Laghutrayee and Ayurveda in Veda
Laghutrayee
Laghutrayee refers to a group of three important Ayurvedic texts that are considered to be smaller or shorter in comparison to other major Ayurvedic treatises. These three texts are:
Madhava Nidana
Sharangadhara Samhita
Bhavaprakasha Samhita
These three texts are considered important pillars of Ayurvedic literature, and together, they cover a wide range of topics and form the foundation for the practice of traditional Indian medicine.
Madhava Nidana
Madhava Nidana is an important Ayurvedic text that holds significance in the field of traditional Indian medicine. Authored by Acharya Madhava, the son of Indukara, in the 7th century, it serves as a fundamental treatise on the aetiology, pathology, and pathogenesis of various diseases and syndromes. The text consists of 69 chapters containing around 5300 shlokas (verses) and is also known by other names such as Roga Vinishchaya and Rugnavinischaya.
Madhava Nidana is highly regarded for its in-depth exploration of disease classification, examination, and diagnosis, making it a valuable resource for Ayurvedic practitioners and scholars. Additionally, it is known to have 4 Sanskrit commentaries, 6 Hindi commentaries, one English translation (consisting of 10 chapters), and an Italian translation, with the translated versions dating back to the 20th century.
Sharangadhara Samhita
Sharangadhara Samhita is an ancient Ayurvedic text that is highly regarded in the field of traditional Indian medicine. It is a comprehensive compilation of knowledge related to Ayurvedic pharmacology, formulations, and medicinal preparations. The text is named after its author, Acharya Sharangadhara, the son of Damodara, who is believed to have lived in the 13 -14th centuries. Sharangadhara Samhita comprises three sections, encompassing 32 chapters and containing a total of 2600 shlokas.
The text provides valuable insights into the preparation and usage of herbal remedies and formulations for the treatment of various ailments. Sharangadhara Samhita has four Sanskrit commentaries and two Hindi commentaries. Notably, it is the first text to elaborate on topics such as seasons, nadi pariksha (a diagnostic tool), and ahiphena or the poppy plant. In this text, it is mentioned that yamadamstra kala comprises 16 days, encompassing the last 8 days of Kartika masa and the first 8 days of Margashira masa.
Bhavaprakasha Samhita
Bhavaprakasha Samhita, authored by Bhava Mishra, the son of Latkan Mishra, holds a prominent position as the final and significant text in the group known as laghutrayee. The origin of this text date back to the 16th century. This text follows the treatment guidelines as per Sharangadhara Samhita and relies on Madanapala Nighantu for a comprehensive compilation of medications and drugs.
This text consists of 80 chapters, comprising a total of 10,268 shlokas, and it is divided into three sections. Additionally, there are two commentaries associated with this work. In this text, one can find references to contraceptive medications and descriptions of five types of plants: Vanaspati (flowering plants), Vanaspatya (flowering trees), Valli (creepers and climbers), Kshupa (shrubs), and Aushadhi (annual plants). Moreover, the reproductive period within a woman's single menstrual cycle is mentioned to be 16 days.
Other works of the above Scholars
Madhava:
Ayurveda Prakasha: This monumental treatise delves into the etiology, pathology, and pathogenesis of diverse diseases and syndromes, making it a foundational text in Ayurvedic diagnosis.
Kutamudgara: Focused on herbal formulations and medicinal preparations, this text offers detailed insights into Ayurvedic pharmacology, providing essential knowledge to practitioners.
Ayurveda Rasashastra: Exploring the realm of Ayurvedic alchemy and mineral medicines, this work uncovers the secrets of preparing and utilizing herbo-mineral formulations.
Paryaya Ratnamala: A significant contribution to the field of Ayurvedic classics, this text addresses various aspects of Ayurvedic principles and practices.
Rasa Kaumudi: An authoritative work on the study of Rasa Shastra (alchemy), this text delves into the properties and therapeutic applications of metals, minerals, and herbo-mineral compounds.
Sharangadhara:
Sangeeta Ratnakar: A treatise on Indian classical music, this work encompasses the fundamentals of music, its theory, and practice, making it a valuable resource for musicians and music enthusiasts.
Adhyatma Viveka: This text explores the realm of spirituality and philosophy, delving into the deeper aspects of self-realization and the nature of existence.
Bhava Mishra:
- Guna Ratnamala: This comprehensive text provides profound insights into the qualities and attributes of various medicinal substances, highlighting their therapeutic benefits and applications in Ayurvedic treatments.
Vedas and Ayurveda
Rgveda- dated to 4000-6000BC
a) Shiva holds the distinction of being recognized as the foremost physician among both gods and demigods.
b) The Ashwini Kumaras are celebrated as the twin physicians and serve as role models for many.
c) In this text, you can find a description of the organ liver, referred to as Yakrut, with synonyms such as raktadhara, raktashaya, and yakrutpinda.
d) A total of 67 medications are also detailed in the text.
Yajurveda
a) The text describes the Tridoshas. A total of 81 medications are elucidated in the text.
b) In the text, you can find information on the treatment of anorectal and skin disorders.
Atharvaveda - dated 1500BC
a) Ayurveda is considered an Upaveda of Atharvaveda, and within its teachings, one can discover comprehensive descriptions of doshas and dhatus.
b) In the text, there are references to a total of 289 medications.
c)This text contains a description of delivering a newborn through surgical means.
d) The text mentions the use of medications in treating 28 types of disorders and provides descriptions of 27 types of hyperpyrexia or fever.
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