva-tha: Urinary stones, cystitis, burning, problems when there are inflammations and exces-
painful urination, prostatitis. sive bleeding.
- TIKTA GHR.TA
MAHATIKTA GHR. TA
Bitter and alterative herbs including aragvada, Bitter ghee including neem, katuka, daruharidra,
katuka, mustaka, neem, parpat, phandan, darvi, mustaka, chiretta, chandan.
shatavari, sariva, guduchi, chiretta, yasthimadhu, (Astangahrdaya Samhita)
amalaki 10–20g per day with warm water and aloe vera
(Bhaisajya Ratnavali: Kusthadhikara) juice
10–20g per day with warm water and aloe vera juice
Uses Skin problems due to high pitta, swellings,
Uses All chronic skin diseases that are deep in the redness, burning, itching, thirst, abscess, ulcers,
plasma, blood and muscle tissue with red erup- inflamed tumours, anal fistula, bleeding piles.
tions and itching. May also benefit acidity, fever, -
TRIPHALA GHR. TA
metrorrhagia, cervical lymphadenitis.
Three Fruits ghee including triphala, bhringaraja,
vasa, grapes, licorice, guduchi, manjishtha, vetiver,
PHALA GHR. TA
sariva, devadaru
Manjishtha, triphala, daruharidra, kutki,
(Bhaisajya Ratnavali: netrarogadhikara)
yasthimadhu with ashwagandha, shatavari, tagara
and other herbs Uses Use in ophthalmic diseases, blurred vision,
(Astangahrdaya Samhita) keratitis, itching, strained eyes, conjunctivitis,
313
styes, night blindness. It reduces all three dosa, Uses A fantastic application for nervous aggrava-
Chapter 7 52 COMMON AYURVEDIC FORMULAS
especially kapha aggravations where there are tion, insomnia, disturbed vata and falling hair.
sluggish bowels, low digestive fire, diabetes and -
obesity. KSI RABALA TAILA
Bala decoction, milk and sesame oil
-
YAS. T. YADI GHR. TA (Astangahrdaya Samhita: vatarakta cikitsa)
Licorice ghee including sandalwood, sariva and Apply twice per day
milk
Uses A classic formula for exhaustion of the
(Bharat Bhaisajya Ratnakara)
nervous system with spasms, pain, lower backache,
2–3 drops applied into the nostrils
sciatica. Can be used in enemas for the above
conditions.
Uses When pitta is aggravated causing a sharp
temporal headache or migraine affecting the eyes - - -
MAHANARAYAN. A TAILA
and forehead. A large formula for reducing vata with appropriate
herbs including ashwagandha, saffron, vacha,
SIDDHA TAILA: MEDICATED OILS tagar, yasthimadhu, sandalwood, shatavari, jata-
ANU TAILA mansi, guggulu, bala, gokshura and bilva
A large formula containing a decoction of devadaru, (Bhaisajya Ratnavali: vatavyadhyadhikara)
cinnamon, sariva, daruharidra, licorice, cardamom, Apply twice per day or take 2 teaspoons internally
vetiver, mustaka, sandalwood, triphala, bilva, lotus for oleation therapy or asthma
stamen and other herbs decocted in sesame oil
Uses Where there is pain in sciatica, gout, breath-
(Astangahrdaya Samhita)
ing problems, lung congestion and impotence.
Apply 2 drops to each nostril twice
-
MARICYADI TAILA
Uses Specifically for clearing toxins and conges-
Black pepper formula including musta, jatamansi,
tion from the head. Used in sinus congestion,
trivrut, turmeric, devadaru, red sandalwood and
recurrent colds and headaches.
mustard oil.
(Bhaisajya Ratnavali: vatavyadhyadhikara)
AŚVAGANDHA TAILA
Apply 5–10 drops to the affected area.
Ashwagandha decoction and sesame oil
(Ayurveda therapy)
Uses For disrupted pigmentation in vitiligo, ring-
Apply twice per day
worm, psoriasis (dry type).
Uses For strengthening the muscle tissue in weak- - - -
NARA YA N.A TAILA
ness, wasting, excess sporting activity, impotence.
Includes ashwagandha, bala, bilwa, gokshura,
Specific for vata disorders.
punarnava, neem, sandalwood, vacha, rock salt,
. - devadaru, tagarah, shatavari decocted in sesame oil
BHR. N GRA JA TAILA
(Bhaisajya Ratnavali: vatavyadhyadhikara)
Bhringaraja with triphala, sariva and coconut oil.
Apply twice per day
(Bhaisajya Ratnaval×-: ks.udrarogadhikara)
Apply to the scalp twice per day
Uses Useful formula for vata aggravations with
arthritis, muscular pain, sprains, lung congestion
Uses Rejuvenates the hair and prevents early grey-
with asthma and enemas to clear vata from the
ing and balding due to high pitta, aggravations of
colon.
the bone tissue.
- - PARIBHADRA OIL
BRA HMI TAILA
Neem leaves decocted in sesame oil
Brahmi with tagar, mustaka and sariva in coconut oil
(Ayurveda therapy)
(Ayurveda therapy)
Apply to the affected area as necessary
Apply to the head, nostrils and ears twice per day
314
Uses For inflammatory skin conditions with itch-
Part TWO
ing, suppuration and redness from aggravated Ela Elettaria cardamomum 7.2mg
pitta such as eczema, psoriasis and ringworm. Tamalapatra Cinnamomum tamalae 7.2mg
Trivrut Operculina turpethum 7.2mg
- - Danti Baliospermum montanum 7.2mg
VACA TAILA
Acorus oil decoction and sesame oil Vamsa lochana Bambusa arundinaceae 7.2mg
(Ayurveda therapy) Loha bhasma Ferrum 14.4mg
Apply 2 drops into the nostrils Khandasharkara Saccharum officinalis 28.8mg
Shilajit Asphaltum 57.6mg
Uses Use as a nasya treatment for blocked channels Shuddha guggulu Commiphora mukul 57.6mg
in the head. Use in depression, sinusitis, muzzy Method of preparation
head, rhinitis and headaches. All the herbs and minerals are made into fine powder
and mixed with each other to make a homogeneous
VAT.I: TABLETS mixture. This is then bound with a binding agent such
. -
as acacia gum (Śha-rngadhara Sam -
. hita, guggulu Śodhana
CANDRAPRABHA VAT. I: The Pill Giving the - -
reference: Bharat Bhaisajya Ratnakara).
Glow of the Moon •
315
Reproduction It is indicated for infertility DOSAGE
Chapter 7 52 COMMON AYURVEDIC FORMULAS
caused by water stagnation in the water channels. 500mg–1g three times per day.
This can manifest in men as spermatorrhoea,
NOTES
spermaturia, impotence and premature ejaculation.
Q The primary ingredients of guggulu and shilajit
In women there may be the inability to conceive
scrape ama kapha toxins from the urinary sys-
due to salpingitis, ovarian cysts, leucorrhoea and
tem. Guggulu also reduces vata and shilajit
menstrual irregularity.
nourishes all the dhatu and rejuvenates the
Diabetes Its significant action on the water
reproductive and urinary systems.
channels, kidneys and pancreas point to its
Q The synergy of trikat.u, triphala and the other
use in diabetes and hyperglycaemia, especially
kapha-balancing herbs focus the formula on
the late-onset type that is complicated by
. reducing kapha. The remaining herbs have
obesity and high cholesterol. The Śarngadhara
sharp, penetrating, hot and draining properties
Samhita says that it treats all 20 types of
that help to dislodge kapha and reduce accumu-
diabetes.
lation.
COMBINATIONS Q The herbs remove water, balance agni, clear
Q Goks.uradi guggulu for stones or prostate prob- kapha and open the water passages.
lems. Q The ‘candraprabha’ ingredient is camphor,
Q Punarnavadi guggulu for oedema. Curcuma zedoaria or Asparagus racemosus, accord-
Q Triphala guggulu for obesity and high cholesterol. ing to different authorities.
Q Ashwagandha and shatavari when infertility is
combined with reproductive tissue weakness. References
Q Kaiśor guggulu in gout.
Govind das Vicharita 1997 Bhaisajya Ratnavali.
Q Kañcanara guggulu in cysts, endometriosis
Motilal Banarsidas
and fibroids.
Kulkarni P 2000 Ayurveda therapy. Śri Satguru
CONTRAINDICATIONS Publications
Pathological kidney disease; caution in pregnancy
as it has a descending action.
316
Part THREE
Appendix 1 Tables
TABLES
Table A1.1 Dhatu dusti: corrupted Table A1.4 Herbs for agni and Table A1.8 Kapha-reducing
tissues 320 ama by dosa 322 herbs 328
Table A1.2 Signs and symptoms Table A1.5 Herbs that generally Table A1.9 Tridosa-balancing
of deficiency and excess in the increase and decrease the tissues herbs 330
tissues (dhatu) 321 (dhatu) 323 Table A1.10 Ayurvedic weights
Table A1.3 Specific herbs for Table A1.6 Vata-reducing and measures and their metric
each tissue (dhatu) when herbs 324 equivalents 333
disrupted by each dosa 322 Table A1.7 Pitta-reducing Table A1.11 Latin plant
herbs 326 names 334
319
Appendix 1 TABLES
320
TABLE A1.1 Dhatu dusti: Corrupted tissues (dhatu): signs and symptoms of the dosa invading and corrupting the dhatu
-
DHATU Va-ta in the dha-tu Pitta in the dha-tu Kapha in the dha-tu
RASA Eczema, psoriasis, dry cough Acne, urticaria, dermatitis Asthma, bronchitis, eczema
Upadha-tu: menses, breast milk Vitiates the skin: dry, cracks, rough, dark patches, Causes red and inflamed skin, yellowish Aggravates the skin and lungs: warts, cysts,
Kit.t.a: kapha poor peripheral circulation, thin skin, itching discoloration, high fevers, swollen lymph fungal infections, wet eczema, damp skin,
from dryness, lack of sweating, pricking pains, nodes, sore throat, fever facial oedema. Cough with white sputum,
numbness swollen glands, nausea
RAKTA Gout, varicose veins, heart disease, Red and oozing skin inflammations, boils, Anaemia, bile congestion, gallstones
Upadha-tu: tendons, blood hypertension jaundice, hepatitis, haemophilia, anaemia Causes coagulation of the blood, high
vessels Dries the blood, causing blood clots, varicose Aggravates the blood, rushing blood, heat cholesterol, hypertension, arteriosclerosis,
Kit.t.a: pitta veins, hard arteries, arteriosclerosis, easy bruising, in the hands and feet, hot flushes, bleeding blood clots, leukopenia
palpitations, poor circulation, cold extremeties, disorders
slow-healing wounds
-
MAM . SA Bell’s palsy, spasms, paralysis, myomas Colitis, ulcers, myocardial infarction Tumours, oedema, heart disorders
Upadha-tu: ligaments Causes weakness and wasting of the muscles, Pitta invades the muscles and causes Causes heavy, tired and swollen muscles,
Kit.t.a: ear, nose, eye lintel cramps, twitches, tics, tiredness, lack of inflammation, abscesses and pain: gingivitis, tumours, congestive heart failure and oedema
flexibility, myalgia gastritis, enteritis, colitis, appendicitis,
myocarditis, fibromyalgia
MEDAS Diabetes, consumption, tuberculosis, lipoma Abscess, tumours, diabetes Obesity, diabetes, tumours
Upadha-tu: omentum Causes drying of the fat tissue, severe Causes infections in the fat tissue, excess Causes excess fat tissue with excess weight,
Kit.t.a: sweat emaciation, lack of sweating, sunken eyes, sweating, excess urination, kidney infections, heaviness, tiredness, cold sweat, fibroids,
prominent bones, hard and small lumps haematuria lipomas, fatty liver
ASTHI Arthritis, osteoporosis, bone tumours Osteomyelitis, periostitis, arthritis Bone spurs, osteoma, arthritis
Upadha-tu: teeth Brittle bones, frequent breaks, sensitive teeth, Burning and pain in the joints and bones; Causes swollen arthritic joints, excess hair,
Kit.t.a: nails, hair brittle nails, dry hair, loss of hair red, inflamed type of arthritis bone cancer
MAJJĀ Nervous disorders, MS, epilepsy, sciatica, Neuritis, meningitis, sciatica Hydrocephalus, multiple sclerosis
Upadha-tu: eye fluid neuralgia Pitta heat burns the nerves and marrow Causes lack of nervous sensitivity, slow
Kit.t.a: tears Causes weak nerves, fear, anxiety, tremors, affecting red blood cell count, and causing responses, lethargy, nervous system problems,
dizziness, tinnitus, blurred vision, tingling, numbness, headaches depression
numbness, loss of memory
ŚUKRA Infertility, impotence, low immunity Menorrhagia, low sperm count, low immunity Sexual dysfunction, infertility
Upadha-tu: ojas Oligo/azoo/asthenospermorrhoea, Causes burning and hence drying of the Uterine tumours, cysts, fibroids, leucorrhoea.
Kit.t.a: smegma spermatorrhoea, prostatitis, testicular or reproductive fluids and resultant lowered ojas. Hydrocoele, benign prostatic hypertrophy.
prostate tumours. Dysmenorrhoea, scanty or Painful, hot, frequent periods, mid-cycle Lowered immunity, benign tumours
lack of menstrual flow, uterine cysts or tumours. bleeding. Swollen testicles or prostate, blood in
Fear, anxiety, feeling unloved semen
TABLE A1.2 Signs and symptoms of deficiency and excess in the tissues (dhatu)
-
DHATU Signs of deficiency Signs of excess
RASA Increased va-ta, dryness, rough skin and lips, strange taste in the mouth, Increased kapha, srotorodha, increased phlegm, low agni, nausea,
Upadha-tu: menses, breast milk fatigue, emaciation, palpitations, tremors, heart pain and empty feeling, a-ma congestive toxins
Kit.t.a: kapha sensitive to sounds, ringing in the ears, insufficient breast milk,
amenorrhoea, oligomenorrhoea, infertility, heart, blood, lymph, skin,
mucous membranes
RAKTA Low blood pressure, pale skin, anaemia, tight tendons, easily startled, Skin heat, abscess, bleeding, gout, hepatitis, jaundice,
Upadha-tu: tendons, blood vessels dry or rough skin, increased va-ta, desire for sour foods, slow pulse, inflammation of the spleen and liver, high blood pressure,
Kit.t.a: pitta pale tongue tumours, jaundice, low agni, increased pitta with red or yellow
discolorations of the skin, discharges of the lungs, urine, stool,
uterus, rapid pulse, red body of the tongue
-
MAM . SA Emaciation, fear, increased va-ta, muscular atrophy, lack of coordination Tumours, fibroids, goitre, swollen muscles, large liver, irritable,
Upadha-tu: ligament inflamed tissues, abscesses, lymphadenitis, lymphadenopathy,
Kit.t.a: ear, nose, eye lintel increased pitta and kapha
MEDAS Increased va-ta, emaciation, cracking joints, joint weakness, fatigue, brittle Kapha increased, obesity, pendulous breasts, abdomen and
Upadha-tu: omentum hair, bones, nails and teeth buttocks, sexual debility, asthma, poor mobility, fear,
Kit.t.a: sweat hypertension, diabetes
ASTHI Weak bones and teeth, osteoporosis, dwarfism, painful and loose joints, Bone spurs, extra teeth, arthritis, joint pain, bone cancer,
Upadha-tu: teeth falling hair, early grey hair, brittle nails, falling or decaying teeth, gigantism
Kit.t.a: nails, hair va-ta increased
MAJJĀ Va-ta increased, feeling ungrounded, porous bones, joint pain, bone Kapha increased, hypertrophic growths, heavy limbs, non-healing
Upadha-tu: eye fluid lightness, dizzy, eye floaters, dark patches around the eyes, blindness, sores, deep infections, fatigue
Kit.t.a: tears low sex drive, fear, loss of memory
ŚUKRA Low sex drive, impotence, infertility, sore back, low energy, low ojas, fear, Excess sexual desire, urinary calculi, prostatitis, anger, pitta
Upadha-tu: ojas lack of love, va-ta increased, premature ejaculation, low sperm count, increased, acne, greasy hair and skin, malodorosity, a short
Kit.t.a: smegma low sperm motility, prostatitis, amenorrhoea, leucorrhoea, dysmenorrhoea, menstrual cycle
clotted menstrual blood
321
Part THREE
Appendix 1 TABLES
TABLE A1.3 Specific herbs for each tissue (dhatu) when disrupted by each dosa
-
DHATU Va-ta Pitta Kapha
RASA Ginger (fresh) Neem Ginger (dry)
Upadha-tu: menses, breast milk Tulsi Aloe Kanchanara
Kit.t.a: kapha Mahasudarshana Peppermint Trikatu
RAKTA Amalaki Neem Manjishtha
Upadha-tu: tendons, blood vessels Shatavari Manjishtha Kutki
Kit.t.a: pitta Lohabhasma Guduchi Daruharidra
Licorice Amalaki Myrrh
Ashoka Ashoka
-
MAM . SA Ashwagandha Guduchi Kañcana-ra guggulu
Upadha-tu: ligament Bala Kaiśor guggulu Arjuna
Kit.t.a: ear, nose, eye lintel Ghee Turmeric Turmeric
MEDAS Licorice Neem Kutki
Upadha-tu: omentum Vidari kandha Turmeric Shilajit
Kit.t.a: sweat Shatavari Manjishtha Triphala- guggulu
Ashwagandha Shankapushpi Gudmar
ASTHI Yogara-ja guggulu Kaiśor guggulu Punarnavadi guggulu
Upadha-tu: teeth Ashwagandha Gotu kola Goksura-di guggulu
Kit.t.a: nails, hair
-
MAJJA Jatamamsi Jatamamsi Brahmi
Upadha-tu: eye fluid Ashwagandha Brahmi Vacha
Kit.t.a: tears Vacha Gotu kola Frankincense
Bhringaraja
ŚUKRA Ashwagandha Shankapushpi Shilajit
Upadha-tu: ojas Kapikacchu Rose Kapikacchu
Kit.t.a: smegma Vidari Guduchi Gokshura
Bala Safed musali Ashwagandha
Shatavari Ashoka
Ashoka
323
Part THREE
Appendix 1 TABLES
324
TABLE A1.6 Vata-reducing herbs
ENGLISH Winter cherry root Castor seed oil White musali root Indian Valerian root Sesame seeds
SANSKRIT Aśvagandha- Eran.d.a/ Vatari Safed Musalı- Tagara Tila
LATIN Withania somnifera Ricinus communis Asparagus adscendens Valeriana wallichi Sesamum indicum
DOS.A VK<, P a-ma V<, PK VP<, K VK<, P V<, PK
GUN.A Heavy, dry Heavy, oily Heavy, oily Light, unctuous Heavy, oily
RASA Astringent, bitter, sweet Pungent, sweet Sweet, bitter Bitter, pungent, sweet, astringent Sweet
VIRYA HEATING HEATING COLD HEATING HEATING
-
VIPAKA Sweet Pungent Sweet Pungent Sweet
-
DHATU Rakta Ma-m . sa Medas Asthi All All, especially Rasa, Śukra Rasa, Rakta Majjā All, especially asthi
Majja- Śukra
SROTAS Nervous, reproductive, Excretory, nervous, female Reproductive, respiratory Nervous, digestive, respiratory Excretory, reproductive,
respiratory reproductive urinary, respiratory
ACTION Rasa-yana; va-ta, anti-ageing Demulcent purgative Rasa-yana tonic Calms va-ta; gastrointestinal Promotes ojas
Va-jı-karan.a; increases semen Use in reducing therapy Va-jı-karan.a; increases fertility tract, mind Rasa-yana to va-ta
quality and quantity, fertility Clears eye problems Benefits pre-/post-partum Clears a-ma from intestines Demulcent laxative
Reduces va-ta; muscular Benefits congestive arthritis Increases breast milk Clears va-ta from nerves Nutritive tonic to muscles
weakness Skin infections, nail fungus Benefits gastrointestinal Calms, grounds and soothes Beneficial in haemorrhoids
Reduces wasting; AIDS, MS, TB External: lumps, tumours inflammation Use in insomnia, anxiety, Treats dry coughs
Calms and tonifies nervous Promotes delivery Nutritive tonic Benefits high blood pressure Strengthens the bones
system, benefits insomnia and palpitations
Treats VK coughs Benefits dysmenorrhoea
Uterine tonic, calms va-ta, Benefits asthma and wheezing
pain, treats infertility
Increases ojas and immunity
Benefits hypothyroid
DOSE 1–15g 1–3 tsps 3–15g 3–9g 10–30g
- -
CONTRA- Ama or srotorodha Kidney disease, bladder, Ama and congestion CNS depressants High pitta, skin inflammations
-
INDICATIONS High pitta gallbladder, gastrointestinal Excess may cause dullness Ama, obesity
Caution in pregnancy, infection, jaundice, Caution in high pitta Large doses in pregnancy
immunosuppressive, dysuria
thyroid and antidiabetic Pregnancy and age <12
medication Long-term use
BIOMEDICAL Aphrodisiac, Cathartic, demulcent, Demulcent, galactagogue, Anti-spasmodic, nervine, Laxative, emollient,
ACTIONS nervine, sedative, analgesic, nervine, nutritive tonic carminative, stomachic, demulcent, diuretic,
astringent, anti-inflammatory sedative stimulant galactagogue, emmenagogue,
oncology, nutritive
adaptogen
ENGLISH Cinnamon bark Calamus root Licorice root Asafoetida resin Fenugreek seed
.
SANSKRIT Twac Vacā Yas. t. ı-madhu Hingu Methi
LATIN Cinnamomum zeylanicum Acorus calamus Glycyrrhiza glabra Ferrula asafoetida Trigonella foenum-graeceum
DOS.A VK<, P VK<, P VPK<, K (long term) VK<, P VK<, P
GUN.A Light, dry Light, dry Heavy, moist Heavy, oily Light, soft, slimy
RASA Pungent, bitter, astringent Pungent, bitter, astringent Sweet, bitter Pungent Bitter, pungent, astringent
-
VI RYA HOT HOT COOL, NEUTRAL HOT HEATING
-
VIPAKA Sweet Pungent Sweet, bitter Pungent Pungent
-
DHATU Rasa Rakta Ma-m. sa Majjā Rasa Ma-m. sa Medas Majjā All Rasa Rakta Ma-m. sa Asthi Majjā Rasa Rakta Medas Majjā
SROTAS Circulatory, digestive, Circulatory, digestive, nervous, Digestive, excretory, nervous, Digestive, nervous, respiratory, Digestive, respiratory, urinary,
respiratory, urinary, reproductive, respiratory reproductive, respiratory excretory, circulatory, reproductive, lactation
reproductive reproductive
ACTION Increases agni Rasa-yana to va-ta and kapha Va-ta from nervous system Clears va-ta; spasms, pain Clears va-ta
Clears lungs and mucous Clears VK from manas srotas Pitta from gastrointestinal tract Clears intestinal parasites Increases secretions
Increases circulation Reduces all wet secretions Kapha from lungs and stomach Stimulates agni Alleviates pain; cold, back
Prevents excess urination Clears a-ma; head and channels Reproductive tonic Benefits lung congestion Benefits legs
Treats uterine congestion Benefits gastrointestinal tract; Reduces inflammations; ulcers, Benefits heart pain from va-ta Digestive stimulant VK
Treats all cold conditions bloating skin Benefits painful menses Diabetic; clears water channels
Can be used to clear sa-ma pitta External: nasal polyps Specific for asthma Treats infertility from cold Reduces cholesterol
Strengthens the kidneys Beneficial post-partum; milk,
Reduces harmful gastric-irritating bowels
effects of NSAID medication
DOSE 1–5g 3–9g 1–9g 0.1–1g 3–9g
CONTRA- High pitta Bleeding and high pitta Oedema, hypertension, High pitta: fever, skin rash High pitta
INDICATIONS Bleeding from intestines Pregnancy congestive heart failure, Tamas and sluggishness Pregnancy
Caution in pregnancy Use for 1 month maximum choleostatic liver disorders Pregnancy
Stops Na/K absorption, therefore
caution in osteoporosis
Diuretic medication,
corticosteroids, caution with
contraceptive pill
Caution in pregnancy
BIOMEDICAL Analgesic, astringent, Antispasmodic, decongestant, Demulcent, emetic, Antispasmodic/fungal, Expectorant, diuretic,
ACTIONS carminative, diaphoretic, emetic, expectorant, expectorant, laxative, analgesic, anthelmintic, mucous membrane tonic,
diuretic, expectorant, nervine, stimulant sedative, tonic stimulant, aphrodisiac, warm anti-inflammatory,
antirheumatic/bacterial carminative galactagogue,
antidiabetic,
cholesterolaemic
325
Part THREE
Appendix 1 TABLES
326
TABLE A1.7 Pitta-reducing herbs
ENGLISH Embelic myrobalan fruit Himalayan Rhubarb root Lemongrass leaf Chiretta leaf Indian Barberry root
SANSKRIT Āmalakı-, Dha-trı- Amlavetasa Bhu- tr.n.a Cı̄rāyatā Da-ruharidra-
LATIN Emblica officinalis Rheum palmatum/australe Cymbopogon citratus Swertia chirata Berberis aristata
DOS.A PVK<. Best for PV PK< V+ PK< (V+ in excess) PK<, V+ PK<, V+
GUN.A Light, dry Light, dry, descending Dry, light, penetrating Dry, light Dry, light
RASA All apart from salty Bitter, astringent Pungent, bitter Bitter Bitter, astringent
VĪRYA COOLING COLD COOLING COLD HEATING
VIPĀKA Sweet Pungent Pungent Pungent Pungent
DHĀTU All and increases ojas Rasa Rakta Medas Rasa Rakta Medas Majjā Rasa Rakta Ma-m.sa Medas Rasa Rakta Medas
SROTAS Circulatory, digestive, Excretory, digestive, female Circulatory, nervous, Circulatory, respiratory Circulatory, digestive, excretory
excretory reproductive metabolic
ACTION Pitta rejuvenative Clears pitta; liver, jaundice Cools pitta Cleans rakta; skin Clears a-ma
Clears heat; gastrointestinal Clears a-ma and stagnation Calms spasm; GIT Cools pitta; rañjaka and Cleans pitta
tract and blood Clears damp heat Carminative; clears bhrājaka Benefits liver, urinary system, skin
Stops bleeding and Purges the bowel and worms gas and va-ta Benefits liver, eyes, heart Benefits diabetes
builds blood Reduces tumours Reduces mucous and kapha Cleans gastrointestinal Specific for bleeding piles
Sattvic; balances emotions Treats skin problems Diaphoretic; reduces fever tract of worms
Heart tonic Clears congestion from uterus Reduces pitta fevers
Benefits diabetes and urine Prevents bleeding; Gastrointestinal tract
Mild laxative gastrointestinal tract, uterus anti-inflammatory
Benefits the hair
DOSE 1–15g 1g is astringent, 3–6g purges 1–9g 1–5g 1–9g
CONTRAINDICATIONS Diarrhoea in pitta prakr.ti Pregnancy None High va-ta High va-ta, wasting
High a-ma and kapha High va-ta, weakness Pregnancy
Gout, va-ta, piles
BIOMEDICAL ACTIONS Haemostatic, astringent, Purgative, haemostatic, Antispasmodic, diaphoretic, Anthelmintic, Diuretic, antibilious, cholagogue,
laxative, refrigerant, antipyretic, anthelmintic, diuretic, emmenagogue, astringent, febrifuge, refrigerant, stomachic,
stomachic, anti-inflammatory, bitter tonic, alterative, febrifuge, carminative antispasmodic, antipyretic, alterative,
anti-oxidant vermifuge antidiarrhoea antidiabetic
ENGLISH Mint: Peppermint leaf Kutki root Indian Madder root Nutgrass root Neem leaf
SANSKRIT Pudı̄na Kat. uka- Mañjis. ht.ha Musta Nimba
LATIN Mentha piperita Picrorrhiza kurroa Rubia cordifolia Cyperus rotundus Azadiracta indica
DOS.A VPK< (V in excess) PK<, V PK<, V PK< (V in excess) PK< V
GUN.A Dry, light, penetrating Dry, light Dry, light Dry, light Dry, light
RASA Sweet, pungent Bitter, pungent Bitter, sweet Pungent, bitter, astringent Bitter
VI-RYA COOL COLD COLD COOL COLD
-
VIPAKA Pungent Pungent Pungent Pungent Pungent
-
DHATU Rasa Rakta Majjā Rasa Rakta Majjā Artava Rasa Rakta Ma-m. sa Rasa Rakta Ma-m . sa Majjā Rasa Rakta Medas
SROTAS Circulatory, digestive, Excretory, digestive, nervous, Circulatory, female Digestive, circulatory, Circulatory, digestive,
respiratory, nervous female reproductive reproductive female reproductive respiratory, urinary
ACTION Regulates pitta and va-ta in Cools pitta Rejuvenates blood, best Dı-pana, pacana = Clears heat from a-rtavasrotas
the intestines Affinity for skin, uterus, eyes blood cleanser Agni Anti-pitta: blood, skin infections,
Reduces nausea, bloating, Clears heat from CNS Stops bleeding Aids digestion and eczema, psoriasis
spasms and pain Drains pitta via the bowel Cools pitta: liver, gastro- sama-na va-yu Clears parasites from
Promotes sweating in fevers Rejuvenates medas, reduces intestinal tract, skin Benefits uterus; moves gastrointestinal tract
Reduces kapha secretions fat Heals kapha, bones, tumours blood Benefits ra˜njaka and
from the head in colds Specific for eczema, psoriasis Benefits blood and bhra-jaka pitta
Useful for stopping itching stops itching
in skin diseases Clears congestion in
artavava-hasrotas
Treats fevers
DOSE 1–30g per day 1–2g per day 3–6g 3–9g 1–9g
CONTRAINDICATIONS Very high va-ta High va-ta Pregnancy High va-ta constipation High va-ta
Gallstones Pregnancy Cold chills, va-ta aggravations Pregnancy
Iron medication CITES listed Oil on pitta skin
BIOMEDICAL ACTIONS Carminative, digestive, Low dose: bitter, stomachic, Alterative, haemostatic, Antifungal and Anti-inflammatory,
diaphoretic, anti-pruritic, laxative anti-tumour, astringent, antiparasitic, emmenagogue, antiviral,
nervine High dose: purgative, diuretic, emmenagogue, rheumatic, insecticide, anthelmintic,
cholagogue, lithotropic antispasmodic, alterative
febrifuge, skin problems, carminative,
alterative diuretic, emmenagogue,
alterative
327
Part THREE
Appendix 1 TABLES
328
Table A1.8 Kapha-reducing herbs
ENGLISH Dry Ginger Beleric Myrobalan Myrrh White Leadwort Cardamom seed
SANSKRIT Śun.t. hı- Bibhitakı¯ Bola Citraka Elā
LATIN Zingiber officinale Terminalia belerica Commiphora myrrha Plumbago zeylanica Elattaria cardamomum
DOS.A KV< P KPV< (V in excess) KV< (P in excess) KV<, P/Agni VK< (P in excess)
GUN.A Dry, light Dry, light Dry Dry, light Dry, light, aromatic
RASA Pungent, sweet Astringent Bitter, pungent, Pungent Pungent, sweet
sweet, astringent
VI-RYA HOT HEATING HOT VERY HOT HEATING
-
VIPA KA Sweet Sweet Pungent Pungent Pungent
-
DHATU All Rasa Ma-m.sa Asthi All Asthi Rasa Rakta Śukra Rasa Rakta Majjā
SROTAS Digestive, respiratory Digestive, excretory, nervous, Circulatory, lymph, nervous, Digestive, nervous, female Circulatory, digestive,
respiratory reproductive, respiratory reproductive nervous, respiratory
ACTION Specific to reduce a-ma Rasāyana to kapha Mucous membrane Reduces a-ma: gastrointes- Aids śamana in
Digestive stimulant Benefits urinary stones inflammation; lymphatic tinal tract and joints absorption
Reduces mucous, clears lungs Laxative and astringent Regulates menses Raises low agni Reduces kapha in lung and
Anti-inflammatory; joints, Benefits lungs, gastro- Reduces uterine growths Stimulates digestion gastrointestinal tract
arthritis intestinal tract, throat and congestion Treats raktava-ta; joint pain Clears mucous and bloat-
ing
Circulatory stimulant; clears Reduces mucous Invigorates blood Reduces congestion; Regulates apa-na va-yu in
cold Holds va-ta in place Clears āma; lekhanı-ya herb lekhanı-ya liver
Reduces kapha with honey Heart tonic Clears cardiac congestion Specific for va-ta kapha piles Reduces amagenic quality
Benefits dysmenorrhoea Antibacterial Externally; skin abscesses of milk
Calms nervous gastro-
intestinal tract and urinary
symptoms
Treats painful urination
DOSE 1–15g 1–9g 3–12g 1–9g 1–15g
CONTRAINDICATIONS High pitta with inflamed skin High va-ta In high pitta and excessive Pregnancy Ulcers, high pitta
fever, bleeding, ulcers Dryness uterine bleeding High doses
May aggravate pitta prakr.ti
kidney problems
BIOMEDICAL ACTION Analgesic, antiemetic, Anthelmintic, antiseptic, Alterative, analgesic, Stimulant, caustic, Carminative, diaphoretic,
carminative, aphrodisiac, expectorant, laxative, antiseptic, antispasmodic, digestive, antiparasite expectorant, stomachic
diaphoretic, expectorant, lithotropic, astringent emmenagogue, expectorant,
sialagogue, nervine antiplatelet,
cholesterolaemic
ENGLISH Gurmar leaf Guggul, Indian Turmeric root Long Pepper fruit Holy Basil leaf
.
SANSKRIT Mes.aśr. nga Guggulu Haridra- Pippalı- Tulsı-
LATIN Gymnema sylvestre Balsamodendron mukul Curcuma longa Piper longum Ocimum sanctum
DOS.A KP<, V KPV< (P in excess) K< (VP in excess) KV<, P VK< (P in excess)
GUN.A Dry, light Dry Dry, light, aromatic Unctuous, light, penetrating Dry, light
RASA Bitter, astringent Sweet, pungent, bitter, Bitter, astringent, pungent Pungent Pungent
astringent
VI-RYA COOL HOT HEATING HOT WARM
-
VIPAKA Pungent Pungent Pungent Sweet Pungent
-
DHATU Rasa Rakta Medas Śukra All All All apart from Asthi Rasa Rakta Majja- Śukra
SROTAS Circulatory, urinary, Circulatory, digestive, Circulatory, digestive, Digestive, reproductive, Digestive, nervous,
reproductive nervous, respiratory respiratory, urinary, female respiratory respiratory
reproductive
ACTION Antidiabetic Treats arthritis Benefits rasa dha-tu agni and Increases agni Clears damp and kapha
Regulates the water system Clears inflammations whole gastrointestinal tract Clears a-ma, mucous, kapha Purifies va-ta and pra-n.a
Heals pancreas Reduces a-ma and mucous Regulates liver and reduces Rasa-yana to kapha and Calms mind: sattvic
Lowers blood sugar levels Clears congestion; channels, gallstones medas Clears cold and damp
Rasa-yana to pitta heart, uterus Moves blood: pain, trauma Nourishes the reproductive Reduces fevers and flu
Yogava-hı-; carries herbs Aids ligaments/joints tissues Diaphoretic
deep into tissues Treats diabetes Protects the liver from toxins Treats respiratory allergies
Antidiabetic, anticholesterol Reduces uterine congestion Specific tonic for the lungs Soothes the nerves
Heals fractures Treats heart congestion Increases absorption of Rejuvenates rasa tissue
External: bruises/sprains nutrients
DOSE 5–10g 1–10g 1–9g 1–9g 1–9g
CONTRAINDICATIONS High vāta Pitta prakr.ti High pitta High pitta High pitta
Leaf stimulates the heart Kidney infections Pregnancy Intestinal inflammations
Observe blood sugar levels With sour, hot, penetrating Acute jaundice and hepatitis Drugs that metabolise via
with antidiabetic medication foods Caution with blood-thinning the liver at high doses
Pregnancy and excess medication
uterine bleeding
Observe with hypotensive
medication
BIOMEDICAL ACTIONS Refrigerant, diuretic, Alterative, analgesic, Alterative, anthelmintic, Analgesic, anthelmintic, Antibacterial, antiseptic,
stomachic, tonic astringent, antispasmodic, antibacterial, carminative, aphrodisiac, carminative, antispasmodic, diaphoretic,
anti-inflammatory, vulnerary, emmenagogue, expectorant, emmenagogue febrifuge, nervine,
expectorant, nervine, anti-inflammatory, expectorant
cholesterolaemic, antiplatelet
emmenagogue, antiplatelet
329
Part THREE
Appendix 1 TABLES
330
TABLE A1.9 Tridosa-balancing herbs
ENGLISH Myrobalan fruit Guduchi stem Gotu Kola, Indian Caltrops/Puncture Saffron
Pennywort leaf Vine fruit
.
SANSKRIT Harı-takı- Gud.ūcı̄ Man.d.ūkapār. n.ı̄ Goks.ura Kunkuma
LATIN Terminalia chebula Tinospora cordifolia Centella asiatica syn. Tribulus terrestris Crocus sativus
Hydrocotyle asiatica
DOS.A VPK=. Best for va-ta VPK=. Best for pitta VPK=. Best for pitta VPK VPK=
GUN.A Dry, light Light, unctuous Light, dry Dry Light
RASA All apart from salty. Mainly Bitter, sweet Bitter Sweet, bitter Pungent, bitter, sweet
astringent
-
VI RYA HEATING HOT COOL COOL COOL
-
VIPAKA Sweet Sweet Sweet Sweet Sweet
-
DHATU All Rasa Rakta Ma-m. sa Medas All apart from Śukra Rasa Rakta Majjā Śukra All especially Rakta
Majjā Śukra
SROTAS Digestive, excretory, nervous, Circulatory, digestive, Circulatory, digestive, Nervous, reproductive, Circulatory, digestive,
respiratory, female nervous, respiratory nervous, respiratory, respiratory, urinary nervous, female
reproductive reproductive reproductive
ACTION Stops leakage and discharge Clears heat and a-ma Sattva Opens sahasra-ra/sattva Rasa-yana and Va-jı-karan.a
Reduces inflammation; Reduces pitta; gastro- Cleans blood and Clears hot urine Cools pitta and liver
GIT, lung, urinary intestinal tract, urine, skin reduces heat Va-ta tropic; apa-na ks.etra Promotes action of herbs;
Aids absorption Reduces fever Specific for throat, skin, brain Antiarthritic catalyst
Rasa-yana to va-ta Major herb for gout and Promotes intellect and Removes stones Regulates menses
Laxative and astringent arthritis calms nervous system Rasa-yana and vājı-karan.a Blood tonic
Prevents coughs Tonifies reproductive system Encourages microcirculation Purifies sperm Sattvic
Specific for hot skin Rasa-yana for pitta Benefits skin conditions
conditions
DOSE 1–15g 1–30g 1–15g 1–9g 100–250mg = 1–5 strands
CONTRAINDICATIONS Pregnancy Caution in pregnancy Large dose might cause Dehydration and dryness Not in pregnancy
Dehydration, emaciation va-ta headaches, Pregnancy
Can aggravate pitta in excess caution in MAOI drugs
pregnancy
BIOMEDICAL ACTIONS Astringent (ripe), Alterative, antiperiodic, Nervine, febrifuge, Diuretic, lithotropic, Emmenagogue, alterative,
laxative (unripe), diuretic alterative, diuretic, tonic, nervine, analgesic, anabolic antispasmodic, carminative
alterative, nervine circulatory stimulant
ENGLISH Arjuna Myrobalan bark Psoralea seed Country Mallow root Eclipta leaf Bael fruit
.
SANSKRIT Arjuna Bā kucı̄ Bala Bhr. ngarāja Bilva
LATIN Terminalia arjuna Psoralea corylifolia Sida cordifolia Eclipta alba Aegle marmelos immaturus
DOS.A VPK=. Best for pitta VPK=, KV< (P in excess) VPK= (K & a-ma in excess) VPK=, P< VPK=, P, <K<
GUN.A Dry, light Dry Moist, heavy Dry
RASA Astringent Pungent, bitter Sweet Bitter, astringent, sweet Bitter, pungent
VI-RYA COLD HOT COLD COLD COOL
-
VIPAKA Sweet Pungent Sweet Sweet Pungent
-
DHATU Rasa Rakta Śukra Rasa Rakta Ma-m.sa All, especially Majjā and Śukra Rasa Rakta Asthi Majjā Rasa Rakta Majjā Śukra
SROTAS Digestive, circulatory, Circulatory, respiratory, Circulatory, nervous, Circulatory, digestive, Circulatory, digestive,
reproductive muscle, lymphatic reproductive, urinary, nervous reproductive, nervous
respiratory
ACTION Heart tonic; treats arrhythmia, Bhra-jaka pitta; leucoderma, Heart tonic Rasa-yana; pitta, liver, kidneys Kapha in gastrointestinal
pain, hypertension psoriasis Soothes va-ta; nerve tonic Benefits skin, hair, bones tract
Clears cardiac congestion Clears cold from va-ta sites Soothes inflammation Haemostatic; uterine Clears a-ma and reduces
Liver tonic Diarrhoea from cold and pain bleeding kapha and va-ta
Benefits skin conditions and worms Tonic for muscles and Tonifies nervous system; Soothes inflamed
Heals tissues, stops bleeding Treats impotency from cold reproduction insomnia mucous membranes
Reduces cholesterol Treats painful back problems Benefits urinary problems Treats liver problems; Reduces colic and
Benefits asthma from high Heart muscle tonic cirrhosis intestinal pain
va-ta Benefits lungs Benefits rañjaka Prevents diarrhoea and
Treats back problems and bhra-jaka pitta dysentery
Increases the digestive fire
Stops bleeding in the
gastrointestinal tract
DOSE 1–15g 3–10g 1–15g 250 mg–5g/day 1–12g/day
CONTRAINDICATIONS None -
High pitta when taken alone Ama or congestion Cold conditions Constipation
Low body fluids with dryness Beta-blockers, MAOI, steroids,
UV therapy ephedrine-containing drugs
BIOMEDICAL ACTIONS Cardiac stimulant, Aromatic, anthelmintic, Analgesic, aphrodisiac, Alterative, antipyretic, Astringent, haemostatic,
astringent, haemostatic, antibacterial, antifungal, demulcent, diuretic, haemostatic, laxative, digestive, stomachic,
alterative diuretic, diaphoretic, nervine, rejuvenative, nervine, vulnerary antipyretic, febrifuge,
antidiarrhoeal, stimulant, tonic, vulnerary, antibillious, clears parasites
alterative neuralgic
Continued
331
Part THREE
Appendix 1 TABLES
332
TABLE A1.9 Tridosa-balancing herbs (Continued)
ENGLISH Coriander seed, leaf Isabgol-Psyllium seed, Indian Spikenard root Aloe vera juice and gel Costus root
SANSKRIT Dhanyāka Aśvakarn.a Jat. āmā m
. sı̄ Kumārı̄ Kus. t.ha, Kut.
LATIN Coriandrum sativum Plantago ovata Nardostachys jatamansi Aloe barbadensis Saussurea lappa
DOS.A VPK=, P< VPK= VPK=, V< P< Juice VPK=, P< (pwd = V ) VPK=, V in excess
GUN.A Dry Moist, heavy Light, penetrating Moist, heavy Dry
RASA Bitter, pungent Astringent, sweet Bitter, sweet, astringent Bitter, astringent, Pungent, bitter
pungent, sweet
VI-RYA COOLING COOL COOL COLD WARMING
-
VIPAKA Pungent Sweet Pungent Sweet Pungent
-
DHATU Rasa Rakta Ma-m.sa Rasa Ma-m.sa Rakta Majja- All All
SROTAS Digestive, respiratory, urinary Digestive, excretory Circulatory, nervous, Circulatory, female Circulatory, digestive,
digestive, respiratory, reproductive, digestive, respiratory
reproductive excretory, nervous
ACTION Clears pitta; allergenic, Clears a-ma; absorbs kapha Calms va-ta; insomnia, anxiety Clears pitta, benefits liver, Soothes va-ta spasms;
burning With buttermilk hot diarrhoea Cleans rakta; skin inflammation heals skin gastrointestinal tract, lungs,
Eyewash for conjunctivitis With warm milk for Reduces pain; muscular, Soothes inflammation; skin, mind
and kapha constipation nervous lungs, gastrointestinal tract Clears kapha congestion
Clears heat, bleeding Lubricates dry intestines Reduces dysmenorrhoea Uterine tonic, nourishes Moves apa-na and
Best for pitta tı-ks.n.a agni Heals ulcers Reduces high blood pressure śukra dha-tu sama-na
Diuretic; cold infusion of Benefits urinary Regulates gastrointestinal External; clears heat Blackens hair
seeds inflammation tract: bloating, colic and heals wounds Treats asthma
Expectorant Benefits the hair Benefits eye swellings Benefits arthritis and joints
Rejuvenates majja- dha-tu Juice is a mild laxative Benefits dysmenorrhoea
Whole leaf powder is a Treats skin, itching and
strong purgative redness in pitta
DOSE 1–15g 5–10g 1–5g Juice: 5–25ml 1–9g
Powder: 0.1–0.5g
CONTRAINDICATIONS None known Prolonged use lowers fertility Caution in pregnancy Pregnancy (whole leaf Dryness
Low digestive fire CITES listed powder) Va-ta dryness and pitta heat
Other medication Cold conditions CITES listed
BIOMEDICAL ACTIONS Alterative, antibilious, Demulcent, emollient, Antispasmodic, aromatic, Stomachic, purgative, Anthelmintic, astringent,
carminative, diaphoretic, laxative, diuretic diuretic, emmenagogue, emmenagogue, anthelmintic, antispasmodic, carminative,
diuretic, stomachic nervine, carminative refrigerant, vulnerary expectorant, diuretic,
alterative
Part THREE
TABLE A1.10 Ayurvedic weights and measures and
their metric equivalents (based on the magadha mana
of the Bhavaprakaśa Nighantu)
333
Appendix 1 TABLES
334
Appendix 2
TREATMENT GLOSSARY
The conditions are listed alphabetically with some Q Wet type: guggulu, triphala, punarnava, gok-
of the basic treatment principles listed after each shura, turmeric, dry ginger, frankincense, vacha,
condition. Relevant herbs follow. punarnavadi guggulu, gold water
Q Dry type: guggulu, trikat.u, castor oil, gand-
For dosage, restrictions and contraindications harva, haritaki, triphala, licorice, ashwagandha,
please refer to the relevant Plant Profiles. bala, yogaraja guggulu, mahanarayan oil
Q Hot type: guggulu, triphala, guduchi, sariva, aloe
ACIDITY
vera, manjishtha, kaiśor guggulu, castor oil
Reduce burning, clear heat, soothe inflammation,
reduce pitta ASTHMA
Reduce wheezing, phlegm and kapha, enhance
Q Licorice, amalaki, shatavari, mustaka, carda-
breathing, and calm vāta
mom, haritaki, psyllium, rhubarb root, rose,
peppermint, sandalwood
Acute
ACNE Q Sip 1¼2 tsp mahanarayan oil in licorice water
Reduce redness, swelling, pain, pus, clean rasa-
rakta dhatu Chronic
Q Wet type: pushkaramoola, vasa, anthrapachaka,
Q Neem, gotu kola, manjishtha, sariva, aloe vera pippali, mustard seeds, bibhitaki, cinnamon,
juice tulsi, ephedra
Q Apply aloe vera gel mixed with sandalwood Q Dry/nervous type: licorice, amalaki, bala, ash-
and turmeric essential oils wagandha, pippali, shatavari, hing
ALLERGIES Q Hot type: kutki, vasa, licorice, guduchi, bhumi-
amalaki, frankincense, sitopaladi
Stop reaction, reduce inflammation, itching, irrita-
tion and secretions ATHEROSCLEROSIS
Q Wet type: trikat.u, vasa, anthrapachaka, ephedra, Clear adhesions, obstructions and inflammation
nigella seeds Q Wet type from plaque: guggulu, pushkaramoola,
Q Nervous type: licorice, haritaki, nigella seeds, arjuna, bibhitaki, turmeric, ginger
jatamamsi, tagarah Q Dry type from tension: guggulu, tagarah, jata-
Q Heat type: coriander leaf, chrysanthemum, mamsi, brahmi, hemp seed oil
amalaki, pit shirisha, kalmegh, sandalwood Q Hot type from inflammation: guduchi, aloe
ARTHRITIS vera, neem, daruharidra
335
Q Tagarah, jatamamsi, mustaka, ashwagandha, Q Wet type: pippali, tulsi, pushkaramoola, cinna-
Appendix 2 TREATMENT GLOSSARY
dashmoola tea, yogaraja guggulu, kaiśor guggulu, mon, cloves, mustard seeds, dhattura, devadaru,
mahanarayan oil, ginger poultice (fresh grated honey
ginger mixed with a little warm water, wrapped Q Dry type: licorice, bala, shatavari, ajmoda,
in muslin and applied to area of pain with a hot dhattura, honey
water bottle placed on top) Q Hot type: sitopaladi, mahasudarshan, vasa, lico-
rice, neem, vamsa lochana
BLEEDING
Stop bleeding, increase circulation, calm pitta and CYSTITIS
rakta Reduce pain, incontinence, bleeding, clear pitta
Q External: apply turmeric, manjishtha, haritaki, Q Guduchi, coriander seed, neem, manjishtha,
bilva powders gokshura
Q Internal: manjishtha, rhubarb root, turmeric,
DANDRUFF
bilva, kushtha, safflower
Reduce dryness, nourish rasa-asthi dhātu, clear fun-
BREASTFEEDING gal infection
Nourish reproductive tissue, clean breast milk,
Q External: neem oil, bhringaraj oil
enhance flow
Q Internal: hemp seed oil
Q Shatavari, fennel, ajmoda, ajwain, turmeric,
DEPRESSION
bala, licorice, almonds, ghee all help to increase
the quantity and quality of milk Awaken mind, clear stagnation, regulate liver,
increase ojas
CHOLESTEROL
Q Damp type: vacha, turmeric, chitraka, ginger,
Increase medosdhātvgni, clear toxins, regulate
punarnava, gotu kola
bowels
Q Nervous type: tagarah, jatamamsi, brahmi, gotu
Q Guggulu, garlic, turmeric, fenugreek, shilajit, kola, tulsi, ashwagandha
trikat.u, triphala guggulu Q Hot type: guduchi, daruharidra, rhubarb root,
brahmi oil nose drops, shatavari
COLDS/FLU
Remove phlegm, reduce āma, reduce fever, induce DIABETES
sweating, clear bowels Regulate blood sugar, promote insulin, increase
circulation, protect nerves
Q Wet type: tulsi, pippali, cinnamon, dry ginger,
ephedra Q Gurmar, karavela, turmeric, black pepper,
Q Dry type: cardamom, cinnamon, fresh ginger, shilajit, punarnava, guduchi, kutki, copper
castor oil water
Q Hot type: sitopaladi, mahasudarshan, lemon-
DIARRHOEA
grass, vasa, kalmegh
Astringe the bowel, arrest bowel motions, correct
CONSTIPATION agni
Clear obstruction, relax the colon, stimulate peri-
Q Wet type: bilva, nutmeg, bibhitaki, psyllium,
stalsis
kutaj
Q Wet type: triphala, punarnava, vacha, pippali, Q Hot type: manjishtha, rhubarb root, shatavari,
senna amalaki, psyllium
Q Dry type: triphala, castor oil, haritaki, psyllium,
DIZZINESS
linseed, hemp seed
Q Hot type: rhubarb root, kutki, daruharidra, aloe Calm nervous system, regulate digestion, build
powder, aragvad blood
336
Q Digestive type: licorice, amalaki, shatavari, HEADACHES
Part THREE
ghee, sandalwood Clear pain, prevent spasms, clear muzzy head,
Q Blood type: shilajit, sariva, amalaki, cyavanapra-
reduce inflammation
sha, iron, ghee
Q Wet type: vacha, trikat.u, cinnamon, eucalyptus
EARACHE oil, camphor oil, guggulu
Reduce pain, calm vāta, clear infection Q Nervous type: tagarah, jatamamsi, nutmeg
Q Heat type: aloe vera, chrysanthemum, brahmi,
Q External: garlic oil, neem oil, hing, onion juice
bhringaraja
Q Internal: turmeric, garlic, neem, vacha
EYES HEART
Tonify heart muscle, regulate rhythm, clear conges-
Reduce eyelid inflammation, dryness, clear pitta,
tion
regulate the liver
Q Congestive type: guggulu, arjuna, turmeric,
Q External: rose water drops, castor oil drops,
frankincense, bibhitaki, punarnava, gold water,
triphala wash
amalaki
Q Internal: guduchi, shatavari, daruharidra, chry-
Q Arrhythmic-deficient type: tagarah, jatamamsi,
santhemum, aloe vera
pushkaramoola, arjuna, ashwagandha, bala,
FLATULENCE cyavanaprasha
Reduce bloating, clear gas, increase agni, regulate Q Inflammatory type: aloe vera juice, arjuna,
apana vayu neem, sariva, amalaki
337
Q Obstructive type: guggulu, arjuna, frankincense, OBESITY
Appendix 2 TREATMENT GLOSSARY
INDIGESTION OEDEMA
Strengthen agni, reduce accumulations Clear water retention, reduce swelling and kapha
Q Wet type: trikat.u, fenugreek, cinnamon, chitraka Q Punarnava, coriander, turmeric, gokshura
Q Nervous type: fresh ginger, tagarah, fennel, nut-
OSTEOPOROSIS
meg, cardamom, chitraka
Q Hot type: coriander, pomegranate seeds, lemon- Strengthen the bones, nourish asthi dhātu
grass Q Ashwagandha, bala, vidari kandha, guggulu,
INSOMNIA almonds
338
TIREDNESS Q Aloe vera juice with turmeric, licorice, shatavari,
Part THREE
Reduce stagnation, strengthen deficiency vidari kandha, amalaki, jatamamsi, brahmi
339
Appendix 3
GLOSSARY OF TERMS
Acute disease Any disease with a sudden onset, intense Aperient A mild laxative.
symptoms and brief duration.
Aphrodisiac An agent that tonifies the reproductive
Agni The digestive fire with the function of regulating system.
digestion, absorption and assimilation.
Aromatic A fragrant herb, containing essential oil, that
-
Aha-ra rasa The food essence created after agni tonifies digestion and reduces flatulence.
transforms food into an absorbable form. It nourishes -
A rtava The menstrual channel, tissue and ova.
all the tissues.
.
As.t.a-ngahr. a-daya Sam -
. hita The Eight-Limbed Heart Sutra
Allopathic System of medicine that uses treatments
written by Vagbhata c.600CE; a collated work on the
that oppose the pathology, i.e. anti-inflammatories to
essence of Ayurveda.
treat inflammation. Also refers to modern scientific
medicine. Asthi dha-tu Bone tissue, giving support to the body.
-
Alocaka pitta The aspect of pitta residing in the eyes. It Astringent An agent that causes cell contraction, used to
assimilates visual impressions. dry discharges and reduce leakages. Astringent herbs
are usually tannin-rich.
Alterative A herb that alters the chemical state of the
blood; blood cleanser. Avalambaka kapha The aspect of kapha that resides in
the heart and lungs, supports ojas and is connected
Āma Undigested food, herbs or experiences that create
with immunity.
disease-forming toxins.
Ayurveda The traditional medical system of India,
Āma-śaya The stomach.
meaning the ‘science of life’.
Amenorrhoea Absence of menstruation.
Bhasma An alchemical tonic compound usually made
Anabolic Describes an agent involved in the building from metal or gems.
phase of metabolism.
Bha-vapra-ka-śa Written by Bhavamishra around 1596CE.
Analgesic A pain-relieving agent. The most important ayurvedic materia medica treatise,
listing the energetics of herbs and foods.
Anthelmintic An agent that kills parasitic worms.
Bhra-jaka pitta The aspect of pitta that resides in the skin
Antibiotic An agent that kills bacteria.
and gives awareness of touch, skin colour and lustre.
Antipruritic An agent that stops itching.
Bhu-ta-gni The aspect of agni that resides in the liver and
Antipyretic An agent that reduces fever. is responsible for transforming the elements of earth,
water, fire, air and space.
Antispasmodic An agent that relieves muscular spasms
and contraction. Bodhaka kapha An aspect of kapha that resides in the
tongue and mouth that facilitates taste and digestion.
Apa-na va-yu The aspect of vata responsible for moving
downwards and eliminating stool, flatus, urine, menses Borborygmus Rumbling sounds from the intestines
and the foetus. caused by movements of fluid and gas.
341
Cakra An energy centre linking the physical and astral to avoid burning the bottom of the pan. The ghee is
Appendix 3 GLOSSARY OF TERMS
realms. Also related with the plexuses from which ready when the liquid is clear. Store in an airtight
nerve fibres spread throughout the body. container.
Caraka The author considered to have expounded the Gun. a The three subtle qualities of nature: sattva, rajas
Caraka Samhita, the oldest extant Ayurvedic text written and tamas. Also the 20 attributes that describe the
between 150BC and 100CE. different qualities of matter in Ayurveda.
Carminative An agent that relieves gas, spasms and Haematemesis Vomiting of blood.
helps digestion.
Haemostatic An agent that stops bleeding.
Catabolic Describes the destructive phase of metabolism.
Hanuman The monkey god, loyal to Lord Rama. He is
Cathartic A strong laxative that causes a complete the symbol of fearlessness and loyalty. He brought the
flushing of the bowel. mountain of healing herbs, Ritigala, from India to Sri
Lanka.
Chronic disease A disease with gradual onset, long-term
symptoms and gradual changes. Homoeopathic System of medicine that uses remedies
that are similar to the symptoms, i.e. it uses
Demulcent A soft and mucilaginous agent that protects
homoeopathic doses of coffee to treat insomnia.
the mucous membranes.
Horripilation When the body hairs stand on end.
Dhanvantri The Lord of Ayurveda.
Hr. daya The heart.
Dha-tu One of the seven tissues that give structure and
support to the whole body. Hypolipidaemic An agent that reduces blood lipids.
Dha-tu-agni (also written correctly as dha-tvagni) The Jat.hara-gni The digestive fire which lives in the stomach
digestive fire that exists in the tissue membranes and is and duodenum. It transforms food into food essence
responsible for digesting the unstable portion of the (dhara rasa).
dhatu into the stable portion. It also separates the waste
Kalaa The membrane housing the dhatu agni of each
products, secondary tissue and unstable portion of the
tissue.
next tissue in the nutritive hierarchy (Chapter 2) from
the stable portion. Kapha One of the three dosas with qualities of earth and
water. It is heavy, wet and cold, lives in the stomach
Diaphoretic An agent that causes sweating.
and is responsible for nourishing the mucous
Diuretic An agent that facilitates and increases urination. membranes, bones, joints, heart and memory. It
lubricates the organs and joints and binds the whole
Dos.a One of the three humours, called vata, pitta and
body together. When healthy, it creates love and
kapha. When balanced they are responsible for good
compassion; when destabilised, it creates phlegm,
health, but when imbalanced they act as ‘faults’ and
excess weight, lung problems, greed and attachment.
can cause illness.
Kledaka kapha The form of kapha that resides in the
Dysmenorrhoea Painful menses.
stomach and nourishes the mucous membranes
Emetic An agent that induces vomiting. throughout the body. It is responsible for liquefying
food and protecting the stomach wall from corrosive
Emmenagogue An agent that encourages menstruation
digestive acid.
and the circulation of blood in the uterus.
Ks.aya A deficient state of the dosa or dhatu.
Expectorant An agent that encourages coughing and
clearing phlegm from the lungs. Laxative An agent that causes a mild bowel motion.
Febrifuge An agent that reduces fever. Lithotriptic An agent that can dissolve gall-, kidney and
bladder stones.
Ghee Clarified butter. To make ghee take 500g unsalted
butter and simmer on a low heat for 20–30 minutes Majja- dha-tu Nervous tissue and bone marrow, giving
until the liquid is clear. A foam will rise to the top and nourishment to the nervous system and unctuousness
the solid particles will sink to the bottom. Be careful to the nerves.
342
Ma-m -
. sa dhatu Muscle tissue, giving strength and binding Prakopa The second stage of the disease process, which
Part THREE
the body together. irritates and aggravates organs in the body. The term
dosa prakopa is commonly used to indicate an imbalance
Manas prakr. ti The mental constitution regulated by
in the humours.
sattva, rajas and tamas.
Prakr. ti The manifest aspect of reality that is expressed in
Manda-gni A slow and deficient digestive fire,
matter, nature and creation. Also used to describe the
characteristic of kapha disorders.
individual constitution and inherent nature of every
Materia medica The materials of medicine. The study of person.
the drugs or substances that are used to treat disease.
Pra-n
. a The subtle essence of the life force. It travels on
Commonly used to refer to books that are collections of
the breath and is absorbed from the air, food and
herbal materials.
nature. It is responsible for vitality and cellular
Medas-dha-tu (also written correctly as medodha-tu) Fat communication. It is the link between the body and the
tissue, which protects the organs and other tissues and mind. The ultimate result of perfectly digesting vata
lubricates the body. foods and experiences.
Prabha-va The unique action of a plant above and Rejuvenative A substance that tonifies and nourishes the
beyond its energetic qualities. whole system.
vitality throughout the universe. The natural and perfect digestion of all pitta-natured foods, which gives
balancing opposite to Shiva. consciousness and clarity to the mind.
Sampra-pti The pathology of a disease. Uda-na va-yu The quality of vata that resides in the throat
and upward movements, regulates speech and
Sara Denotes tissues of a high quality.
exhalation.
Sattva The quality of nature reflected in compassion,
Vasodilator An agent that encourages the relaxation of
light and intelligence.
blood vessels.
Sedative A substance that tranquillises the function of
Va-ta The humour made from space and air elements.
the nervous system.
It is light, dry and cold and resides in the large
Shiva Meaning the ‘auspicious one’, Shiva is one of the intestine. It is responsible for all movement in the
main Hindu deities and represents the energy of nervous system, muscles, heart and mind. When out of
destruction and transformation. balance it creates bloating, erratic digestion,
Śles.aka kapha The aspect of kapha that lubricates and constipation and anxiety; when in balance it creates
protects the joints. inspirational creativity and flexibility.
Srota-m
. si The channels that carry nutrients, prana, tissues
Vikr. ti The current state of a person’s health or the
and wastes around the body. They interlink the body as present state of imbalance, as opposed to the prakrti,
a network of tubes. Srotam which is the life-long constitution.
. si is plural – ’channels’ – and
srotas is singular – ’channel’. Vipa-ka The post-digestive energetic effect of the tastes.
Stimulant Increases metabolism, circulation and the
V×-rya The energetics of a herb: hot or cold.
function of an organ.
Vis.ama-gni The nature of the digestive fire when it is
Śukra dha-tu The reproductive system relating to sexual
erratic; sometimes digesting well and at others not
function; sperm in men, ova in women.
digesting efficiently. Common in vata disorders.
Suppuration The formation of pus or fluid leaking from
Vitiate To disturb the function or structure of a dos.a,
a wound.
dhatu or mala.
Suśruta Sam -
. hita A detailed surgical text written c.100–
Vr. ddhi A condition of excess in the humours, tissues or
500CE by the great Suśruta.
wastes.
Svastha Health.
Vulnerary Helps the healing of wounds.
Tamas The quality of nature that reflects dullness, inertia
and darkness. Vya-na va-yu The quality of vata that is responsible for
spreading outwards. It regulates the circulation, nervous
Tantra A spiritual path for deifying the body, utilising all system and all joint movements.
the senses. Successfully practised, this results in being
carried across to the other side of existence, the shores Yoga The practice of unifying the mind and body, self
of liberation. and cosmic self. Commonly practised as postures,
breathing techniques and meditation practices to
Tarpaka kapha The aspect of kapha that lubricates and harmonise the health of the body and mind.
nourishes the brain. Responsible for memory retention.
344
Appendix 4
RESOURCES
If you have any queries regarding this book please Planetary Formulas: Global formulas from Michael
contact me at sebastian@pukkaherbs.com and I Tierra
will be happy to answer any questions that you Tel: 1 800 606 6226
have. Information about my herbal practice is at
Blue Sky Clinic: 01225 835068. Herbalist and Alchemist: High-quality herbs
Tel: 1 908 689 9020
AYURVEDIC COLLEGES AND RESEARCH CENTRES German-Indian Society for Ayurveda e.V.
Fliederweg 12, D-21255 Kakenstorf, Germany
For high quality training contact: Tel: 49 (0)4182 287347
Email: diav@amla.de
USA
American Institute of Vedic Studies
Dr Frawley
Post Box: 8357 Santa Fe, NM 87504, USA
Website: www.vedanet.com
346
AUSTRALASIA YOGA CENTRES
Part THREE
Australasian Institution of Ayurvedic Studies in
Satyananda School of Yoga-UK
New Zealand
Yoga in the tradition of yoga.
Post Box: 23047, Papatoetoe, Auckland, New
Tel: 44 (0)20 8673 4869
Zealand
Tel: 64 9 2793591
Email: courses@shreeayurveda.co.nz USEFUL WEBSITES
ENVIRONMENTAL SITES
Ayurveda College
The Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew: www.rbgkew.
Post Box: 322, Casino, NSW 2470, Australia
org.uk
Tel: 11 612 66671221
United Plant Savers: www.unitedplantsavers.org
Email: ayurveda@nor.com.au
Convention on International Trade in Endangered
Species of Wild Fauna and Flora: www.cites.org
Australian College of Ayurvedic Medicine
www.trafficint.org
19 Bowey Avenue, Enfield, SA 5085, Australia
Tel/Fax: 11 618 83497303
AYURVEDIC SITES
Email: suchi-karma@picknowl.com.au
Herbal Ayurveda: www.herbalayurveda.com
Pukka Herbs: www.pukkaherbs.com
INDIA Banyan Botanicals: www.banyanbotanicals.com
Central Council for Research in Ayurveda
The Ayurvedic Institute: www.ayurveda.com
& Siddha
European Institute of Vedic Studies: www.atreya.com
Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Government
Ayurvedic Nutrition: www.ayurvedicnutrition.com
of India, Jawaharlal Nehru Bhartiya Chikitsa Avum
Homeopathy Anusandhan Bhawan, No 61–65
My favourites for all herb research
Industrial Area, Opp. ‘D’ Block, Janakpuri, New
Planet Herbs: www.planetherbs.com
Delhi 110058, India
Michael Tierra’s site. First-class information on
Western herbalism, Ayurveda and traditional
Institute of Postgraduate Education & Research
Chinese medicine. My teacher and a true pioneer
in Ayurveda
of energetic herbalism.
294/3/1 Acharya Prafulla Chandra Road, Calcutta,
West Bengal, India
The Virtual Herbal: www.christopherhobbs.com
Tel: 91 33 350 4159
This is the work of a prolific writer and master
herbalist. Great reviews on medicinal mushrooms.
International Academy of Ayurveda
Runs great short courses on Ayurveda.
One Earth Herbs: www.oneearthherbs.com
NandNandan, Atreya Rugnalaya, M.Y. Lele
Alan Tillotson’s site. The words of a great herbal-
Chowk, Erandawana, Pune: 411 004, India
ist. Lots of information on Ayurveda, TCM and
Tel: 91 212 378532
Western herbs. Very detailed knowledge of oph-
Email: avilele@hotmail.com
thalmology.
Benaras Hindu University
Henriette’s Herbal Homepage: www.ibiblio.org/
Faculty of Ayurveda, Institute of Medical Science,
herbmed
Varanasi-221005, India
Henriette Kreis’ website dedicated to herbal infor-
mation. Priceless. Fantastic source of herbal infor-
Tilak Ayurved Mahavidyalaya
mation, including original herbal pharmacopoeias
583/2, Raste Peth, Pune, Maharastra, India
and King’s Dispensatory.
Kottakkal Arya Vaidya Sala
Arya Vaidya Sala, Kottakkal, Kerala, India 676 503
Tel: 91 493 742216 Fax: 91 493 742210
Website: www.aryavaidyasala.com
347
Southwest School of Botanical Medicine: www.swsbm. The National Library of Medicine: www.ncbi.nlm.nih.
Appendix 4 RESOURCES
com gov/entrez
Michael Moore’s site. Full of herbal gems and early Rocky Mountain Herbal Institute: www.rmhiherbal.org
pharmacopoeias. The TCM Herbal Database from The Rocky
Mountain Herbal Institute. Great knowledge on
Herbological: www.herbological.com Chinese herbs.
Jonathan Treasure’s site. Great information on
drug–herb interactions and articles on various Botanical: www.botanical.com/botanical/mgmh/
herbal topics. mgmh.html
A Modern Herbal (M Grieve, 1931): the great
The Phytochemistry of Herbs: www.herbalchem.net herbal tome.
In-depth information on phytochemistry.
Ediblewild: www.ediblewild.com
Dr Duke’s Phytochemical and Ethnobotanical The name says it all!
Databases: www.ars-grin.gov/duke
James Duke’s magnificent databases on phyto-
chemistry and ethnobotany.
348
Appendix 5
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herbal compendium. BHMA
Ayurveda Today 1989–2003 The Ayurvedic
Institute Chen J, Chen T 2004 Chinese medical herbology
and pharmacology. Art of Medicine Press
Bartram T 1995 Encyclopedia of herbal medicine.
Grace Publishers Dash B 1978 Fundamentals of Ayurvedic medicine.
Konark Publishers
Bensky D, Gamble A 1993 Chinese herbal medi-
cine: materia medica. Eastland Press Dash B 1986 Alchemy and metallic medicines in
Ayurveda. Concept Publishing
Bernard T 1950 Hatha Yoga. Rider
Dash B 1991 Materia medica of Ayurveda. Jain
Bhishagratna K 1996 Suśruta Samhita.
Publishers
Chaukhamba Press
Dash B 1993 Concept of agni in Ayurveda with
Bloomfield MM, Stephens LJ 1996 Chemistry and
special reference to agnibala pariksha.
the living organism. John Wiley
Chaukhamba Amarabharati Prakashan
Blumenthal M 1998 The complete German
Dash B, Junius M 1983 A handbook of Ayurveda.
Commission E monographs: therapeutic
Naurang Rai
guide to herbal medicines. American Botanical
Council Dash B, Sharma R 1996 Caraka Samhita.
Chaukhamba Press
Bone K 1996 Clinical applications of Ayurvedic
and Chinese herbs. Phytotherapy Press Duke J 2004 Phytochemical database. Online.
Available: www.ars-grin.gov/duke
Bone K 2003 A clinical guide to blending liquid
herbs. Churchill Livingstone Dwarkanath C 1996 Introduction to Kayachikitsa.
Chaukhambha Press
Bown D 1995 The encyclopedia of herbs and their
uses. Dorling Kindersley Dwarkanath C 1997 Digestion and metabolism in
Ayurveda. Krishnadas Academy
Braun L, Cohen M 2003 Drug–herb interaction
guide. Journal of Complementary Medicine Nov– Eliade M 1958 Yoga: immortality and freedom.
Dec:78–86 Princeton University Press
Braun L, Cohen M 2004 Complementary medicine Frawley D 1988 Ayurvedic healing and vedic sci-
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Frawley D 1989 Ayurvedic healing. Motilal
Brinker F 1998 Herbal contraindications and drug Banarsidas
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Frawley D, Lad V 1994 The Yoga of herbs: an
British Herbal Medicine Association 1983 British Ayurvedic guide to herbal medicine. Lotus Press
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Murthy S 1995 Sarngadhara Samhita. Chaukhamba Svoboda R, Lade A 1995 Tao and Dharma. Lotus
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Orientalia Press
Murthy S 2001 Bhavaprakaśa of Bhavamiśra. Swami Prakashananda Ayurveda Research Centre
Krishnadas Academy 1992 Selected medicinal plants of India
Nadkarni A 1954 Indian materia medica. Popular Tierra M 1992 Planetary herbology. Lotus Press
Prakashan
Tillotson A 2001 The one earth herbal sourcebook.
Namjoshi A et al 1978 The ayurvedic formulary of Twin Streams
India. Government of India Press
Tirtha S 1998 The Ayurveda encyclopedia.
O’Flaherty W 1991 The Rig Veda: an anthology. Ayurvedic Centre Holistic Press
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Tisserand R, Balacs T 2000 Essential oil safety.
Ojha J 2003 Chywanaprash: from Vedic to genomic Churchill Livingstone
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Tobyn G 1997 Culpeper’s medicine: a practice of
Pandet G 2002 Dravyaguna vijñana, 2nd edn. holistic medicine. Element
Krishnadas Academy
Trease GE, Evans WC 2002 Pharmacognosy.
Paranjpe P 2001 Indian medicinal plants: forgotten Harcourt
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Paranjpe P 2003 Ayurvedic medicine, the living herbs. Online. Available: www.herbological.com/
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tions. Chaukhamba Sanskrit Pratishthan
Upadhyaya S 1986 Nadi vijñana: ancient pulse sci-
Paranjpe P, Dole V 2004 A textbook of rasashastra. ence. Chaukhamba Sanskrit Pratishthan
Chaukhamba Sanskrit Pratishthan
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Radhakrishnan S, Moore C 1957 A sourcebook of Indian medicinal plants: a compendium of 500
Indian philosophy. Princeton University Press species. Orient Longman
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Saraswati S 1985 Hatha Yoga Pradipika: light on
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Savnur H 1950 Ayurvedic materia medica. Shri
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Sexena N 1995 Yogaratnakara. Chaukhambha
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meats: an ecological theme in Hindu medicine.
Sharma P 1998 Cakradatta: a treatise on the princi-
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Chaukhamba Publishers Zysk K 1991 Asceticism and healing in ancient
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Svoboda R 1988 Prakruti: your ayurvedic constitu-
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Zysk K 1996 Medicine in the Veda. Motilal
Svoboda R 1992 Ayurveda: life, health and longev-
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ity. Penguin/Arkana
351
Appendix 6
353
Elettaria cardamomum–Fructus Nigella sativa–Semen Saussurea lappa–Radix
Appendix 6 INDEX OF PLANT NAMES
354
SANSKRIT Da- d. ima 242 Kapikacchu 206
Part THREE
Abhaya- 194 Daindhava 231 Kapitthapar.n.ı- 179
Agni 156 Damanaka 169 Ka-ravella 207
Agnivardhana 122 Da- ru-haridra- 170 Ka-sa-ri 248
- -
A ja-moda 120 Da-ru-sita- 160 Kat.uka 215
Amalakı- 126 Devada- ru 171 Keśa-ra-ja 141
Amla-vetasa 250 Deva-dhu-pa 191 Kira-ta-tikta 155
.
Amr. ta- 189 Dhanya-ka 165 Konkanadhu-pa 179
Ananta-mu-la 264 Dha- trı- 126 Kr.s.n.a-Jı-raka 209
Antra-pa- caka 128 Dhattu-ra 172 Kuma-rı- 124
Arag-vadha 129 .
Divya- 280 Kunkuma 258
-
A rdraka 183
Ela- 151 Kus. t.ha 211
Arjuna 130 Kusumbha 256
Eran.d. a 153
Aśoka 132 Kutaja 213
Ghusr. n.a 258 .
Aśva-gandha 133 Laśuna 181
Goks.ura 185
Aśva-karn.a-bija 244
- Gud.u-cı- 189 Lavan.a 260
A tmagupta- 206 .
Guggulu 191 Lavanga 162
Audbhijja 260
Haridra- 282 Mada-śaun.d.a 235
Bakuci 135
Harı-takı- 194 Madhurika- 175
Bala- 137 .
Hingu 197 Madhu-vina-śinı- 193
Bhalla-taka 139
. Jambira 217 Maha-tikta 202
Bhr.ngraja 141
Jat.a--ma-m.sı- 200 Ma-kandı- 164
Bhu-myamalakı- 143
Ja-tı- 199 Man.d.uka-par.n.ı- 187
Bhu--nimba 155
Ja-tı--phala 235 Man- jis. t.ha 224
Bhu-nimba 202
Jı-raka 167 Marı-ca 237
Bhu-ta-jat.a- 200
Jvala 156 Ma-rkan.d. ika 268
Bhu--tr. n.a 219 .
Kakubha 130 Mesa-śr.ngt 193
Bibhı-takı- 145
Ka-la-ja-jı- 209 Met.hika- 177
Bilva 147
Ka-lamegha kira-ta 202 Musalı- 254
Bola 231
- Ka-lika- 209 Musta 228
Brahmı 149
Kamala 222 Mustaka 228
Cakra-laksana 189
Ka-ñchana-ra 204 Na-ga-damanı- 169
Candana (Śveta) 262
.
Kankus. t.ha 250 Nimba 233
Citraka 156
355
Nimbu-ka 217 Tagara 275 Asafoetida 197
Appendix 6 INDEX OF PLANT NAMES
356
Chita 156 Gundandi 158 Jira 167
Part THREE
Chrysanthemum 158 Gurmar 193 Kalimirch 237
Cilantro 165 Haldi 282 Kalonji 207
Cinnamon 160 Hara 194 Kanchanara 204
Cloves 162 Harde 194 Kapikacchu 206
Coleus 164 Hemp seed 196 Karella 207
Coriander 165 Herpestis 149 Kesar 258
Costus root 211 Himalayan cedar wood 171 King of bitters 202
Cowhage 206 Hingu 197 Kirat 155
Cumin seed 167 Holy basil 280 Kula Kudi 187
Dalchini 160 Horsemint 226 Kureya 213
Daruhaldi 170 Indian bedellium 191 Kutaj 213
Darvi 170 Indian berberry 170 Kutki 215
Datura 172 Indian chrysanthemum 158 Lasuna 181
Davana 169 Indian country mallow 137 Lavang 162
Deodar 171 Indian elecampane 248 Lemon 217
Devil’s dung 197 Indian ginseng 133 Lemongrass 219
Dhaniya 165 Indian gooseberry 126 Licorice 220
Eclipta 141 Indian hogweed 246 Lime 217
Elaichi 151 Indian ipecac 128 Long pepper 239
Embelia 290 Indian madder 224 Lotus 222
Ephedra 173 Indian myrrh 191 Love-in-the-mist 207
Fennel 175 Indian oil–banum 179 Maka 141
Fenugreek 177 Indian pennywort 187 Malabar nut 288
Frankincense 179 Indian sarsaparilla 264 Manjith 224
Gadhapurana 246 Indian snake root 266 Margosa 233
Garlic 181 Indian spikenard 200 Marking nut 139
Giloy 189 Indian valerian 275 Methi 177
Ginger 183 Isabgol 244 Mineral pitch 273
Gokhru 185 Isaphgul 244 Mint 226
Gotu kola 187 Jaiphal 235 Motha 228
Guduchi 189 Jalabrahmi 149 Mountain ebony 204
Guggulu 191 Jasmine 199 Mugwort 169
Gulab 252 Jethimadh 220 Musi 254
357
Mustard seed 230 Rauwolfia 266 Sweet flag 284
Appendix 6 INDEX OF PLANT NAMES
Puncture vine fruit 185 Sounf 175 White thorn apple 172
358
Appendix 7
Diacritical marks have been used only to show both long and short vowels; glottal, palatal, lin-
the correct pronunciation of the Sanskrit words. gual, dental and labial stops, all of which can be
They have not been done according to convention, aspirated, unaspirated, voiced or unvoiced. The
i.e. compound words have not been broken table lists the primary sounds according to where
according to convention and the rules on sandhi they are pronounced in the throat and mouth;
(word-junctions within the compounds) have not whether they are voiced, unvoiced, aspirated and
been systematically observed. In this respect trans- unaspirated in the relative combinations; and length
literations should not be copied from this work, or of the vowels (short or long). The table (A7.1) is to
be used for any other purpose other than learning be read both down and across, i.e. ‘ka’ is a glottal
the correct pronunciation of the word. stop, pronounced in the throat, and is unvoiced
and unaspirated; ‘bha’ is a labial stop, pronounced
The following list gives readers an indication of at the lips, and is both voiced and aspirated.
correct pronunciation of Sanskrit, which contains
359
Appendix 7 A NOTE ON THE TRANSLITERATION AND PRONUNCIATION OF THE SOUNDS
360
INDEX
361
INDEX
362
Bola (myrrh), 231–2 light quality, 69 Cinnamomum zeylanicum/cassia
INDEX
Bone disorders Carriers, herbal (anupana), 73 (cinnamon, cassia, dalchini),
guggulu, 192 Cartharmus tinctorius (safflower), 93, 160–1
kanchanara, 204 256–7 vata-reducing, 325
shilajit, 273 Carum compticum/roxburghianum/ Cinnamon (Cinnamomum zeylanicum/
tila, 277 ajowan (ajwain), 122–3 cassia), 93, 160–1
Bone tissue (asthi dhatu), 40 Cassia (Cinnamomum zeylanicum/ vata-reducing, 325
Boswellia serrata (frankincense, cassia), 160–1 Circulatory problems
Indian olibanum, salai Cassia angustifolia (senna), 268 arjuna, 130
guggul), 65, 179–80 Cassia fistula (aragvadha, aragwad, black pepper, 237
Brahmi (Bacopa monniera), 4, 26, 149– purging cassia), 102, 129 cinnamon, 160
50 Caste system, 8 ephedra, 173
actions, 75 Castor oil (Ricinus communis), 76, guggulu, 191
fresh juice, 70 153–4 pippali, 239
Brahmi ghr. ta, 313 purgation, 102 turmeric, 282
Brahmi taila, 314 vata-reducing, 324 Citraka (chitraka), 156–7
Brain Caya (accumulation), 56 Citrus limonum/acida (lemon, lime,
brahmi treatment, 149 Cedar wood, Himalayan (Cedrus bara nimbu, nimbu), 217–18
gotu kola treatment, 187 deodara), 171 Cleansing, autumn, 54
manjishtha treatment, 225 Cedrus deodara (devadaru, Clove (Syzygium aromaticum), 75,
shankapushpi treatment, 269 Himalayan cedar wood, 162–3
vacha treatment, 284 deodar), 171 actions, 76, 77
see also mental conditions; mind Celery seed (Apium graveolens), 120–1 Codes of conduct for herb growing,
(manas) Centella asiatica see Hydrocotyle 81
Brassica nigra/juncea (mustard seed), asiatica Codification of Ayurveda, 7, 8, 9
230 Central Council for Ayurveda, 11 Cold (śita), 67
Breastfeeding see lactation Certification of herbal medicines, 79 ginger treatment, 183
Brihami (Bacopa monniera) fresh juice, Challenges to ayurvedic community, Colds
70 11, 12 mint, 226
Brmhana (tonification), 102 Channels (srotamsi), 41–2 treatment, 336
Buddhi, 17 Cherry, winter (ashwagandha), Coleus (Coleus forskohlii), 164
Buddhism influences, 8 133–4 Coleus forskohlii (coleus), 164
vata-reducing, 324 Collection of herbs, 78–81
Chest conditions general standards, 80–1
C chitraka, 156 guidelines, 77
Cakra-laksana (guduchi), 189–90 sandalwood, 262 wild collection, 79
Calamus root (Acorus calamus), 284–5 see also lung conditions Wild Collection Plant
vata-reducing, 325 Chiretta (Swertia chirata), 155 Monographs, 78
Caltrops (Tribulus terrestris), 185–6 pitta-reducing, 326 see also harvesting of herbs
Cancer Chita/chitraka (Plumbago Colleges, ayurvedic, 11
ashwagandha, 133 zeylanicum), 156–7 Commiphora mukul (guggulu, Indian
guduchi, 189 actions, 74, 75 bedellium, Indian myrrh,
guggulu, 192 kapha-reducing, 328 guggul), 4, 27, 71–2, 103,
kaiśor guggulu, 306 Cholesterol treatment, 336 191–2
kañcanara guggulu, 307 fenugreek, 177 actions, 75, 76
rhubarb, 250–1 frankincense, 179 astringent taste, 66
shatavari, 272 guggulu, 191 bitter taste, 65
turmeric, 282 haritaki, 194 kapha-reducing, 329
see also tumours pill giving the glow of the moon pills, 304–11
Candana (sandalwood), 262–3 (candraprabha vati), 316 śamana herbal therapy, 103
Candraprabha vati (pill giving the psyllium, 244 Commiphora myrrha/molmol (myrrh,
glow of the moon), 315–16 rhubarb, 250 bdellium gum, bol), 231–2
Cannabis indica (hemp, bhang ke trikat.u, 303 actions, 74
beej, ganja), 196 triphala, 304 kapha-reducing, 328
actions, 77 trivrut, 279 Conception, 113
Caper, three-leafed (Crataeva turmeric, 282 Consciousness evolution, 16–18
nurvala), 287 Chrysanthemum (Chrysanthemum Conservation challenges to
Caraka Samhita, 9–10, 12–13 indica/morifolium), 158–9 ayurvedic community, 12
plant actions, 73 Chrysanthemum indica/morifolium Constipation treatment, 336
post-digestive effect, 68 (chrysanthemum, gundandi), Constitution, combinations, 34
Cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum), 158–9 Convalescence, cyavanapraśa, 296
25, 65, 151–2 Cikitsa (ayurvedic treatment), 87 Convention on International Trade in
actions, 75 Cilantro (Coriandrum sativum), Endangered Species of Wild
kapha-reducing, 328 165–6 Fauna and Flora (CITES), 77, 78
363
Coriander (Coriandrum sativum), 75, Daśavidha pariksa (tenfold inappropriate, 56
INDEX
364
mint, 226 accumulation, 57 Endocrine system, 112–13
INDEX
mustaka, 228 aggravation, 57 Enemas (anuvasana and niraha), 102
mustard seed, 230 reduction, 49 Energy levels, 32
nutmeg, 235 balance, 33 Enumeration (samkhya), 16
pippali, 239 characteristics, 27–32, 33, 34 Enzymes, 112
pomegranate, 242 clearance from system, 47 Ephedra (Ephedra sinensis/gerardiana),
psyllium, 244 daily cycle, 49 173–4
punarnava, 246 definition, 23 Ephedra sinensis/gerardiana (ephedra),
pushkaramoola, 248 derangement, 96 173–4
rhubarb, 250 excess, 33, 96 Ephedra vulgaris (somalata)
rose, 252 imbalance, 56 actions, 76
safed musali, 254 meanings, 41 UK law, 81
salt, 260 post-digestive effects of tastes, 68 Equal–opposite principle (samanya–
sandalwood, 262 relocation, 57 vaiśesika), 93
sariva, 264 seasonal fluctuations, 47 Eranda (castor oil), 153–4
senna, 268 spreading, 57 Essences of nature, 23–4
shankhapushpi, 269 three, 24–7 deficiency signs, 96
shatavari, 271 treatment, 95–9 Ether (akaśa), 18–19, 24, 112
tagarah, 275 Dravya karma (plant actions), 73–7 Evidence-based medicine, 5
tila, 277 Dravyas (substances) classification, Evolution, 15–16
trikat.u, 303 13 Evolvulus alsinoides (shankhapushpi),
triphala, 303–4 Drk pariksa (eye assessment), 91 269–70
triphala guggulu, 309 Drsti (sight), 28 Excess vs deficiency balance, 92–3
trivrut, 279 Drug–herb interactions, 82 Exercise (vyayama), 48, 105
tulasi, 280 Dryness (ruksa), 69 Expression of unique characteristics
turmeric, 282 Duality theory, 9 of disease (bheda), 57–8
vacha, 284 Dysmenorrhoea case study, 109 External therapies
varuna, 287 brahmi, 149
vidanga, 290 damanaka, 169
Dinacarya (seasonal daily regimes, E fenugreek, 178
daily activities), 47–9 Ears garlic, 182
Dipana (enkindling the digestive earache treatment, 337 jasmine, 199
fire), 103 tinnitus treatment, 339 lemongrass, 219
Disease Earth (prthví), 19, 112 saffron, 258
aetiology (roga karana), 56 Eating (ahara), 49 turmeric, 283
aetiology/causation (nidana), 93, Ebony, mountain (Bauhinia variegata), Extracts, alkaline (ksara, guduchi
94 204–5 sattva), 72
causes, 55 Eclipta alba (bhringarja, eclipta, Eye assessment (drk pariksa), 91
expression of unique bhangra, maka), 141–2 Eye conditions
characteristics, 57–8 herbal paste, 70 aloe vera, 125
manifestation, 57 tridos. a-balancing, 331 castor oil, 153
pathogenesis (samprapti), 93, 95 Eightfold examinations chrysanthemum, 158
pattern, 93–5 (astasthanapariksa), 87–92 coleus, 164
process, 93–5 Ela (cardamom), 151–2 haritaki, 194
prodromal symptoms (purvarupa), Elaichi (Elettaria cardamomum), 151–2 treatment, 337
93, 94 Elecampane, Indian (Inula racemosa), triphala, 304
six stages (samprapti), 56–8 248–9
symptomology (rupa), 93, 94 Elettaria cardamomum (cardamom,
treatment (vyadhi), 101 elaichi), 25, 65, 151–2 F
Distribution of herbs, actions, 75 Faeces assessment (mala pariksa),
pharmacokinetic, 83 kapha-reducing, 328 89–90
Diuretics, 84 light quality, 69 Fasting (vrata, ksun–nigraha), 104
Divine origins, 4, 5, 10 Elimination, 47, 83 from liquids (trsna, trn nigraha), 105
Divya (tulasi), 280–1 Embelia ribes (vidanga, embelia, Fat tissue (medas dhatu), 39–40
Dizziness treatment, 336–7 vaividanga), 290–1 Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare), 175–6
DNA regulatory function, 111–12 UK law, 81 actions, 74, 76
Doctors Emblica officinalis (amalaki, malaki), Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-
caste, 8 26, 52, 63, 126–7 graecum), 177–8
separation from priests, 7–8 actions, 75, 76 vata-reducing, 325
Doctrine of signatures, 51 aphrodisiac quality, 106 Fertility, male
Dosa dusya sammurcana (disease pitta-reducing, 326 ashwagandha, 133
process), 93–5 Embryo, 113 gokshura, 185
Dosage (matra vicara), 73, 74, 75, 106 Emesis, therapeutic (vamana), 102 kapikacchu, 206
Dosas, 20, 21, 22–7 Empiricism, 8–9 safed musali, 254
365
Fertility, male (Continued) Ghusrna (saffron), 258–9 Gundandi (Chrysanthemum indica/
INDEX
INDEX
purgation, 102 areas, 81–2 kutki, 215
taste, 66, 67 compatibility, 82 shatavari, 272
tridos. a-balancing herbs, 330–2 cultivation, 79, 81 treatment, 338
Harvesting of herbs elements, 61 triphala guggulu, 309
general standards, 80–1 growing, 79, 81–2 Impotence treatment, 338
managerial responsibility, 79 sustainable, 77 Indian culture, 3
over-harvesting, 78 incompatibility, 82 before Ayurveda, 5–6
sustainable, 80–1 kapha-reducing, 328–9 classical philosophies, 9
see also collection of herbs nomenclature, 70, 334 Indigestion treatment, 338
Hathayoga, 10, 11 organic, 81 Indriya (set of eleven senses), 18
Head conditions pitta-reducing, 326–7 Infections
avipattikara curna, 298 protection, 77 guggulu, 191–2
bhringaraja, 141 pungent, 65 sandalwood, 262
bibhitaki, 145 qualities, 68–9 turmeric, 283
sweet cough powder (sitopaladi reaching tissues, 34–7 Inflammation
curna), 302 scientific use, 3 frankincense, 179
Headache treatment, 337 sourcing, 77 hemp seed, 196
Health of the body (arogya), 9 thermal action (virya), 67–8 turmeric, 282–3
Heart conditions, 337 tissue increase/decrease, 323 Infusions
amalaki, 126 trade controls, 77 cold (hima), 71
arjuna, 130 tridos. a-balancing, 330–2 hot (phanta), 71
ashoka, 132 vata-reducing, 324–5 Innovation in Ayurveda, 9–10
bala, 137 see also collection of herbs; Insomnia
bibhitaki, 145 harvesting of herbs bibhitaki, 145
damanaka, 169 Herpestis (Bacopa monniera), 149–50 case study, 108
garlic, 181–2 Heterodoxy, 6–7, 8 treatment, 338
guggulu, 191 Hiccups treatment, 337 Integrity management plan, 78–9
hemp seed, 196 Hima (cold infusions), 71 International Union for the
hingu, 197 Hinduism influences, 8–9 Conservation of Nature
jatamamsi, 200 Hing/hingu (Ferula asafoetida/foetida), (IUCN) Red List, 78
kutki, 215 76, 197–8 Inula racemosa (pushkaramoola,
.
myrrh, 231 Hingvastaka curna (asafoetida eight- Indian elecampane,
pomegranate, 242 herb remedy), 298–9 poharmool), 248–9
punarnava, 246 History, 5–14 Invocation, 7
punarnavadi guggulu, 308 timetable, 6 Ipecac, Indian (Tylophora indica/
pushkaramoola, 248 Hogweed, Indian (Boerhaavia diffusa), asthmatica–Folium), 128
safflower, 256 246–7 Irrigation transmission theory (kedara
saffron, 258 Holarrhena antidysenterica (kutaja, kulya), 36, 37
sandalwood, 262 kureya), 213–14 Irritable bowel syndrome (grahani), 94
sarpagandha, 266 Homeopathic approaches, 92–3 Isabgol (Plantago ovata), 244–5
tagarah, 275 Homeostasis, 113–14 Isaphgul (Plantago ovata), 244–5
triphala guggulu, 309 Honey
tulasi, 280 actions, 77 J
turmeric, 283 herbal carrier, 73 Jaiphal (Croton tiglium), 102
vamsa lochana, 286 Hormones, 112 Jaiphal (Myristica fragrans), 235–6
vasa, 288 Horsemint (Mentha piperata/arvensis), Jalabrahmi (Bacopa monniera), 149–50
Heaviness (guru), 69 226–7 Jambira (lemon, lime), 217–18
Heavy metal toxicity, 165 Hot (usna), 67 Jams, herbal (paka, leha, avaleha), 71,
Hemantaśiśira (winter, ayurvedic), classification, 68 296–7
54–6 Hydrocotyle asiatica (gotu kola, Indian Jasmine (Jasminium grandiflorum/
Hemidismus indica (sariva, Indian pennywort, kula kudi), 187–8 officinale), 199
sarsaparilla, sughandi), 264–5 actions, 76 cold infusion, 71
actions, 77 tridos. a-balancing, 330 Jasminium grandiflorum/officinale
cold infusion, 71 Hypoglycaemia treatment, 337 (jasmine), 199
Hemp (Cannabis indica), 196 cold infusion, 71
Herbal medicines Jata-mamsi (jatamamsi), 200–1
certification, 78 I
Jatamamsi (Nardostachys grandiflora
importance, 78 Immune conditions syn. jatamansi), 78, 200–1
threats to, 78 anthrapachaka, 128 tridos. a-balancing, 332
toxicology, 84 ashwagandha, 133 Jatharagni (thirteen agni), 44
Herbs bhumiamalaki, 143 Jati (jasmine), 199
actions, 59–60 cyavanapraśa, 296 Jati-phala (nutmeg), 235–6
classification, 13 garlic, 181 Jellies, herbal (paka, leha, avaleha), 71,
combinations, 82 guduchi, 189 296–7
367
Jethimadh (Glycyrrhiza glabra), 220–1 Kidney function, 83 Lightness (laghu), 69
INDEX
Jira (Cuminum cyminum), 167–8 lemon/lime, 217 Limes (Citrus limonum/acida), 217–18
Jiraka (cumin), 167–8 licorice, 220–1 Liver disorders
Jivha pariksa (tongue assessment), punarnava, 246 arjuna, 130
88–9 Kidney stones, 338–9 bhringaraja, 141
Jñanendriya (five sense faculties), 18 King of bitters (Andrographis bhumiamalaki, 143
Joint problems paniculata), 202–3 chrysanthemum, 158
celery seed, 120 Kirat (Swertia chirata), 155 daruharidra, 170
chitraka, 156 Kirata-tikta (chiretta), 155 formula for creating lustre
gotu kola, 187 Konkanadhoopam (frankincense), 179– (mahasudarśana curna), 299
guduchi, 189 80 guduchi, 189
kustha, 211 Krishna jiraka (Nigella sativa), 209–10 jasmine, 199
mustard seed, 230 Krsna-jiraka (krishna jiraka), 209–10 kalamegha, 202
turmeric, 283 Ksara (alkaline extracts), 72 krishna jiraka, 209
Juglans regia (walnut), 106 Ksirabala taila, 314 kutki, 215
Juice, fresh (svarasa), 70 Ksira-dadhi (milk and curd licorice, 220
Jvala (chitraka), 156–7 transformation theory), 35–6 mustaka, 228
Ksirapaka kalpana (milk decoctions), 71 pippali, 239
Ksun–nigraha (fasting), 104 rhubarb, 250
K Kula kudi (Hydrocotyle asiatica), senna, 268
Kaiśor guggulu, 305–6 187–8 turmeric, 282
Kakubha (arjuna), 130 Kumari (aloe vera), 124–5 Liver metabolism, 83
Kalajaji (krishna jiraka), 209–10 . Lotus (Nelumbo nucifera), 222–3
Kunkuma (saffron), 258–9
Kalamegha (Andrographis paniculata), Kureya (Holarrhena antidysenterica), Love-in-the-mist (Nigella sativa), 209–
66, 202–3 213–14 10
actions, 75 Kushtha (Saussurea lappa), 13, 211–12 Lumps
Kalamegha kirata (kalamegha), 202–3 tridos. a-balancing, 332 castor oil treatment, 153
Kalika (krishna jiraka), 209–10 Kusumbha (safflower), 256–7 kaiśor guggulu, 305
Kalimirch (Piper nigrum), 237–8 Kutaja (Holarrhena antidysenterica), kañcanara guggulu, 306
Kalka (herbal paste), 70 213–14 see also tumours
Kalmegh (Andrographis paniculata), Kutki (Picrorrhiza kurroa), 65, 215–16 Lung conditions
actions, 75 actions, 75, 77 ajwain, 122
Kalonji (Nigella sativa), 209–10 pitta-reducing, 327 anthrapachaka, 128
Kamala (lotus), 222–3 thermal action, 67 arjuna, 130
Kañcanara guggulu, 306–7 .
Kvatha (decoctions), 70–1, 311–12, asafoetida eight-herb remedy (hin
Kanchanara (Bauhinia variegata), 313 gvaştaka curna), 298–9
204–5 ashwagandha, 133
.
Kankustha (rhubarb), 250–1 bakuchi, 135
Kapha, 22, 27, 113 L bala, 137
aggravation, 98 Lactation bhallataka, 139
balance, 98–9 mastitis treatment, 338 bhringaraja, 141
herbs reducing, 328–9 shatavari, 271 bibhitaki, 145
manas prakrti, 46 treatment, 336 black pepper, 237
relief, 99 vidari, 292 cardamom, 151
spring, 49–50 Laghu (light), 69 celery seed, 120
treatment, 98–9 Laśuna (garlic), 181–2 chrysanthemum, 158
Kapikacchu (Mucuna pruriens), 77, Lavana (salty taste), 64, 260–1 cinnamon, 160
206 Lavanga (clove), 162–3 cloves, 162
aphrodisiac quality, 106 Leadwort, white (Plumbago coleus, 164
Kapitthaparni (frankincense), 179–80 zeylanicum), 156–7 coriander treatment, 165
Karavella/karella (Momordica Legislation, challenges to ayurvedic cumin, 167
charantia), 207–8 community, 11, 12 daśamula kvatha, 311
Karmendriya (five organs of action), Leha (herbal jams/jellies), 71 devadaru, 171
18 Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus), dhattura, 172
Kasari (pushkaramoola), 248–9 219 elimination in spring, 51
Kasaya (astringent taste), 66 pitta-reducing, 326 ephedra, 173
Kasaya (decoctions), 70–1 Lemons (Citrus limonum/acida), 217– fennel, 175
Kaţu (pungent taste), 64–5 18 garlic, 181
Katuka (kutki), 215–16 Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra), 25, 27, ginger, 183
Kedara-kulya (irrigation transmission 220–1 haritaki, 194
theory), 36, 37 actions, 75, 77 jatamamsi, 200
Kesar (Crocus sativus), 258–9 emesis, 102 kalamegha, 202
Khale-kapota (pigeon pecking sweet taste, 63 kanchanara, 204
selective theory), 36–7 vata-reducing, 325 krishna jiraka, 209
Khicadi recipe, 104 Lifestyle (svasthavrtta), 47 kustha, 211
368
lemon/lime, 217 Mañjisthadi kvatha, 312 Mind (manas), 18
INDEX
licorice, 220 Margosa (Azadirachta indica), 233–4 ashwagandha, 133
mustard seed, 230 Marica (black pepper), 237–8 ayurvedic, 46
neem, 233 Maricyadi taila, 314 brahmi, 149
nutmeg, 235 Markandika (senna), 268 frankincense treatment, 179
pippali, 239 Marking nut (Semecarpus gotu kola treatment, 187
pit shirisha, 241 anacardium), 139–40 manjishtha treatment, 225
psyllium, 244 Marma points, 42, 43 memory treatment, 338
pushkaramoola, 248 Maruta seva (wind-bathing), 105–6 shankapushpi, 269
salt, 260 Masses vacha treatment, 284
shatavari, 271 krishna jiraka, 209 see also brain; mental conditions
sweet cough powder (sitopaladi see also lumps; tumours Mineral pitch (Asphaltum), 273–4
curna), 301 Mastitis treatment, 338 Mineral remedies (rasaśastra), 11, 72
tagarah, 275 Materia medica, 59, 60 Mint (Mentha piperata/arvensis), 226–7
tila, 277 Matra vicara (dosage), 73, 75 pitta-reducing, 327
trikat.u, 303 Matter (prakrti), 16, 17, 23 Mitochondria, 112
triphala, 304 Measures, ayurvedic, 333 Modern Ayurveda, 11, 12
triphala guggulu, 309 Medas dhatu (fat tissue), 39–40 Modern medicine, 5
tulasi, 280 Medicinal preparations, ayurvedic, Momordica charantia (karavella, bitter
vacha, 284 70–2 gourd, bitter melon, karella),
vamsa lochana, 286 Medicine 207–8
vasa, 288 empirical system, 4, 8–9 Mouth conditions, 233–4
vidari, 292 timeless system, 4 Mucous membrane conditions
Lymphatic conditions Meditation (dhyana), 48 haritaki, 194
formula for creating lustre Melon, bitter (Momordica charantia), myrrh, 231
(mahasudarśana curna), 300 207–8 rhubarb, 250
kañcanara guggulu, 307 Memory treatment, 338 Mucuna pruriens (kapikacchu,
myrrh, 231 Mendicants, wandering (śramanas), 8 cowhage), 77, 206
pit shirisha, 241 Menopause, pomegranate treatment, aphrodisiac quality, 106
varuna, 287 242 Mugwort (Artemesia vulgaris), 169
Menstrual problems, 338 Musali (safed musali), 254–5
Mental conditions Musali, white (Asparagus adscendens),
M frankincense, 179 254–5
Madanphala (Randia dumentorium) vacha treatment, 284 Muscle tissue (mamsa dhatu), 39
actions, 77 see also brain; mind (manas) bakuchi treatment, 135
emesis, 102 Mentha piperata/arvensis (mint, Musi (Asparagus adscendens), 254–5
unique action, 69 peppermint, horsemint, Musta (mustaka), 228–9
Mada-śaunda (nutmeg), 235–6 pudina, puthia), 75, 226–7 Mustaka (Cyperus rotundus), 228–9
Madder, Indian (Rubia cordifolia), pitta-reducing, 327 actions, 75, 76
224–5 Mesa-śrngi (gurmar), 193 pitta-reducing, 327
Madhu vinaśini (gurmar), 193 Metabolic disorders Mustard seed (Brassica nigra/juncea),
Madhura (sweet taste), 62, 63 amalaki, 126–7 230
Madhurika (fennel), 175–6 ashwagandha, 133 Mutra pariksa (urine assessment), 89
Mahanarayana taila, 314 daruharidra, 170 Myristica fragrans (nutmeg, jaiphal),
Mahasudarśana curna (formula for fenugreek, 177 235–6
creating lustre), 299–300 guduchi, 190 Myrobalan
Mahat (universal intelligence), 17 guggulu, 191 beleric (Terminalia belerica), 145–6
Mahatikta (kalamegha), 202–3 gurmar, 193 chebulic (Terminalia chebula), 194–5
Mahatikta ghrta, 313 hemp seed, 196 Myrrh (Commiphora myrrha/molmol),
Majja dhatu (nerve tissue), 40 karavella, 207 231–2
Maka (Eclipta alba), 141–2 neem, 233 actions, 74
Makandi (coleus), 164 pill giving the glow of the moon kapha-reducing, 328
Mala pariksa (faeces assessment), (candraprabha vati), 316 Myrrh, Indian (Commiphora mukul),
89–90 punarnava, 246 191–2
Malabar nut (Adhatoda vasica), 288–9 shilajit, 273
Malaki (Emblica officinalis), 63 trikat.u, 303
Mallow, Indian country (bala), 137–8 Metabolism of herbs, 83 N
Mamsa dhatu (muscle tissue), 39 Methi (Trigonella foenum-graecum), Nadi pariksa (pulse assessment), 88
Manas (mind), 18 177–8 Naga-damani (mugwort), 169
Manas prakrti (ayurvedic mind), 45 Methika (fenugreek), 177–8 Nails, 30
Manduka-parni (gotu kola), 187–8 Milk Narayana taila, 314
Manifestation (vyakti), 57 decoctions (ksirapaka kalpana), 71 Nardostachys grandiflora syn.
Manjishtha (Rubia cordifolia), 26, 224–5 herbal carrier, 73 jatamansi (jatamamsi, Indian
actions, 75, 76 Milk and curd transformation theory spikenard), 78, 200–1
pitta-reducing, 327 (ksira-dadhi), 35–6 tridos. a-balancing, 332
369
Nasal cleansing therapy (nasya), 102 Nitric oxide (NO), 112 Pepper
INDEX
Nasal conditions, sweet cough Non-dual, 9 black (Piper nigrum), 64–5, 237–8
powder, 302 Nutmeg (Myristica fragrans), 235–6 actions, 75, 76
Nasya (nasal cleansing therapy), 102 Nutrients reaching tissues, 34–7 post-digestive effects of tastes,
Nata (tagarah), 275–6 68
Natural urges, restraint long (Piper longum), 27, 51, 239–40
(vegavarodha), 56 O actions, 75
Nausea treatment, 338 Obesity asthma treatment, 107
Neem (Azadirachta indica), 65–6, 233–4 guggulu, 191 kapha-reducing, 329
actions, 75, 76, 77 kañcanara guggulu, 307 post-digestive effects of tastes, 68
heat clearance, 93 treatment, 338 śamana herbal therapy, 103
herbal paste, 70 triphala guggulu, 304 Peppermint (Mentha piperata/
pitta-reducing, 327 trivrut, 279 arvensis), 75, 226–7
Nelumbo nucifera (lotus), 222–3 turmeric, 282 pitta-reducing, 327
Nerve conditions Observation-based practice, 7–8 Periploca of the wood (Gymnema
ajwain, 122 Ocimum sanctum (tulasi, tulsi, holy sylvestre), 193
ashwagandha, 133–4 basil), 69, 280–1 Phala ghrta, 313
bala, 137 asthma treatment, 107 Phanta (hot infusions), 71
bhringaraja, 141 fever treatment, 101 Pharmaceuticals, herb interactions,
bibhitaki, 145 fresh juice, 70 82–4
brahmi, 149 kapha-reducing, 329 Pharmacodynamic interactions, 83–4
celery seed, 120 Oedema treatment, 338 Pharmacokinetic interactions, 82–3
chitraka, 156 Oil, medicated (siddha taila), 72, 314–15 Pharmacopoeia, ayurvedic, 12–13,
.
chrysanthemum, 158 Oil massage (abhyanga), 48 77–82
daśamula kvatha, 311 Ojas, 23–4 Pharmacy, ayurvedic, 70–2
fennel, 175 Olibanum, Indian (Boswellia serrata), Philosophy, Indian, 9
gokshura, 185 179–80 Phospholipid bilayer, 113
gotu kola, 187 Operculina turpethum/ipomea (trivrut, Phyllanthus amarus (bhumiamalaki,
hingu, 197 nishoth), 76, 279 stone breaker), 143–4
jasmine, 199 Opium (Papaver somniferum), 77 Physical hygiene, 48
jatamamsi, 200 Oral hygiene, 48 Physicians, caste, 8
kapikacchu, 206 Origins of Ayurveda, 7 Physiology, 111–13
krishna jiraka, 209 Orthodoxy, 6–7 Picrorrhiza kurroa (kutki), 65, 215–16
licorice, 220–1 absorption of Ayurveda, 9 actions, 75, 77
lotus treatment, 222 acceptance of Ayurveda, 8 pitta-reducing, 327
mint, 226 Osteoporosis treatment, 338 thermal action, 67
nutmeg, 235 Over-harvesting of herbs, 78 Pigeon pecking selective theory
pippali, 240 (khale-kapota), 36–7
pomegranate treatment, 242 Piles
P
pusyanuga curna, 301 bhallataka, 139
rose, 252 Padma (lotus), 222–3 daruharidra, 170
saffron, 258 Pain ginger, 183
salt, 260 ashoka, 132 kutaja, 213
sandalwood, 262 cloves, 162 treatment, 337
sariva, 264 devadaru, 171 triphala, 304
sarpagandha, 266 fenugreek, 177–8 Pill giving the glow of the moon
shankhapushpi, 269 frankincense, 179 (candraprabha vati), 315–16
shatavari treatment, 272 myrrh, 231 Pills (gutika, vati), 72, 315–16
tagarah, 275 sarpagandha, 266 Pimpli/pipal (Piper longum), 239–40
tulasi, 280 Paka (herbal jams/jellies), 71 Piper longum (long pepper, pipal,
yogaraja guggulu, 310 Panaka (herbal stock), 71 pippali, pimpli), 27, 51, 239–
Nerve tissue (majja dhatu), 40 Pañcakarma (five detoxifying 40
Nidana (disease aetiology/ therapies), 101–2 actions, 75
causation), 93, 94 Pañcamahabhuta (five great elements), asthma treatment, 107
Nigella sativa (krishna jiraka, black 19 kapha-reducing, 329
cumin, love-in-the-mist, Pañca vayu (five winds), 24–6 post-digestive effects of tastes, 68
kalonji), 209–10 Papaver somniferum (opium), 77 śamana herbal therapy, 103
Nim (Azadirachta indica), 233–4 Paribhadra oil, 314 Piper nigrum (black pepper,
Nimba (neem), 233–4 Parinama (seasonal influences), 56 kalimirch), 64–5, 237–8
Nimbu (Citrus limonum/acida), 217–18 Passive awareness (purusa), 16–17 actions, 75, 76
Nimbuka (lemon, lime), 217–18 Paste, herbal (kalka), 70 post-digestive effects of tastes, 68
Niraha (enemas), 102 Pathology, 56–8 Pippali (Piper longum), 239–40
Nirama (without ama), 45 Penetrating quality (tiksna), 69 Pit shirisha (Albizzia lebbek), 241
Nishoth (Operculina turpethum/ Pennywort, Indian (Hydrocotyle actions, 76
ipomea), 279 asiatica), 187–8 Pitch, mineral (Asphaltum), 273–4
370
Pitta, 22, 26–7, 112–13 Punica granatum (pomegranate, anar, goksuradi guggulu, 305
INDEX
aggravation, 97 anardana), 64, 242–3 guduchi treatment, 190
balancing, 97–8 actions, 75 hingu treatment, 197
herbs reducing, 326–7 Purgation (virecana), 102 kapikacchu treatment, 206
manas prakrti, 46 Purusa (passive awareness), 16–17 kustha, 211
relief, 98 Purvarupa (disease prodromal lotus treatment, 222
spring, 49–50 symptoms), 93, 94 neem treatment, 234
treatment, 97–8 Pushkaramoola (Inula racemosa), nutmeg treatment, 235
Pitta-sirsa (pit shirisha), 241 248–9 pill giving the glow of the moon
Plantago ovata (psyllium husk; Puskara-mula (pushkaramoola), (candraprabha vati), 315–16
isaphgul, isabgol), 26, 244–5 248–9 pippali treatment, 239
tridos. a-balancing, 332 Pusyanuga curna, 300–1 pomegranate treatment, 242
Plants Puthia (Mentha piperata/arvensis), rose treatment, 252
actions (dravya karma), 73–7 226–7 safed musali, 254
botanical identity, 12–13 saffron, 258
Sanskrit names, 13 sariva treatment, 265
unique action (prabhava), 69–70 Q shankhapushpi, 269
see also herbs Quality control, 73, 74 shatavari, 271
Plasma tissue (rasa dhatu), 37–9 shilajit, 273
Plumbago zeylanicum (chitraka, white vidanga treatment, 290
R
leadwort, chita), 156–7 Respiratory conditions
actions, 74, 75 Rajas, 18, 20 chitraka, 156
kapha-reducing, 328 Raja-vrksa (senna), 268 sandalwood, 262
Poharmool (Inula racemosa), 248–9 Rajika (mustard seed), 230 see also lung conditions
Pomegranate (Punica granatum), 64, Rakta dhatu (blood tissue), 39 Revand chini (Rheum palmatum),
242–3 Raktamocana (blood-letting), 102 250–1
actions, 75 Randia dumentorium (madanphala) Rheum palmatum/officinale/australe
Post-digestive effect (vipaka), 68 actions, 77 (rhubarb, revand chini), 26,
Powder, herbal (curna), 70 emesis, 102 250–1
preparations, 297–304 unique action, 69 actions, 76
Prabhava (specific action of plant), Rasa (tastes of nature), 60–1, 62, 63–7 pitta-reducing, 326
69–70 Rasa dhatu (plasma tissue), 37–9 Rhubarb (Rheum palmatum/officinale/
Prajñaparadha (crimes against Rasagandha (myrrh), 231–2 australe), 26, 250–1
wisdom), 56 Rasaśala, 70–2 actions, 76
Prakopa (aggravation), 57 Rasaśastra (mineral remedies), 72 pitta-reducing, 326
Prakrti (matter), 16, 17, 23 Rasayana (rejuvenation), 11, 102 Ricinus communis (castor oil, rendi),
Prana, 23–4 Rasayana (tonics), 106 76, 153–4
Prasara (spreading), 57 Rasona (garlic), 181–2 purgation, 102
Praśna (asking), 31–2 Rauwolfia serpentina (sarpagandha, vata-reducing, 324
Prayer, 7 Indian snake root), 266–7 Rising, 47
Pregnancy, pusyanuga curna, 301 UK law, 81, 267 Ritual practices, 3, 4
Priest-doctors, 7 Recognition of Ayurveda, 4–5 medicine, 7
Priests, 8 Rejuvenation (rasayana), 11, 102, 106 Vedic sacrifice, 8
separation from doctors, 7–8 tila, 277 Ritual purity, 8
Prostatitis treatment, 338 vidari, 292 Rock salt, 260–1
Prthví (earth), 19, 112 Religion Roga karana (disease aetiology), 56
Psoralea coryfolia (bakuchi), 135–6 fundamentalist groups, 5 Rosa centifolia/damascena (rose,
tridos. a-balancing, 331 heterodox/orthodox tradition, 6–7 gulab), 26, 252–3
Psoriasis treatment, 164 Relocation (sthana samśraya), 57 actions, 75, 77
Psyllium husk (Plantago ovata), 26, Remedies, potency, 60 Rose (Rosa centifolia/damascena), 26,
244–5 Rendi (Ricinus communis), 153–4 252–3
tridos. a-balancing, 332 Reproductive tissue (śukra), 40–1, actions, 75, 77
Ptychotis ajowan (ajwain), 122–3 338 Rtucarya (seasonal behaviour), 46–56
Pudina (Mentha piperata/arvensis), arjuna treatment, 130 Rubia cordifolia (manjishtha, Indian
226–7 ashwagandha treatment, 134 madder, manjith), 26, 224–5
Pueraria tuberosa (vidari, vidarikand), bakuchi treatment, 135 actions, 75, 76
292 bala treatment, 137 pitta-reducing, 327
Pulses, 28, 29 bhallataka treatment, 139 Ruksa (dry), 69
assessment (nadi pariksa), 88 bhringaraja treatment, 142 Rupa (disease symptomology), 93, 94
Pulse-taking, 11 cloves, 162
Punarnava (Boerhaavia diffusa), 246–7 cyavanapraśa, 296–7
Punarnavadi guggulu, 307–8 fenugreek treatment, 177 S
Puncture vine fruit (Tribulus frankincense treatment, 179 Śabda (sound), 28
terrestris), 185–6 ghee treatment, 313 Śabda pariksa (voice assessment), 91
Pungent taste (kaţu), 64–5 gokshura treatment, 185 Sacrifice, ritual Vedic, 8
371
Safed musali (Asparagus adscendens), Sea salt, 260–1 arjuna, 130
INDEX
372
Sparsa (touch), 28 Tavaksiri (vamsa lochana), 286 Touch (sparśa), 28
INDEX
Sparśa pariksa (skin assessment), 91 Tejas (fire element), 23–4, 112 Toxicology of herbal medicines, 84
Spikenard, Indian (Nardostachys Tenfold assessment (daśavidha Toxins (ama), 44–6
grandiflora syn. jatamansi), 78, pariksa), 92 herbs for, 322
200–1 Terminalia arjuna (arjuna), 66, 130–1 reduction, 103–4
Spiritual emancipation (moksa), 10 actions, 75 removal (amapacana), 101–2, 103
Spreading (prasara), 57 dry quality, 69 Trachyspermum ammi syn. copticum
Spring, ayurvedic (vasanta), 49–51 tridos. a-balancing, 331 (ajwain, Bishop’s weed), 122–3
Spring routine (vasanta rtucarya), Terminalia belerica (bibhitaki, beleric Tradition in Ayurveda, 9–10
50–1 myrobalan, baheda), 66, 145–6 Trauma treatment, 256
Śramanas (wandering mendicants), 8 kapha-reducing, 328 Treatment, ayurvedic (cikitsa), 87
Sri-gandha (sandalwood), 262–3 post-digestive effects of tastes, 68 allopathic approaches, 92–3
Srotamsi (channels), 41–2 Terminalia chebula (haritaki, chebulic excess vs deficiency balance, 92–3
Status of Ayurveda, 4–5 myrobalan, harde, hara), 13, homeopathic approaches, 92–3
Sthana samśraya (relocation), 57 26, 27, 194–5 principles, 92
Stock, herbal (panaka), 71 actions, 76, 77 signs of successful, 107
Stomach acidity, 83 post-digestive effects of tastes, 68 strategies, 95–106
Stone breaker (Phyllanthus amarus), purgation, 102 techniques, 92
143–4 taste, 66, 67 Tribulus terrestris (gokshura,
Stress treatment, 339 tridos. a-balancing herbs, 330–2 puncture vine fruit, caltrops,
Substances (dravyas), classification, Texts of Ayurveda, 7, 9–10, 12–14 gokhru), 26, 185–6
13 Great Triad, 9–10, 12 actions, 76
Sugandhi (Hemidismus indica), 264–5 Lesser Triad, 12 reproductive essence, 93
Śukra (reproductive tissue), 40–1 Thermal action of herbs and foods tridos. a-balancing, 330
Suksma ela (cardamom), 151–2 (virya), 67–8 Tridosas, 24–7
Summer, ayurvedic (grisma), 51–2 Thermal quality, 32 herbs balancing, 330–2
Summer routine (grisma rtucarya), 52 Thorn apple, white (Datura metel/ Trigonella foenum-graecum (fenugreek,
Sunbathing (atapa seva), 105 stramonium), 172 methi), 177–8
Śunthi (ginger), 183–4 Three fruits powder (triphala curna), vata-reducing, 325
Suśruta Samhita, 9–10, 12, 13 303–4 Trikat.u, 70
post-digestive effects of tastes, 68 Three spices formula (trikat.u curna), Trikatu curna (three spices formula),
qualities of herbs, 69 302–3 302–3
Sustainable management, 79–82 Thyroid conditions Triphala, 70, 71
Svarasa (fresh juice), 70 coleus, 164 actions, 76
Svasthavrtta (lifestyle), 47 kañcanara guggulu, 307 Triphala curna (three fruits powder),
Sweet cough powder (sitopaladi Tiksna (penetrating/sharp), 69 303–4
curna), 301–2 Tikta (bitter taste), 65–6 Triphala ghrta, 313–14
Sweet taste (madhura), 62, 63 Tikta ghrta, 313 Triphala guggulu, 308–9
Swertia chirata (chiretta, kirat), 155 Tila (Sesamum indicum), 277–8 Trituration, 71
pitta-reducing, 326 Tinctures, 71 Tri-vrta (trivrut), 279
Sympathomimetic agents, 84 Tinnitus treatment, 339 Trivrut (Operculina turpethum/
Syzygium aromaticum (clove, lavang), Tinospora cordifolia (guduchi, giloy), ipomea), 76, 279
75, 162–3 66, 189–90 Trn nigraha/trsna (fasting from
actions, 76, 77 actions, 76 liquids), 105
alkaline extracts, 72 Tulasi/tulsi (Ocimum sanctum), 69,
cold infusion, 71 280–1
T gugguls, 71 asthma treatment, 107
Tablets (vati), 72, 315–16 tridos. a-balancing herbs, 330 fever treatment, 101
Tagarah (Valeriana wallichi), 76, 275–6 Tiredness treatment, 339 fresh juice, 70
vata-reducing, 324 Tissue disorders kapha-reducing, 329
Tamas (immobile, still, stuck quality), arjuna, 130 Tumours
17, 20 ashwagandha, 133 guggulu, 191
Tanmatras (seed elements), 18 Tissues (dhatu) kaiśor guggulu, 306
Tantric practice, 11 corrupted, 320 kañcanara guggulu, 307
Taraxacum officinalis (dandelion), 51 deficiency signs/symptoms, 321 kanchanara, 204
Tastes of nature (rasa), 60–1, 62, 63–7 excess signs/symptoms, 321 krishna jiraka, 209
astringent, 66 herbs that increase/decrease, 323 manjishtha, 225
bitter, 65–6 meanings, 41 safflower, 256
dosage effect, 74 metabolism, 37, 38 salt, 260
functions/effects, 61 specific herbs, 322 turmeric, 282
post-digestive effects, 68 treatment, 100–1 see also cancer
pungent, 64–5 Tongue, 30–1 Turmeric (Curcuma longa), 51, 282–3
salty, 64 assessment (jivha pariksa), 88–9 actions, 75
sour, 63–4 Tonics (rasayana), 106 kapha-reducing, 329
sweet, 61, 62, 63 Tonification (brmhana), 102 śamana herbal therapy, 103
373
Twak (cinnamon), 160–1 Vaividanga (Embelia ribes), 290–1 W
INDEX
Twenty qualities of matter, 20 Vajikarana (aphrodisiacs, virilisation), Walnut (Juglans regia), 106
Tylophora indica/asthmatica 11, 106 Washing (snana), 48
(anthrapachaka, Indian Valerian, Indian (Valeriana wallichi), Water (ap), 18, 19, 21, 112
ipecac), 128 275–6 herbal carrier, 73
vata-reducing, 324 Waters, distilled (arka), 71
Valeriana wallichi (tagarah, Indian Weights, ayurvedic, 333
U valerian), 76, 275–6 Wild Collection Plant Monographs,
Ugragandha (vacha), 284–5 vata-reducing, 324 79
Ulcers, treatment, 339 Vamana (therapeutic emesis), 102 Wind (vayu), 20, 21, 24, 112
Unctuousness (snigdha), 69 Vamsa lochana (Bambusa Wind-bathing (maruta seva), 105–6
Unity, indivisible, 9 arundinaceae), 286 Wines, medicated (arista, asava), 71,
Universal constituents (guna), 17–20 Vamśa-locana (vamsa lochana), 286 295, 296
Upaśaya (diagnosis by trial and Varna/varuna (Crataeva nurvala), Winter, ayurvedic (hemantaśiśira),
error), 93, 94 287 54–6
Urinary problems Vasa/vasaka (Adhatoda vasica), 288–9 Winter routine (hemanta rtucarya),
ajwain, 122 actions, 75, 76 55–6
ashoka, 132 Vasanta (ayurvedic spring), 49–51 Wisdom, crimes against
bakuchi, 135 Vasanta rtucarya (spring routine), 50–1 (prajñaparadha), 56
bala, 137 Vata (regulator), 22, 24–6, 111–12 Withania somnifera (ashwagandha),
bhumiamalaki, 143 aggravation, 96 54, 133–4
brahmi, 149 balance, 96–7 actions, 75, 76, 77
cardamom, 151 herbs reducing, 324–5 aphrodisiac quality, 106
celery seed, 120 manas prakrti, 46 heavy quality, 69
cinnamon, 160 relieving, 97 milk herbal carrier, 73
coriander, 165 spring, 49–50 tonic quality, 106
cystitis, 336 treatment, 96 vata-reducing, 324
fennel, 175 Vati (tablets, pills), 72, 315–16 Wood apple tree (Aegle marmelos),
gokshura, 185 Vayu (wind), 20, 21, 24, 112 147–8
goksuradi guggulu, 305 Vedas, 7 Woodfordia fruticosa (dhataki), 71
kalamegha, 203 Vedic knowledge, 5 World Health Organization (WHO),
karavella, 207 Vedic medicine, 7 Good Agricultural Collection
licorice, 221 Vedic period, 6 Practices (GACP), 79
manjishtha treatment, 225 Vedic tradition, heterodox/orthodox,
pill giving the glow of the moon 7
(candraprabha vati), 315–16 Vegavarodha (restraint of natural Y
psyllium, 244 urges), 56 Yastimadhu (licorice), 78, 220–1
punarnavadi guggulu, 308 Vegetable asphalt (Asphaltum), 273–4 Yastyadi ghrta, 314
safed musali, 254 Vida (salt), 260–1 Yavani/yavanika (ajwain), 122–3
saffron, 258 Vidanga (Embelia ribes), 290–1 Yeast infections, treatment, 339
sandalwood, 262 UK law, 81 Yoga, 10–11
sariva, 264 Vidari/vidarikand (Pueraria autumn routine, 53–4
shatavari treatment, 271 tuberosa), 292 spring routine, 50–1
shilajit, 273 Vijaya (hemp), 196 summer routine, 52
vacha, 284 Vipaka (post-digestive effect), 68 winter routine, 55
vamsa lochana, 286 Viranga (Embelia ribes), 290–1 Yogaraja guggulu, 310–11
varuna, 287 Virecana (purgation), 102 Yogis, ascetic, 8
vidanga, 290 Virilisation (vajikarana), 11
vidari, 292 Virya (thermal action of herbs and
Urine assessment (mutra pariksa), 89 foods), 67–8 Z
Usna (hot), 67 Visnu-priya (tulasi), 280–1 Zingiber officinale (ginger, adrakh,
Viśvabhesaja (ginger), 183–4 sont), 20, 25, 64–5, 183–4
Vitis vinifera (grape), 93 actions, 74, 75, 77
V
Voice assessment (śabda pariksa), 91 asthma treatment, 107
Vaca (vacha), 284–5 Vrata (fasting), 104 digestion actions, 83
Vaca taila, 315 Vyadhi (disease treatment), 101 fresh juice, 70
Vach/vacha (Acorus calamus), 27, 69, Vyakti (manifestation), 57 kapha-reducing, 328
284–5 Vyayama (exercise), 48, 105 śamana herbal therapy, 103
actions, 75, 76 thermal action, 67
emesis, 102
vata-reducing, 325
374