AYURVEDA
Item
- Title
- AYURVEDA
- extracted text
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RF_DR.A_12_SUDHA
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THE PHILOSOPHY Or
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AYURVEDA
Introduction: The word meaning of Ayurveda being Science of Life.
In our Indian culture, the main aim of a human being is to
attain Dharma, Arth, Kama & Moksha.
These four objects can only
be achieved if the person has got complete health.
A Sick
Person or an unhealthy man can n ither follow the Path of
Dharma (the duty) nor he can earn money.
It is also not
possible for him to enjoy life & he cannot conceive ofgetting
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Salvation or moksha.
Therefore, the Success of life is the
attainment of happine .s which can only be had through heal’th.
From
time immemorial the Indian Science of living is giving Priority
♦
to health.
Health rules had become part and parcel of living.
The Prime aim of Ayurveda is to
aTn'
"Preserve the health of the healthy and to eradicate the disease
of the diseased".
2.
Hi stori cal asoect:
(a)
History of Ayurveda can be described in different periods,
the earliest being Vedic Period. This is the period
when the Aryans compiled four Vedas or Sacred books of
knowledge during the Period 1500 to 800 B.C. Amongst
them, Rig Veda and Atharva Veda have made maximum
references to the healing art.
They have in these texts
mentioned in detail the methods of Preservation of life,
Prevention of illness & healing of the sick.
(b)
The next Samhite Period which can be named as the period
of classical Ayurvedic texts starts from 6th century B.C.
to 1000 z-..D. Three greqjt authors compiled their classical
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They were Caraka, Susrutha
classical books during this period.
& Vagbhata.
This Caraka Samhita was written sometime in
5th Century B.C. as Atreya the great Physician and teacher
of Caraka taught and practised medicine
University in the 6th Century 13.C.
Taxila
Susruta a Surgeon
taught & practised Surgery in Varanasi at about Sth
century and compiled his great Book Susruta Samhite. This
(
book not only describes various7 diseases & treatment and
also gives vivid descript' cn of Surgical Operational
techniques & surgical instrument .
The classical description
of Thimoplasty by Susruta is too well known,
Vagbhata in
the 7th Century a.D. Summarised very nicely the views of
Charaka & Susruta and gave his original taughts to the
■management of many different diseases. All these authors
described not only the principles of General Medicine and
Surgery but also the principles of different specialities.
They have described 8 specialities namely —
(l)Internal medicine (G.M) (2)Paediatrics (3) Diseases of
Ear,nose & Throat (4) Psychiatry (5) Surgery (6) Toxicology
(7) Geriatrics (8) Rejuvenation (Vnruj
!?•. ■
It is interesting to note that there was some dispute with
regard to the relationship of Ayurvedic Medicine of the
classical period with Greek Medicine 'of Hippocrates Era.
In this connection, Medical Historian Major States -
After the conquest of Alexander the Great in 4th Century
B.C. a contact with India was established and Indian
Medicine became the part of Greek Heritage.
Greek
Physicians became well acqu inted with Hindu culture
and Medical Science.
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3
Alexander himself had Indian Physicians.
In this period
Indian medicine not only flourished in India but also
spread to the neighbouring countries.
In the west,
it influenc d the Greek and Arab Medicine.
In the
East its influence went along with Buddhism to China
and to many other South East Asian Countries.
(c)
Medieval Period during which Ayurvedic Medicine as a
Science did ■not make much progress save few exceptions,
because of the political and economical instability.
In addition, during 13th Centiury A.D. Greeco Arab
Mediine named Unani Medicine was introduced in
India by Muslim Rulers.
British period where an attempt had been made to
(d)
revive Ayurvedic system of medicine, a Chopra
VX .(
c;.
’ X
Committee was formed to introduce Integration of
Indian system of Medicine with -.that of Modem Medicine.
‘ Report was considered by Govt, of India. Since it was
deeply undermining the vested interests, valuable
recommendation made by Chopra Committee was .not
accepted on the following grounds. " Integration
of different systems of medicine on the lines
contemplated by Chopra Committee is impracticable
as the theories and principles of Modern Medicine
are very different from theories and principles
enunciated by Ayurveda and Unani.
The evolution
of an Integrated System will be possible only
after the methods of Modern Scientific Research
have been applied to the principles and practice
of Ayurveda and Unani ana it has been ascertained
4
what is the proved merit of value inthese systems
Post Independent period:
(e)
After extensive studies,
the Chopra Committee recommended as follows:-
Ayurveda is not only the original science of Medicine
but also a rich store house of principles and
generalisation of medicine which can be of greater
value to the modem science in general and medicine
in particular. The aim of all systems is the maintenance
of heal til and cure of the disease.. Any thing of value
emerging from these should be integrated and utilised
for the benefit of humanity as a whole withouf’any
reservation.
CONCEPT OF HEALTH ACCORDING TO AWRVEDA.
Everybody is in search of happiness. The b:sis of happiness i
health.
Acharya Susruta is" the famous dictum of health.
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Thus in Ayurveda health is not considered complete unless
along with the body, mind, sense organs and even soul are
poised for a s tisfactory composed state. In other words,
a person is said to be healthy, only if the physiological,
mental, social, and spiritual well being is maintained in
8
equilibrium.
Three Supporters of Health.
1.
Ahara (Controlled diet)
2.
Swapna ( Sleep or Complete rest)
3.
Brahmacharya (Control of Sexu 1 activities).
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If above three are'kept in their limits, an individual can
attain not only coipplete health but also long life.
Preservation
of the physical energy and stability of the body are the tv/o j
symptoms of physical health which can be had if one follows
B^iRSach arya (Daily Routine) and Jritu charya (Seasonal routine)
throughout his life, and should find out as to what diets axs or
living habits are useful and what are detrimental to the healths
Our body is like a machine just as there is wear and tear of
a machine by doing work, the tissues of the body also undergo
wear and tear. So, like we pcrotect the machine with oiling
similarly the body also needs oiling and rest
Cause of Mental illhealth is nothing but Pragnaparaoha
w
means (knowingly committing the mistake). S If Control and
Self satisfaction are the two important factors to keep one
mentally happy.
This can be achieved through the practice
of Yoga (Kind calming down technique)
BASIC PRINCIPLES. OF AYURVE^.
In Ayurvedic rnedicne the creati n of living beings mainly
consists of the theory of Pan ch am ah a bhu th as (Five eternal
substances) tridoshas( three hurno/rs) and Saptha Dhatus
(Seven basic tissues). All living beings are created
by the combination of five basic elements and the soul.
The Akaasha (space) Vayu (Air) Agni (Fire) Jala (Water) and
(
Prithivi (earth) are the five basic eternal substances
designated as Panchamahabhutas.
It is believed
that
Pan ch am ah abhu th as are the ultimate physical constituents
from which the physical world is derived .
These five
primary eternal substances get intermixed with each other
in a special and specific manner in order to create
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various types of substances which exist in the worlds
The tri dosha theory is nothing but the further biological.
application of Mahabhutas.
In view of the predominating
‘V' AC
rate of Vayu, Theja and Jala the Panchamahabhutas can be
categorised in three applied groups of the living body
constituents namely Vata, Pitta, 2. Kapha. According to
Ayurveda human body is a combination of three primary
essential factors Vata, Pitta, & Kapha-
These three
are responsible for maintaining the integrity of the
human bodyVata:
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Vayu is invincible and is known by its functions-
It is responsible for unification and division of cellsThus vayu controls or directs the inter cellular process
and is responsible for movements of intracellular currentsPitta;
k’*’0"
The catalysts or enzymes which break down complex
substances into simple ones during catabolism and liberate
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energy'
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Kapha: which is responsible for cohesiveness-
It keeps the
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big molecules together in the intercellular material, tissues,
fluids etc- Thus it playa an important role in anabolism.
Caraka says, that tridoshas maintain the integrity of living
human organisms in their normal state, they are responsible for
proper functioning of the body and when they are vitiated,
they are responsible for various types of Somatic disorders.
In healthy condition, Vata, Pitta, Kapa, are called as Dhatus
meaning supporters when they are imbalanced they are known as
Doshas literally meaning 'faults1. ..hen abnormally disposed
they are in their 'mala' or impure state.
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-7The tern Dathu has also a Secondary Leaning. When the
phrase 'Sapta Dhatu' is used.
In this context, it means the
seven elementary tissues of the body namely- Rasa( chyle)
Rakta (blood connective tissue) Mamsa (muscular tissue)
Medas( adipose), Asthi (bone) Mjja( Marrow) & Shukra. (Semen) .
The Sapta Dhatu s are also known as dusya because they have
the tendency to be vitiated by doshcs. KXXX
Mala has been defined ?s polluting agents or impurities
and as wa-te products. Maias comprises of faeceas, sweat &
urine.
The term agni is used in Ayurveda for various factors which
participate and direct the course of digestion and metabolism
in a living organism.
In common language agni means fire.
But in Ayurveda, the term Agni is used in a technical sense.
According to Charaka, the strength, health, longivity of life
and all the living processes arc mainly dependent on Agni.
It provides energy, necdssary for normal functioning of
innumerable^ vital activities. It converts, food in the
form of enerjy.
Therefore all the digestive and metabolic
processes come under the action of Agni.
If the Agni
is in normal state, man dan live healthy long life.
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AYuRVeoic cow£f>\
of Pi abates j
Ayurveaa tne ancient science oi lite wnose prime aim ceing
"Preservation-of
nealtn oi tne healtny and to uracicate
face disease tn
toe
tne diseased''^
has dealt in detail regard in
.-naniif station ana treatment oi' several disease.'-.
is. considered to ce one
"i'indnumena"
(eignt tre^nenus diseases)
e Madnumena can oe traced
of tne cite
oi VeoaS,
among ASta Mana Jadas
The nistory
cy ancient seers.
CaCK to tne time
-amhitas and other Ayurvedic literatures.
The tern? Maanumeha and Prameha are used in the Same sense.
Pramena are oi twenty types.
cue to pitta six anu cue
tne
Those due to Kapha are ten
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of four types.
to vatha
All
authors are unanimous on tne paint that Madhumeha is
a variety oi
Vatnaja Prameha ana all the Pramehas eventually
and ultimately if left untreated or mismanaged lead to
Madnumeha.
The
two paints viz.,
term "prameha" emphasises
pra meaning Aoundant, proiouna and Mcha meaning passing
of
urine.
Prameha is oeiined to ce
Repeated, excessive,
description it is
charactarisea cy
turcid urination.
Krom the a'cove
evident that prameha is a disease
characterised cy urine disordei' cut it may net
te inferred
that all tne urine disorders caused cy urin.ry tract
patnology are
included in prameha.
JLa-U j.r
Maahuniena is
vi>
ci
i-i/.xjr.c il.r.n
classified Cy the Acharyas
in different ways
as
unuer.
I
(1)
tahaja (congenital)
apnatya nimitiaja (Due to violation of tne rules of
health and food /acquiree)
1
(1)
ttnula Frameni (ucese uiacetes)
(^)
Kriuiua Pramer.i (Asthenic type)
2
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<1)
Avrutna Vatajanya ;jue to obstruction ol channels)
(2)
tnudda vatajanya (uue io -nuada vata)
(1)
t-wat antra ( inaepfr nearJ.)
(2)
P ar at an t r a < as a result
other urinary tit oncers)
AS'! IBP A'l n Cut, n. buEL
Two etiological factors which are taken into consideration
are
(a)
Intrinsic
(b)
extrinsic
appearing, in progeny)
(a)
-ahaja (Intrinsic,
(b)
Aphatya nimittaja (extrinsic which includes tood a Hacits)
m general food wnich are provocative of Kappa, Pitta
like
Intake of iresnly cropped grains,
Hacits
stuns and frequent Ingestion.
teuentary,
s. luggishfana laz/ness^
like continjius anxiety,
stress,
Va'-a
fatty and starchy food
like hay time sleep
0.6 alto mental strain
irritability etc.
The pathofcenisis of Frameha in general ana Maahumeha runs
as under.
(1)
Firstly, Kapha austni (vitiation)
is the primary factor
in the Production of Prameha vitiated kapha circulates
in the
(2)
body.
.dipole tissue)
deconaly meda (iat or
uncouna ana unutilised.
combines
may be
in excess,
The vitiatea Kapha
ana medas
because Doth posses similar properties ana
comes in contact with mamsa dhatnp (
ana also Kleaa (fluids)
them.
in the
muscular tissue)
cody and
inturn vitiate
mams a dhatu is inflated dermatitis and other
sain diseases liKt Prmeha Pidaka (carbuncles and bails)
are produced.
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Kleaa is
vitiated urine quantity is
incre^i-eu along with frequency.
pat Itogeix sis it
it
oi only urinary tract
fat
mi t a bolls m.
From the above
t ■ i n trial Prameha is not the disease
but
t m re is de range:ne nt of
t/MP'iaML Ahw L .loM
fwtet taste, excessive
thirst ana appetite, dryness
>i
muutn anatnroat, excfttive accumulation of waste
Lethargy,
.:
ty producing stiCKyness in the .-Kin arc
tne channels tnere
hairs.
tne
f :
drowsiness ana earning sensation in tne
limes, hana ana feet.
urine
Typical odour to tne urine,
becomes sweet so that ants are attracted to tne urine and
tnere it abundant ana frequent How of urine.
ho organ it exempted from undergo ing
oOi4PLICAl IONS;
pathological changes in tr.it metabolic disorder.
The grave
complication ceing Made, Murcha ana Lanyat a (giddyness,
unconsciousness and coma)
Pi-ilK^xPLE Gt- i rtE Al i-'EE'f :
It
I.
is classified as follows;-
In ocese type - treatment must
oe focussed on proper
utilisation of excesive fat that is ne should be given.
(a)
ihodama (purifactory procedure)
( c)
Apatarpana (Reduction in coay weight
cy way of diet
and drugs)
(c)
I.
Vyayama (Exercises)
In Asthenic Type;-
is mainly cased on the
Treatment
of increasing stamina and vitality
line
ty use of tonics
(orimhana) diet and drugs etc.
uiet;-
Chiefly auviced are
1.
Cereals :
Barley,
2.
Pulses
Green grams,
5.
Vegetables;
h.
Adjuvants; Musta.ru oil.
:
wheat ana ola rice
Bengal grams
Bitter gflUrd, Methi etc.
.>r. L. LUCtiARl
M.L>. (Ai'J)
Consulting Physiciah
No.2b, bid Main,
Tata bilk r arm,
Bangalore- 5u0 02u.
THE
ROLE
HI
OF
AYURVEDA
IN
CHILD
HEALTH
PROF. VD. SUHESH CHATURVEDI
B.I.M.S.,
hfi, Mahant Road,
Vile Parle, Bombay h-00 05?
M.A.M.3.
(INDIA)
COMMUNE
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THE ROLE OF AYURVEDA
BY
IN CHILD HEALTH
PxlOF. VD. SURESH CHATURVEDI
B.I.M.S., M.A.M.S.
According to Hinduism, the treatises that encompass the whole
knowledge of universe are Vedas. They are four in number, viz:
Rig Veda, Yajur Veda, Sama Veda and Atharva Veda. Among these,
since the Athar Veda mainly deals with different facts of heel th
welfare, it is considered to be the predecessor of Ayurveda. The
term Ayurveda is conferred to this system because it gives the
knowledge of the whole of the Ayu ( the life); to say, in brief,
this term heralds each and every facet of life from birth to death,
or in other words the creation, sustenance and destruction pheno
mena are elaborately explained and this was the reason for which
affix Veda is added in Ayurveda.
The creation and destruction of the World have of course been
deducted in many ways, but living creatures, particularly the human
being has its own Importance, because the humanbody is a boon of
nature the supreme and in itself bears all the characteristics of
its originator.
Prakriti and Purusha are claimed to be the root factors behind the
creation of the World, but neither the Prakriti nor the Purusha
alone can form anything for the existence of either, alone is of
no use.
Prakriti, per se, is said to give rise to Mahatatwa, Mahattatwa
to Ahankar, Ahankar to Mana, and thereafter five Tanmatras, five
Mahabhootas and Gyanendriyas and Kannendriyas are said to evoke.
Rut even after being a conglomeration qf all these components the
true existance in life comes only when the Jivatma is joined (Soul)
Tims the living body which is just a minute part of almighty God
is manifested in different phenomena in this World. The property
of perception in the sense organs, the diversion of mind in various
activities and the power of introspection in any individuals are
2
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- 2 all due to some indistinct impetus. Th® science which deals
with the principles and practices of ways of healthy and happy
living is known as Ayurveda, It is believed that the corporeal
human body is a medium in materialising the Dharmas ( human
duties) Arth, ( Activities) Kam ( Desire) and therefore it is
the duty of every individual to preserve it by best possible
means, hut at the same time we must keep in mind that the
ultimate ^oal of human life is to achieve Moksha i.e. Salvation
upto the Supreme Soul. And for this reason only we are supposed
to indulge in everything good, on human grounds from childhood.
The main object of Ayurveda is prevention of health and cured
the diseases. In tills regard Ayurveda is serving the suffering
humanity. Today’s child is tomorrow's adult so from the birth,
we must very careful about child health care.
i
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FBBDUn
Baby should be fed milk only thrice in first 2'-+ hours.1
It is to be kept on mother's milk for first few weeks. If
mother's milk cannot available that baby needs supplementation
of cow's milk is available.
Baby loses a little amount of body weight in first couple of
days, but it is not an issue to be bothered for the wei ht
spontaneously increases afterwards.
A healthy baby of 3 kgs. weight needs to be fed four times a
day. Mother’s dirturbed moods, annoyance worries, tension,
starvation and lack of love towards baby are the main causes
of suppression of mil k„ Hence the mother is expected to avoid
all these causes and conditions. Suppose breast feeding and
animal milk is impure then baby will suffer from several diseases,
r
CiilLD CARE: - As the children in the first stage, require
nothing but milk of the mother or of the wet- nurse, or its
substitute, so long as the quality of milk is sufficient in
every respect, the child will continue healthy and playful.
.... 3
But
■■ 3 ii the milk is insufficient the child may have any number of
diseases, the human constitution is heir to.
In the case of children sustained on milk only, if the child
gets diseases the other or the wet- nurse also, should be treated
alongwith the child,, And if milk substitutes are used for sus
taining it, the substituted milk should be properly purified with
medicines in addition to the treatment given to the child. A
child is likely to get any number of diseases at the tine of its
teething. These however, pass off when the teeth come out prominently in the mouth. These ailments should therefore, be treated
with mild remedies befitting children, by a proper physician.
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The temperature
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after birth starts going down. It is therefore, desirable to keep
the baby wrapped for at least an hour.
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The breathing mechanism sets in soon after birth.
GETEnAL RULES
"Child is the father of a man" is a
. OF CONDUCT:—
proverb which is as true in medicine as in other Worldly affairs,
health instructions should be observed even from childhood, if
youth and adult life is to be healthy.
Childhood is not suitable for such attempts as the constitution
responds most easily and improves quickly.
Ayurveda offers suggestions for the faults that remain in the
constitution of the foetus, where we are unable to do anything
for want of proper and definite knowledge.
•
The maintenance of health in the care of this child in its baby
condition is thus Important. Beyond this period, general rules
of good behaviour, in point of health apply equally to children
as well as to adults.
Age is a whole has been divided into four phases viz. Childhood,
early adulthood ( Youth), late adulthood and senility. The term
- 4. -
childhood, is used for the age between the birth and sixteen years.
Tills is again subdivided into three phases, which are
1.
Shishu
0=5 years
2.
Bala
5 “12 years
3.
Kishore
12 =16 years
The child should thus be looked after till it attains youth.
There are three stages of Shishu viz;
1.
Sustenance on milk only.
2.
Sustenance on milk and ordinary food,
3.
Sustenance on ordinary food alone.
DAILY DEEDS;
Massage :
External application of oil daily, followed by gentle
massage with flour paste keeps the baby’s skin soft and healthy,
it helps as a nutritive agent, hot water bath is to be served
after massage. Both these massage and bath are to be conducted
in closed chamber as to save the baby from external air. Then
the baby should be made dry by towel, the powder is to be sprunkled and lose clothes are to be covered.
Eye j
For preservation from various diseases and to maintain ths
eye sight normal it is necessary to use the An Jan as from the
child=hood daily at bed time. There are many Ayurvedic medicines,
which are useful in preserving and improving the eyesight.
Exercise s Child has not required any special exercise but his
movements walking, running, sports ( indoor and out=doors) are
enough, for developing in the physical strength and growth.
Sleep s For human body sleep is very essential for health preser°
vation, according to the age. The sleep will balance the physical
and mental strength, so it is basic requirement of our body.
5
- 5 1)
Baby requires sleep near about 16 to 18 hours.
2)
Infants sleep about 12 to 16 hours.
3)
Child, requires sleep 10 to 12 hours.
4)
Age from 12 to 16 sleep require 8 to 10 hours.
COt-SION DISEASES IN CHILD ;
The irregularity diet and deeds create
the various diseases. They are few common diseases in ch11dran
whom we must understand to prevent the baby, as such colds, cough
vomitting, gastritis, Tcmpinities, constipation, or diarrhoea,
dysentry or retension of urine stomarities, feverish abdominal
disturbances etc.
PainsWhen a child feels any pain it starts crying, the degree
of pain can be easily measured by the degree of crying. The
location of pain should be ascertained from the place of his body
where he/she frequently touches or cries when touched, after birth
starts going down. It is therefore, desirable to keep the baby
wrapped for at least an hour.
Erruption of TeethtWhen teeth begin to appear there is a
possibility of every type of ailment appearing in the body of the
child. These should be temporarily treated, because it possess
away when the teeth actually appear.
Memory
It is having important role in human life but from
the child age we have developed the memory.
So we can improve our rememberanco in whole of the life. For
this purpose we have to maintain daily routines properly and
nourish diet required in daily meal, specially milk, butter,curd,
butter ghee, fruits, dry fruits, are helpful for the improvement
of the memory.
CONCLUSION s~
Th© Brahmma, the creator of the human body i0o.
Prakruti and Purush.
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This is based on the triangular form i.e. Father, Mother, and Child
and thus they are inter-connected.
Today’s child is tomorrow’s mother and father so we have to be
very careful from the child-hood to maintain the physical and
mental health of the child. Therefore, these Ayurvedic rules of
diet and deeds are beneficial to achieve the complete health.
This fitness enables to achieve the Dharma ( duties), Artha
( Functions of organs), Kama ( Desires), Moksha ( Salvation)
these are the Chaturvidh Purushartha, they are known as a four
human mottos. These mottos are based on the health and happiness
of the child.
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C/cu^-
'JcMzu /99C' •
OJAS " SPIRIT OF LIFE" i.e. IMMUNITY IN PHYSIOLOGICAL AND
PATHOLOGICAL ASPECTS AND MANAGEMENT WITH SUDHA BINEU.
The definition of health is " A state of complete
physical mental and social well being not merely absence
of a disease
says''o
ancient years itself in a
brief way the great Indian scholar of ^edicine Acharya
^agarjuna says the same thing.
Njradadraoanam Jaqat"o
"Siddha Rasa Karishyadi
In present wor&e^L- because of vari
ous adultrations, pollution of water, air etc., various
Malnutrition causing imbalance, in state of health; as
psychosomatic, physical and social manifestations
Some of new diseases
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a. larger way inventing the human
life, gradually the life span of an individual getting pro
blematic.
The reason not merely the external causes, but
their influence on unexposed, unidentified vital force of
the body that is OJAS; which is hidden in one’s physilogical
and Pathological state of life.
The traditional ArthodoaJ
as well as comprehensive system og^ Medicine that is Ayur
veda says one’s well being depends upon the condition of
OJAS; The well being mentioned is of swastha.
In recent times it is felt that in no.of wasting
syndromes are due to defective or defficiency of innunity
of the body.
Any form of degeneration of any tissue ulti
mately leads to deffective immunity and this deffective
immunity causes various changes in structures and toneerE
<xy>
tissues--&n the other hand the immunity pl ay sass vital role
keeping one’s physilogical state sound, and also the pro
gnosis of any pathological or clinical state.
The study
of this immunity though much developed still it is
un conveneed to the scientists.
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2
Ayurveda propposes this vital force as OJAS in its
classics.
As per the discreption the OJAS
or human
resistansive force or immunilogical factor in Ayurveda
it is neighter a substance, pigament, material nor a
tissue.
it is an ultimate of all Dhatus i.e. Rasa, Rakts,
uamsa, Medho Ast, Majja and Sukra.
is a force which
maintains the integrety of vital functions of the body.
As we can’t visualise the action of a hermone, we
can't visualaise the ojas al so, Ik *2he
pathway of indocrine
*1
,
response we can’t visulaise.the passage or site of 0JAS^0u4 be
But we can percept its influence, action existence in
living body both physilogical & Pathological condition
and analysis.
The standards of vital functions of the
body, and by observation of variations of vital functions
of the body, variations of basic Matobolic rate, variat)
ions in tone of TiSSUe levels, probably cellular function
estimations may indicate us the variations of OJAS
and
its manifestations indirectly-.it may, but the above cli
nical Manifestations indicates OJAS vikruti.
T^elevels
of Glycogen variations, and °xygen levels of RBC Panological Manifestations in cellular level etc., also may in
dicate variations of 0J0 spirit.
ment Rakta is OJAS.
As per Dalhana's state
Because all the essential material
of life that is nutrition and oxygen maintained by Rakta
at Cellular level and orgonic levels.
The dynamic force of Rakta wtsfceh maintains Defensive
Mechanism of the body by it's W.B cells.
functional force of Rakta is OJAS.
Hence all this
The ancient scientists
of Ayurveda visualise this Hidden force in human body
which maintains tone of tissues, life of cells,
ability of organs as OJAS.
It prolongs the span of life.
Tt maintain the life in living body.
completely the entire
functional
If it is diminished
vitality of life will be exhausted.
f
<- f
‘sj
3
-hough we can’t visulaise OJAS Ayurveda says that
it has got sweet taste and it is cool and viscus in nature;
mixed ghee yellow and Red colours.
Probably the Ayurvedic
Scientists might have delt it in very powerful snirituali
stic macroscopic attitudes.
Tnrw.«^< ftA’cw
Though the di scription of the site, character and
quantity of °JAS may not be of confermative in moder para
meters.
But it may be so ddep hidden force.
Which can be
felt only through a most powerful macroscopic attitudes only.
Though infaction, malnutrition accuired immunity defi
ciency may scope of new growths.
Congenital Wasting syn
dromes Metabolic disorders are indicate severe pathogenisis of
the body as per the modem medicine.
The ultimate
by above causes is gradual decrease in the spirit of life
e.
i.
OJAS.
In otherwords maintainence,of this 0J0 level
gives one’s physilogical activity i.e. life.
What about Modem scientists say? when Robert galls
of U.S Cancer Research Institute^
Who are the keep figures
in the discovery and -^solation of the casitive vires the
A.I.V say that, till this day thereis lack of cure for
aids.
Ayurveda prescribed good receipies to enhance the OJAS
inorder to prevent and to terminate the diseases.
The grant
eminent physician charka revealed Nacha Sariyru sareeraabu
(/
Vyadhikshmatva samarthani bhavanti".
in his sutra stana.
Tf means all bodies can't bear same immunity that's why
some people are prone to getdiseases by simple reasons.
The modern system of medicine also adopting the same theory.
The breast milk contains large, amounts of lactoferrin
Lysozymes.
Immunoglobulins, and ^ron binding protein.
4
Therefore due to the lack of iron availability for the
metabolism of E.Qbii the growth of which is inhibited
while the baby is in a breat.
Besides this the remaining
contents of the breast milk also prevents the growth of
E.Coli Ayurveda has lime lighted this as "Stanyam bals
Jeevanamam" obviously long years ago.
Amoung all above said ways, agni has got a very good
role to ehhance
immunity, Agni means the coordinative fun
ctional activity of all anzymes, digestive and Alimentory
Because if the Agni is in normal condition the
tract.
OJAS
will te increased, otherwise it can’t.
The combines oetilogical factcryt, which causes of
Dhatu sosha ultimately results ozosodha.
The chara^r isv\
his sutra stane the factors mentioned for Dhatu sosha
indicates that the same ostilogical factors either psy=
cosomatic or physicalresults, a gradual bad prognosiss
which may be the essential force of the body tissues i.e.
OJAS gradual decrease.
and—inferttdre con di’cfoh's
modem medicine, mallnutrition synddromes,
causes this vital force in a weak state otherwise one
state of 0Z0 Kheenatva.
The parigbhika, Ksheeralaska
later stages of ^ajayakshma. Chronic woun-:s of body.
romic existence of
e.
i.
Ch-
Krimi complicatory stages of Ageerna
chronic indigession and mall absorpted syndromes are
the contributed factors indirect y and gradual variations
of OJAS.
Sudha Bindu an Ayurveidic compound preparation consist
ting o several plant materials, has been reported to po
ssess anti aids activity.
As the possible mechanisms of
its activity were not evaluated as yet and as Sffi enzyme
5
plays an important role during stress in the conservation
and utilisation of energy, ”^he present study was undertaken
for estimating the activity of liie of W.B cells and func
tions of tissues.
The results indicate a clear role of W.B.c
in maintaining body immunity and Sudha Bindu appears to
help adaptive processes by further increase in the activity
of W.B cells and body immunity system.
1'
TABLE
Changes in levels follovzing ’3.8" Therapy
Group
S. No.
1o
B.M. R.
2.
Anxiety Neurosis
3.
^ctivty of W.B Cells
4.
54
Initial
value
1st
month
2nd
month
3rd
month
compari sion
4- +4
* 4-
+
+
+++
++++
Cardice tension
+++
++
++2-
+
General tone of
museels
+
++
+++
+++
6
:
CONCLUSION;
Many indigenous compounds are used in the manage
ment of enhancement of immunity of the body earlier
in Ayurveid
field.
This specific ingredens of Sudha
Bindu an -.nique Ayurvedic compound and clinical re
search results indicated that it has got a satisfactory
roles as prevent theraphy in maintaining the immunity
levelsi.e. Voja Vridhu if administered a three months
course.
AYUBVIJNANA
■tr
(Founder Editor: Late Vaidya Y. Parthanarayana Pandit)
MONTHLY JOURNAL OF AYURVEDA ACADEMY
Editor :Prof.S.K.Ramachandra Rao
Associate Editors : Dr. B.V. Kumara Swamy
Dr. Rangesh Paramesh R
Dr. S.R. Sudarshan
Vol 12
December 1989
No. 12
Editorial
The Academy conducted during the last
month a seven-day camp of lectures,
demonstrations and clinical consultations
^pertaining to ‘health’. The camp was called
‘Svasthya-saptaha’.
The expression ’svasthya’ is of great interest
not only to the Ayurvedic scholars and
practitioners, but to the medicare systems all
over the world. The Sanskrit word which has
come to mean ‘health’ etymologically signifies
‘abiding in oneself. The healthy person is by
definition one who abides (stha) in himself (sva).
An unhealthy person, on the contrary, is one
who, not being able to abide in himself seeks to
depend on other persons like the physician or
other things (like the drugs). He is .therefore,
unable to rest in peace and becomes anxious
and agitated. The Sanskrit word for the sick
person, ‘atura’ means precisely this condition.
Anxiety and agitation are, of course, not
desired normally, and are sought . to be
eliminated or prevented. Any medicare system
is directed towards such elimination and
prevention of distress. But the attempt to
eliminate a distressing condition when it is
actually there is more common than the attempt
to avoid the possibility of such a condition
arising.
Ayurveda, however, is defined by Charaka
as the system which concerns itself with the sick
as well as those who are well -
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47/L(First Floor) St. Marks Road
BANGALORE-580 001
That is to say, Ayurveda, in its original
framework, is more than a medical system; it
concerns all aspects of life, and it is both an art
and a science of living.
The textual tradition of Ayurveda is based on
the most fundamental and ancient of the
philosophical viewpoints in India, namely
Sankhya. Both Charaka and Susruta include
accounts of Sankhya in their celebrated
samhitas. The purpose of the viewpoint is to
teach the human being how he can free himself
from three kinds of distresses, physical and
mental
(adhyatmika),
environmental
(adhibhautika) and accidental and unforeseen
(adhidaivika), all three of which are a common
concern of everyone. Ayurveda has inherited
this viewpoint and seeks to address itself to all
three of these distressing situations which
comprehend life. It is unnatural and ineffective
to isolate one kind of distress from the general
condition of life. Body, mind, environment and
the spiritual envelop are all considered in
Ayurveda as constituting one whole.
A person is well or ill only in this general
context, which is dynamic and uncertain. The
prescriptions of Ayurveda recognize this factor:
they are meant to enable the healthy person to
maintain his health and enhance it, and to enable
the sick person to regain his health and maintain
it.
AYURVEDA ACADEMY
MONTHLY JOURNAL: AYURVIJNANA
Advisory Board
1.
Dr. M.N. Mahadeva Sastri
2.
Dr. K.R. Srikantha Murti
3.
Dr. Jayaprakash Narayan
4.
Dr. C.P. Sukla
5.
Dr. T.L Devaraj
6.
Dr. A.R. Vasudevamurthy
7.
Dr. V.R. Padmanabha Rao
t
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" A healthy person is one whose doshas
are in balance, whose digestion is good, and
whose bodily constituents and excretory
functions are in proper proportion and
whose sensory organs and mind are calm
and collected'
Hon. Secretary, Ayurveda Academy,
Branch Office: 236, 4th Main,
Chamarajapet, Bangalore-560 018
(Cheques may be made in favour of Ayurvijnana)
Articles for publication may be sent to :
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-5
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<*>
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asSdo.
THE VOICE OF ATREYA
(Gleanings from Charaka-Samhita)
(Ths Charaka samhita which is one of the earliest medical treatises was compiled
perhaps in the Sth or 6th century B.C.
It is in the form of a dialogue between the teacher
Atreya and his disciples.)
CODE OF CONDUCT FOR A PHYSICIAN
A physician should speak the truth, accustom himself to vegetarian food
and food which enhances intelligence, should have compassion for all living
beings, should try with all means at his disposal to make sick people regain
their health, should be modest in speech and appearance, should only
words which are sympathetic, noble, modest, well-intentioned
utter
and virtuous,
should always be mindful of the time and place, should be courageous, obser
vant and always try to contribute to the arousal of wisdom-
While entering the house of a patient, the physician should be conducted
by a known person, should be well-attired, modest, keenly observant but not
inquisitive, and should confine his attention only to the sick person. The affairs
of the family should not be disclosed to others.
The physician should not carry any weapons,
should not cause trouble
to the sick person even for his own livelihood, should not commit adultery
or
cast envious eyes on other people's property, should not associate with crimi
nals; should not administer medicines to people who are excessively greedy,
perverted, wicked, misanthropic, and unrepentant, to a person who is moribund,
and to persons who have no one responsible to care for them,should not admini
ster medicine or accept payment from women who are unattended by their hus
bands or guardians, should not divulge bad prognosis either to the patient
his family if it will distress them, and should not flaunt his learning.
Vimana 8/13
or
SVASTHYA SAPTAHA
The specific use of words in our language is
particularly significant, as important dimensions
physical, the mental, the social and the spiritual.
Here, the higher centres of identity express or
get lost when translated.
present higher levels of harmony and
authenticity, towards which we are moving.
I am convinced that this event is the
beginning of a process of wide ranging
implications which will go far beyond the field of
health.
Let us look at it more closely.
Here emerges a hierarchy and harmony
which permit no distortion or disorder. This was
the vision the ayurvedic seers had, as their roots
were in the Vedas.
Having the deepest knowledge of every
1)
This brings to public awareness the reality
aspect of the human phenomena, they have
of great insights, treasures implicate in our
developed a methodology, tools and techniques
culture.
for the fullest flowering of human potential.
2)
Health in the western language has its
This is the movement towards Svasthya; in
root in healing; (W) hole. Although holistic, the
use of this word is restricted. It smacks of
absence of disease and does not indicate its
Notes from the inaugural talk by
positive aspects. The emphasis seems to be on
DR. R. M. VARMA
the physical aspect. The ‘whole’ model started
Emeritus Prof, of Neuro-Surgery, NIMHANS, Bangalore.
with the physical, though it is opening out now.
3)
The concept of Svasthya is interesting.
Svastha is 'to stay in oneself, i.e., to be
authentic. Our concept brings about a harmony
between the internal and external, facilitating a
transcendence. This is a forward movement.
A cell when it receives an input from the
environment gets excited and then tries to return
to itself.
short, this is actualisation of the human potential.
Sky is the limit of this aspiration, sky having no
limit.
Today, there is hardly any public awareness
about this ideology. In the urban areas, the
changed language of international technology
has dimmed the inner light of holism. The rural
areas witness a sad scene of a diluted,
half-hearted ineffective technological spread
In the West, physics taught the concept of
with a
inertia, while physiology taught the concept of
wisdom.
Homeostasis.
In the East, our svasthya is not a return to
the earlier state, but an integration at a higher
state, a series of higher levels of integration
incorporating all the dimensions of existence,
not merely the physical and the physiological,
but the whole of the multi-dimensional man, the
rapidly disappearing
indigenous
In the horizon, however, there is the
proverbial silver lining in the cloud. The latest
revolution .in the physical and medical sciences
is opening out into a holistic approach, and they
are seeking the roots of holism in our country.
It is in this context that I applaud this event of
today.
SVASTHYA-SAPTAHA
Notes from the key-note address delivered by
DR. V. PARAMESIIVARA
MBBS, FRCP (Lond), FACC, FAPI, FISE, FAIID.FLMSA, FICA.FICN
Consulting physician and cardiologist
Since time immemorial the place of a
physician in society was by and large one of
friend, philosopher and guide. With the
extension of society, emergence of competition
and explosion of knowledge, times have
changed. In recent years, public opinion has
changed, radically, as members of the medical
profession have accepted increasingly complex
and demanding roles in society. The modern
system of medicine, which is most widely
respected among all professions and which has
never been more competent technically, is in
trouble. Its health is not too well. The layman’s
discovery of taxability of the present day
representatives of the noble profession of
medicine, has led to the inevitable dilution of
influence, suspicion and even mistrust.. Medical
care is costly and not equitably available. The
practice of clinical medicine is not a precise art
with exact answers to fundamental questions.
There are those who expect sophisticated
modern technology to provide precisely correct
computerised solutions to all problems that
confront the physician. Finally the aims and
goals of medical practice often remain unclear;
for example, even the basic distinction between
health and disease, and forthat matter, even the
distinction between life and death. The average
doctor sees many more patients than he should,
but many fewer than he would like to see. A
modern doctor is overtrained for the job he is
doing, yet undertrained for the job he is
expected to do. Physician’s powers and
expectations from him have grown enormously
owing to explosion of knowledge and mode of
diagnosis and treatment. His responsibility has
grown enormously. All kinds of problems now
roll to the physician's door. It is ironic but not
accidental, that great technical powers of
medicine is under confusion about its standards
and goals.
When its powers were fewer, its purpose was
clear. In fact, medicine was considered the very
model of an art in the past. Today, even though
fully armed and eager to serve, its targets are not
clear. Health is not the only possible and
reasonable goal of medicine. There are other
goals as well, where the place of a physician is
to serve the desires of the consumer - a task of
an agent rather than a doctor. This means,
transforming a physician into a mere public
servant, a technician or a helper for hire.
Without clearly defined views, medicine may
prove to be only a set of means and the doctor
reduced to a technician or engineer selling his
service on demand. Endless profession is an
ended profession. There will be an end to ymedicine unless there remains an end for
medicine. Let us nurture the hope that
physicians of the future will maintain their
position, not just as students of science but as
disciples of learning and wisdom. Physicians of
tomorrow must be better equipped than their
predecessors to meet the complex needs of
society. A doctor should not be a tyrant but
neither he be a servant. Public misperception of
medicine is more dangerous than the doctor's
misperception of himself, the doctor should
remain as a leader and the community also
respects the fact that medicine is an art and the
doctor is a dossier.
We need advice on better indices of
healthiness than mortality and morbidity
statistics.
Thus the importance of
epidemiological reasons for health, about what
promotes and what determines health. I have the
. highest respect for nobel prize winners, for
f
discovery of chemical wonders of enzyme
structure,etc, but surely, he who suggested
adding chlorine to drinking water or invented
indoor plumbing system and closed drainage,
has contributed far more to the health of mankind.
One view is that further preventive efforts may be
more cost effective than further investment in
curative medicine. What is important to note is
that major improvements in mortality in U.K and
U.S.A, occured before the massive investment of
last few decades and before the advent of high
technology in medicine. And also, the countries
that spend the most on health services do not
necessarily have the best health. Technological
revolution has become a controversial issue.
Now it is a technological problem.
It is a matter of regret that the Ayurvedic
physicians of today are diffident and suffer from
an inferiority complex, when on the contrary, we
should proud of our culture and heritage, and I
am convinced that if medicine were to retain its
holistic approach, it would be through the
philosophy of Indian system of medicineAyurveda.
TREES :HOWTO KNOW THEM
By H.W.STARTE
(Deputy Conservator of Forests in India)
In order to learn how to distinguish trees the following are some of the points to be
noticed;-Whether the tree grows to a large size or not.
(i) The colour of the bark, and whether it is thick or thin, and rough or smooth.
(ii) The shape and size of the leaf. (It may be remembered that the leaves of young saplings
are often larger than on the mature tree); whether the surface is rough or smooth, and whether the
colour of both surfaces is alike. As regards shape, notice whether the leaf is simple or compound,
stalked or other wise, sharp or blunt pointed, and whether the edge is smooth or toothed. You
are strongly recommended to make carbon imprints of the leaves of trees about to be described
in the manner recently explained in these columns (Tvlajor Packenham Walsh).
The colour, shape and size of the flower, and fruit. In order to distinguish different kinds of
timber the followig are some of the points to be noted:- Whether the wood shows a distinct
heart-wood, its colour, weight and hardness, whether concentric annual rings are plainly visible
or not, whether the woodpores are easily distinguishble, and whether the medullary rays or silver
grain are visible as narrow bands running out from the centre.
From: THE TIMES OF INDIA ILLUSTRATED WEEKLY, February 3, 1924
MEDICINE AND ALLIED SCIENCES
IN SIVA-TATTVA-RATNAKARA
Dr K.R. SRIKANTA MURTHY
It is common knowledge that good amount
of information on medicine and many other
sciences is available in the non-medical literature
extend over the whole gamut of ancient Indian
literature-philosophical, religious, literary,
scientific, historical, social and others. Important
of our country and this has not been given the
attention it deserves. Here is an attempt, to
aquaint the interested, with references to
medicine and allied sciences in the great work,
Sivatattvaratnakara.
among the sciences dealt with are - cosmology,
astronomy, meteorology, geology, agriculture,
horticulture, medicine-human, veterinary and i)
Sivatattvaratnakara is an encyclopaedia of
ancient Indian learning. Its author, Basavappa
Nayaka (Basavabhupala or Basavaraja) was a
famous king of a feudal state of Keladi (also
known as Ikkeri and Bidanur) which comprised
of the coastal areas of Karnataka in the east. He
ruled from 1694 to 1714 A.D. and brought
prosperity to the kingdom. He belonged to the
Virasaiva sect and revived ancient Hindu
tradition. He was a great scholar and a patron
of learning. He is the author of two more works
also viz., Subhashita Suradruma in Sanskrit and
Suktisudhakara in Kannada language. But his
magnum opus is undoubtedly the
Sivatattvaratnakara. 1 The treatise was intended
to educate his son, prince Somasekhara
Nayaka, in all branches of ancient Indian
knowledge.
The treatise consists of nine kallolas (tide =
sections), each one having many tarangas
(waves = chapters) which are one hundred and
eight in total, with an impressive number of thirty
thousand verses of different meters, in Sanskrit
language. As can be expected, it is a
compilation from various earlier texts and the
author has magnanimously enumerated his
sources at the end of every section.
Commencing with the Vedas, the sources
horticultural-chemistry, alchemy, metallurgy
pyrotechniqus, weaponry, defence sciences,
toxicology, erotics, astrology, town planning,
public health and sanitation, statecraft, finance,
trade and commerce, vocations of livelihood,
sports and pastime, arts and crafts etc.
Philosophical systems and doctrines, religions,
worship of gods, traditions, etc., are also dealt
with. In addition to ancient knowledge, it also
describes contemporary matters such as history
of Vijayanagara empire, the kingdoms of Keladi,
Mysore and Coorg; the colonisation of
Portugese, French and British, life and
achievements of Basavaraja, the 12th century
saint-minister of King Bijjaia of Kalyana and the
propagator of Virasaivism, the doctrines,
philosophy and rituals of that sect, etc., the f
chapters on those subjects being interspersed
in the text. Thus with a brief description of
everything under the sun (including the Sun
also) this voluminous treatise stands out as a
useful reference manual of indology.
Medicine (Ayurveda) and some sciences
allied to it, form the chief subject matter of the
fifth, sixth and seventh kallolas (sections).
The following table furnishes the details of
topics found there in.
Kallola (Section)5
Taranga (Chapter) 1
Kalajnana (foretelling) and arishtalakshana
(signs of oncoming death) -145 verses
Taranga (Chapter) 3
Svapnaphala (auspicious and inauspicious
dreams, their effects and remedies) - 72 verses
Taranga (Chapter) 8
Sakuna (auspicious and inauspicious
omens and remedial masures) -115 verses
Kallola (Section) 6
Taranga (chapter) 10
Upavana Vinoda (horticulture and Botony) 141 versees
Taranga (Chapter) 11
Tarucikitsa- Vrkshayurveda (horticultural
medicine) - 97 verses
Taranga (Chapters) 12 & 13
Kamasastra (Sexology) -139 verses
Taranga (Chapters) 14,15 & 16
Upabhogas- pleasures of gandha (per
fumes) malya (garlands) vastra (dress) abhushana (jewels) etc. - 283 verses.
Taranga (Chapter) 17
Ratnasastra (gemmology) tests of precious
stones, valuation etc. -187 verses.
Taranga (Chapter) 18
Vividha ahara (different kinds of food)
Vishapariksha (tests for poisonous foods,
drinks, etc.) -315 verses.
Taranga (Chapter) 19
Bhakshya Nirmana-Preparation of different
kinds of eatables, dishes etc. - 315 verses.
Taranga (Chapter) 20
Bhojanavidhi (dietetrics) Tambula, Sayyabhoga (chewing of betel- leaf, comfort sleeping)
etc. 194 verses.
Taranga (Chapter) 21
Medicine (Vaidyasastra) Ayurveda and its
eight branches, tridoshasiddhanta, Nadipariksha (pulse reading).
Aushadha ganas (materia medica) Aushadhasangrahana (procedure of collecting herbs) 208 verses.
Taranga (Chapter) 22
Pathya ahara (suitable and healthy foods &
drinks) iatrochemistry, Maharasas (Ores and
minerals) Lohas (metals) (their purification,
oxidation, etc.), eight famous mineral medicinal
formulae -129 verses.
Taranga (Chapter) 23
Alchemy (rasayana) rasa (mercury) its kinds
sources, purification, worship etc. Sadharana
rasas (salts, alkalies, etc. and their purification,
incineration (calcination) etc. -141 verses.
Taranga (Chapter) 24
Alchemy (contd) rasasamskaras (The 18
mercurial operations) Preparation of elixirs of- life
- transmutation of metals etc. -195 verses.
Taranga (Chapter) 25
Alchemy (contd) Rasashala (laboratory)
Yantra, musha, puta etc. (apparatus and other
appliances) - 87 verses.
Tanranga (Chapter) 26
Toxicology (visha-vijnana) kinds of snakes,
scorpions etc. -109 verses.
Taranga (Chapter) 27
Toxicology (vishacikitsa) - (Tratment of
snake-bite and poisons of other poisonous
animals) vegetable and artificial poison etc. -142
verses.
Go-Pasucikitsa (science of cow & cattle, their
Kallola (Section) 7
treatment etc.) 479 verses.
Tarnaga (Chapter) 7
Paediatrics - Kumarabharana (bringing up of
children, child care etc.) -124 verses.
Yogasastra- Hathayoga- asanas etc. - 192
verses.
Taranga (Chapter) 8
Horasastra, Jatakaphala - Horoscope,
Astrology etc. -128 vrses.
Taranga (Chapter) 9
Physiognomy (female) -145 verses.
Taranga (Chapter) 10
Physiognomy (male) - 207 verses.
Taranga (Chapter) 11
Gajasastra-Gajacikitsa (science
elephants, their treatment) - 225 verses.
Taranga (Chapter) 15
of
Taranga (Chapter) 12
Asvasastra-Asvacikitsa (Science of horses,
their treatment) -479 verses.
Apart from these, many other subjects
related to personal and community health,
sanitation, moral and right conduct, philosophy
of life etc., are described in other chapters also.
Some of the authors and treatises i)
enumerated as sources at the end of the sixth
and seventh sections are Vatsyayana, Sartngadhara, Nala, Gauri, Dhanvantari, Asvins, Rasaratnakara, Rasahrdaya, Haramekhala, Merutantra,
Manasollasa, Kautukacintamani, Vagbhata,
Amrtanandi, Dasarupaka, Vidyanathiya etc.
This brief suvey is enough to convince the
medical scientists about the value and impor
tance of this great work. A detail study is sure to
furnish more knowledge both the physician and
medical historian alike.
Taranga (Chapter) 13
With Best Compliments from
NTS Consultants (Pvt) Ltd.,
Reg. 158,13th Main, IV T Block,
Jayanagar, Bangalore-41
ON TIBETAN MEDICINE
Dr. TENZIN CIIOEDAK
(Senior Physician to His Holiness the Dalai Lama)
(talk delivered at the First International Conference on Holistic Health and Medicine, at Bangalore)
T
The origin of Tibetan Medicine dates back
to some 3,000 years ago and is one of the most
precious heritage of Tibetan tradition and
culture. In the Tibetan buddhist tradition it
believed that the essence of Tibetan Medicine
was taught by Lord Budda himself in the
manifestation of Medicinal Buddha. However,
there are many historical evidences and support
to claim that the system existed well before the
Buddha’s period. Passed down through the
centuries it still enjoys unbroken continuity and
popularity.
According to the great 4 tantras, it was clear
mentioned that those who want to prevent and
cure disease should study this great science of
healing. Those who want to attain the virtue or
religion, wealth and worldly satisfaction should
also study this great science of healing. And
those who wants to save people from all forms of
sufferings and commands high respect from the
people should practise this great science of
healing.
The fundamental concept of Tibetan
Medicine revolves around the theory of 54
consmophysical elements and 3 humours.
Human life by nature is impermanent and
transitory. It is said to be endowed with all kinds
of power, suitable for practising anything
positive or negative. Human life is the supreme
life form. The physical form of a human being is
created by the union of healthy sperm and ovum,
the consciousness comes from the intermediate
state because of a karmic relationship with the
parents, and is influenced by the afflictive
emotions. This leads to the formation and
development of the foetus which requires the
aggregation of the five elements; earth, fire,
water, air and space. The healthy qualities of the
father’s sperm contributes to bone, brain, and
vertebral column; the mother’s ovumcontributes
to flesh, blood, vital and vessel organs. The
consciousness of five senses develop from the
consciousness of the foetus. Of the five
elements, the earth element contributes to the
formation of the flesh, bone, nose and its sense
of smell; the water element contributes to the
formation of blood, body fluids,- tongue and its
sense of taste; and fire lement provides body
heat, complexion, eyes and its sense of vision;
air with respiration, skin and its sense of touch;
and space contributes to all body cavities, ears
and its sense of hearing. The body is thus formed
and developed by the interrelationship and the
aggregation of cause and effect.
The root and general cause of all diseases
and suffering is ignorance which gives rise to 3
inborn mental poisons - The desire or
attachment, hatred or aversion, delusion or
obscuration. These in trm give rise to 3 humours
(Wind, Bile and Phelgm) which ultimately
determines body’s health and disease.
Therefore it is quite clear that until and unless we
are free from the ignorance and 3 inborn mental
poisons, we cannot free ourselves from the
diseases. The important causative factors which
trigger the manifestation of humours into
disorders are four, namely inproper diets,
improper behaviour, seasonal factors and
mental factors.
Our physical body, its illness, and treatmnt,
all basically have the same material basis. All
basically made up of five cosmo-physical
elements. Earth element provides foundation,
water provides moisture, fire provides heat,air
provides room for the development. Depending
upon the predominance of the elements, six
basic tastes, sweet, sour, salty, bitter, hot and
astringent tastes are formed. Each taste has its
own qualities and potency which are
therapeutically very important.
The five elements also gives rise to the 3
humours, as already mentioned above. The
maintenance or disturbance of the homeostasis
of these 3 humours will determine health or
disease states of the person. Wind or rlung,
which is named after its function and qualities,
governs clarity of consciousness in the heart,
brain and sense organs. It also governs
breathing, all movement, action, the opening
and closing of the organs, all expansion and
contraction of the limbs and proper functioning
of all bodily constituents in their respective
vessels.
Tripa or bile is responsible for all internal and
external heat of the body. This governs bodily
heat, assists in digestion, absorption,
metabolism, physical radiance, courage and
intelligence.
Badkan or phlegm helps in the proper
maintenance of a stable body and mental state.
It induces sleep, lubricates the joints, provides
moisture and smoothness to the skin and also
provides patience against thirst, hunger and
fatique.
To attain holistic health there must be a state
of perfect harmony betweeen the five external
and internal elements. For example, with
Diabetes, which is considered to be an
increased level of the earth and water element,
in the gastro-intestinal and pancreas. This
condition occurs when one over indulges in
foods having a predominance of earth and water
elements like unripe wheat, and beans, green
vegetables, yoghurt, cold water, sugar, fats, salt,
mutton and pork, strong tea and coffee and also
in those who indulge in habits like taking rest
after a heavy meal, sleeping during the day and
sleeping in a wet and humid place for long
periods, immersing oneself in cold water,
wearing thin clothing, exposure to cool breeze,
these can all raise the sugar content in the body.
Therefore one should be very careful about
one’s daily food and behavioural regimen.
It is very important to study the strength of
illness and the prescription of medication after
careful scrutiny of variables such as the causes
and factors of the illness, time and period of
symptoms, manifestation before and after
eating, the site of the illness, digestive heat,
physical strength and susceptibility. Disease will
thus ensue either because of under nutrition,
over eating or because of improper or wrong
dietary intake and indulgence in unwholesome
lifestyle. Undernutrition is the main cause of all
kinds of wind disorders, which therefore hinders
proper growth and development. On the other
hand, over eating also is the main cause of
indigestion and this obstructs all the channels of
wind energy. Because of the loss of degestive
heat, this increases mocus accumulation that
can lead to indigestion. One must fill two parts
of the stomach with solid food, one part with
liquid and one must keep one part for air.
Therefore, proper intake of food and indulgence
of wholesome lifestyle, maintains the symbiosis
of the qualities of elements, thereby bodily
strength and life span, governs freshness,
improves appetite and brings about a clarity of
sense organs and expulsion of excrement.
0
Before concluding, I would like to focus on
one of the most urgent problems facing our
society. According to the 4 tantras of the Tibetan
Medical Text propounded in the 8th century and
which is the basic foundation of Tibetan
Medicine, it has been prophesied that in the
future, due to great material progress human
beings will become very intelligent and highly
competitive. Materialism will receive more
attention and the feeling of love and compassion
will gradually diminish. This leads to disturbance
of ecology and excessive use of chemicals which
will pollute the environment and thereby affect all
forms of vegetation which on consumption by
human beings will weaken the useful organisms
in our body which provide immunity and there by
invite many fatal diseases having many different
manifestations. In view of the above
consequences nutrition and human behaviour
needs careful attention.
And here are some suggestions regarding
social behaviour; never accept ail statement as
tru§ unless you examine them thoroughly.
Remember the past kindnesses of others, take
care of your relatives and others with love and
affection. Respect one's teachers, parents,
family and those senior to you.
Always try to be harmonious in thoght and
actions with your associates; confess and
accept your mistakes and be satisfied with your
successes. Subdue your pride if you are learned
and be content with your riches. Avoid being
envious of your superiors and contemptuous
towards subordinates. Never entrust power to
evil people or support them. Perseverance will
bring success.
With Best Compliments From :
MEENA
MEODGALS
Chemists, Druggists & General Suppliers
No. 5, Opp. New Market, Sampige Road,
Malleshwaram, Bangalore-560 003Phone:
360473
WE DISPENSE AYURVEDIC ALLOPATHIC & VETERINARY MEDICINES
OF ALL COMPANIES
Dr. V. Parameshvara Charitable Trust
54, Kumara Krupa Road, Bangalore 560 001
Phones 24217 28882 258991
ENCYCLOPAEDIA OF INDIAN
MEDUCiNE
THREE VOLUMES
EDITOR
Prof. S.K. RAMACHANDRA RAO
assisted by DR. S.R. SUDARSHAN
Presents the terms, concepts, methods, materials, drugs and prescription as laid down in
the textual traditions of Ayurveda and Siddha systems. The work is planned to appear in two
phases and complete in itself. The first phase comprises the following three volumes.
VOLUME ONE : HISTORICAL PERSPECTIVE
VOLUME TWO : BASIC CONCEPTS
VOLUME THREE : CLINICAL EXAMINATION AND DIAGNOSTIC METHODS
Set of First Three Volumes
Rs. 700/- + Postage of Rs. 25/Discount for Institutions
25% (Rs.525/- + Postage Rs. 25/-)
Please add Rs. 10/- for out-station cheques
Demand Drafts/Cheques should be made in favour of Dr. V. Parameshvara Charitable Trust
payable at Bangalore and made A/c Payee.
UNDER PUBLICATION
Volumes Four and Five materia medica
UNDER PREPARATION
Volumes Six and Seven : aetiology, symptomatology, prognosis and treatment of diseases
Volume Eight: folk medicine in India.
NEW WAVE
OF
TRADITIONAL LINES
IN THIS ISSUE
o
The Perspective
o
The Concept of Sastra
o
Ayurveda is Co-existent with life
o
An Appreciation of the concept of health
in Ayurveda.
o
The microscopical dimension of reality - the
Perspective of Indian Scientists
o
A Samhita Kala.
COMMurn; ;-y H'ALTH cell
O'/MHrst FloorjSt.
llt9aa
6AWGAlQafi.56000^
VOL.
4
—
No. 1
-
JANUARY, FEBRUARY, MARCH
—
1988
47/f'(BAWeA nr,St‘iWarkS^ad
BAWGALOaE-660 001
TRADITIONAL LINES-88
TO PONDER UPON
PURANAMITYEVA NA SADHU SARVAM,
NA CAP! KINCIT N AVAMITYAVADYAM.
SANTAH PARIKSYANYATARAD BHAJANTE
MUDHAH PARAPRATYAYA NEYA BUDDHIH.
This verse has a profound message io convey.
Regarding the choice between ancient and modern,
the sensible stand is advised. It goes thus-"' Nothing
can be considered valuable just on the ground that
it is ancient, so also anything that is modern cannot
be rejected just because it is new. The wise examine
the matter first and then make the judgement while
the fool is led fQrwardgEi’ by the opinion of others".
Today when attempts are being made to reconcile
ancient and modern knowledge, this small verse is
worth remembering. Let the measuring rod be the
utility of the knowledge for human welfare and not
sentiments
A noble ideal indeed reflecting the deep passion for
truth of the poet, from the depths of whose heart
this statement came forth.
(For Private Circulation only)
EDITORIAL
TRADITIONAL LINES 88
THE PERSPECTIVE
The crisis in the field of ayurveda is
muitifaceted and far reaching. There is
confusion and differences of opinion
regarding the significance and the role that
ayurveda isto play as a part of the health
care system of our times.
Sometime in the seventeenth century,
as a result of great ferment in thought, a
clash took place between the old and the
new in the west that marked the b -ginning
of a new culture; modern civilisation
as we
have
come to
call it. A
whole revision of values and radical
changes in world view resulted. Great
philosophers and scientists like Descartes
Francis Bacon, Newton, Galelio and so
on were behind
this transformationModern culture is characterised by the
exaggerated importance given to man's
faculty of intellect, the rational mode of
consiousness. Competit on. agg-essicns,
the idea of conquering and controlin9
nature, stress on material prosperity are
some of the basic elements of the new
value system. Whatever did not fit into the
new framework was discarded as useless
and superstition. This wave ofthe new
culture spread throughout the world, even
to the east, where activities were at a
low ebb, conquering and establishing
itself everywhere
healthy. With the new culture has come
the threat of self-destruction, of total
annihilation of the phenomenon of life,
a horrifying degeneration of morals, that
in this background even the mersmerizing
achievements in the field of science and
technology fade into insignificance.
It is no wonder therefore that in the
west has developed a strong urge for
self introspection among at least the
contemplative.
Many scientists and
philosophers are looking back, re
examining the origins and the basic
assumptions that gave rise to the new
culture. There is renewed interest in
eastern cultures at the cost of which in
one way western culture has prospered
Eastern philosophies and sciences are
based on an altogether different back
ground. The value system is different,
they are more closely linked with nature
The spiritual potential of man has in
fact blossomed to its full here through.
out the centuries. Modern science,
Especially modern physics now validates
the eastern way of thinking. And as
many feel, revitalisation of the message
that eastern cultures and perhaps also
the western traditions of yore propound
is necessary to balance things and bring
new meaning in life. In other words,
much of what was discarded as value
less and superstition at the turn of ths
seventeenth century is now being appro
ached from a new perspective.
To this culture we owe the unpre
cedented and phenomenal developments
made in the field of technological sciences
The radio, television, motor vehicles, the
telephone, the aeroplane; spectacular
technological innovations in the field of
The new framework iti and basic
medicine and many more gifts are the
assumptions have greatly influenced the
unique contributions of the age of reason
or the "Scientific era". As is bemg development of all positive sciences
realised now, slowly though, this develop such as medicine, economics, biology
ment has not been that balanced and and so on. These disciplines therefore!
2
EDITORIAL
TRADITIONAL LINES 88
reflect the fragmented and reductionistic unab'e to accept the new culture on
way of thinking that is characteristic of grounds of sent'ments. The result is that
modern science. Although these enter today when people of the west are vigour.
prises have made very significant contri ously probing into various aspects of
butions in many aspects, they are not Indian cultures and phlosophy. (in fact,
able to provide satisfactory solutions to eastern culture as a whole), in Indiamany of mankinds problems today. The such activities have virtual y come to
problem, as a scientist has remarked is a standstill and state of dormancy.
a crisis of perception. This does not There are not many who can expound
mean that all that has been achieved the basic tenets of our nhiloscphy in
has become invalid, but that they have its true sense and demonstrate the
limitations in many areas.
effectiveness of its sciences. On the
other hand, misinterpretations and dis
Digressing from the details of this
torted conceptions
are Widespreadnew trend that is emerging by the end
of the twentieth century, let us come Researches and investigations done in
back to ayurveda. Based on what may the framework of western science often
be called the organic or holistic approach backfires and does more harm than g >od.
in understanding reality, ayurveda has
the potential of shifting the health
sciences to a new dimension and pers
pective. Ayurveda is verily the treasure
house of valuable insights into the nature
of health and disease that man has ex
tracted from nature when he had close
links with her in the past With modern
medicine in a blind alley in many matters
of health care, ayurveda acquires a new
significance and relevance of great im.
portance today.
Ayurveda is but one of the victims
of this development in recent times.
Ayurvedic institutions and hospitals reflect
without words the degeneration that has
set in. Generally, ayurveda today is
sought after by only those who fail to
get admission to the allopathic medical
colleges. In fact, ayurveda is taken as
a career more by pressure or chance
than by choice. This has naturally stopped
development and activities in the field
Many are disillusioned or pessimistic,
pessimistic.
some are indifferent, while some try to
find meaning from their perspective. In
spite of all this, it is encouraging to
note that there are emerging thinkers;
few though they may be, who are perhaps
capable of expounding the science in
its true sense and who have the will
and enthusiasm to go about it.
With the rise of modern civilisation,
all eastern cultures began to fade. In
India, colonial invasion dealt a severe
blow to the cultural and intellectual
activities of its people leading to a decline
of its science and philosophy. With the
introduction of the new value svstern,
people began to view their own culture
and philosophies with suspicion and
The new wave of Tradatitional lines
started associating it with things vague
is the materialisation of the hope that lies
mysterious and superstitious. Those who
in those individuals and lives other
held on to tradition were branded as
sources in whom and wh!ch Ayuiveda
people of the past, prejudiced and still.^fs' a matter of experience and
k
3
EDITORIAL
Inspiration, it is a medium of communica
tion, a platform for the exchange of ideas
°r if we dare say, an attempt to pave the
way for creating a common ground where
the various rivers of the great ocean of
Ayurveda, that is now scattered here and
there; in many indiv duals and folk cultures
may once again merge and express its
full potential as a system of medicine
t
f)
The limitations of modern medicine
led to the search for altternafvo systems
and practices of medicine in the westThus, the W H. 0. also recognised the
role that TSMS (Tradrtional systems of
medicine) can play as a part of the h-ahh
care system. However not much produc
tive research and concrete result have
been achieved so far. The problems that
Ayurveda faces in contemporary society
are multi dimensional. The Ecological
crisis that has led to severe loss of the
natural resources of Ayurvedic medicine
that include not only plants but also
manv animal products and many minerals
Poses a Soijfees- threat to the practice of
Ayurvedic medicine in the futu'e Ayurveda
is yet to be fully recognised a- a valid
system of medicine although the aware
ness of its efficiency is spreading. The
role ot the Ayurvedic physic;an in the
healih care system has not been clearly
defined. Frequently one hears about
clashes and differences of opinion between
tne people of dilferent medical sys ems
Integration of medical systems, though
of much importance is net the concern
of Ayurvedists alone. Exponents of other
medical systems and people ou'side the
field are to involve themselves to expand
the concept of in egmtion of medica;
systems. 1 his is also true of the ecolog cal
crisis which should be the concern of
the whole of humenitv as it threatens the
very existence of life on earth.
Lack
TRADITIONAL LINES 88
of support from'the Government has ’ed
to poor maintenance of Ayurvedic
hospitals.
Research
institutes and
Educational institutions which are illequipped and poor1/ managed. But in
the mids
*
of all these problems and many
more ’he central and most serious of
all is the dearth of capable physicians
who have grasped the
essence of
Ayurveda, a task which has become
quite difficult in the prevailing confusion
decline of the clinical expertise in the
fieled of Ayurveda is the most serious
shortcoming today, we feel that the
need of the hour is the creation of
capable and well trained physicians who
have imbibed the true import of the
science and can
demonstrate
its
e’fectiveness with the existing resources.
Practical results convince without words
Development an J revival of interest will
surely follow So+t. All other problems
are secondary from this standpoint. We
do not say that they are to be
totally
neglected. Moreover, as students the
most appropriate direction to choose
should naturally be the subject matter
itself, especially since there is so much
of misunderstanding and
confusion
regarding the same. Therefore in this
magazine we wish to dwell upon and
concentrate on those aspects that will
help in the true appreciation of Ayurveda
and the development of capable physicians
Research of great magmtute will
have to be done in the literature of
Ayurveda end deep studies have to be
carried out. We appeal to our know
ledgeable readers to come forward and
participate in this humble venture The
opinions of personalities of vast experi
ence will indeed be valuable.
With these words and after an interval
of over a year we present before our
reac.ers the first issue of the fourth
year of publication of the magazine for
critical examination.
EDITORS
6
THOUGHT PROVOKING COLLECTIONS
TRADITIONAL LINES-88
The different means of knowledge
must not trespass into the domains of
another. One cannot disprove by infer
ence the existence of a thing (devoid of
fallacies of sense perceptions) that is
very evident to the senses
Srutis constitute our source of know
ledge about truths beyond our sense
perception and mind.
Sruti or sabda denotes recorded know
ledge from the extrasensory sphere as
experienced by pure individvals. But
such statements should not also trespass
into the spheres of senses and reason
17. Na hi pratyaksa virodhe sruteh pramanvam. Na hi srutisatamapi sito/gnih
aprakasah
iti
bruvat
parmanyarn
upaiti
Certainly sruti cannot be an authority
as agamst observed facts. Even if
hundreds of texts declare that fire is cold
and devoid of light, they cannot become
15. Srutisca no/tindriyarthavisaye vijnaan authority on this point.
notpattau nimittam.
This cursory view reveals the level of
development that intellectual activities
had attained in ancient India The passion
for truth is definitely reflected by
16. Srutisca nah pramanam atindriya- these terse aphorisms on the various
aspects-implications of SASTRA.
visayavijnanotpattau.
Srutis are the means to furnish us
with knowledge of of spheres of existence
beyond our senses
Ryurnda is Ctwxisteni usith Ijfe.
Instinct is the inner compulsion that
the animal organism feels in choice of
what is good and beneficial for its survival
and protection. In the earlv man, this
grew into the higher faculty of the
mind called intvition. The propounders
of Ayurveda thus knew that the protective
power and device was ingrained in life
itself and acquired varied expression in
the plant, animal and man according to
the exigiencies that each of these stages
of animation gave rise to. The plant,
developed its thorns and a thick coat of
back to prevent its easy vulnerability.
Animals and birds knew by instinct what
particular action or things helped to get
over an affliction. And equally naturally
did the early man see with his mental eye
the measures and things that relieved
him of ailments In caraka, we find it
expounded that there never was a time
when Ayurveda did not exist, even as it
was the case with life. The life stream
carried in its current its own supporting
and protecting wisdom that became
manifest at the beginnings of each cycle
or time to the seers
It is only in that
sense that Ayurveda can be said to have
7
THOUGHT PROVOKING COLLECTIONS
TRADITIONAL LINES 88
Yah suparna angirasirdivya yah
a beginning. Otherwise it is as beginning
hamsa yah
less as life itself and runs parallel to it raghato viduh. Vayamsi
through all times (caraka, sutra 30-27) viduhyas'ca sarve patatrinah. Mrgah
vidurosadhistah
asma
havase
The veda thus naturally contains refer. yah
(24)
ence to such instinctive and intvitive huve
origins of medicine.
what herbs of the Angirases the
eagles know, what heavenly ones the
Osler, the great writer on modern
Raghatas know, what ones the birds,
medicine refers to (1) natural phlebotomy
the swans know and what all the
which the hippopotamus knows for its
winged ones, what herbs the wild beasts
thrusts itself against a sharp pointed
know-those I call to aid for him.
seed in the river bank when it feels it
needs phlebotomy (2) the use of erne.
Yavatinamosadhinam
gavah
tics by the dog. (3) the use of enemata pras'nantyaghnya yavatinamajavayah.
by the ibis. Berdoe refers to the use of Tavatostubhyamosadhih
yacchantvavalerain by cats, antidotal herbs for
bhrtah
(25)
snake-poison by the
mongoose, of
(All
from
Atharva
veda,
kan
a
8,
Sutra
7)
piantago major by the toad, or salt by
the cow, buffalo, horse and camel. Simi
Of how many herbs the inviolable
larly, licking of the wounds by the animals
kine partake or how many the goats ano
stopping the bleeding by monkeys and
sheep' let so many hetbs, being brought
otherhinstinctive performances havegbeen
extend protection to thee.
noticed and described by writer on ths
histony of medicine. The Atharvaveda
mentions the animals and birds from whom
the use of healing herbs and drugs
could be learnt.
0
Varaho veila virudham nakdlo veda
bhesajim. Sarpah gandharva ya vidustah
asma havase huve
(23)
The boar knows the jlant, the
mongoose knows the remedial (herbs)
what ones the serpents, the Gandharvas
know, those I call to aid for him.
The natural desires and inclinations
of the ailing man are even now indications
of his needs not to be disregarded by
the attending physician. Susrutha is
emphatic on the value of such inclination
known as PRAKANKSA
(Courtesy :
Introduction to caraka samhita, vol-l
Gulabkunverba Ayurvedic Society'
Jam.iager — India).
8
TRADITIONAL LINES-88
An Appreciation of the Concept
of Health in Ayurveda.
Disease is a deviation from the
normal state of functioning of the living
organism. It is a particu'arity that can
be understood only in the background of
a generality, ie., the healthy state of living
phenomena. Any system of medicine has
as its objective the understanding of
various manifestations of pathology - a
condition synonymous with pain; and the
development of means to conteract the
same. Trurefore, the most basic and
fundamental step in tne development of
a medical science is the conception of the
normal state of functioning of life. In
other words, a concept of health is indis
pensable for the progress of study of
disease and formulation of therapeutics.
Here is recorded an attempt to
understand and elaborate the concept of
health as propounded by the promulgators
of Ayurveda.
Dynamicity is an inherent charac.
teristic of the phenomenon of animation.
For that matter, reality at the material
level of existence is itself a flux, a process
of constant change and transfo inations
that mainta ns states of balance on tne
whole. Any individual event or state i3
conditioned/controlled by so many other
events and in turn exerts influence on
various events. In other words, nothing
exists in solation; the essence of material
existence is diffuse interactions between
various events and phenomena. In the
development of a concept of health in
Ayurveda, this fact has been recognised
and extended to the biological plane.
Health is a relativa phenomenon
subject fo variations when viewed from
without; yet retaining it's balance and
therefore is not a quantifiable commodity
capable of being expressed within the
frame work of units of measures. The
terms samadosa, samagni, samadhatu etc
are therefore to be understood not as
equations of units but as states of
equillibrium of various levels. The term
'sama- may therefore be applied to a
particular system even when the state is
known to contradict well being of an
other system, subject either to a totally
different environ or even to the same
one. A relatively weaker svstem like the
vat.? prakrti, often spoken of as -sadathura'
being prone to ailments more frequently
in relation to oth3r bodily nrakrties is
still considered to be healthy an i the
acme of absolute well being attainable to
that svstem confines to the constraints of
the orakrtic trait; which the particular
case of vata prakrti is relatively lower.
On quantification of dosa,
mala etc susrutacarya says:-
dhatu;
(U,
Vflglaksanyat sariranam as’hayitvat
tathaiva ca. Dosa dhatu malanam tu
parimanam na vidyate
A static parametre from without isunabls
to quantify the physiological entitcs
of the body as they ere in a state of
9
TRADITIONAL LINES-8
constant change and are very much un
like each other to be guaged by the same
unit. The only pointer to the state of
equilibrium is therefore the state of
harmony as experienced
by
the
particular system of disequilibrium
is similarly inferred from functional
states
of the indriyas
and
the
degree variant from well being.
Selection of parametres from within
the system itself as the anguli pramana, in
attempting to quantify the gross consti
tuents of the body submits to contradict
the utility of guages from without; more
so if the object of measurement is a
physiological entity as agni, dosa or
health. It is worth noting that the
measurement of the limbs, location of
anatomical sites of importance, vital points
or marmas and the like are also based on
inbuilt units of measurements like the
anguli/anjali pramana which as imagined
tends to differ between individuals.
To sum, the state of well-being or
health of a system is a state of equili
brium maintained by it at various levels
of its interaction with the environ or even
within itself betwhen the physiological
entities. Similiarly the concept of attain
able well being by therapeutics is consi
dered as a variant; subject to the varied
aspects of the body, its environ and their
mutual interaction.
The Microscopies! dimension of reaiitythe perspective of Indian Scientists.
It would surprise most of us if it is
told that this book in the front of one's
eyes is not in reality of the texture,
shape, size, dimensions that our sense
perceptions makes us beleive. Yet this
proposition is true, and in complete
agreement with science. Indeed we see
the world as limited by our senses; we
are able to grasp only a certain aspect
of reality because our sense organs have
limitations and fixed ranges of operationLet us be more clear. Haven't we heard
of animals that can see in the dark?
Doesn't the elephant sense by sharp
olfaction presence of creatures far away?
And does not the snake sense small
vibrations, sounds that are not with the
threshold of our sense of hearing. Well,
scientists say that the structure of rhe
eyes of lower creatures are such that
they comprehend different visual Patterns
of objects that we humans comprehend
in a particular manner. All this proves
that there are dimensions of reality beyond
the ken of our sense perceptions. If
the structure of our sense organs were
to change, the whole nature of the ex
perience of the outside world would
change, The humming of a bee may
sound like the roar of an aeroplane, ultra
violet and infrared rays would perhaps
become visible and radically change
shapes, forms and colours. In fact, it
will be an altogether new world.
One such dimension of reality that
we are oblivious of in ordinary awareness
10
TRADITIONAL LINES 88
SAYAH ADHARASCA KHALU. VRKSA
PATRE RASA KOSASTVAPARISANKHYEYAH
SANTL TE KALAVESTI TASYA
PANCABHOUTIKA GUNA SAMANVIT.
ASYARASASYA ASAYASCA. EVAM RANJAkA YUKTAH ANAVASCA, KALA TU
SUKSMACCHAPATRAKA YA BHUTUSMAPACITA KALALADUPAJAYATE.
In describing the internal structure
of a leaf. Parasara says that there are
innumerable cells (RASAKOSA) in a leaf.
They serve as the store house of the
sap (RASASYA ASAYAH ADHARASCA
that has got all the elementary proper
ties (PANCABHOUTIKA GUNA SAMANyl TASYA). These cells are of microscopic
size (ANAVASCA), they contain colorific
principles (RANJAKAYUKIAH) and have
We confine the scope of this enquiry got cell wall, (KALAVESTITASYA). In
to the field of Ayurveda. What do the describing the cell wall, parasara says
professors of medicine have to say? that it is a fine transparent membrang
PRATYaKSAMAlPAM, ANALPAM HYA- (SUKSMACCHAPATPAKA) transformed
PRATYAKSAM goes the basic proposition from protoplasmic substances (KALALAD
by Caraka. "Regarding reality, what is UPAJAYATE) by various energies acting
perceivable by the senses is only little, upon it. (BHUTUSMAPACITA) Thisagrees
while what is beyond the scope of with the modern concept of a cell
preception is vast". Caraka goes still membrane which is formed out the
further by enlisting the various factors constituents of the cell itself.
due to which visual perception is limited
Really gripping. How did the ancients
such as extreme remoteness, extreme make such observations in an age when
Proximity, covering and so on of which the microscope could not even be dreamt
minuteness is one. This means that the of. Perhaps it is just a shrewd common
existence of objects although too minute sensical observation, Whatever it is, this
to be perceived by the eye has been proves that the microscopical aspect of
recognised. The concept of paramanu reality had a place in the frame work of
level of existence is in the extrasensory Indian Sciences. All that we require to
realm. It is interesting to note here that know is what value these ancient scientists
Caraka has mentioned about JlVAPARA- gave to observations of this dimensionMANUS (Biological atoms) which are
innumerable and minute.)
Coming to the question of micro
scopic forms of life, we are in again for
Here is a startling observation from surprise. Here goes the text.
the Vrksayurveda of Maharsi Parasara.
V1MSAT1H KRMIJATAYAH.. ........ ...
PATRE RASAKOSASTU RASASYA- SONITAANAM ................ SAMSTHAis that of the microcosm-or the minute.
Since the invention of the microscope,
"invisible to the naked eye" has become
a popular usage. Yes, thanks to modern
science and its techniques Visual per
ception has been extended to penetrate
into the domain of the microscopic. The
existence of cells, bacteria and other
microscopic forms of life, and so many
other facts are supposed to have been
unearthed as a consequence of the
emergence of the microscope. We speak
so much about Indian Sciences and their
merits. It would indeed be interesting
to delue into the same and understand
the perspective of this aspect of reality
in the view of Indian Scientists.
11
TRADITIONAL LINES-88
V
Thus, if we play with the senses and try
to alter our experience of the world, our
field of stuby will take new facets and
"There aretwenty varieties of parasites. patterns of varying combinations that it
of those that are seen in the blood ....... ;
will become too staggering for the human
they are microscopic, circular, without jeet mind to comprehend and make sense of
some are invisible due to extreme minut If we try to view the worid as a cockroach
eness.
does and so on, it becomes a never ending
The Acarya has clearly stated that process leading at no where True, the
there are microscopic forms of life, some microscope does not go so far, it only
in the blood, of which many are invisible magnifies the world for us. But the
due to miniuteness. What does all this approach of Indian science takes a
point to? Indian scientists in no way over different path. With the limilation of
looked the limitation of sense organs. senseorgans, it searches for methods and
They have made some very accurate ways in which the essence of the mani
observations in the microscopic level too. festation of reality may be comprehended
But they did not feel the necesscity to and understood. ISo the difference betinvent a microscope They were satisfied ween modern and Indian science lies
with the imperfect senses that nature had in the very radical approach taken to
bestcwed upon them Doesn't this seem understand reality Indian sciences have
very much relived upon man's higher
paradoxical?
■j'i
Even another stand point, where is faculty of intuition and in refined states
the limit for extending the capability of of awareness have gone to super sensory
human sense perceptions. We say that spheres in understanding the mystery
LUG
W. OMUIMM.Ly IV,. > > U I I I O I > 3 13 VV ! U I
eXiStenCe
the
range of audibility fcr humans is with
in the range of 20 to 20, 000 deeibels-f
To conclude, it will be productive
If we try to extend this capability, the if more research is carried to unearth
world of sound around us takes a new such observations made by Indian scien
aspect. The limit of visual perception is tists and evalulte them so that the
limited to the VIBGYOR; says science. basic attitude and framework of science
Try extending it; the world changes. in ancient India may be appreciated.
NAM ANAISIO VRTTASCAPADASCA, SUKSMATVATCAIKE BHAVANTYADRSYAH-
35
£ 35
3;
12
WHAT OUGHT TO BE TODAY:
TRADITIONAL LINES 88
A SAMHITA KALA
We take you back to those good old explanations wherever the need was felt
days when the rivulets and streams not Later, these “doctors diaries" were tobe
polluted by the dirit of sophistication so accepted as the sole tool for promulgation
synonymous with the modern world, of Ayurveda at large. The samhitas, the
tapped passively at the feet of scores of life line Of an exemplary science are there
rishis and their disciples come for fore hailed and rightly so.
early morning dip, far too earlier
Samhitas that gave a leash of life to
for the first cock - a - doodle - doo to
be heard. A time when the holy smoke Ayurveda was contemplated upon by its
from hundreds of throats seemingly unaff followers who developed upon them creat
ected by the chill of the morning rent the ing their own treatises reflecting their
sky mergino with thetchirping of the birds views making attempts at clarifications in
contradiction
wherever
perched atop the green trees in the proxi spheres of
mity of the thatched huts in perfect possible. Whatever the scope of these
harmony An age of dedication, perseve secondary treatises, the attempt to enlig h
rance and selfless service so dear to India en is laudable.
and to the brain child of its native intell
Somehow the enthusiasm of the
ectuals Ayurveda-the Science of life. An
enterprising activists got prenchedas time
age when the knowledge of heal'h descri
went on and what followed was a
bed as the supreme foundation of virtue
period of “Black age” when no contribu
wealth, enjoyment and salvation was a
tion worth the name was made towards
living culture. People were aware by
Ayurveda This inertia has stretched it
themselves as to the needs of their body
self even to the present time and we
and soul and the means to derive From
remein content to rest on our laurels.
nature without in any way destroying
ecological balance. Man lived in perfect
This therefore is the new "Samhita
harmony with nature as part of it and the kala". The need of the hour being to
Science of life lived with him as natural supplement the wealth of knowledge alre
knowledge instilled through various ady imparted, in the light of investigative
modes of oral communication. Ayurveda exposures to new areas now available;
then was a living culture
judiciously as need be.
The fact that certain areas in Ayurveda
As the community widened the limited
scope of oral import of knowledge was calls for revitalization is indisputable The
forseen by the venerable Acharyas who debate is on the direction of the approach
lost no time to preserve the knowledge by With no'references even i inadvertently
writting down their experiences & Views made, it is felt safe to come up with a
supplemented by a very wide range of statement that the stress is tobe laid(esp,
nformation from all quarters giving lucid in researches) at delving the mode of
13
TRADITIONAL LINES-88
functioning of a particular drug in the
indications mentioned and not to check
whether the orug can be administrated in
a particular ailment As said before, the
statements made in our samhitas are but
dictations of the personal experiences of
tha Vaidyas and are therefore infallible
and authoritarian by their own merit.
Contradiction of authority is incompatible
to thirst of knowledge as authority is
aitributed only to acme of knowledge. The
seeker is allowed to be guided by these
mandates and is expected to realise tha
same as he cruises along in his search.
This in essence, has to be the philosophy
we need adopt in our bid at revitalization
Receiption of knowledge from other
sciences has been realized and accepted
very long ago to require mentioning here.
There are many fields in Ayurveda to
tap from like salakya, salya kayachikitsa,
Rasayana & Vajikarana to name just a few
Esspecially in the case of SALAKYA it
would be very much in the interest of
science as a whole if we could, aided by
modern clinical experience, identify and
evolve remedial measures to the scores of
diseases mentioned in the Texts than to
leave imagination conjure their features
In essence, it is called uoon the
present generation to contribute by obser
vation and logic wedded to the contem
plative ingenuvity of the Ancient seers
towards revitalization of an all encompa
ssing science as fruitful living denied for
long due of our misapprehension of the
reasonings given therein.
The acarya speaks -
On the nobility of medicine
Weapons, learning and water sre
wholly dependent for their merits or
demerits on their holder, hence one should
strengthen his intelligence by diligent
learning. Science is like a lamp and the
expansive intellect like the eye.
The
physician who avails of these two wisely
never fails in treatment.
Verily poison, Mazing fire or molten
iron is preferable but never avail of mater
ial gains from patients who are destitute
The noblest of physicians who abides
among the diseased with the ideal that
compassion towards the living is the sup
erior virtue, having realised his cherish.
ments transcends everything.
(ASTANGA SANGRAHA; SUTRAST
HANA, CHART-TWO)
14
QUOTE
Today many of the practices of
traditional science and technology have
undergone considerable distortion and
decay and in most areas the traditional
practices are being rapidly replaced by
western S and T. It has become common
among a section of historians and scient
ists to offer a post factum explanation for
this situation to the effect that this decay
is a "natural" process by which a science
that was not serving the needs of the
people and not suited to changing times.
was replaced by modern science, which
represented an intrinsically "superior
rationality". However, what this report
clearly establishes is that, even after a
long peried of neglect due to absence of
state patronage and well over a Century
after the introduction of western medicine
which became the sole recipient of state
help, the indigenous systems of medecine
were not only serving the need of over
90% of our people, but doing so much
TRADITIONAL LINES-88
more effectively and economically than
western medicine. This is a remarkable
comment on their intrinsic strength,
vitality and effectiveness. The decline
that was setting in was not because they
had ceased to be useful or effective, but
the result of constraints being imposed on
them by a political process that favoured
western medicine.
In the testimony of the practitioners.
there is a clear statement that Ayurveda
is a science with its own distinct world
view, which was in consonance with our
culture and civilization and ideally suited
to the needs and conditions of our oeople
Ayurveda to them, is not a mere compilat
ion of recipes, but an entire philosophy
of approach towards healih care.
(PPST Bulletin, Vo!.4, No 1
June.1984)
SIVA PRINTERS.
CBE-15.
Contact Address :
EDITOR
New Wave of Traditional Lines,
Ayurveda College,
Patanjalipuri P.O.
Tadagam (Via)
COIMBATORE-641108
NEW WAVE
OF
TRADITIONAL LINES
IN THIS ISSUE
VOL. 4
O
Positive Sciences in India
O
Working of the heart - An extra Ayurvedic
reference
O
Understanding Ayurveda . 1
by Dr. K P. Muraleedharan
O
Dynamics of disease causation A generalised view
O
On the frame work of Indian Sciences
-
No. 2
-
APRIL, MAY, JUNE
-
1988
COMMUNITY HEALTH CELL
47/1, (First FloorJSt. Marks Road
BANGALORE -560 001
TO PONDER UPON
TRADITIONAL LINES-88
DISAANAYAA
NA
SESHAMPI
SVAYAMOOHETA
BUDDHIMAAN
SAASTRAMAATRASARANO
NACHAANAALOCHITAAGAMAH
After describing a number of paradoxical situations,
Vaagbhata concludes the discussion with the verse
quoted above. He says that there is no fixed law for
deciding the good and the bad such as a particular
drug/food is good for such and such disease. Due
to factors like time, combination, geographical peculiari
ties etc; pathological situations present themselves in
complex combinations and mutations. Science only
shows the path through examples and gives a general
out line of the principles. The intelligent physician
must properly analyse each situation with his intellect
that has properly dissemed the textual instructions
and grasped the essence of the teachings. In fact,
Vaagbhata says that the physician must decide the
path of action himself and must not merely repeat in
a mechanical manner what the text has laid down.
The creative ingenuity of the physician has to blossom
forth and plays a great role in proper diagnosis and
treatment
(For Private circulation only)
TRADITIONAL LINES 88
EDITORIAL
Positive Sciences in India
The Vedic age has been a glorious been the confirmation and reassurement
period in the history of mankind, at of the experiences of the Rishis through
least in the history of Indian civilisation. reasoning backed up by realisation.
The most puzzling question for man This has led to emergence of different
has been himself and the meaning of schools of thought. Although these
his existence. Even in this age of systems are based on the Vedas, the
reason and scientific achievements, man difference is in the distribution of
is far from having come up with a emphasis in the process of interpretationsatisfactory answer to this mystery. In fact
in many ways he is more puzzled and
True, the whole globe has seen
disillusioned. Nobel laureate and biologist such mystics. A glance back into the
Alexis Carrell remarked that the man past will show that the West has pro
we know ebout is only a fraction of duced great mystics and spiritual teachers
reality There is Man, the unknown, that But this mystical experience has been
infinite dimension, for discovering which so beautifully interpreted into a com
we have to look inward and probe prehensive science of the true nature
into the depths of our consciousness. of man in India that it has existed
here as a living inspiration; in a continous
In this context, the contribution of stream for over thirty centuries. It has
the Vedic seers has indeed been very been the backbone of Indian culture
fundamental and everlasting, that aspect and the balanced and integrated out
of man, which we in the modern society look and way of life that India cherishes
are generally unaware of- Man the as a precious heritage.
unknown, has been the greatest discovery
In the west, generally more emphasis
of the Vedic sages and they have left
it behind as an eternal legacy for the has been given on pure reason. The
whole of mankind. As Alexis Carrell study of the external world has always
opines; the science of man must be the been the dominant theme of Western
base, the synthesising link between all thought. But the Indian approach has
other sciences of inert matter
Only been different. The great sages were
then will we be able to trod on the bent on discovering the mystery of
right path, which the Upanishads describe existence. As Prof. Ranade says, the
as sharp as a razor's edge and extremely seers first sought the ultimate reality in the
difficult to keep to. This knowledge creation of the world, i.e. the physical and
of the self, so elusive, yet very much objective field of experience. When they
within us has been the eternal discovery were not satisfied in their search in the
of the Vedic age The Vedas contain cosmic field, they tried to enquire from
descriptions of the experiences of the the religious stand point After being
highly refined souls called Rishis, in disappointed here also they searched for
non-ordinary states of awareness. All it in the psychological field. It is here
ater developmets in Indian thought has that they found the ultimate principle
2
TRADITIONAL. LINES 88
of self. In ecstasy they proclaimed the dis
covery, of what they called the ABHAYA
JYOTI. When we intellectually interpret
this experience, we can say that this
principle is the one behind the many,
the changeless behind the changing and
the real behind the appearances beyond
the reach of sensual experience, This
science of the self established itself
as a rocklike foundation on which all
enterprises of Indian thought have been
based and inseparably interlinked like
pearls in a necklace.
It is generally believed that.in the
field of, positive sciences, .India has
always been backward and lagging al
though in the field of spiritualism, it is.
very advanced This appears to be a
Qrave . misunderstanding. True, India.
cannot boast of the kind of highly
sophisticated science and technology that,
the west has bestowed upon mankind
But a subtle inspection of Indian culture.
will show that India has made its mark
in the field of positive sciences also
Life in its totality and integrity seems
to have been the motto of the sages.
No - aspect of human activity has
been left untouched.
However., the
direction of development that positive
sciences took in India is very much.
different from what happened in th'’ west.
The organic world view that developed
by the influence of the science .of self
gave a nature oriented direction to Indian
sciences and technology All positive.,
sciences have as their aim alleviation of
the physical. and. material challenges
of worldly . existence, Backed up by
BRAHMA. VID YA, positive sciences in
India took up the theme of achieving
this by harmonising with nature, whereas
in the west, the dominant theme has
been conquering nature.
EDITORIAL
Prof T M Srinivasan beautifully puts
it-AII ancient technologies have a holistic
and theocentric conception of the universe
with the position and role of humans
well defined The western science and
hence, technology is still homocentric
or anthropocentric. This difference in out
look is basically due to the cosmological
models pursued by each of the cultures
Western science and technology
modifies and interferns with the natural
environment as opposed to Indian
sciences and technology
Ayurveda is the science of life, the
discipline of medical science which falls
under the category of positive sciences
All the Acharyas are of unanimous
opinion regarding the utility of the science
of medicine in the cultural and spiritual
life of the society Health is the basis
for realisation of the fourfold aspirations
of human life: the pursuit of wealth
(ARTHA) to satisfy the basic human
impulses (KAMA) strictly under the
guidancerof the knowledge of right and
wrong or proper conduct (DHARMA)
and ultimately the attainment ofspiritual
liberation(MO.KSHA).Health the objective
of medicine is not an end in itself It
is the means for the realisation of a higne
end - spiritual fulfilment.
The discovery of pure non dual
consciousness and consequently its
establishment ’as the fundamental reality
gave a permanent foundation to all
sciences in' India:
Positive sciences
like Ayurveda sought to discover and
. interpret eternal principles that govern
the phenomenon of the physical world
in the light of the fundamental reality.
3
TRADITIONAL LINES 88
EDITORIAL
Perhaps this is why the concepts of
Ayurveda exhibit an axiomatic character
and universality. Borrowing technical
terminology, positive sciences in India
seem to possess an' inclusive framework
capable; Ob'.assimilating narrower models
of reality - exclusive frameworks which
cannot include the former.
It will be Lmuch productive if such
basic differences in approach and origin
of nature oriented sciences like Ayurveda
are probed into before making a hasty
judgement or deciding the manner of
interaction with modern sciences and
technology.
'■ t
■ i -
EDITORS
Neither the sense organs nor their objects alone can'.
bring about happiness or miseries. The latter are in fact by'
the four fold combination viz Proper utilisation, wrong utilisation.
excessive utilisation and non-utilisation. Even if there are sense
organs and their objects..present,, there would.be no diseasenor any. happiness unless the four' fold combination is Involved.
So this combination itself constitutes a • causative factor for
happiness and miseries.
,
‘
1
f actual contact and mentalcontact are the two types of
contacts which bring about' happiness and miseries. ■ Happiness
and miseries bring about lust in the form of likes and dislikes
respectively. Then again this lust is responsible for' happiness and
miseries. It is lust which gathers factors, which serve as subs
trata for happiness and misery.. Unless such factors are gathered
there will be no .contact whatsoever and there can be no
happiness^ or miseries without such contacts.
—. CHARAKA. SAMHITA, SAAREERA STHAANA
<8
TRADITIONAL LINES 88
WORKING OF THE HEART-AN EXTRA
AYURVEDIC
I the Yoga Vasistha, one finds a
reference on the working of the heart
and the relation of cardiac function with
respiration described in vivid terms.
Though the description is very concise
and compact, it implies the special
characteristics of cardiac function Jn a
surprising manner. It is also worth noting
that such a description is not seen in the
Samhitas on Ayurveda.
The translation of the verse under
reference goes roughly thus:-
"The heart is the reflector of the
states of joy and sorrow in embodied
beings (i e these states of mind exert
influence on cardiac function) It contracts
and relaxes in cyclic manner of its own
accord. (The term Svatah indicates the
independence of muscular functions of the
heart; the impulses for heart contraction
and relaxation is self generated) As the
heart contracts, a movement spreads outof
the heart and it subsides on its relaxation.
Due to this movement of Vayu, the blood
conveying vessels pulsate. Even as the
heart and vessels rhythmically contract
and relax, Pranavayu enters and leaves the
bhasthrika (Bellows-can be taken as lungs
as it resembles bellows) in an intermittent
manner. This bhastrika is full of air
spaces
(aakaasaspadaatmakam) Thus
vayu always moves in and out, and also
the heart contracts and relaxes".
Thus the Yoga Vasistha
tersely
describes the function of heart and
respiration in brief words but implying
depth of meaning.
This appreciation of cardiac and lung
function by Yogis appears to have been
made in refined states of awareness.
Yogis are known to have the power of
exerting influence on the so called
autonomous functions of the body which
are beyond the control of will for ordinary
humans.
As mentioned, it is puzzling to note
why such a description is not seen in
the treatises of medicine, the Ayurveda
Samhitas.
In this context it may be noted
that the less popular Bhela Samhita which
is not available intact now, mentions
the seat of mind to be in the head
Seated there it is said to comprehend
the diverse objects of the senses
Again in the Ayurveda Sutras,one finds
an aphorism stating that Rasa and Rakta
are inseperably associated
The Rasavaisesika Sutra also throws
light on many obscure points in Ayurveda
It can perhaps be concluded that
theAyurvedaSamhitas have only preserved
the most fundamental principles of
Ayurvedic therapeutics. In ancient India
brevity and conciseness of expression
was very much emphasised. Moreover,
education was not imparted by means
of books alone as is the case generally
today. A lot of details were conveyed
by word of mouth which are now fading
into oblivion. Perhaps other works related
or otherwise to Ayurveda as mentioned
above may help to retrieve and preserve
such scattered information.
5
TRADITIONAL LINES 88
INSIGHT
Understanding Ayurveda -1
by
Dr. K.P. MURALEEDHARAN.
(Paper presented in the Ayurveda Seminar conducted at the Ayurveda College,
Patanjalipuri, Coimbatore, on the 26th of October 1985)
There are clearly three classes of
thought
prevalent
in the field of
Ayurveda. There is one more class consis •
ting of its well wishers who are not its
professionals. I think we can comprehend
today's subject while we discuss on
these different classes of thought
accepting the reasonable and rejecting
the unreasonable.
1) One class of thought proposes
a "belief in Avurveda". We have to
believe in Ayurveda because it emerged
from Brahma and reached us through
great sages The motto of this class
is explained by a verse from the
Ashiaanga Hridaya- "IDAM AAGAMASIDDHATVAAT ...".
"For, this has
been derived from the Vedas and because
solid results are seen, this may be
practised as we practise Mantra. It
should never be subjected to logical
analysis". These believers look like
blind devotees and their class of thought
is the one most laughed at
to appreciate the theory of Ayurveda
because it was not by this instrument
(modern scientific research) that the
inferences in Ayurvedic texts have been
reached at. It is not capable of invent
ing new medicines and is not significant
in this new world witnessing lhe zenith
of scientific progress
I think this is the
most popular class of thought because
its adherents constitute a vast majority
among the Ayurvedic intelligentia itself.
Indeed, the present Ayurvedic academy
along with its researchers are tuned more
or less to the same accent
3) This class of thought proposes an
idea of medical monism. According to
it medical knowledge is indissociable
or at least there is no justification for
its existence as different medical systems
This idea is propagated most often in
the circles of Indigenous Medicine and
of course, it is being well appreciated
there. So the general notion is this The indigenous medicines being less
efficient, less popular and nothing more
2)
Another class considers Ayurveda than collections of some medical infer
only as a compilation of what people ences, their individual existence involves
were knowing about health, disease and the dangerous possibility of producing
treatment in ancient times. I rhean they half doctors. Moreover, we can preserve
take Ayurveda for a collection of these ancient medical inferences just
medical informations only in the form by handing them over to the already
of inferences. Most of these inferences well established,efficient and most popular
are accidental findings and are yet to Modern Medical System Why should
be proved by means of modern scientific we waste a big lot of public money
the
sake
of
satisfying
research. They do not see any- reason just for
6
INSIGHT
TRADITIONAL LINES 88
think that they are immaterial in the field
of physical sciences is nothing but
ignorance. They too have an explanation
of the material world, but one, which by
4) Unlike many other branches of no means is contradictory to or different
sciences, Ayurveda enjoys a strong friend from spiritualism Though they have not
ship with a class of its wellwishers. been proved "Scientific", they are proved
This class consists mainly of sociologists,
to be reasonable. If a reasonable idea
politicians and sometimes botanists also.
They have a genuine interest in Ayurveda is unscientific, does it mean that science
because they think Ayurveda can benefit is unreasonable? I am sorry to say, yes,
the suffering populace with its easily because the reasonability of these un
available drugs and simple methods of scientific, ideas are proved by scientific
pharmacy and treatment in a better way methods. You know you can prove 1= 2
while modern medicine is becoming an mathematically.lt is amathematical fallacy.
inaccessible pompous establishment.
For ancient philosophy, the following
Before I give my reflec'ions on concepts were matters of common sense.
these classes of thought I take your 1)
Truth is the pure consciousness, i.e.
permission to present a somewhat de the one which is the knower, the known
tailed prologue This is because 1 think and the knowledge at the same time.
a criticism on Ayurveda is reasonable One among two or more cannot become
only in a background which is quite an absolute and so it is not an object
different from our present innate convic of perception. 2j The percieved is exis
tions about scientific reasonability,
tent as if it is existent. That means the
conservatism? In my opinion, the present
academy of Ayurveda also has a tinge
of positive attitude towards this idea.
There is always a misunderstanding
not only between Ayurvedic professionals
and those of other sciences but also
between many of the Ayurvedic people
and their science itself Ayurveda is
an ancient theory and we have all done
our basic education in the style of
modern sciences. We cannot agree with
anything which is not scientifically
proved. Till now. we have no treatise
on "Scientific Ayurveda”. Is it because
Ayurveda is unscientific or because
science is unable to prove its reasonabili y?
By the word science we mean the
particular authoritative system of know
ledge presently popular throughout the
world. Even in ancient times there were
systems of knowledge. Of course, they
were spirititual philosophies. But to
whole universe is a homogenous and
simultaneous mixture of the opposites.
In other words, the fact and the negation
are the same.
i)
"AGHATITAGHATANAA PATEEYASEE MaAYAA".
ii)
"NA A ATM ABHAAVENA............. "
iii)
Evolution of all things living and inert
are b/ the same factors. So the difference
between inert matter and intelligence is
not in stuff but in units
iv)
Absolute nothingness is not there
because nothingness itself is nothingness
So, still, when it is present in all things
in the accent of limitation, it has no free
existence.
7
TRADITIONAL LINES 88
(v) Among the opposites, negation is
not absolute. So in the conditioned
existence also knowlegde or consciou
sness is superior and more basic.
According to ihe mode of conditioned
consciousness
its
world
changes
"LOKAH KARMAPHALAANI LOKYANTE
DRISYANTE BHUJYANTEITl JANMANI"
A deva's time is smaller than ours
(vi) Let it be space, time energy or atom
any substratum which is percievable is
explained by the second concept, i.e.,
even when thev pervade 'the whole' they
are limitedly bound even to the minutest.
So any percievable substratal unit is a
composed one and it is divisible.
INSIGHT
What happened in the 20th century
was like an enormous structure collapse.
It started with some experiment passing
electricity through gases. The structure
wobbled while Albert Einstien presented
a paper on space and time in 1905.
It shook violently in Alaska when the
atom split and it actually collapsed
with the theory of uncertainty which
in other words says, "The fact and the
negation are the same; the same inter
pretation of the conditioned or the
material by the ancient philosophy.
First the Euclidean three dimensional
space became elastic with Fresnal, mobile
with Lorentz transformation and then
simply matter bound by Einstein. Time
also became matter bound by the Min
For our modern Classical science, kowski four dimensional space and the
only the percieved becomes true. The atom split. Now the world is a new
truth is ihe percieved worl 1 as it is
one. It is not absolutely true as was
The opposites are differentiated and told by Classical science My world is my
material truth is sure and certain. Know
closed system of space time continuum
ledge would not have been there, if there
You are free to imagine upto the 'nth'
was no object. So matter is superior and
more
basic
than consciousness. dimension Tackling time in space you
Nothingness is there; free. Because can change it even to past time. The
when the absolute existence of the percieved is nothing but fallacious. Then
postiveness is considered immaterial.the Max Planck shattered the continuity of
negation of the absolute nothingness never energy thus making uncertainty reason
happens Space and time are not matter able in. the substratal plane. Tesla
bound. They are attributed with the proved that emptiness was not empty
adjectives of the absolute; immovable, After this negation of the negati n, the
filling the whole and continuous
most wonderful concept arised
The
Energy is also almost another absolute photon is conscious, very sensitive and
entity; that being continuous and without intelligent It remembers its far past.
another The substratal atom is indes It is capable of action, reflection, know
tructible according to Democritus, solid ledge and love. (Ref-The unknown
according to Newton and indivisible by
Spirit, G E Charon). Ilya Prigogine
its definition. Modern Classical science
assumed that time has different speeds.
looks truthful without confusion and
that my
uncertainity. The ancient philosophies So it becomes scientific
look contradictoiy, confusing and uncer time is big when I am sad and it is
small when I am happy. Here the 'I'
tain.
8
TRADITIONAL LINES 88
gets prominence in the uncertain plane of
the 'material'and I quote the great scientist
of quantum physics, Dr. Werner Heisenberg, "It becomes difficult to consider
matter truly real ...... basically speaking,
the same concept of 'truly real' has
already been discredited by modern
physics and the point of departure of
materialistic philosophy must be modi.
fied at the point...... For modern natural
sicence there is no longer in the
beginning
the
material object, but
form, mathematical symmetry
And
since mathematical structure is in the
last analysis an intellectual content, we
could say in the words of Goethe's Faust
-IN THE BEGINNING WAS THE WORD'THE LOGOS '.
INSIGHT
3)
The nature of ancient philosophy
is introvert; that means it deduces from
the absolute upto the physical entity.
Materialism deduces from the physical
en'ity upto what height it can reach.
We saw the classical science climbing
up. Then it came upto such a height
where it can understand and deal with
ancient philosophy. Its classical nature
was lost.
This is the whole reason why I
presented this long prologue
We
examine Ayurveda which is a derivative
of ancient philosophy; and that too with
the reasoning of classical science. Its
theory does not yeild Then we think
it is bogus and take Ayurveda onlv for
the drugs told in its treatises. We are
By all means, science repeats the the fools who try to cut diamond with
unscientific ancient philosophy. Now a pocket knife. My other intention is to
this is a scientific fallacy and so a remove our prejudice about modern
fallacious reality. Here we get three science; that it is the only instrument
which can prove and invent thysical
inferences
truths Our ancient philosophy is much
1) Because the reasonability of the more promising and its style of reasoning
unscientific philosophy is proved by is higher than that of model n science.
science, science becomes unreasonable. This is proved by the history of science
But as it is proved by science itself, itself.
one another reasonable science is there
The former is called classical science
Now we may pass on to the subject
and the latter higher science pronounced where the reasonability
and
the
by the theories of relativity and quantum p tentialitv of Ayurveda will be examined
mechanics.
agai’ st the new background where there
is no difference between modern higher
2) The nature of ancient philosophy sciences and the material explanations of
is spiritual and that of classical science ancient spiritual philosophies.
is material. The former agrees with the
absolute truth and says that ultimate
Devotion without discrimination is
physical reality is the reality of praised only when it is towards God with
uncertainty; i. e \ the fact and the the proper spiritual awareness Science
negation are the s me.
is quite a different field There a slip is
9
TRADITIONAL LINES 88
INSIGHT
a slip. Even if you have not consulted negative) never becomes absolute unlike
a physician, provided the drug you took the fact(the positive) the positiveness is
was the correct one, you are saved. is more significant even in the material
Even then, the belief that " belief is plane. Here, when you say"not to know
blind'' is more blind. It is an academic for sure", the negative becomes siginifiprejudice. Blind believers may be there cant. So the most correct conception
But belief is not concerned with them. about the nature of "to believe" its that
I sympathise more with the rationalists it means "to know not for sure". This is the
who cannot differentiate
between most proper nature of knowledge accord
ignorance and belief. This is the crux ing to the material explanation of the
of today's subject
The professionals ancient spiritual philosophy which is a
of classical science know their theory. homogenous and simultaneous mixture
We, the Ayurvedists believe in our theory of the opposites where the positiveness
Why? You cannot say “I believe we are is more significant.
present here now” because you know
In this context, what is the meaning
it for sure. You can say " I believe
of "to know? ,To know, not for sure"
I will leave the place tomorrow " because
is the most proper knowledge; not to
you don't know it for sure.So the meaning
know for sure "has no difference from
of " to believe 'is' not to know for sure
This is also not fully correct. Because ignorance and ''to know' is a wrong
your assumption is not blind, you have assumption How? We say we know the
sound reasons to believe the proposition. apple It is because we percieve it.
If there were no reasons at all you could But what we percieve is nothing but the
not even have imagined about your leaving properties of the apple - the shape, colour
So the meaning of to believe is to know,not smell, touch, taste and sound and not
for sure". This is the difference between the apple. A thing is not its properties.
"not to know for sure" and "to know, When I said I know the apple, Iwas only
not for sure" When you apply the verb "to knowing its properties So "to know',
know" concerned with a physical thing the is a misunderstanding. Now I bring the
expression is totally positive. It is wrong same idea in the background of higher
No physical thing is totally positive In ab science What <he classical science
solute positiveness, there cannot be more lacked was the wisdom of self disorimi
than one factor. There the knower, the nation. It believed its was knowing things
known and the knowledge becomes one In I have never known anyone who knows
physical or material plane, the truth of a a thing other than its properties. Can
thing is that the fact and the negation anybody tell me what is light? You can
are the same. It is a homogenous and say it is photon- what is a photon? It
simultaneous mixture of the opposites is a corpuscle of energy When I ask
i e , the positive and the negative. what is energy, you start to say it is a
Moreover, because the negation(the thing which is potential......or something
w
INSIGHT
TRADITIONAL LINES 88
like that But you forget that you are
always describing a property. This is the
same with a question about air, fire, water
table, thair, or anything If you know
any single thing then you know the
absolute and is it not an object of knowledge. . Classical . science ignored the
thing and was satisfied with the misunder
standing that it knows the thing while
it was knowing the properties. The
quantum theory searched for an answer
to this in spiritual philosophy. Here
I quote Or. Heisenberg” Kant, (who
resisted materialism in Europe) had
sooken of the thing in itself (thing
beyond properties). He was later often
accused, even from the philosophical
view point ,of inconsistency in his
concept of” the thing in itself". In the
quantum theory, this problem of the
objective background of phenomena has
arisen in a new and very surprising
form". Consequently, he refers to another
spiritualist Plato, "therefore in Plato,
at the lowest limit of the series of material
structure, there is really no longer anything
material, but a mathematical form if
you like; an intellectual construct. The
ultimate root from which the world can
be uniformly understood is, in Plato
mathematical symmetry-the image, the
idea.
Thus wa saw Plato saying the
material expression about the "real,
thing" will not pass beyond the "form."
Form is also nothing but a property
Again I quote what Dr. Heisenberg
said after proposing all the newest
mathematical possibilities to catch the
"real thing" Regardles of the ultimate
decision it can even now be said that
the final answer will be nearer to
philosophical concepts exp-essed for
example in the fhimaeus of Plato than
to those of ancient materialists, like
the regular elementary bodies of Plato's
philosophy, the elementary particles
of modern physics are defined by the
mathematical conditions of symmetry;
they are not eternal and invariable and
are therefore hardly what can be called
"real" in the true sense of the word Here
Dr. Heisenberg proceeds to the paragraph
which I have quoted before and ends
like this -■ in the beginning was the
word the logos."
(to be continued)
It should be recognized that the most funda
mental question in medicine is why disease occurs
rather than how it opearates after it has occured;
that is to say, conceptually the origins of disease
should take precedence over the nature of
disease processes.
—
thomas
McKeown.
11
TRADITIONAL LINES '88
DISCUSSION
DYNAMICS OF DISEASE CAUSATION - A
GENERALISED VIEW
In Indian medical tradition, the
general factors that lead to disease
have been studied from various angles
and a very broad scheme of disease
causation has been worked out by
synthesising the spiritual, psychological
physical and sociological aspects of
human personality and also the interaction
with the external environment.
is also affected Unable to perceive the
proper path, the course of prana becomes
abnormal due to this trauma, just as a
deer staggers,'running here and there
being wounded by an artow: Consequently
the vib-ation of prana becomes topsyturvy
The food taken into such deranged body
where the prana is under wild fluctuations
becomes
digested ^'incompletely,
improperly or too much and diseases
are produced due to improper nutritional
processes
The
LAGHU YOGA
VASISTHA
beautifully describes the types of diseases
Here it can be seen that ultimately
and their causation from a very synthetic all diseases have been traced to mental
point of view. Human pains are of two causes. Though it may seem to be rather
kinds-those afflicting the physical body far fetched it can easily be proved by
k-own as DEHADUKHAS or VYADHIS a little discussion that in the final
and those afflicting the mind in form analysis, all diseases have their root in
of innate tendencies or VASANAS a deluded mind or PRAJNAAPARAADHA
known as AADHIS. Of these, AADHlS as known in Ayurveda. All other causes
are considered as primary diseasesand are secondary or instrumental from this
VYADHIS as secondary diseases The stand point.
gene al pattern of operation of AADHIS
But this remote cause-delusion of
is described as follows,
Lack of
tiggers
off
a complicated
transcendental knowledge want of control mind
over the sense organs and cultivation chain of reactions and a number of
of desire, aversion and egoism in ths seconda'y or ins'rumental causes come
physical
mind makes it deluded Desires and all into operation to produce a
sorts of mental agonies aretnus produced ailment. A man indulges in luxurious
diet
habits
due
to
pull
of
his
emotions.
Lack of emotional culture and proper
discrimination breeds seeds of poison ’his leads to indigestion and weakening
Further he indulges in
in 'he mind which when intense try to of the body.
manifest themselves externally in the other unwholesome activities due to
form of p> rverted karmas or deeds weaknesses of the mind. In the process
This in turn leads to improper interaction a lot of causes - factors act upon him
with the environment and disobeyance to produce a particular derangement of
his bhautik set up and leads to a
of the basic laws of healthy living
Thus the BHAUUC (Physicochemical) particular disease.. Thus a wide variety
balance of the body is disturbed and of bodily diseases are produced due
b dily diseases or VYADHIS are born.' to differences tn’nature of combination
When the mind is agitated, the bodv of the secondary or instrumental causes.
12
TRADITIONAL LINES 88
Although it is easy to say that
delusion of the mind is the primary cause
of all diseases, it is very much more
difficult to subdue the same
The
Acharyassay that such radical elimination
of diseases can be achieved only by puri
fying the mind through TATVAJNAANA
or AATMABODHA True, this should be
the aim of all but it certainly is not
attainable overnight by all. A lot of
unwholesome interactions and consequently diseases will always afflict
those who have not attained this high
state in the aspiration of which only
a few are successful. So a more
practical approach for those struggling
with mental passions is required. And
Ayurveda
based
on
the pancha
mahabhutas is the answer. On basis
of its Tridosna Siddhanta and analysis
of the medicines in terms of GUNAS
(physicochemical properties), Ayurveda
seeks to restore the bhautik balance
of the body which has been disturbed
by the influence of secondary or
instrumental causes by proper admini
stration of medicines, diet control etc.
The mind also plays a part in this
treatment but not in the radical manner
mentioned abnve. The most generalised
aetiology of diseases according to Ayur
veda is trifold :
DISCUSSION
many categories which are not being
dealt with here.
The above mentioned trifold aetiology
is very comprehensive and includes
all other subdivisions. It is interesting
to note how the Charaka samhita points
out that even epidemic diseases have
their root in mental delusin. In Ayur
veda, four factors are considered to be
the cause of epidemic diseases; AIR
WATER, PLACE and TIME
Normally
these four factors are conducive to the
healthy existence of a society
But
when they become deranged, they are
causative of fearful diseases that lead
to the destruction of a society. This
is because the four factors are common
to all in a particular society and produce
the same diseases. Deranged air contains
toxins, germs etc. that lead to specific
diseases, so also water and place
Derangement of time means disturbances
in the rhyhms of he seasons. Charaka
says that the derangement of these four
factors occurs because of the ADHARMA
of the society. This point of view can
be elaboroted Man is always interactin
with the external environment for his
survival. In the process of this interac'ion
he exerts influence onthe external environ
ment and even modifies it to some extent
1) PRAJNAAPARAADHA - Mental
The whois world pulsates
in a
delusion
particular rhythm and order. When man
2) ASAATMYENORIYAARTHA
led by his passion;takes too much from
SAMYOGA-Unwholesome interaction nature and disturbs its order and rhythmiof the senses with the sense objects city the above mentioned disturbances are
3) PARINAAMA - The principle of produced, Charaka rightly lays down
change or time and thus changing the responsibility of maintaining this
environmental influences.
natural harmony on the ruler of the
kingdom In the case of diseases specific
For purpose of specific treatment and to an individual, generally he is himself
understanding this generalised classifica responsible for the calamity, though
tion has further been subdivided into others may also become the cause in
13
TRADITIONAL LINES 88
DISCUSSION
certain cases. But in i he case of epidemic PARAADHAJA and UBHAYAJA varieties
diseases, the collective actions of all explains the incurability of many dis
the persons in the society are responsible eases Many diseases are produced due to
for maintaining the fourfold factors effects of deeds performed not in this
normal or deranging them. So the ruler life. Such diseases are cured only when
Other diseases
has to see that the social life is well the effects wear out.
regulated and natural harmony with the produced by known causes may be
environment is preserved This includes reversed. UBHAYAJA denotes the mixed
proper sanitation, hygiene etc. In olden variety.
days yagas were conducted now and
then which are claimed to correct many
Thus Ayurveda by laying more
of the abnormahties in the rhythm of emphasis on individul responsibility gives
natural processes.
the message that man is the maker of his
destiny in the choice between a healihy
From the above discussion one finds existence and a life afflicted with
that in Ayurveda, there is
great dreadful diseases.
emphasis on individual and social res
ponsibility for prevention of diseases.
Well, there will always be diseases
The right mental attitude and save way with mankind and the ideal that the
of living alone can give a fundamental acharyas have put forth is quite difficult
remedy to the problem of diseases
to stick to But even a striving to achieve
this ideal can lead to prevention of many
Even genetic diseases are viewed
from such a radical viewpoint They diseases already known or unknown.
are also traced to hereditary influences
This scheme of disease causation
which are in turn produced by unwhole
some actions of his parental lineage. presented here is very generalised and
Measures of prevention of such diseases; cannot account for details of individual
For this a more
Eugenics as it is known in scientific bodily diseases
jargon forms a major portion of the specialised scheme work has been worked
SAaREERASTHAANA of Ayurvedic texts. out in Ayurveda. However it is not being
Here the classification of diseases into dealt with in this context for fear of
POORVAAPARAADHAJA DRISHTAA too much elaboration.
14
COLLECTIONS
TRADITIONAL LINES 88
ON THE FRAME WORK OF INDIAN SCIENCES
Role of reason in Indian thought :
Sankara, in his commentary on
Vedanta sutras observes: "One sees how
arguments which some clever men had
excogitated with great pains are shown
by people still more ingenious to be
fallacious and how the arguments of the
latter are refuted in their turn by other
men. So it is impossible to accept mere
reasoning as having a sure foundation.
Nor ran we get over this difficulty by
accepting as well founded the reasoning
of some persons of recognized eminence,
whetner Kapila or any one else, since
we observe that even men of the most
undoubted intellectual eminence, such
as Kapila, Kanada and other founders
of philosophical schools have contradic
ted. each other'.
a)
Reason does not supply the premises
for Indian Philosophy. Revelation sets
its working hypothesis, which is finally
accepted after experience. Reason inter
prets clarifies and works out the impli
cations of its working hypothesis. The
experience of the sages, or highly i urified
souls is the premise for reason to work
on.
The validity of reason itself rests
on something that cannot be demons
trated by reason. If it rests on some other
reason, we shall have to go on from
one truth to another, which lands us
in an infinite regress. Such tests and
criteria of truth as non-contradiction and
coherence are not themselves ob’ained
thr >ugh reasoning. They are the pre
suppositions of reason. Hence, reason
is given a
Philosophy.
limited
place in Indian-
To be fruitful, reason must be based
on experience. Otherwise it becomes
a blind instrument leading us nowhere.
Though the omnipotence of reason is
not accepted in Indian thought, it is
made use of at every stage in inter
pretation.
... Introduction to Vedanta,
Dr. P. Nagaraja Rao.
b) Traditional sciences, at least the
traditional Indian Sciences, seem to
respect the common sense method of
looking at the world in its integrity
They, it seems, seek to systematise the
commonsense method to make it rigorous
without destroying its essential unity in
its multifactedness. Thus for Charakat
Samhita, the canonical text of Indian
medicine, science is dependent on what
the text calls YUKTI. And YUKTI by
definition is the intellect that perceives
the phenomena brought into existence
by the coming together of multiplicity
of causes. Again, perceiving the multi
plicity of causes of which the phenomena
are constituted, YUKTI is to being to
gether appropriate actions and materials
at the appropriate time and place.
Thus Traditional Indian Sciences
even in their theoretical formulations
define their task to be a pragmatic
understanding of the world in order to
act appropriately withm the natural
complexity of this world. This is exactly
what conventional wisdom and common
sense attempt. Their objective is to find
vvays of healthily living in the world
COLLECTIONS
TRADITIONAL LINES 88
They seek neither to dissect, it, nor to
change it. No miracles can be expected
from the sciences and the methods
that are modelled on commonsense
These however are perhaps the appro
priate methods for finding ways of
ensuring balanced production of essential
commodities and for carrying on the
mundane business of living.
O
'Impact of modernisation on milk
and oil seeds
O
J. K. Bajaj, Jansatta, New Delhi
O
Samir Shah and H. S. Shankar,
Department of Chemical Engg IIT
Bombay
(PPST Bulletin, Serial No : 11,
June 1987)
Contact Address :
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TO
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BASIC CONCEPTS OF HEALTH ACCORDING TO AYURVEDA
Each system of medical Science in the world has described
the nature of Swasthya (Health) and Vikruthi (Pathological
condition) according to its own concepts.,
The basic aim of
the concepts and fundamental principles of all the sciences is
to establish happiness in the human being.
But a correct and
through knowledge of the basic principles of the universe and
the human body leads to the correct path to happiness.
deceptive knowledge leads to the wrong path.
while
Here Acharya
Charaka suggests that the correct path of understanding vikruthi
and Swasthya can be attained only through a knowledge of
Dosha, Dhatu and Mala,
TRIDOSHA THEORY
Dosha-Dhatu-Hala vignana is the foundation
of the whole Ayurveda.
Its embryological, anatomical,
Physiological, Pathological and therapeutical conceptions
rest upon this foundation.
The Tridosha theory is very wide
in its application it is applicable to every living entity
from microbes to man.
And it explain^ every aspect of the
phenomenon of life.
The three doshas are responsible for
all the normal physiological activities
Acharya vagbhata
concludes that
When Doshas are in equilibrium they bring about
the
health
of the body &■ when they are vitiated they are responsible for
various types of somestic disorders.
Important point has to be
noted thatthe state of equilibrium is not a mathematical or
absolute one.
Increase and decrease of each Dosha are bound
to occur in order to maintain the normal functions of the body.
Changes in nature like diurnal and seasonal variations also
bring about increase and decrease of dosha.
The predeminence
of one of the doshas can be observed in each age group, proper
routine of life suited to the diurnal, and seasonal variations
(dinacharya and Ritucharya) is recomended in order to prevent
COMMUNITY HEALTH Cflt
47/1,(First i-loor)3c. Marks i?oac
BANGALORE-560 001
. S 2 ;•
the vaishamya from becoming a pathological one.)
Now we come to the consideration of vata, pitta ahd
kapha separately.
Vata,'pitta and Kapha (sleshma) come from the Sanskrit
root va, tapa and shlish and indicate their action in the body.
Some have translated vata as wind, pitta as bile and Shleshma
as foetid sputum which is evidently misleading.
The meaning
of the root va isgati (motion or movement) and gandhana
(initiation) This means that the natural attributes of vata
are motion, sensation_ and power^£Jjnparting that motion and
sensation to other bodies along with initiation.
Similarly
the meaning of tapa is heat which means that the natural attri
butes of pitta are to produce heat and biochemical ^activities.
in the body.
The attributes of shleshma is cohesion, unio_n_&.
integration.
So let us take them up one by one and study them
from a physiological as well as pathological point of view.
PHYSIOLOGY OF DOSHAS
Vata
This Dosha the most powerful of the three acts through
nervous system (central, peripheral & autonomic) on the evidence
of its normal and obnornal functions.
They are clasified into
5 types based on their place & mode of action.
1)
Prana vayu
nose and chest.
This resides in mouth, head, ear, tongue,
Is responsible for a) Mental functions,
f
b) Function^ of the special senses, c) Functions of heart,
lungs, deglutation.
2)
Udana vayu
This resides in larynx, chest & umbellical
region & is ^responsible for speech.
3)
oc
4)
Samana vayu
This vayu resides in the stomuch & duodenum
is responsible for
Vyana vayu
digestion of food.
This is present every where in the body.
Is responsible for circulatory functions, locomotion and
sensat’^Qn.
3
:; 3 ;:
5)
Apana vayu s- Resides in region of umbellicus, colon, Rectum,
is recponsible for excretion of uirine, menustral blood
& bladder,
faeces & foetus.
Pitta
which in general term performs all the chemical
changes in the body as enzymes, hormones and digestive secretions
i is responsible for producing heat L energy.
They are clasifie'd
into 5 types.
1)
It resides in lower part of the stomach
Pachaka pitta s-
6c in the small intestines. Xt represents the digestive secretions
of the digestive tract, enzymes of the tissues & for that matter
every cell.
2)
Resides in liver, spleen & stomQch &
Ranj aka pitta
represents the Haemopoietic principle in the liver.
3)
Located in the eyes & represents the
Alochaka pitta s-
Rhodopsin or visual purple of the retina.
4)
Located in brain and represents different
Sadaka pitta
hormones.
5)
Bhrajaka pitta
Located in this skin & represents the
i-
substances in the skin regulates the' surface temparature &
the complexion.
Kapha
Now me take up kapha whose general functions are
cohesion
fluids of the body.
These are also divided into
five types.
1)
Its chief place is in chest as
Avalambaka kapha
infer
may be the pleural & pericardial fluid & mucuos secretion of the
respiratory tract.
2)
Which resides in GIT, may represent, the
Kledaka kapha
mucus secretion of the digestive tract which lubricates it &
helps to breakdown the particles of food for easy digestion.
3)
Bodhaka kapha
Resides on tongue may represent the mucuos
secretion of the mouth and keeps the tongue moist for appreci
ation of taste.
4)
Shleshaka kapha s-
Resides in the synovial membranes of all
4
:: 4
:
the joints of bones & may represent the synovial fluids.
5)
Tarpaka kapha
Resides in the head & may represent the
cerebrospinal fluid.
We say in general that what has been mentioned above should
be taken as an outline but there are many substances in the body
which are not mentioned specially in the above divisions of
tridoshas.
However, they can be included in vata, pitta & kapha
according to their
nature & functions.
It will be seen from
the foregoing description of tridoshes that many of the physical
& mental Phenomena ascribed by modern Physiologists, primarily
to the activities of the Nervous system, in all its aspects the
central, vegetative, the peripheral including the autonomous can
be identified with the concept of vata.
similarly, many of
the
physical phenomena attributed to pitta are among those, which
modern physialogists include under
the activities of the
thernio genetic a nutritional systems (including the
thermo gene tic
the activities of the glandular structures, espically enzymes
and some of -the harmones)
Whose functions are of vital importance
in digestion, assimilation,
tissue building a. metabolism generally.,.
Likewise, many of the functions of kapha are among those, which
the modern physiologists include under the activities of the
skelatol & anabolic systems.
It will be safe to assume, for tile
sake of clarity & proper
comprehension that the tridoshes namely vata, pitta & kapha represent
a grouping of multitudinous events which take
place in the living
body, under three broqd based headings, or properly speaking.
they represent a broad based generalisation of life processess
& vital activities, clasified under three main headings.
This
theory of tridosha can be adequately explained when it is studied
in the light of modern science.
And we believe that it would stand
the scrutiny of modern science.
Tridosha concept as laid by the
seers of Ayurveda, governs the causative facts regardin
d’
& its treatments by simple methods.
Tridosha concept is an
ideal gift of Ayurveda to the whole world.
& air which are essential for the
Like sum, moon
external health, tridosha
is closely related with the internal health of an individual.
by
Dr.SUCHARITHA.L.
- 7
CHAPTER 4
Ayurveda.
P. N. V. Kurup1
I. Ayurvedic medicine
Ayurveda means the science of life. This is one of the oldest formulated
systems of medicine, which has spread to East and West and also
contributed to the development of contemporary medical science. It is
considered divine in origin and is widely practised in southeastern Asia,
especially in Bangladesh. India, Nepal. Pakistan, and Sri Lanka. There are
scattered references to health as well as to diseases in the Vedas (the book
of wisdom) especially in the Rig Veda and Atharvaveda. Atharvaveda has
as many as 114 hymns which describe the treatment of diseases. Ayurveda
originated from this Veda, which is the most ancient text and gives more
information than any other extant literature.
According to Hindu philosophy the universe and all the laws of the
universe have been decreed by Lord Brahma. He is believed to have taught
Ayurveda to Daksha Prajapati who taught it to the Ashwinkumar twins.
They in turn taught Lord Indra, who is considered to be the common
teacher of all the branches of medicine
Doctrines of Ayurveda
Ayurveda is based on certain fundamental doctrines known as the
Darshanas which encompass all sciences—physical, chemical, biological and
AYURVEDA
51
two major schools, the School of Physicians (Atreya sampradaya) and the
School of Surgeons (Dhanvantri sampradaya).
The specialties comprise the following:
1. Internal medicine (kayachikitsa).
2. Paediatrics (balachikitsalkaumarabritya).
3. Psychological medicine (grahachikitsa).
4. Otorhinolaryngology and ophthalmology (urdwangechikitsalshalakyatantra).
5. Surgery (both general and special) (shalyatantra).
6. Toxicology (damshtrachikitsa[agadatantra).
7. Geriatrics (jarachikitsa]rasayanatantra).
8. Science of eugenics and aphrodisiacs (vrishyachikitsalvajikaranatantra).
The basic theories of Ayurveda arise from the concepts of
Panchamahabhutas and Tridosha, which embrace the process of creation
and evolution of the universe and all laws of life therein. According to
Ayurveda the human body and all matter in the universe are composed of
Panchamahabhutas. So far as the function of the body is concerned this
system considers the body, mind and soul as complementary to one
another.
All the physical and physiological processes in the human body and the
pathogenesis of various diseases and their symptoms are explained by
the theory of the Tridosha: three basic constituent complexes in the
physiological system—motion (vata), energy (pitta) and inertia (kapha):
and the seven dhatus: body fluids (rasa), blood (rakta). muscular tissue
(mamsa), adipose tissue (meda), bone tissue (asthi), nerve tissue and bone
marrow (ntajja). and generative tissue including sperm and ovum (shukra).
There are also the waste products (malas).
Vata, pitta and kapha, the three basic biological elements derived from
the five basic physical elements, constitute the bodies of all the living
creatures from microbes to man. Vata particles control the utilization of
energy by various cells and organs for their anabolic as well as katabolic
activities. Vata also controls the movements of pitta and kapha and thus
controls all the functions and activities of the body. Energy exists in the
body in the form of pitta particles. Pitta particles are responsible for all the
biochemical reactions and metabolic processes and supply heat and energy
to the body. Kapha particles constitute the cellular as well as intracellular
structure of the body and maintain the internal environment of the body.
They impart strength and stability to the body. The balanced state of vata.
pitta and kapha is health. The imbalanced state of these three doshas gives
rise to disease. A detailed study of the Tridosha principles may reveal that
these arc nothing but motion, energy and inertia.
There are seven dhatus or tissues in the body as already stated. These
tissues constitute the supporting or structural units of the body. Each tissue
52
TRADITIONAL MEDICINE AND HEALTH CARE COVERAGE
has its own specific metabolic capability which helps it to digest the specific
food and to manufacture its associated higher tissues. During such
metabolic activity, each tissue forms its specific waste products or malas.
There arc many malas or waste products in the body—stool, urine, sweat,
nails, hair, etc. Health depends on the balanced state of all the dhatus,
doshas and malas both quantitative and qualitative. Ayurveda defines a
healthy person as one in whom there is equilibrium of the humours
(tridosha) and the body tissues with normal digestive as well as excretory
functions associated with the gratification of the senses, mind and soul. In
the light of these principles Ayurveda considers human beings in their
totality and in their subtle relationship with the universe. Its approach is
that since disease or proneness to disease occurs due to imbalance in the
equilibrium of the three doshas, restoration of the equilibrium eliminates
the disease. The treatment aims at not only curing the disease but also
enhancing the body vitality to combat the disease and minimize the
chances of relapse. Ayurveda epitomizes the philosophy of total health
care, and naturally the patient as a whole is given considerable importance.
The aim of care is therefore to improve his vitality to resist the disease and
to strengthen his immune mechanism so that disease automatically is
prevented or cured.
For the promotion, prolongation and maintenance of positive health and
prevention of disease, Ayurveda prescribes the observation of certain
principles: daily routine (dinacharya), nightly routine (ratricharya), seasonal
routine (ritucharya) and ethical routine (sadvrata), and also emphasizes that
one must follow a regulated diet (ahara). sleep (nidra) and regulated
gratification of sex (brahmacharya). Thus Ayurveda is not merely medical
science but is in fact a way of life.
Diagnosis and treatment
Before starting the treatment the physician examines the patient as a
whole and takes a careful note of his internal physiological characteristics
and mental disposition. He also studies such other factors as the affected
bodily tissues and humours- (dushya and dosha)-, the individual bodily state
(dosha) and the site in which the disease is located; the strength, resistance
and vitality of the patient and the severity of disease in terms of vitiated
humours and bodily tissues (bala); the time or season of onset of disease or
the gravity of the clinical condition (kala); the strength of digestion and
metabolism (anala); individual constitution (prakriti); the age of the patient
as well as the relation of age with the principal vitiated humour (uaya);
psychic power (satva); the habits of the patient in relation to the vitiated
humour (sathmya); and dietary habits (ahara).
The classics of Ayurveda prescribe two types of examinations—
examination of the patient (rogi pariksha) and examination of the disease
(roga pariksha).
AYURVEDA
53
In the examination of the patient one or more of the following methods
are employed:
1. Pulse examination (nadi pariksha). This is undertaken to determine the
state of disturbed doshas (vara, pitta and kapha}, vita) phenomena
indicative of particular disease (roga), and prognosis with reference to a
particular sick person (rogi).
K
2. Urine examination (mutra pariksha)
3. Examination of the faeces (purcesha pariksha)
4. Examination of the tongue (jihwa pariksha)
5. Examination of the eye (netra pariksha)
6. Examination through auscultation (sabda pariksha)
7. Examination of tactile stimulation (sparsha pariksha)
8. Examination of body structures (akriti pariksha)
Roga pariksha
Ayurveda advocates roga pariksha for the examination of the disease and
for the determination of the pathological condition. The line of treatment
is based on the presence of a number of etiological factors (nidana), such as
the degree to which metabolic activity in dhatus, doshas etc. is affected and
their mode of premonitory signs (poorva rupa), onset and the severity of
symptoms (rupa), on an assessment of the response to possible causative
factors (upashaya), and on the stage of pathogenesis of the disease or the
symptoms.
The following are the mechanisms which determine the manifestation of
the disease state and the pathological signs and symptoms in the body
Due to the etiological factors responsible for the vitiation of humours
(doshas), a qualitative and quantitative increase of humours takes place
(sanchaya). These vitiated doshas will create imbalance in various body
tissues and also liberate waste products (malas) that could spread or
circulate all over the body (prasara) through channels (srotas) which may
be large (macroscopic) or small (microscopic) in calibre (khavaigvaya) and
eventually create blockage in the channels (slhanasantsharva), or settle in
particular body tissues to cause pathological changes. The expression
(vyakti) of the pathological changes occurs in the form of signs and
symptoms, thus permitting a differential diagnosis (bheda) to be made.
Treatment of disease consists in avoiding the causative factors, in
advising medicines, suitable diet, activity and regimen which will restore
the balanced state of the body, or in surgical procedures. It requires the
combined effort of the physician, nurse, patient and medicine The
treatment of disease can be mainly classified as shamana therapy and
shodana therapy.
54
TRADITIONAL MEDICINE AND HEALTH CARE COVERAGE
Shamana therapy
Elimination of vitiated doshas or humours. The process by which the
vitiated dosha subsides or returns to normal without creating imbalance or
other doshas is known as shamana. The administration of carminatives
(pachana). digestives (deepana), the creation of hunger (kshudha) or thirst
(trishna), exercise (yyayama), the sun’s rays (atapa') and exposure to sun
(marutha), etc. come under shamana therapy.
Shodhana therapy
Emesis (vamana). purgation (yirechana), enemas (basti), and blood-letting
(nasya and rakta ntokshana) are classified under the shodhana type of
treatment. They are also called panchakanna treatment. Ceremonial
washing of the patient (snahna) and diaphoresis (swedana) are two
important techniques of treatment in the above categories.
Surgical treatment
Ayurvedic classics also advocate surgical treatment for those diseases
which are not curable by medical treatment or in cases where surgical
treatment may provide immediate relief. Details of preoperative, operative
and postoperative methods are also discussed in the ayurvedic classics.
Diet
Ayurveda lays great emphasis on regulation of diet and other regimens
as part of the treatment (pathya-apathya).
All therapeutic measures can be classified under vipareeta chikitsa and
vipareetathakari. In vipareeta chikitsa. the therapeutic measures, i.e..
medicine, diet and activity, antagonize the disease. They include hetuvipareela, i.e.. treatment counteracting the etiological factors; vyadhivipareeta, i.e.. treatment counteracting the various manifestations of
disease; and hetu-vyadhi-vipareeta, i.e., treatment counteracting the etiologi
cal factors as well as various symptomatic manifestations. In ripareetathakari chikitsa. the therapeutic measures, i.e.. medicine, diet and activity,
appear to exert effects similar to the etiological factors of the disease
process.
Drug sources
The practitioners of Ayurveda normally prepare the medicines needed
for their patients in their own clinics. For simple decoctions, powders etc.,
the physician often advises patients to prepare them in their own homes
from locally available herbal resources. However, in urban areas the
practitioners give prescriptions to the patient for dispensing by chemists.
They also prescribe patent drugs. The large-scale production of ayurvedic
■
.
AYURVEDA
55
drugs is now undertaken by modern technology. These include patent and
proprietary drugs and classical preparations. There are as many as 4500
pharmacies which produce these drugs in southeastern Asia. Statutory
controls over the manufacture of ayurvedic drugs are also enforced in some
countries.
Pharmacopoeia
Ayurvedic scholars have compiled all the available information about the
drugs and their therapeutic uses. There are some 70 such books containing
about S000 recipes. Besides these publications there are large numbers of
recipes which have not been published but which are in use in everyday
practice. Ayurvedic medicines are prepared in the form of distillates (arka).
fermented preparations (asava and arista), linctus (avaleha), incinerated
matter, minerals, shells etc. (bhasrna), powder (churna), ghee (ghrita),
tablets, pills (vari gutika), decoction (kwatha). and so on.
Drug action
In Ayurveda the drugs have been classified according to the predomi
nance of one or other of five bhutas and in view of this the drug action can
be correlated with the particular property of the bhuta which is
predominant. In addition to pharmacodynamics, the drugs exert their effect
through one or more of these properties, though ultimately an action
entirely different from the ascribed properties might appear, which is
known as prabhava.
The various tastes (rasas) of the drugs are also the results of permutation
and combination of the five bhutas. Ayurveda attributes the action of the
drug to its various therapeutic qualities. They are indicated as taste (rasa),
property (guna), potency (veerya), metabolic changes of taste (vipaka). and
special action (prabhava). The knowledge of the above qualities of a
particular drug will assist the physician to select the suitable drug for
medication.
Patient-physician relationship
The ayurvedic practitioners are closely related to the society in which
they live and practise, and their advice as elders in the village is much
sought after in all village activities, whether cultural, social, economic or
political. They are accorded great respect by the villagers; the village
physician is not merely regarded as a physician but considered as a friend.
philosopher and guide by the community. Even today in rural areas these
physicians remain the first contact of the villagers in times of illness and
difficulties. The village physicians do not normally charge any fees, but the
56
TRADITIONAL MEDICINE AND HEALTH CARE COVERAGE
village people generously compensate their services by giving them small
gifts. However, in cities and semiurban areas the physicians charge fees like
modem practitioners. But in general the charges for treatment by this
system arc lower than those of modern medicine.
Duration of diagnosis
Even though the physicians in Ayurveda have to carry out detailed
examinations of the patient and the disease from various angles, applying a
methodology, including intuitive knowledge, as briefly listed above, the
time taken to make a diagnosis may be similar to that taken by an
allopathic physician.
The preparation of physicians for practice
Ayurvedic practitioners fall broadly into the following groups:
1. Traditionally trained practitioners.
2. Institutionally trained practitioners.
3. Institutionally trained practitioners who have undergone training
concurrently in traditional systems of medicine and. to some extent, in
modern medicine.
The traditionally trained practitioners, who may be generalists or
specialists, possess thorough knowledge, having been directly under the
guidance of an expert either as an apprentice or as an understudy over a
number of years. The second category comprises practitioners who are
trained systematically for 3-5 years in institutes imparting training only in
the traditional system of medicine. Even in the olden days renowned
schools of ayurvedic medicine existed in southeastern Asia. At present
about 150 well established colleges are giving training both at under
graduate and postgraduate levels in various countries. In India a uniform
syllabus has been formulated and adopted throughout the country. The
duration of undergraduate courses is 54 years after secondary schooling
and the doctorate course is a further 3 years after graduation.
There are a number of professional associations of Ayurveda in the
region which are engaged in various activities, including ayurvedic
education. The practice in this system is being regulated through
registration of both institutionally qualified and traditionally trained
practitioners in the registers that arc maintained by the Governments
concerned. Their sincerity and devotion to service remain exemplary, and
malpractice is said to be minimal. This may not be altogether true of some
of the considerable number of practitioners who, while not registered with
any competent authority, practise nevertheless, especially in the villages.
AYURVEDA
57
Research
Research is essential in every department of human endeavour and
preeminently in Ayurveda, which has been the mainstay of the people of
southeastern Asia for several centuries and continues to contribute largely
in medical relief programmes. Research, while rehabilitating and populariz
ing Ayurveda, will be able to provide a meaningful interpretation of the
fundamental principles, medicines and modes of treatment. The methods of
research employed in Ayurveda should be such as do not deviate from the
basic principles of the system. In considering the different areas of
research, the common man should remain the focal point, and the entire
gamut of ayurvedic knowledge should be fully utilized for his benefit and
welfare. At the moment, research in Ayurveda is being conducted in the
following fields:
1. Clinical research oriented not only to determine successful drug therapy
but to establish the pathogenesis of disease.
2. Research on the drugs used in Indian medicine and folk practice at
multidisciplinary level.
3. A medicobotanicai survey of the entire region to assess the availability
of medicinal resources.
4. Collection of folk information and recipes not described in classical
works.
5. Development of quality control for drugs and pharmaceutical prepar
ations used in Ayurveda.
6. Research into fundamental doctrines on which the medical system is
based.
7. Medicohistoricai research concerned with Ayurveda and its influence on
contemporary systems and society.
8. Research into medical literature interpretation, and the publication of
critical editions.
Clinical research is one of the fruitful lines of approach to clarify the
principlesand methods of diagnosis and treatment of diseases mentioned in
classical works. It covers research into the mechanism of causation of a
disease, its prevention and cure. As already stated, such investigations
should give due regard to the concepts and doctrines enunciated in
Ayurveda. Scientists should be well qualified investigators belonging to
both ayurvedic and modern systems of medicine. Several advantages could
be realized by utilizing the following scheme: (1) diagnosis ami treatment
strictly according to Ayurvedic principles, (2) diagnosis under ayurvedic
and modern principles and treatment in accordance with ayurvedic
medicine, (3) diagnosis under modern medical principles and treatment in
accordance with doctrines of Ayurveda, and (4) diagnosis and treatment
according to modern medical methods.
58
TRADITIONAL MEDICINE AND HEALTH CARE COVERAGE
However fruitful and potent the clinical research might be, it cannot be
forgotten that drugs play a key role in the success or otherwise of the
treatment. This naturally highlights the subject of drug research, which
includes a number of components such as mcdicobotanical survey, plant
cultivation, and pharmacognostic, chemical and pharmacological studies.
The pharmacognostic studies have to be planned so that there can be
scientific and uniform methods of checking for authenticity of drugs and
plants. There is a need for standardization not only of the raw drugs but
also of the methods of manufacture and finished products so that genuine
medicinal preparations with proven efficacy can be available for clinical
application. The results of research should be evaluated on the basis of
possible utilization by the profession and by industry Such results could be
disseminated through workshops, seminars, conferences, and the publi
cation of monographs.
The countries of southeastern Asia permit parallel functioning of their
traditional, indigenous systems with the modern health care system
Although integration of the various systems is considered the ultimate goal.
certain prerequisites are mandatory, such as the introduction of basic
elements of Ayurveda into the curriculum of modern medical education in
order to bring about a closer relationship between the two systems.
Every system of medicine has its own merits and demerits. No medical
system in isolation can fully meet all the challenges and complexities of
health problems in modern times. The various systems must therefore
collaborate and pool the available knowledge to their mutual advantage
and for the good of the community they endeavour to serve. A realistic
approach which appears to have a better chance of achieving the ultimate
goal of providing adequate health care coverage for all peoples is to adopt
whatever is best in the various health care systems.
The Siddha system of medicine
The Siddha system of medicine owes its origin to the Dravidian culture
which is of the prevedic period. An examination of the ancient literature
would reveal that the vedic Aryas owed allegiance to the cult of Shiva and
the worship of the phallus (lingo) which was later on absorbed by and
incorporated into the vedic culture. The Shiv cult is associated with its
medical counterpart, the Siddha system of medicine which is mainly
therapeutic. Mercury, sulfur, iron, copper and gold, bitumen, white, yellow
and red arsenic, and other minerals as well as vegetable poisons are
extensively used in the pharmacopoeia of the Siddha tradition The Siddha
system of medicine is prevalent in the southern states of India, and in Sri
Lanka. Malaysia and Singapore where the Dravidian civilization was
dominant. The principles and doctrines of this system, both fundamental
and applied, have a close similarity to Ayurveda, with specialization in
iatrochemistry.
AYURVEDA
59
II. Medical astrology
Ayurveda postulates the theory that the human being is a replica of the
universe in miniature and has therefore close mutual relationships with it.
Permutations and combinations of the influences shed by 12 zodiacs. 27
stars and 9 planets is the basis of astrology. This is yet another area of
knowledge based on scientific astronomical facts: it deals with the close
relationship between the various celestial bodies and human beings.
Astrology therefore supports and runs parallel to the doctrines postulated
by Ayurveda. It is for this reason that since ancient times the study of
astrology, without which the study of medicine is considered incomplete,
has been given great importance in the course of ayurvedic studies.
It is believed that various celestial bodies exert varying degrees of
influence on individuals depending upon the position of the planet at the
time of their birth and its subsequent placement at different periods of
their life. Every human being is radiating energy which is not visible to the
naked eye, and the health and general well-being of the individual depend
on the harmonious relationship or interaction between the amount of
radiation or energy received from the universe and the amount radiated by
his own body. A detailed astrological study of the individual horoscope
provides the information required for the prediction of an individual's
proneness to illness and even the severity and duration of the illness that
he is likely to endure. For both Ayurveda and astrology the planetary
influences categorize individuals into three groups according to their mental
constitution; the sathvic' characteristic is influenced by the sun. moon and
Jupiter, the rajasic2 is influenced by Venus and Mercury, and the
Thamasic3 by Saturn. Mars. Rahn2 and Kethus. The planets likewise have
direct influence on the three humoral factors and together with the sun and
Mars cause disturbances of energy (pilin'). while Venus, the moon and
Jupiter cause disturbances of inertia (kapha), and Saturn. Kethu and Rahn
cause disturbances of motion (vata)1'. Mercury causes disturbances of all
the three dhatus.1 The planets also influence the functioning of the various
organs of the body, in the same way as they influence animate and
inanimate objects. Therefore astrological studies give the ayurvedic
physician the knowledge to select the requisite herbal medicines (which are
ruled by the planet having opposing influence to the planets that rule the
doshasK) for correcting the imbalance of doshus to cure the disease. Thus
1 Existence, entity, goodness. • Royal, kingly. •' Ignorance, vile, vicious. 4 A demon
said to be lire cause of eclipses. ' The last of the 9 planets, flag. ** Air. wind, rheumatism.
gout. 1 Metal, any constituent of the body. ** Pathological conditions.
60
TRADITIONAL MEDICINE AND HEALTH CARE COVERAGE
the study of astrology enables the ayurvedic physicians not only to
diagnose patients accurately but also to make a correct assessment of the
root cause of the disease and prescribe the appropriate remedy.
Medical astrology has made an elaborate classification of diseases and
the particular planetary combinations that could be influencing them. As
an example, the moon rules the mind, the sun controls the soul and
Mercury influences the nervous system. Afflictions by the moon and
Mercury, and Mars or Saturn generally indicate mental disorders. The
influence of the sun, Jupiter, Mars centred on Mercury, or the moon
induces schizophrenia. Melancholia is produced by the conjunction of the
moon and Saturn. Planetary positions also have an important effect on the
periodicity of epidemics of malaria, influenza, etc.
The astrologer’s main function is. however, to make a realistic
assessment of the personality of man, his physical and mental charac
teristics, his strengths and weaknesses, and the influences exerted over him
by various planets at any given time. Thus it is possible to make
predictions about the disease before its occurrence, through astrological
study as opposed to the diagnosis made by an ayurvedic physician after the
onset of the disease.
Much of the mystery of the human body and its intricate working, and
of the life force which controls it, still remain inexplicable despite scientific
advances A study of medical astrology could prove to be of great use to
the physician by supplementing his own knowledge. Another contribution
that astrology offers to medical science is to provide a working knowledge
about diseases that might strike an individual during a certain period of his
life and to suggest methods by which he can strive to lessen the adverse
effects if not altogether ward off the illness. Here astrology recommends
the use of mantras. Astrological literature from ancient times is replete with
references to this important aspect of mantra sastra. The afflictions
(arishtayogas) merely indicate the deficiency of the requisite or normal
energy-quantum and this can be compensated by mantras which are
nothing but packets or bundles of adjusted forms of sound vibrations.
(-1 Gi.(
Medico friend Circle - Annual Meet 1985
BACKGROUND PAPER - IV
TUBERCULOSIS IN THE AYURVEDIC SYSTEM OF MEDICINE
DHRUV MANKAD
The term 'allopathy' has been used forthe sak< of
descriptive case as an equivalent to Modern Medicine, more
precisely the sgstem of medicine taught in the M.B.B.S. Course.
This is despite the fact that the equivalence is not accurate.
Tuberculosis has been with humankind and has been known
to it as a dreadful disease since ancient times. Over a period
ofseveralcenturies, the understanding of this disease has
evolved differently under different cultures. And as a
necessary consequence, we find that the disease is looked at
differently by various non-allopathic systems .
An attempt is made here to briefly present how Ayurveda,
one of the two major non-allopathic systems-the other being
homeopathy-extant in India regard tuberculosis: its aetiopathogenesis, treatment and prognosis.
TUBERCULOSIS IN THg BRUHATTRAYI OF AYURVEDA:
Bruhattrayi (the three major texts) consists of the
three major original textual sources of Ayurveda. They are
Charakasamhita (c.700-600 B.C.), Sushruta Samhita (c 100 AD)
Ashtangahriday Samgraha (c 400 - 500 AD). These three texts
together describe the aetiopathogenesis, clinical features,
diagnosis and medical (mainly Charakasamhita) as well as
surgical treatments (Sushrutasamhita) of diseases.
In Ayurvedic texts only pulmonary tuberculosis is
described as a separate disease and is known to them as
Rajyakshama (Raj=King; Yakshama=Wasting disease). It is so
named because, according to a myth it first affected Chandrama,
the king of Consellations.
HISTORICAL BACKGROUND
Rajyakshama finds it first mention in Rigveda which
describes how a physician treated a patient of Yakshama with
mantras? But its more 'rational' history dates from Atharvaveda
in which it is described under the section of fevers
(Atharvaveda 5/5/22-154).
AETIOLOGY:
According to Ayurveda, diseases are caused as a
result of several factors viz., genetic, congenital, consti
tutional, environmental, regional, occupational, sex, diet and
so on. But the most important factors are those related to
the constitution of a persons' body. A human body is deemed
(...2
-:2:to have been constituted by seven tissues (saptadhatus - blood,
muscle, fat, nerve tissue, semen, fibres and oj-energy) each of
which in turn, is formed as a result of the combinations of two
or more of the five basic elements (pancha mahaboots, air, water,
space, earth and fire). The tissues carry in various proportion
physiological qualifies of tridoshas (kapha, Pitta, Vayu) each
of which again comprise of a combination of the qualities of
two or more panchamahaboots.
In a healthy state of body, the saptaShatus, panchamahabhoots and the tridoshas are in a state of equilibrium both
quantitatively and. qualitatively. Any dearangement of this
equilibrium causes a disease state..
According to Ayurveda, tuberculosis is caused by an
excessive accumulation of all the three doshas as a result of
one of the following causative factorss(a)Excessive strain beyond one's physical capacity
(sahasik)
(b)
Suppression of natural urges like, thirst, hunger,
micturition, defaecation, sexual - urge etc.
(Vegavidharanaj)
Emaciation
(c)
(Kshayaj)
of tissues following injury etc.
Intake
(d)
of food etc. which is unsuitable to one's
constitution (Vishashanaj).
PATHOGENESIS;
Any of the above factors leads to irregularity in one's
digestive power. By digestive power, it is probably meant what
in modem terms could be called the process of metabolism as
Ayurveda talks of both digestion of food (aharagni) and that of
tissues (dhatragni), (Vishamagni). As a result, metabolism
(Digestion and assimilation of food as well as tissue metabolishi)
suffers. This in turn ends up in accumulation of kapha. Kapha
vitiates body channels thought to be carrying vital body - fluids
other than blood (Srotodushti) and result in destruction of tissues
like blood (Raktadidhatukshaya) and loss of tissue metabolic
power (dhatvagnikshay). This causes imbalance in the constitution
of feikja body tissues and accumulation of waste products (malas) in
the body causing in turn accumulation of all the three doshas
viz. Kapah, Vata, Pitta.
( ....3
-••3
SYMPTOMATOLOGY
The disease caused by each of the causative factors
outlined above manifests as different symptoms. Out of these,
"five symptoms are common to all the aetiological types of
Rajyakshama. They are: cough with expectoration, loss of
appetite, fever, headache and backache. Others like change
in voice (in a, b, d. above), weaknessof voice (in c.) pain
in the thread (in b), feeling of discomfort in throad (in a),
or hemoptysis (ind), hot sensation around throat (in c, d)
are the differentiating symptoms.
Out of these change in
voice, backache, are caused by accumulation of vata; fever,
hot sensation around throat and hemoptysis are caused by
accumulation of pitta; and headache, cough with expectoration,
loss of apetite and loss of voice are caused by Kapha dosha.
The patient spitsout a thick, sticky, sour smelling,
yellow, green or white sputum.
The patient may spit blood
too, as a result of bursting of blood vessels.
TREATMENT
Since, according to Ayurveda, tuberculosis is caused
by accumulation of all the three doshas, the physician should
treat it acording to the relative strengths of the doshas.
The treatment consists of diet (pathya), fomentation
(swedan), local application (alepan) and drugs (oushadha) .
(a) DIET; Several strengthening diets are prescribed for a
patient of tuberculosis.
1. Soup of partridge, quail or chicken meat cooked in
ghee to be taken with rock salt, lemon juice and black pepper.
2. Soup of mutton cooked in ghee, with pepper, barley
or horse gram, dried ginger powder (soonth) and seeds of
pomegranate to be eaten with Amla.
(Charaksamhita Chikitsa
Sthana 6 7 - 68.)
b) Fomentation:
This is prescribed in order to relieve back ache
and pain in the chest.
1. A poultiee of barley, horsegram, kidney bean flour
kneaded with hot milk should be applied to head, chest and
back.
(Ch. sam - Chikitsasthaa 71)
(....4
4:-
2. A poultice of jivanti, aniseed, liquorice, root,
vidarikand, meat of wild animals or animals living in water
cooked in ghee, nerve and fibrous tissue should be applied
to the site of pain (ch.Sam. Chikitsasthan 75-76)
(c) Local ^plications;
relief of pain.
This, too is prescribed for the
1. An ointment prepared from aniseed, liquorice, costus,
tagar, red sanest wood in ghee should be rubbed at the site of
pain (Ch.Sam. Chikitsa sthan - 7.7)
2. In case of fever, an application of Chandanadi Taila
followed by a hot water bath is prescribed. Alternatively,
sponging with liquorice root decoction or cow's milk is
prescribed (Ch.Sam.Chikitsasthan 85-86)
Bleeding and mild purgaton / taxation is also indicated.
d) DRUGS; As mentioned earlier, drugs to be prescribed for
tuberculosis would depend upon the relative strength of the
three doshas. However, some formulations are prescribed which
treat various symptoms of the disease.
1. Change in voice; Inhalation of a powder of variarmool,
and shalaparni or ghee medicated with vidarikand, liquorice
and rock salt is indicated to relieve this symptom.
(Ch.Sam.
Chikitsasthan 90)
2. Cough with expectoration (kasa), breathlessness
(Shwasa) and chestpain.
A medicated ghee containing dashmool or cow1s milk and
meat juice is prescribed to be taken internally for cough
and breathlessness while a paste made of variarmool is
indicated to be applied at the site of chest pain (Ch. Sam
Chikitsasthan 93)
A linctus made of long pepeer honey, sugar ghee in a
paste of dates and raisins shiuJd be given to a patient
suffering from cough and breathlessness.
Another drug prescribed for these synptoms is a
linctus called Yakshmanashakleh: (i) dates long pepper, raisins
bark of myrobalan, Kakdashringi, Durlabha (ii) Triphala
( .... 5
(Amla, Behada, Harada) long pepper, Nagarmotha, Water Chestnut,
gur and sugar ( iii) Kshir Kakoli, Kachur and gur., any of
these powders taken with honey and ghee cures cough with
expectoration, breathless! ess, change in voice and chest pain
(Ch.Sam chikitsasthan 100-102)
Another formulation prescribed is sitopaladi chuma
containing sugar - 16 parts, vamshalochana 8 parts, long pepper
5 parts, small cardamom 2 parts and cinnamon 1 part to be taken
with ghee and honey. This relieves the symptoms of breathlessness,
cough, loss of appetite, loss of digestive power and backache.
(Ch.Sam.Chikitsasthan 103 - 1091).
Other drugs like Vasaghrita and Shatavari ghrita
are also prescribed (Ch.Sam Chikitsasthan 105)•
SPREAD OF THE DISEASE;
According to Madhavnidanam, pulmonary disease is
considered to be an infectious disease. It spreads through the
breath, the saliva and sneeze of a patient. Also one can
contract the disease by using patients
utensils bed, scents etc.
Comments on the research on medicinal herbs used in the treatment
of tuberculosis;
One thing that strikes any one going through the pages
of medicinal and Aromatic Plants Abstract and CSIR bimonthly
claiming to provide the latest information on the state of research
in medicinal herbs, is the absence of any worthwhile reserach
on the medicinal plants used in treatment of this disease.
During the last four years (24 issues) there is only one research
paper reported. It is on the relationship between rifampicin
bioavailability and Adhatoda vasica.
Adhatoda vasica is perhaps the only herb that has been
studied to any extent in its usefulness in the treatment of
tuberculosis. It hasbeen found to have an antitubercular
effect in vivo. Essential oil of A vasica was found to inhabit
all strains of M.tubercle in concentrations ranging from 2-20
Hg/cm in Youman1s modified media (o, 7, 8). But the "drug was
found to be useless in curing or preventing the progress of
the disease either in experimental animals or in human bein's.
It only relieves irritable cough by its soothing action on the
nerves and by liquafying the sputum whih makes expectoration
easier".
This view is supported by others too.
Other herbs
found useful as expectorants in Tuberculosis are Allium sativum
(garlic), Moringa oleifera (drumstick tree).
(... .6
- ;6
REFERENCES;-
(Nos. after the name of the work indicate the chapter,
and the shloka in that order unless preceeded by a
when it indicates page numbers)
1. Charaksamhita part 2, Chowkhambha Sanskrit
Sanotha 1975 3rd Edition.
2.
C israkasamhita Chikitsa Sthanam CSS 1975 3rd
Edition, 1-32.
3.
Ibid - 51
4.
Ibid 81-82
5.
Ibid 87-88
6.
Madhuvnidanam CSS 1975 IV
P. 248
7.
Barry V.C. Conalty MC, Rylance HS & Smith FR Antitubercular Effect of an extract of A. Vasica Nature,
London 1955 176 (472) pp 119 - 120.
8.
Gupta KC & Chopra IC Antitubercular action of A
vasica. Indian Journal of Medical Research 1954
43( 3) pp 3 55 - 3 58.
9.
Chopra RN, Chopra IC, Handa KC and Kapur L D.
Medical giants of India, Academic Publishers,
Calcutta Reprint 1982. P. 266.
10.
Chakravarty H. Herbal Heritage of India, Bulletin
of Botonical Society of Bengal 29(1975) pp 27 - 103.
11.
Bhagwan Dash and Bedi, Ramesh, Indigenous Drugs
for Import Substitution, ISI Bulle tin Vol.
19, p. 353.
APPEMBIX - I
SOME OF THE HERBS USED IN THE TREATMENT OF TUBERCULOSIS IN
BRUHATTRAYIE
English Name
1.2. Fennel seeds
Hindi Name
Botanical Name
J ivanti
Leptadenia reticulata
Saunf
Foeniculum vulgare
(....7
-:7s-
English Name
3. Licquorice
—
4.
Hindi Name
Botanical Name
Mulhatti
(Jeshtimadh)
Glycyrrhiza glabra
Vidharikand
Ipomea Panniculata
5# Fla g
Vach
Acorus Calamus Linn.
6. Costus
Kuth
Saassurea lappa
C.B. Clarke.
7. Wax Flower
Tagar
Ervtania coronaria
stapf.
8. Red Sandalwood
Rak tachandan
Ptercarpus sanctalims
linn
9.
Variyarmool
Desmodium
10.
••
11. Long Pepper
Salpami
Lindipipper
Piper Longum
12. Dates
Khajur
13.
Gangeticum D.c..
Phen “ dactylifera
Linn.
Vitis Vinifera Linn
••
Munakka
14. Myrobalan
Harida
Terminalia Chebula
Retz.
15.
Kakadsingi
Pistacia integerrina
Sav.
Fegoina cretica linn
••
••
16.
17. Emblic Myrobalan
Durlabha
Amla
Emblica pfficinals
be1erica.
••
20. Waterchest nut
Behada
Nagarmotha
—
Cyperus rotundus
22.
Kshirkakoli
Luvunga Scandens
23. Small cardamom
Chhoti Ilaychi
Elettaria Cardomomum
24. C innamom
Dalchini
25.
Vasa
Cinnamomum Zeylanicum
Blum
Adhatoda Vasica.
18. Chebulic myrobalan
19.
•«
. -
Terminalia Roxb
Trapa bispinosa Roxb.
medico friend circle : Annual Meet 1985 : TB AND SOCIETY
BACKGROUND PAPER V
TB in 'SIDDHA'
In Siddha, TB is referred to as "Chaya Rogam". Chaya
is not a Tamil word originally. It is said to have a
double origin; (i) Chayam which means 'phlegm1 (sputum)
in Sanskrit! ed Tamil and (ii) Chinitha which means 'to
become weak'. It is, however, not the same as Kasa Noyee—
a pure-Tamil phrase meaning 'phlegm formation
*
which in
Siddha refers to milder sputum-producing diseases. This
terminology causes some confusion since allopaths use TB
and 'Kasa Noyee' as synonyms.
Chaya Rogam is due to a deficiency of food and blood
constituents (? vitamins) such as 'minerals' and 'calcium'.
The body is affected by this disease, since it has less
"resisting power" (? immunity). Predisposing factors include
certain diets (depends on individual constitution), environ
ments (living in dark places, work in factories) and
"customs" (habits - smoking, drinking).The affectation
(? route of infection) is through diet or in the womb itself.
Thus a child whose mother dies in giving birth to, it may be
.affected. A child whose life in the womb is affected by
deficiency may also be affected.
"Pathology"; The Iral are affected—first there may be no
outward sign or symptom but when the lungs are affected
it is noticed as this is the place where Pranvaya (oxygen)
goes to.
■■
The three Iral are: Man Iral (Earth Iral), Norai Iral
(Frothy Iral), Kai Iral (Stone Iral) or spleen, lung
and liver. Again confusion occurs here because Iral is
sometimes taken to mean 'liver' alone.
Treatment: Medicine forms one part and diet forms two
parts of Siddha treatment. The 'Chaya Roga' patient
cannot be simply given the same diet as the rest of the
family.
Specific treatment is expensive and one of the ingredients
is gold. The course of this treatment takes at least
two Mandalams (2 x 48 days). After this the body still has
to be strengthened and so the length of treatment depends on
the condition of the body.
Non-specific and cheaper medicine will take 6 months at
least. It will also be effective.
On diagnosis: There are 3 pulses to be felt in the wrist
of these the PITTHA NADI is—
1. increased in intensity in Chaya Rogam. Pitham
melts fat and rhe causes the weakness in TB;
2. The 'pitha nadi' "connects" with the SLETHAMAM NADI
(? character of pulse);
3. Pulse rate is raised and corresponding increase in
temperature and respiration rate may occur. Since
oitha is strong after 2 pm the rise in temperature
will be towards evening.
Other locations: Bone affectations causes the bone to be
"bumpy" or "in and out" wherever blood "clots" eg., lymph
nodes, bone, spleen, lungs, but also nerves abdomen etc.,
can be affected by Chaya Rogam.
—PRABHIR
Arogya-J. Health Sei., 1988, XIV,
123-128
Effect of Some Psychotropic Ayurvedic
Drugs and Intensive Special Coaching
on the Psychological Development of
Mentally Backward Children
V.
NARAYANA
SWAMY
and
Bala Mandir Research Foundation, Bala
Received
on April
MAYA
GAITONDE
Mandi-, Madras—600017.
18. Revised on May 30.
1988
ABSTRACT
A study with 72 mentally backward children given psychotropic Ayurvedic
drugs singly or in combination with special education shows that special edu
cation without drugs produces beneficial effect in academic scores only. The
combination of drugs plus special education is more effective than drugs alone
in many of the parameters. The combination, Mandookaparni plus special
education group has shown a consistently promising response.
INTRODUCTION
The present day treatment of mentally retarded and backward children is
not wholly satisfactory. From a psychiatrist’s point of view (1), “proper treat
ment of mental retardation relieves symptoms, reduces morbidity and allows
the individual sufferer to operate the best way he can within the limits of his
permanent disability”. Especially in the field of mental retardation, as Blackman
(2) pointed out, “any drug which makes a ‘just noticeable difference’ in a
positive direction should be considered to be effeetve” since total cure is ruled
out.
Various drugs have been tried with mental retardation to improve their
intelligence and adaptive behaviour. Glutamic acid (3), vitamins (4), L-glutavite
(5), tranquillizers (6), encephabol (7), etc., are some of the drugs widely
prescribed by doctors dealing with mental deficiency. In general, these studies
are ambiguous. Whereas some studies have shown a positive therapeutic effect,
subsequent studies have not stood the test of scrutiny. Many of these studies
lack controls thus precluding the advantage of double blind trials.
Scientists all over the world, are presently turning to other systems of
medicine in fields where allopathy has failed to make a dent, with the hope of
finding new therapeutic measures. Ayurvedic, medicines have the advantages of
being cheaper, easily available, with least adverse reactions. A number of drugs
NARAYANA SWAMY AND MAYA GAITONDE
124
1988
have been mentioned in ancient classics (8) for their rasayana property and
medhya effect (Intelligence promoting property). Of these, a single drug
Mandookaparni (Centella asialica Linn) and 2 combinations viz. Brahmi Gritham
and Sarasvatha Churnam were taken up for investigation in this study. The
main drugs in Brahmi Gritham and Sarasvatha Churnam are Brahmi (Bacopa
Munneri) and Vacha (Acorus Calamus) respectively. The drugs were procured
from the Indian Medical Practitioners Cooperative Pharmacy Ltd, Madras.
Any remedial therapy for mental backwardness does not stop with drugs.
It must inevitably include special education also, as the problems of the mentally
retarded and backward, require different emphasis and careful handling which
only special education can give.
Hence, it is decided to combine the 2 variables and conduct a systematic study.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
Seventy two childeren of both sexes in the age range of 5-13 years and I. Qs
ranging from 50 to 90 were selected from a local home (Bala Mandir, Madras)
for destitutes and allocated randomly to the following groups.
1 Special coaching alone
Group
Group 11 a. Sarasvatha Churnam alone
b. Mandookaparni alone
c. Brahmi gritham alone
Group 111 a. Sarasvatha Churnam + special education
b. Mandookaparni + special education
c. Brahmi gritham + special education
Group IV
Control group
The drugs were administered twice a day in the following dosages:
Below 8 yrs
Above 8 yrs
Administration
1 gms / day
with milk
Brahmi gritham
1 gm/day
| teaspoon per day
1 teaspoon per day
with milk
Sarasvatha churnam
| teaspoon per day
1 teaspoon per day
with milk
1.
Mandookaparni
2.
3.
Special education was provided by 4 teachers who are specially trained in
teaching slow learners. The needs and capacities of each child were taken into
account in preparing for the remedial lessons which are school-based. The
concept of “special education” is modified, with the basics of education taught
in the morning and some craft or skill taught in the afternoon. The overall
idea is to make the child self-sufficient at the end of the project.
The following were the parameters of assessment:
1.
intelligence quotient as assessed by Binet-Kamat test (9).
2.
Academic scores in the various examinations.
3.
Matron’s assessment of behaviour problems (10).
4.
Rutter’s behaviour rating scale.
Vol. XIV
125
Effect of Ayurvedic drugs on mentally retarded
a. General behaviour—as assessed by the matrons.
b. Classroom behaviour—as assessed by the teachers.
The project’s tenure was 3 years. This paper presents the results of the
analysis at the end of one year.
RESULTS
The effect of special education alone (Table 1): The control group shows
a decline in I.Q. and special education group shows a numerical increase in I.Q.
though it is not statistically significant. In academic scores, the special education
group shows a significant increase (p < 0.05) at the end of one year. In all
other parameters, decrease in the values is taken as a positive response as they
all relate to behaviour problems. As can be seen from the table, the special
education group has registered a greater numerical decrease in all the behaviour
problems (even though not significant) whether assessed by matron or teacher.
The effect of drugs alone: The groups with drugs alone do not differ much
from the control groups in any of the parameters. Probably the treatment period
of one year is not adequate for the drugs to show their actions. Subsequent
assessments may bring to light the effects of drugs alone.
The combined effect of drugs plus special education as compared to control:
The group with Mandookaparni plus special education shows a statistically signi
ficant increase in I.Q. at the end of one year. The control group shows a decline
in I.Q. In academic scores, the groups a) Sarasvatha churnam plus special
education and b) Brahmi gritham + special education have registered a signif
icant increase. In behaviour problems, the group with Mandookaparni + special
education shows a significant decrease and overall, this combination seems
to be more beneficial than others.
Tabic I.
Analysis with regard to the effect of special education
Control
SI.
Parameter
No.
group
1.
Intelligence quotient
—2.80 +
2.
Academic scores
1.31 +
7.83 ±
10.10
35.00 +
*
7.98
-4.56 ±
4.22
—11.67 +
3.88
3.51
(9)
Matron’s assessment of behaviour
problems
(9)
4.
group
3.67
(8)
3.
Special education
(9)
Rutter’s behaviour scale
a.
General behaviour (as
assessed by Matron)
—3.33 +
1.91
(9)
b.
—4.45 ±
2.35
(9)
Classroom behaviour (as
assessed by teacher)
—2.89 +
(9)
Values are mean difference + standard error.
* P < 0.05
1.68
—3.56 +
1.39
(9)
Figures in the paranthesis represent sample size.
Table 2.
Analysis with regard to the combined effect of drug + special education as compelled to drugs alone.
Values are mean differences + standard error
SI.
Parameter
No.
1.
Intelligence quotient
2.
Academic scores
Sarasvatha
Sarasvatha
Mandookapar
Mandooka
Brahmi
Brahmi
churnam-l-sp.
churnam
ni 4-special
parni
gritham +sp.
gritham
education
alone
education
alone
education
0.80 +
4.01
— 1.28 +
*
1.90
4.85 ±
(9)
(9)
26.60 ±
(5)
3.
12.69
3.80 +
2.17
1.19 ±
(9)
(9)
—
9.80 ±
(7)
2.74
2.43 ±
2.24
38.66 +
—0.19 + 2.58
*
6.12
—1.14 +
(9)
(9)
9.15
(7)
(3)
(5)
alone
1.74
Matron's assessment of
behaviour problems
0.11 + 2.56
(9)
4.
2.81
—3.11 +
2.59
—9.22 ±
**
2.39
(9)
(9)
0.33 ±
1.80
—5.89 +
1.32
(9)
(9)
—2.44 ±
9.15
(9)
Rutter’s behaviour scale
(a) General behaviour
(assessed by Matron)
—2.55 +
1.03
(9)
1.22 ±
1.24
—6.78 ±
*
2.30
(9)
(9)
0.00 +
1.86
(9)
—1.12 ±
1.72
—3.23 +
1.61
(9)
(9)
(b) Classroom behaviour
(assessed by teacher)
—2.36 +
1.72
(9)
*P < 0.05.
—2.11 ±
(9)
1.72
—1.56 +
(9)
2.25
-3.89 +
(9)
1.11
-4.33 ±
(9)
1.58
—1.56 ±
1.18
(9)
**P < 0.01
1988-
Vol. XIV
Effect of Ayurvedic drugs on mentally retarded
127
The combined effect of drugs plus special education as compared to Drugs
alone (Table 2): In I.Q. among the drugs alone groups, only the group with
Mandookaparni shows a numerical increase while the other two groups show
decrease. In the combination (drugs + special education) groups too, the group
with Mandookaparni + special education registers an increase in I.Q. which
is greater than the other 2 groups. In academic scores, the combination seems
to be more effective than drugs alone. Again, the combination seems to be more
effective in reducing the behaviour problems than the drugs alone and among
the combinations, Mandookaparni + special education, is more beneficial in
its effect consistently.
DISCUSSION
Among the Indian medicines, Centella asiatica (Mandookaparni), Celastrus
paniculata (Jyotishmati), Convolvulus Pluricalis (Shankapushpi) are some of
the drugs subjected to experimentation. Appa Rao et al (11) found significant
increase in the general mental ability at the end of 6 months with Mandooka
parni in 30 mentally retarded children. Though in the present study, the drugs
without special education have not shown any substantial improvement in the
parameters so far, prolonged administration is expected to bring the desired
results.
The superiority of the special curriculum over the normal classes for the
mentally backward children is well established in this study. Educationists
prefer a special curriculum for the educationally handicapped persons as the
order of priority takes into account the disadvantages of each child (12).
The combination of drugs and special education is found to be more
effective in this study as the problem is approached from two angles—drugs
on the physiological plane and special education on the psychological line.
Among the combinations, Mandookaparni + special education shows a consis
tently better result. This corroborates the study by Appa Rao et al (11) which
also found a promising action by Mandookaparni. A review of the first year
progress of study in this paper has become imperative to take stock of the
situation viz, change in the dosage of medicines, introduction of special diet
to increase the potency of the drug, changes in teaching methods, etc.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The authors are thankful to the Honorary General Secretary, Bala Mandir
for providing the basic facilities. They are also thankful to the Psychologist,
V. H. S. for the assistance in psychometry. The financial assistance by the
Arogya Ashram Samithi, Madras is gratefully acknowledged.
128
NARAYANA SWAMY AND MAYA GAITONDE
1988
REFERENCES
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
Trethowan, W.H. (1965) J. Mental Subnorma’ity, 11, 18-23.
Blackman, L.S. (1957) Amer. J. Ment. Dcficie., 62, 322-25.
Albert, K., Hoch, P., and Welch, N. (1951) J. Nerv. Ment. Dis., 104, 263-266.
Del Guidice. (1960) The Summary, 12, 21-26.
Goldstein, H. (1958) Arch. Pcdiatr., 75 , 89-100.
Bair , H.V. and Herold, W. (1955) Arch. Neuro. Psychiatr, 74, 363-64.
Khorana, Anand Bhushan. (1969) Ind. J. Ment. Retard., 21, 108-114.
Ayurvedic Texts — (1) Charaka Samhiti, Chikitasthanam Chapter Rasayana, 30, 31.
(2) Bhavaprakasha Nighantu. (3) Ashtanga Hridaya.
9.
10.
11.
Kamat, V.V. (1967) Measuring Intelligence of Indian Children. 4th edition.
Anne Anastasi. (1968) Psychological Testing, 3rd edition.
Appa Rao, M.V.R., Kanchana Srinivasan and Koteswar Rao, T. (1977) Ind. J. Psychiatry,.
19, 54-59.
12.
Guilford, R. (1971) In Special education needs, Routledge and Kegan Paul, London,
A&IZ ')
BRIMHAN TREATMENT IN PRATISHAYA-SHWASA
( RESPIRATORY TRACT MANIFISTATIONS )
Author : Vd. Milind Rampurkar
Sanhita Siddhant Dept.
Govt. Ayurvedic College,
Nanded - 431 601.
Hon'ble Chairman of the Session, Co-Chairman,
Hon'ble Chairman & Secretary of the organising committee,
Hon'ble members on the dias & Vayovridha-Gyana Vridha-
I
Tapovridha ( Senior in age, knowledge and practical aspects
of life & science ) members of the audience,
I -e-x-tend my gratitude for the oppurtunity given to
me to stand before you all and put forth my humble
experiences in the management of respiratory tract manifistations based on the following principle.
"
SUFI fBJTSrq
"
Balam Hialam Nigrahaya doshanam, as stated by
Maharshi Charak in Jwar- Chikitsa &
" f$gf sig&i gqrtr wa /nsflY Hon
Hfcqq ffinY THlY
Tl’Wq
i
: I [q. fq. ?u/m J
Sarvesham Brimhanam Hialpa S^akyascha Prayasho
Bhavet, Natyarthem Shamnopayo Bharasho ashakyascha
karshne ch.ch. 149. 17.
That is the patients buffering with shwasa do
respond better and damages if caused are potentially less
with Brimhan treatment. Shaman Chikitsa may not be causing
more damage but Rookshan treatment which is most widely
used today, definitly has the more potential for damages
leading to irrecoverable
phase of the disease.
I have the previlage to present the case study of
patients from indoor section of Govt. Ayurvedic college,
Nanded with refrence to Brimhan treatment in Pratishaya-
Shwasa major attraction to take up this study was avail.’.bi
...2 ...
; : 2
of limited resources to assure the sufferer in releiving
from the present state of attack and to assure him of
non-recurrence. This can only be practiced in between
the two attacks.
The principle of management is the preventive
treatment in Kapha Prakopkal i.e. February- March &
Vyakti phase i.e. from June to 'December alongwith Vihar
treatment of Yogasana and Pranayam.
From the preliminary studies at the indoor section
of Govt. Ayurvedic college, Hospital Nanded, there is ample
evidence to assure the patients as above.
The study is spread over fifty patients from 1984
to 1938 admitted from C.P.D. section of Govt. Ayurvedic
college & hospital Nanded to the indoor section.
The study was undertaken in three phases.
1.
Assessment of Sthansamsraya i.e. Nasa( Hasal)
Kantha (Pharynx) and Phuphus (lungs fields ).The
Methods employed wore simple to practice at remote
places also i.e. inspection palpation percussion
& auscultation.
2.
Shodhan treatment & pachan in required potency
inclluding Vaman when needed.
3.
Brimhan treatment after the acute phase is relieved,
with Siddha-Ksheer,
1.
Sthan Samsraya revealed the distribution as follows
(H)
Jeerna Pratishya in
30 patients i.e.. 60%
(B)
Jeerna kasa in
14 patients i.e., 2 8%
(C)
Nasabhishyanda in
28 patients i.e. 56%
(D)
Kanthabhishyanda in
41 patients i.e.. 82%
(E)
Pathogenesis in phuphus
46 patients i.e. 96%
contd.. 3...
Raised respiratory rate was as follows :
Group - I
-roup - II
,
18-24
18
i.e. 36%
25-32
13
i.e. 26%
17
i.e. 34%
Group - III more than 32
Pd t
.st twc.were not in Vegavastha i.e. 4 %
it treatment is divided in two phases .
Fachan & shodhan in required potency, vaman if
necessary alongwith Nasya ( with shehan-swedan )
for pathogenesis in Nasa.
2.
Gandush, Lehan, Achushan for Kanthabhishyanda
( Pharangeal Pathogenesis )
3.
Ras-sindoor, Shwaskuthat alongwith Yesbtimadhu 4Pippali quath throughout the day as and when
required ; which yeilded satisfactory results.
Tlye patients are switched to Brimhan treatment after
the petency of attack is reduced as per the principles of
Rasayan Treatment.
The assessment of the results is calculated as folio
1.
Normalised respiratory rate i.e, upto 18.
2.
Reduction in inflammatory pathogenesis in Nasal,
pharyangeal and lung fields.
3.
4.
Normal ascultation in lung fields.
Increased hunger, proper digestion, excretion in
proper time.
5.
Feeling of freshness.
The Brimhan treatment is administered in siddha ksl.
siddha mamsa Rasa on the following principle.
"ptrgq.crrrtrf FEIW:
:^1
The form in which Rasayana treatment is given is restirctc.
as follows.
1.
2.
3.
Fresh juice of Manduookparni
Yashtimadhu representing jeevaneeyagana with ksheer.
Guduchi flower and root as swarasa &. grinded form
of ^hankhapushpi. Ch.Su. 4.
.4.
;: 4 ;;
ksheer,
Contents of powder for Siddha-
Sanskrit Name
Part used
Latin Name
Shunthi
Lingiber Officinale
Stem
Pushakermul
Inula racamosa
root
Pippali
Piper longumlinn
fruit
Mangishta
Rubia cardifolia
^tem
Sariva
Memidesmus indicus
stem
Ashavaganda
Withania somnifra
stem
-’hatavari
■asparagus racemo
stem
.•-.r jun
Terminalia «rguna
stem
Yeshtimadhu
Glycyrrhiza glabra
stem
Siddha ksheer is prepared as follows.
Five gram of mixture above fine powders
One cup of milk
+
r
One cup of water is boiled and reduced to one cup of
milk, filtered & administered twice a day in the morning &
evening.
We could start Siddha ksheer & had response as follows
in 50 pateients under study.
No. of
Pts.
Initiation of
Siddha Ksheer
in weeks.
% of relief
Follow up in
weeks .
8
I st
16%
4 weeks
19
II nd
38%
4 weeks
10
III rd
20%
4 weeks
3
IV th
6%
4 weeks
2
Not relieved
4%
4 weeks
4
-‘■'ransfered
8%
—
4
Left during treatment
8%
Hence I may state that Brimhan treatment with Siddha
.
.. „ .
hqs
of Pranvaha-srotus
ksheer is potential in the tr- atment
diseases.
...5..
In our study 80% were relived we have also put our efforts
to have follow up with the treatment of shodhan in prakop-cala and maintaining Jala with diddh ksheer from June to
December upto five years.
I am very much greatful fo V.S. Amravat Dean Gcvt.
Ayurvedic college & hospital Nanded for the encourgeraent
and permission to under take this project.
R.M.O. Govt. Ayurvedic Hospital Nanded for providir
ex press
the records for the study. I “jete-nd my gratitude to Vd.
3.3. Katti for his valuable guidance in selection of thv.
problems and studies.
I am thankful to you all to have enabled me
to
putforth my experiences with encouraging response for
which I am obliged to all of you also.
■'•'hanking you,
isi )
CONTRIBUTION OF PATHOGENESIS OF MAHASROTAS IN
RESPIRATORY TRACT- DISEASES.
Author : Vd. B.S. Katti,
Reader Kayachikitsa
Govt. Ayurvedic dcolleg
Nanded- 431601 (India)
Hon'ble Chairman of the Session, Co-Chairman,
Hon'ble Chairman & Secretary of the organising committee,
Respected members on the dias and elite members of the
audience,
press
I -eietee-nd my gratitude for
the opportunity extend -
to me for humble submission of the mode and results of the
study of importance of Pathogenesis of Mahastrotasa in
respiratory tract manifestations.
It's my previlege to quote that the initiation of
this study is the result of the Ahemedabad conference,
organised by dept, of science and technology Govt, of Indi;.
Gujarat Ayurvedic University and Lokaswasthya parampara
Samwardhan Samiti a few years back. Respiratory 1’ract
manifestation was one of the Ten problems for which altera
therapy was looked in to.
From Ayurvedic point of view, the basic principle
"
fPIcigrHn
"CU.fd.
i.e. the proper functioning of Mahasrotas -proper digestion
and proper excretion in time alongwith the production of
poshak doshas has the control over pranvahasrotas (Respira
tory system )
The other Moola-sthana of pranvahasrotas is
-Iridya. My study is limited to Mahasrotasa only.
The study is conducted both at inpatients and out
, atients level. The study on inpatients is conducted at
>~vt. Ayurvedic college & hospital Nanded, contributing
fifty cases and the outpatients from Health Centre of Nanocd
contd..2 page.
2 ; ;
Dist. Branch of National Integrated Medical Association
situated at
Ganeshnagar, Nanded and Sane Guruji hospital
a unit of Manava Loka Ambajogai.
It is observed in this study that the complete
study of the function of Mahastrotasa (Alimentary canal )
can only be covered in indoor units. The available methods
-t out patients neither can not be ruled out nor neglected.
The sex and age group of the patients attending
indoor and outdoor is as follows :
Outdoor 79
Indoor 50
Age ^roup
Female
Male
Female
1-10
1
0
4
3
11-25
1
5
14
8
26-50
11
12
29
13
50 & above
17
3
7
1
Total
30
20
54
25
Male
■that
It is clear from the above chart the age groups
from 11 to 25 and 26 to 50 have reported in more numbers
probably due to uncontrolled Aahar & Vihar either as a
result of negligence of food rulers or unable to follow the
regime due to over work.
Proper digestion and proper excretion, the major
functions of Mahastrotasa, are attributed to following
four disciplines.
1.
The diet must contain Sneha, -te be able to be
transformed to end products.
2.
Tepoid hofi food is a major assest for digestion.
3.
"he food by which one can Nourish his own body-
Hitahar. ■
4.
A little less quantity than required must form th..
quamtum.
contd.. 3 page.
2 : 3 ; s
The above factors positively keep up proper samanu
vayu only when ^nuloman of Apah is maintained.
The specific food articles especially, the product.
prepared out of fermentation or which promote fermentation
have the major role in Pathogenesis of Mahastrotas, which
are as follows ;
i)
Mutton (especially of large
animals )
15
30%
ii)
Curd
14
28%
iii)
Tomato
11
2 2%
iv)
Tobacco smoking, ^hewing
09
18%
v)
ulcohal consumption
08
16%
vi)
?Pur dal
07
14%
vii)
Eggs
06
12%
viii) Lime
05
10%
Fish
04
8%
ix)
Total No.of fermentative and sour products point
towards fermentative dyspepsia which is responsible for
the disorders as follows.
Disease
IPD(50)
OPD(79)
i)
Agnimandya
40(80%)
15(18.9%)
ii)
Amlapitta
20(40%)
43(54.4%)
iii)
Liver enlargement
15(30%)
17(21.5%)
iv)
Aadhman
04(8%)
06(7.5%)
v)
Udar sthambha
(Abdomen not soft )
22(44%)
24(30.3%)
vi)
Tenderness on deep palpation
23(46%)
4
vii)
Sam purish (Total u'unty.)
24(48%)
39(49.3%)
11(22%)
06(7.5%)
ziii ) Hard stools
xi)
Normal stools
05(10%)
01(1.2%)
)
Coated tongue
33(66%)
__
contd.. 4...
4.
Hence I conclude that it is crystal clear, Ama potent
diseases & Hard stools do have a major part in our statist;.
According to Ayurveda, other four types of Vata, Pitta &
Kapha in the body are nourished by Kledaka Kapha, Pachak
pitta & Apana Vayu which are produced as a daily routine
from digested food.
Hence the respiratory tract manifestations can not
cured without maintaining proper functioning of three
awasthapakas of Mahastrotasa because the pathogenesis of
Mahastrotasa is predisposing factor in the diseases of
respiratory system.
The key to reduce the poetency/prevent
the
manifestations of respiratory tract is keeping up proper
digestion,
proper excretion of urine & stools in time
G maintaing vitality of pranvahastrotasa by Nasya, Vyayama
Yogasanas Sc pranayam.
I acknowledge the helps rendered by Vd. Milind
Rampurkar in scrutening, tabulation and preparation of this
paper, C cv m
<0-
The dean, Vaidya V.S. Amravat, Govt. Ayurvedic College &
Hospital Nanded Maharslfitra for encourgement and extending
every help to prepare this paper. R.M.O. Govt. Ayurvedic
college, & Hospital Nanded as he has generously made the
records available for the study and staff of the hospital
who has helped me in the wards. I am particularly thankful
to you all who have not only listened me but alo encouraged
to deliver the study to full extent.
Thanking you all once again.
URMILATHATTE .
SHARADINIDAHANUKAR
Ayurveda, among the
world's oldest medical
systems, often evokes
extreme reactions. The
romantic revivalists
feel our sages had
'divined' everything
about healing, herbs
and health. Quacks and
charlatans have long
thrived on such
worshipful and
uncritical sentiment.
Scoffs and sceptics, on
the other hand, dismiss
ayurveda as
unsubstantiated
gibberish. Can the
extremes be bridged?
What are the problems
of 'validating' ayurveda
in modern medical
terms?
•’
THR NATURAL ALTERNATIVE
An ayurvedic class on anatomy
since. Like many other indigenous sys Hindu University, Varanasi, and
tems, however, ayurveda seems to Gujarat Ayurveda University at Jam
have stultified in the medieval ages nagar, there are 22 colleges having
and overtaken by western systems, post-graduate education facilities in
__HILDREN love its tangy particularly after the colonial conquest ayurveda with annual admission cap
taste. Youngsters, hoping to beef-up of India. Today it enjoys at best only an acity of 318.
their muscles, swallow daily dollops of alternative status compared to that of
Despite the overall primacy of the
the brown-black stuff. Older citizens, the western or allopathic system. allopathic system, ayurveda still caters
trying to regain youth and strength, Ayurveda is recognized by the Govern to almost the entire rural population
turn to this concoction made from ment of India along with the non- mainly because of the scarcity of
amla (improperly named the Indian allopathic systems and regimens in modern health care in our villages. (To
'goose-berry'). All of them have made the Indian Systems of Medicine (ism). consider just one indicator, the bed
chavanprasha India's best-selling These include siddha, unani, nature population ratio which was 0.24 per
and best-known tonic, a sort of ayurv cure, yoga, tibbia and amchi. Accord 1,000 of population at the time of the
edic answer to China's ginseng and ing to government sources ism has First Plan has now "improved" to 0.74
other elixirs of life.
’
about 400,000 registered practitioners, per 1,000.)
Ayurveda is arguably the world’s mostly in rural areas. (By contrast, the
Even in urban sectors most ayurv
most ancient medical discipline, one number of registered allopathic doc- edic physicians have crowded out
to which western medicine owes tors in the country at the end of 1987 patient clinics. Why do these people
much in its earlier stages of develop- stood at 332,000).
flock to the ayurvedic vaids? There is
ment. Documentary evidence shows
ism
ism has 13,770 dispensaries and no simple answer. First is the percepthat some of samhitas or compendia 1,691 hospitals/wards having 19,568 tion among patients that ayurveda
, of ayurveda are written in pre-. beds.
------ -----------------------------..&<<> offers most
oppivpnaie
ui ursi-iine
There are 98 ayurvedic-----colleges
appropriate
or first-line
• Paninian Sanskrit Since the era of functioning in the country in both the -therapy against certain diseases like
Panini, the great Sanskrit grammarian ’government - and’ non-government-jaundice. Also, many patients suffer--.and systematist, has been.placed be- .sectors for undergraduate education . ing from chronic diseases like bron' fore the 7th century bc by historians with an annual admission capacity of - chial-asthma,-rheumatoid arthritis or
like Gold Stueber) some of the sam- 3,857. Besides the National Institute of diabetes mellitus turn to ayurveda in
hitas predate the 7th century bc. It has Ayurveda, Jaipur, the two full-fledged - order to reduce the useof modern drugs.
been practised - continuously ever '.post-graduate institutions at Baharas ' Allopathic medicine has as yet no cure
An ayurvedic pharmaceutics practical
for such diseases, only palliative
therapy. Moreover, drugs like insulin
or tolbutamide for diabetes, salbut
amol or aminophylline for asthma and
prednisolone or aspirin for arthritis,
while easing the symptoms without
eradicating the disease produce many
morbid side-effects. Thus patients.
already crippled with the disease,
further burdened by drug-induced ef
fects turn to ayurveda, hoping for
cures without having to tolerate
adverse reactions.
Another category of patients which
turns to ayurveda are those suffering
from terminal illnesses like cancer or
congenital haematological (blood.related) diseases like haemophilia or
thalassemia. Many of these people
come to the vaids after modern medi
cine has give 'given up' on them. They or
more often their relatives are literally
clutching at any straw — ayurvedic or
otherwise. In their search for miracle
cures, they are sometimes goaded by
sensational reports in the popular
press or the market-place of alleged
cures with herbal medicines.
Curiously, many allopathic doctors
also prescribe so<alled ayurvedic
through media, has successfully sold
■ an attractive myth to a gullible public:
take 'ayurvedic' medicines, they are ef
fective and safe. This has led to a wide
spread self-prescription of so-called
ayurvedic drugs, particularly 'tonics'
most often sold with unsubstantiated
claims. '
. . ’
Marketing 'ayurvedic' drugs is. part
icularly lucrative as it is not covered by
■the Drugs & Cosmetics Act (1940) nor
the Magical Remedies Act (1954). The
manufacturer is under no obligation to
prove the clinical efficacy of a prepara
tion and worse, does not have to sub
ject the drug to stringent safety studies
required of allopathic medicines. Con
sider, for example, the marketing of a
so-called youth-restoring elixir. All
you need to do is to pick up some
plants mentioned in ayurvedic texts—
and there are over fifty of them re- i
cognized by the Maharashtra state fda '
— put them together in any way you
like and sell! The comparable proce
dure for a new allopathic product in
volves a 10 to 20 years gestation .
period costing millions of rupees and
batteries of animal tests and clinical
trials to prove not only safety but also
medicines. A survey by Indian Drug efficacy. No wonder then that even
Manufacturers Association (idma) large multinational pharmaceuticals
showed that more than 80 per cent of are jumping on to the money-spinning
prescriptions issued by practitioners 'ayurvedic' bandwagon.
What needs to be reiterated is that
of allopathy include one or more pre
parations containing herbal drugs. 'herbal' or 'herbal plus mineral' pre
*
These are usually fixed drug com parations are not really ayurvedic. Nor
binations of plants, sometimes herbal does ayurvedic philosophy permit the
extracts, sometimes using a metal like kind of over-the-counter consumption
iron or mercury and marketed by of fixed-drug combination so rampant
pharmaceutical companies. India today.
What then is the ayurvedic approach
leads the world in the use of herbal
drugs: the sale of herbal products is al to therapy? Ayurveda, as the name im
plies,
is the knowledge of life (ayu
most one-and-half times that of allo
pathic drugs. The advent of commer Sanskrit for life and veda stands for
cials on national network television is knowledge). It describes ways to treat
undoubtedly a factor that has boosted and prevent diseases. More import
tremendously the sale of herbal and antly, ayurveda emphasizes pro
so-called ayurvedic . preparations. cedures to maintain a state of positive
More importantly, these preparations health. This concept is only recently
are freely available over the counter creeping into western medical ■ .
thoughtwithout prescription.
The therapeutic approaches of v •
Also, sustaining the boom is the so:
called green sweep gripping the ayurveda are well defined into four
world. The marketing mandarins have, categories: prakritisthapani chikitsa
in the process, equated all plant or (maintenance of health), roganashani
herbal medicines with ayurvedic med chikitsa (cure of disease), rasayana
icines. The organized sector of manu chikitsa (restoration of function, bolst
facturers with their aggressive salesm ering function) and naishthiki chikitsa
anship and promotion of products (therapy for the spirit or the psychiatric ’
COVER STORY
COVER STORY-----------------------------
approach in modern terms). These
methods are used to bring back the de
ranged dosha-dhatu-mala equilibrium
to normalcy, through removal of caus
ative factors, dietary manipulation and
drug therapy. The trinity-cfosha (three
humours); dhatu (seven tissues); and,
mala (metabolic end products) is
the foundation of life according to
ayurvedic philosophy. Disease is be
lieved to be the result of an imbalance
in the triad. Ayurveda also emphasizes
that equal attention should be paid to
the 'tripod of life'—the body (sharira);
the mind (manas); the soul (atman) —
to attain sound health.
An ayurvedic doctor is supposed to
make a diagnosis only after eliciting an
exhaustive history, examining the pat
ient thoroughly and determining the
constitution (prakriti). Ideally, there
fore, the whole person is taken into
consideration before deciding a thera
peutic measure which is not just sym
ptomatic.
This is the very essence of ayurveda.
Unlike western medicine, which
mostly epitomizes the one-symptomone-disease-one-drug
paradigm,
ayurveda is holistic.
Curiously, the digestive system is
the main target used by ayurveda not
only for administrating therapy but
also to explain pathogenesis of sym
ptom complexes. The key concept
here is that of agni, or the metabolic
fire. If the agni is poor — a fact to be
ascertained by taking a meticulous his
tory— the food that you eat is not pro
perly digested. This is believed to re
sult in the formation of ama or un
digested food molecules that are
Ayurrada'o t—rhar dfccfrfo tradition
Ayurvedic drugs can,
by themselves, produce
unwanted effects
absorbed and deposited in different
organs of the body to produce dis
eases ranging from rheumatoid arthr
itis,ulcerative colitis,liver cirrhosis and
even metabolic diseases. The single
therapeutic approach common to such
a diverse spectrum of diseases, is to
improve digestion and alter diet rather
than symptomatic relief for the pain or
diarrhoea and so on.
The point is that ayurveda considers
each patient unique. The drug therapy
therefore has to be highly indi
vidualized. And, even more import
antly, equal emphasis is given to mod
ifications in diet and life style.
Obviously then taking 'over-thecounter'drugs such as 'pain-killers' or
'cough syrups' labelled as 'ayurvedic'
militates against the very spirit of
ayurveda and can tarnish the reputa
tion of this rigorous discipline.
I
This also highlights some of the i
myths associated with ayurveda. First
is the fallacy of assuming that all
ayurvedic therapies are safe. Second
is the belief, already stated earlier, that
plant-based drugs are necessarily
ayurvedic and the third concerns the
acceptance of ayurveda as a first-line
medical system in some selected con
ditions.
To illustrate the problem of safety
first, consider the case of two epileptic
patients at the King Edward Vllth
Memorial (kem) Hospital, Bombay. \
They were well-controlled on pheny
toin, the standard anti-epileptic drug.
They started taking an allegedly ayurv
edic form ulation with'anti-epileptic ac
tions' to reduce their dependence on
phenytoin which was producing side
effects. However, after some days of '
concurrent therapy, both boys lost
control of epilepsy and began to get
seizures. Although the dose of pheny- s
toin had not been changed, the socalled ayurvedic agent was probably
interfering with the allopathic drug.
Subsequent animal research at the
Hospital confirmed this as aspect of
drug action.
Prescribing ayurvedic drugs or
herbal remedies in combination with
modern or allopathic medicines
without knowing their possible inter
actions can, therefore, be dangerous.
This is especially so in cases of drugs
that have a very narrow therapeutic
window, that is, drugs which can be
come toxic with the smallest changes
in levels. The effects of these small
changes can be catastrophic. Some of
the drugs which need to be watched
are anti-epileptic drugs, digoxin (used
in heart failure) and tolbutamide (used ■
in diabetes).
Moreover, ayurvedic drugs can, by ;
themselves, produce unwanted ef
fects. Charaka, the ancient master of
ayurveda, says as much in his treatise
Charaka Samhita:
"Like poison, weapon, fire and thun
derbolt, a drug not perfectly under
stood is fatal; while a perfectly under
stood drug can be a life-saver."
(Ch.Sam.1;124)
Indeed, ayurveda describes dif
ferent procedures mitigating or reduc
ing side-effects. For example, avipattikar churna given for hyperacidity,
can produce abdominal cramps if not
taken with warm water!
Although ayurvedic texts are full of
The second fallacy we have to rebut respectively! How to apply these for
is that all plant-based medicines are the immeasurably changed life-styles astute observations and logical infer
ences, they are not backed by direct
'ayurvedic'. Plants.are only a part of and environment of today?
This, then is the primary reason why proof or experimental analysis. In fact,
the therapeutic repertoire at the hands
of an ayurvedic doctor. The system de modern science has relegated Charaka says, "There is very little that
scribes over 600 plants of medicinal ayurveda to an 'alternative' or 'com can be obtained from direct proof. The
province beyond direct experimental
value in over 70 books containing plementary' status.
Another important factor in the evidence is vast." (Ch.Su. 11:7) Traditi
more than 8,000 recipes of drug com
onally, and even today, ayurveda is
eclipse
of
ayurveda
concerns
infec
binations.
Assuming safety, how efficacious tions and epidemics. It had been inef taught in a didactic way: rote-learning
are these drugs? If taken without fol fective against the proverbial scourges of sanctified sutras stifles doubt, en
lowing the elaborate ayurvedic rules in the sub-continent, the waves of quiry and experiment leading to fossilof diagnosis and treatment,they can bubonic plague and small pox. ization of the discipline.
What prevents modern scientists
hardly be expected to.-be effective. If Modern medicine, on the other hand,
and when they are successful — and triumphed precisely in this area in the from enlarging, updating and re
there are anecdotal accounts aplenty 20th century, thanks to advances in validating the vast corpus of ayurvedic
to attest this — one does not know to epidemiology, public health and pre knowledge? The first hurdle is not just
what extent some of these are due to ventive medicine. Contributions of linguistic— how to decode aphorisms
the placebo effect or due to spontan people like Lister, Jenner, Pasteur and written in Sanskrit? Being terse and el
eous remission. However, even in its Fleming have had the greatest impact liptic, they need amplification and ex
most pristine and authentic forms
ayurveda cannot hope to supplant
modern medicine because of some in
herent limitations. Let's examine these.
Firstly, ayurveda is a system that
froze around the 13th century.
By contrast, western medicine has
been
constantly
evolving
in
corporating technological advances in
all the sciences. To cite just a few ex
amples, in the last ten years alone dia
gnosis has been radically tranformed
by advances in imaging such as cat
and pet scans or nmr as also by in
creasing sophistication in laboratory
techniques. Therapy has been re
volutionized by astonishing advances
like lithotripsy (for 'shocking' kidney
stones into oblivion with ultrasound
waves) or lasers. Recombinant dna
technology used for making hor
mones like insulin is taken for granted
today. Consider the latest example in this
tradition: in October 1990, a four-year-old
with with a rare genetic disease in
Washington, USA, became the world's The tonic Heft) shatavari (Asparagus) and the lipid-lowering guggul (right) plants
first patient to be treated with genetic
ally altered copies of her own cells.
Notwithstanding the criticism that this on human health and disease. To cite tensive interpretation. Even if you can
approach is increasingly technocratic, just two examples, the lengthening of make some headway with some trans
overspecialized
and
expensive, the average life span of Indian citizens lations how do you proceed? Assum
ayurveda cannot really compare in from 32.7 years in 1941 to 58.6 years in ing that we can formulate reasonably
terms of growth and ’development. 1990 in this century, thanks to control accurate hypotheses, what research
Standard textbooks used to train med of killers like typhoid, tuberculosis and methodologies do we adopt? The app
ical students are excellent indicators of cholera with the liberal use of chlora roach to diagnosis and therapy in
the state of the art. Modern medical mphenicol, rifampicin and tetracycl ayurveda is quite different from that of
modern medicine. As we saw earlier,
texts have a high obsolescence rate: ine.
Even more spectacular is the second the one-disease-one-drug-one-action,
new editions appear every four to five
years to account for burgeoning example: the total eradication of small generally reductionist paradigm so
advances. Very often the first edition pox from the planet with appropriate prevalent in allopathy does not feature
has only antique value and bears very immunization and control measures. anywhere in ayurveda. Its therapeutic
A number of other factors contributed approach, on the other hand, is geared
little resemblance to the current one.
By contrast, ayurvedic colleges in to the decline of ayurveda. These in at correcting system imbalances and
this last decade of the 20th century use clude the language in which it was 'tuning' organs in line with environ
the first and only edition of Sushruta written — Sanskrit, a classical langu mental influences. How can such a
and Charaka Samhitas published in age with very little mass base and con therapy be evaluated with objective
animal or clinical models to be subjecthe 6th century bc and 1st century ad tact.
2OO1. APRIL 1991
COVER STORY
Ruins at hlalanda, Bihar, where a great ayurvedic university once flourished
ted to statistical validation? Animals longum for respiratory disorders) and for its ability to reduce cholesterol and
a success. This is not to
like mice, rats and guinea-pigs which raasna (Vanda roxburghii, anti- scored
suggest that Charaka knew of cholest
have contributed immeasurably to arthritic).
erol
but
that there are aspects of the
Of these, guggul has been success
allopathic research, have con
time-tested ayurvedic therapeutics
stitutions, diseases and therapies dif fully marketed after thorough invest
which can be validated in terms we
ferent from humans. Indeed, there igations at the Central Drug Research
have begun to understand only re
are separate branches for horses Institute, Lucknow, much the same cently-The development of the drug i
way
as
if
it
were
an
allopathic
drug.
(ashwa-ayurveda) and elephants
guggul as a marketable formulation in 1
(hasti-ayurvedal). Moreover, ayurv The story of guggul illustrates how
edic therapeutics seems to be far too ayurvedic principles if correctly inter the same way as an allopathic medi
took almost two decades.
custom-tailored to be subjected to preted and applied can yield useful cine
What is striking is that the drug was
gross generalization and extrapola drugs. Dr.G.V.Satyavati, currently
prepared
in the same way as prescri
tion. Any programme of testing, done on Senior Deputy Director of the Indian
lines of pure ayurvedic practice would Council of Medical Research, along bed in ayurveda using modern equip
ment.
In
ayurvedic
practice, the drug
become fiendishly complicateo. How with her guide Dr. C. Dwarkanath,
then can we test any remedy with any found a strong analogy between the . has to be purified by tying the resin ob
hope of success? Thus, we may end up ancient concepts of medoroga and the tained from Commiphora mukul in a
discarding many actually useful re modern views on atherosclerosis. In muslin cloth and then immersed in
medies because they cannot achieve a spired by a shloka from the Sushruta plain or medicated boiling water. The
single quantifiable end-point like low Samhita which described the effects of soluble portion seeps out and the ex
ering the blood-pressure or blood glu guggul in medoroga, they screened it tract is obtained after evaporation. The
medicinal properties of guggul can be
cose.
changed by altering the plants used in
Despite all these obstacles, many in
the
boiling process. For instance, boildividuals and government institutions
. ing the guggu/with tripnala (a mixture
have made several reasonably suc
of
a
mala (Emblica officinalis), harda'
cessful attempts to evaluate ayurvedic
(Terminalia chebula) and beheda ■
therapies over the last thirty years. In
(Terminalia bellarica) yields triphala
the late sixties the Indian Council of
guggul used to relieve pain and in
Medical Research (icmr) brought
flammation; boiling it with kanchanar
together ayurvedic experts, modern
(Bauhinia variegata) yields kanchanar
clinicians,
pharmacognosists,
There are separate
guggul used in cardiac disorders and
chemists and pharmacologists to eval
branches for horses
so on.
uate a batch of herbal remedies.
Ayurveda's insistence on boiling the
(ashwa-ayurveda)
and
Ayurvedic physicians gave therapy
gum guggul to isolate the active por
elephants
while allopathic doctors evaluated the
tion is validated by modern techniques'.
patients. Although 27 plants were init
(hasti-ayurveda)
of extraction. Two fractions can be
ially selected, only 10 proved effective
separated from guggul after boiling:'
enough for detailed investigation.
one which is insoluble and toxic, and
These included shatavari J.Asparagus
the other which is soluble and active, i
racemosus for promoting lactation),
Ayurveda which has been practised
guggul [Commiphora mukul to reduce
for millennia, has thus adopted timecholesterol), haldi or turmeric (Cur
tested
safety devices and practices toj
cuma longa to reduce pain and in
screen ineffective or toxic remedies^
flammation), kutki (Picrorrhiza kurroa
This is one of the reasons why many)
liver tonic), jatamansi (Nardostachys
senior scientists have advocated unj
jatamunsi, tranquillizer), pippali (Piper
dertaking of direct clinical studies
without preliminary screening for an
imal or human toxicity. However, what
we should not forget is that this is only
true when rules of ayurveda are fol
lowed, not only with respect to choice
of drug but also for preparation of the
drug, its combination with other
drugs, associated dietary restrictions
and so on. New combinations, new
methods of manufacturing or isolation
of 'active ingredients' call for the same
stringent rules of drug development as
applied for modern drugs. A wellknown example of this is reserpine.
The story of reserpine begins with
the Sushruta Samhita which describes
a creeper called sarpagandha for treat
ment of insomnia, psychiatric dis
orders, lack of appetite, snake bites
and hypertension. In 1931, G.Sen and
K.G.Bose reported the efficacy of the
roots of sarpagandha (Rauwolfia ser
pentina) in psychosis and hyperten
sion in an Indian journal. The findings
were ignored until 1955 when Rustom
Jal Vakil reported Rauwolfia's efficacy
in the' British Heart Journal. With a
characteristically reductionist app
roach, German scientists isolated
among other alkaloids, reserpine from
the root of Rauwolfia and demonstra
ted its activity. Reserpine was thus
marketed as an important drug for
hypertension and psychosis. How
ever, when used in this isolated and
purified form, the alkaloid almost in
variably produced side-effects includ
ing Parkinsonism, sedation and
weight-gain. Thus after enjoying a
brief vogue, reserpine was replaced.
These side-effects were unknown in
ayurveda possibly because sar
pagandha is used as a crude extract
and always in combination with other
plants like Acorus calamus, Piper
nigrum or Picrorriza kurroa.
The vast materia medica of
ayurveda is being tapped by insti
tutions like the Central Drug Research
Institute (cdri), and the Centrai Council
for Research in Ayurveda and Siddha
All this means we can still hope to
put ayurveda back as a first-line
therapy in selected diseases on the
world map of medicine. To do this ef
fectively, however, we will have to es
chew romantic and unrealistic re
vivalism as well as the dismissive hard
core West-oriented approach brand
ing it as unsubstantiated gibberish.
Efforts to build a bridge between
Besides drugs, some
ayurveda and modern medicine are
therapeutic procedures
being made at some centres in India.
prescribed in ayurveda
At the Centre for Therapy & Research
have also been
in Ayurveda at the kem Hospital, post
graduates of modern medicine and ex
evaluated and found
perienced ayurvedic doctors are ex
useful
ploring several concepts of ayurveda.
For example, one of the key areas of
research is that of rasayana. The clas
sical translation of this term means 're
juvenating drugs'. Sushruta and
Sharangdhara, the ayurvedic authorities,
ascribe multiple properties to rasay
ana drugs such as delaying ageing,
improving mental functions and pre
ciai aspect of this is that no surgery is venting infections. The question be
required!
fore the experts is : how can a single
Dr. Bapat has found ksharsutra to be plant have such a variety of effects?
very useful in treatment of anal How can it affect such a diverse range
fistulae. This refers to the use of a med of bodily functions? If validated it
icated thread to stimulate healing. would be nothing short of discovering
(Done with Dr. D.H.Nikam, the work the proverbial elixir of life.
won a prize at the recent annual con
Front-line discoveries in modern
ference of the Maharashtra chapter of medicine have now shown us that
the Association of the Surgeons of nature tends to be conservative and a
India.) Intriguingly, a recent article in biological molecule once found to be
the Journal of Ethnopharmacology useful, is retained and used in be
from Holland describes the utility of wildering variety of ways through the
ksharsutra: the work was done at an evolutionary ladder of life. Thus you
ayurvedic centre in Japan!
have a peptide which tickles lowly
(CCRAS).
Besides drugs; some therapeutic
procedures prescribed in ayurveda
have also been evaluated and found
useful. For instance, Dr. R. D. Bapat,
Head of Gastroenterology Surgical
Services, kem Hospital, is working with
ayurvedic doctors, to treat piles and
anal fistulae. After using ayurvedic
procedures including medicated en
emas, drugs and modifications in diet
on patients, he has achieved a high
success rate: not only does bleeding
stop, but the pile masses also regress
and very few recur. The most benefi-
An ayurvedic panel discussion
2001. APRIL 1991
16
2001, APRIL 1991
17
COVER STORY
yeasts into mating. This is very similar
to the gonodotropin-releasing factor
in humans, a cousin molecule which
controls the release of sex hormones.
And the same powerful mood-altering
chemicals found in the human brain
occur on the skin of frogs! Following
the discovery of these couriers of in
formation — the neuropeptides — in
places where they were not expected,
even within the human body itself —
came the recent attempts at unifica
tion of the nervous, endocrine and im
mune systems carried out under the
rubric of psychoneuroimmunology
(pni, see cover story 2001, January
1991). It has been suggested and
proved with many intricate experi
ments that the brain can influence the
immune system which in turn can
'send impulses back to the brain by
> means of secreting hormones and
neuropeptides. Hence the Cartesian
chasm posited between the appar
ently diverse systems of the body has
now been bridged by the psychoneuro-endocrine-immune axis. In
view of all this, can we hypothesize
that ayurvedic rasayanas produce
’ their wide-ranging effects by affecting
cells which secrete or receive these in
formational molecules?
So, simply translating into English
the Sanskrit shloka of Sushruta will
not suffice. The information packed
into the stanza has to be interpreted in
the light of modern discoveries. Using
the framework of the psycho-neuroendocrine-immune axis, five plants
have been studied at the kem Ayurv
edic Research Centre. These are: Tin^spora cordifolia. Asparagus raceUnosus, Withania somnifera, Terminalia chebula, and Piper longum
which are described as rasayanas by
ayurveda. These were chosen from a
large group of rasayanas particularly
because they are specified to be used
as single entities or ekadravya. Total
extracts of the part specified were
used. For instance, stems of Tinospora, roots of Asparagus and With
ania, fruits of Piper and Terminalia
were used in the form of a decoction
with water. Commercial preparations
were avoided and initially 'experi
ments on animals were performed to
prove the effects of these drugs on
the psycho-neuro-endocrine-immune
axis in parts without studying the
whole system. The researchers found
that these plants, particularly Tinospora and Asparagus, stimulated the
cells of the immune system prof
oundly. They also prevented organ
dysfunction produced by psychologi
cal and physical stress in ani-
Indian rhinoplasty as taught by
Sushruta
Indian rhinoplasty as done today
It is not just
'interesting'to explore
ayurveda but almost
necessary to delve into
mysteries \
mals.
This
anti-stress
effect
was mediated through their effects on
the immune celis. Thus, it was found
that the single action of stimulating
immune cells could, through activa
tion of the pni axis, lead to wide variety
of effects. One of the actions ascribed
to rasayanas is that they help the body
in getting rid of infections. Does this
mean they actually kill the invading
bacteria? Experiments showed that
Tinospora was not an antibiotic. Yet it
was as effective as antibiotics like
gentamicin in preventing infections in
mice. So, the researchers looked at the
third, often ignored angle in the dingdong battle between the bug and the
drug: the patient. Did Tinospora pre
vent infections by bolstering the host's
defences against the bug? That is, did
it exert a 'pro-host' effect? Indeed it
did. It not only recruited more soldiers
(neutrophils) against the invading
pathogens, but also armed them
better by 'activating' them. Tinospora
was as effective in humans as in ani
mals. The post-operative recovery of
patients operated for obstructive jaun
dice was remarkably smooth: a con
clusion arrived at after meticulously
controlled clinical studies.
As early as 1940, Henry R. Zimmer, a
scholar of Hindu medicine said about
ayurveda, "There lurks a secret truth
from which modern research might
take its flight towards a new insight."
The history of medicine seems to have
turned a full circle. Concepts like hol
istic medicine are 'in'. Western medi
cine is now talking about dietary
therapy for diseases like colitis and
rheumatoid arthritis, ,about giving
drugs at specific times (chronopha
rmacology), about regular exercising
and specific life-styles and habits. Are
we reinventing the wheel? Many of
these concepts form the backbone of
ayurvedic practice. They are waiting to
be validated in contemporary terms.
This means that it is not just 'interest
ing' to explore ayurveda but almost
necessary to delve into its mysteries.
An uncritical rejection of any science
is as detrimental to it as its un
critical acceptance. With expanding
frontiers in molecular biology, cell
physiology and immunology, it might
be possible to test the validity of cer
tain ayurvedic claims. This may, in
turn, help us to use some of its insights
in a meaningful way and integrate
them into a richer-medicinal system.
Ayurveda may represent a somewhat
esoteric, archaic script, the decoding
of which may helo us write newer sym
phonies of health, happiness and
vitality.
iXTMTl
M ‘6
INTERVIEW
INTERVIEW"
stopped with a vengeance so as to
preserve herbs which are the basic
sources of ayurvedic medicines. In
ayurvedic colleges there aren't
enough stocks of herbs to educate
students so that they can later
identify these herbs in forests. This
situation is alarming and does not
augur well for the future of
ayurveda.
: Ayurvedic
treatment often fails to attract people
because it is felt that drugs take their
own time to heal diseases. Is this
true?
BLS: No doubt, compared to
allopathic drugs, ayurvedic
medicines act rather slowly.
However, the main reason why
ayurvedic drugs may not act quickly
is that the diagnosis may have not
been done correctly. If diagnosis is
done accurately, I feel ayurvedic
preparations can be as effective as
allopathic drugs.
2001: There are reports of ayurvedic
medicines being mixed with
allopathic ones to make them
effective in healing process. Have
you come across with such cases?
BLS: I have not come across such a
case. I do not think people mix drugs.
Yes, I know of cases where vaids
prescribe allopathic medicines. But I
don't think they mix medicines to
make them more effective.
2001: What is the basis of ayurveda?
What are its founding principles?
BLS: Well, the word ayurveda has
been coined from ayurwhich means
life and veda meaning science. So it
is the science of living. It has its
foundation on preventive measures.
There are long theses written in
ayurveda for preventing diseases.
Ayurveda also deals with human
beingswith a holistic approach. It
does not concentrate on symptoms
but tries to diagnose the root cause
of the disease and cure it.
2001: But what about terminal
diseases like cancer and aids? Does
ayurveda provide any solution to
these diseases?
BLS: Right now we do not have any
definitive medicines for these
diseases. But work is going on in
several ayurvedic research centres to
find remedies to these and other
terminal diseases.
Ayurvedic vaid Banwar Lal Sharma is a legendary figure in the guineaworm-infested areas
of Rajasthan. The guineaworm extraction technique that he has perfected has brought
solace to thousands of patients in the area. The technique allows the removal of the worm
before it forms a blister and tries to get out on its own causing great pain and hardship to
patients.
“In general if the diagnosis is rightly done, ayurvedic treatment can be as effective as
allopathy,” says the 50-year-old vaid from Udaipur who works for swach (integrated sanitation,
water, guineaworm control and community health project) of Rajasthan government. The
United Nations Children Fund (unicef) which helps to run swach, has recently shot a
lengthy film on the technique to employ it as a means of training for African doctors who
would use it to bring relief to patients there.
Vaid Sharma says, “I have handled over 10,000 patients so far without a single
complication. In one case, I have extracted 50 worms from a single person.” The
extraction technique is unique to ayurvedic mode of treatment which has been generally
ignored by allopathy.
Chief sub-editor Sylvester Lobo met vaid Sharma in Udaipur and talked about his work
and the general status of ayurveda in the country.
Likeness: Prabhakar Bhatlekar
2001: But the work seems to be
going very slow at the moment. What
problems hinder the progress of
ayurveda?
BLS: Limited research is one of the
main problems. Research should be
stressed to develop new drugs to
combat diseases.
2001: But what is holding up
research?
BLS: There are not enough funds and
the central and state governments are
not taking sufficient interest on the
subject. If certain capable individuals
want to do something, they fail to
succeed because they do not happen
to have necessary contacts and
shifarish in government circles.
Another distressing fact is that our
forests are being rapidly destroyed
posing a threat to herbal plants. The
destruction of forests should be
The destruction of
forests should be
stopped with a
vengeance so as to
preserve herbs which
are the basic sources of
ayurvedic medicines
2001: But why should ayurvedic
vaids prescribe allopathic medicines
at all?
BLS: Well, they are keeping up with
the changing times. When people
want quick relief for small ailments,
allopathic drugs come to a vaid's
rescue. They are just catering to
people's needs. Another reason is
that ayurvedic medicines are not
easily available. For instance, in
Rajasthan if a hospital has been
sanctioned Rs. 10,000 worth of
medicines, only Rs. 2,000 worth are
supplied. So the vaids resort to
allopathic medicines which are easily
available.
2001: What are the reasons for this
scarcity of ayurvedic medicines?
BLS: The scarcity is basically due to
bureaucratic hurdles. Government
pharmacies purchase raw materials
on the recommendations of a
state-level committee after issuing
tenders. This is always a
cumbersome procedure. It usually so
happens that if one preparation
requires ten ingredients and one is
missing, that particular medicine
won't reach hospital stores. And this
keeps on happening for a number of
medicines. The procedural wrangles
need to be simplified to a great
extent to make medicines easily
available. It would be better if this
tender business is totally abolished
and corporations are formed in each
state for the manufacture of
ayurvedic medicines. We have
reached such a sad state of affairs
today that sometimes even bandages
are not availbale in ayurvedic
hospitals.
2OO1, APRIL 1991
32
2001, APRIL 1991
------------------------- - -
,t . --- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- --------------------------■
33
interview
INTERVIEW
2001: What role does surgery play in
ayurveda ?
BLS: Irrthe olden times surgery
played a major role in ayurveda. In
fact, ancient texts show that plastic
surgery was carried out with finesse
in this branch of medicine. But
history was not kind to ayurveda. At
different points of history it was
dominated by other branches of
medicines like unani, allopathy, etc.
And when Jainism and Buddhism
came, they brought along the
doctrine that it was a sin to make cuts
on the body. As a result, surgery in
ayurveda suffered. Of course, surgery
is not totally eliminated in ayurveda.
Minor surgeries are still taken care of
in cases like piles, cataracts and
others. In our case we have made use
of surgery to extract guineaworms.
2001: Why should guineaworms be
extracted at all? What is the problem
with guineaworms?
BLS: The larvae of guineaworms live
in water where water cyclops feed on
them. When a person drinks this
water, he also drinks the larvae. Once
inside the body they penetrate
stomach lining and enter body
tissues. There they grow for ten to
twelve months. Once they have
matured, they seek their way out
towards the skin. They form a blister,
which develops into a wound and
while the worm takes a long time to
get out of the body, it gives rise to
abscess formation and severe
inflammation. The patients become
bedridden for several days.
2001: So what you do is intervene
before the worm tries to get out of
the body on its own and extract it.
How do you carry out the extraction.
BLS: The main thing in this technique
is to identify the exact location of
guineaworms below the skin. This
can be at times difficult because
nerves and blood vessels can be
mistaken for guineaworms. The
ability to recognize guineaworms
gomes out of experience. Once one is
sure of a guineaworm, the location
where the incision has to be made is
sterilized and local anaesthesia is
given. Then a small cut is made, the
worm is hooked on to a blunted end
of a needle and slowly pulled out of
the body with a gentle massage of
the area. In case the worm is around
a bone, more than one cut is made
and if necessary the worm is
cut into two and pulled out of the
body taking care no larvae remain
behind.
34
2001, APRIL 1991
2001: Why is it that an organization
like unicef has accepted the efficacy
of guineaworm extraction while
National Institute for Communicable
Diseases (nicd) has not?
BLS: I do not have any satisfactory
explanation to offer why nicd has not
accepted this technique. One reason
could be that unicef is actively
involved in the work that we are
doing here while nicd is not. We have
asked nicd authorities to come and
see our work which they have not
done so far. The other reason could
be that they don't want to recognize
this technique because it has not
come from them but we have
developed it here on our own. But
then these reasons are no reasons at
all. They are also saying that the
technique is not scientific. But we
have the evidence of over 10,000
patients who have benefited from
i\ this
technique.
2001: If this procedure is so simple
and so much beneficial to patients,
why allopathy has ignored it so far?
BLS: There are several reasons. One
of them is that the technique is a
i
time-consuming one. It may take half
an hour to forty-five minutes to
extract a single worm. Secondly,
people in the economically backward.
areas where there are no safe
sources of drinking water are mostlyaffected by guineaworm disease. So:
one cannot expect high monetary •
gains. One has to be ready to spend ;
lot of time and energy without many'
rewards. Thirdly, allopathy does not
accept the fact that a guineaworm f
exists in the body unless it forms a ;
blister and tries to get out. If one
•
waits till the blister is formed, then
one can expect all kinds of
:
complications.
2001: How many
guineaworm-affected patients have
you handled so far?
BLS: UnderswACH I have handled
over 4,000 patients extracting over
10,000 guineaworms.
2001: No doubt, the extraction
technique has helped guineaworm
patients to overcome pain and
hardship to a great extent. But don't
you think the overall advantages of
ayurveda are not fully tapped today?
2001: What is the post-extraction
BLS: Yes I agreee with you that
treatment?
BLS: We give an ayurvedic medicine ayurveda is not being fully exploited
for local application and a pill called . today. For this people should be
artiplex. With these the incision
i extensively informed about the
advantages of ayurvedic treatment,
wound heals quickly.
Allopathy does not
accept the fact that a
guineaworm exists in
the body unless it
forms a blister and
tries to get out
there should be more publicity about
its plus points. The government has
started in a small measure to educate
people through Doordarshan on how
to prevent diseases. This should be
done in a much wider scale.
Non-government organizations
should also come forward to spread
the message on the usefulness of
ayurveda among people. In fact,
some of us have started a non-profit
organization called Chetna Health
and Social Service Centre here in
Udaipur for this very purpose.
It has been doing well in the tribal
areas.
2001: What are the career prospects
in ayurveda?
BLS: They are very bright for
hardworking people. After obtaining
the bachelor's degree people can
either begin independent practice or
specialize in pharmacology,
gynaecology and other subjects.
2001: What are the organizations at
the central and state level that lay
guidelines for ayurvedics?
BLS: We have the Indian Medicine
Board in Delhi with its branches
in all the states. We also have the
Central Council for Research in
Ayurveda and Yoga based in Delhi
with nearly hundred regional centres
which work in the areas of
developing new medicines and
improving the present ones.
2001: These days we see a lot of
commercial firms advertising
ayurvedic medicines which promise
youth and a long energetic life. What
is the efficacy of these medicines?
BLS: Medicines like chavanprasha
are time-tested tonics which certainly
help. Of course, one should make
sure that they are manufactured by
reputed companies.
2001: But is there a way to test the
contents of these tonics?
BLS: No, we do not have such
facilities.
2001: Do you prepare any medicines?
BLS: I would like to. But my full-time
involvement in swach project, makes
me travel frequently to the interior
villages. So I hardly get time for
these activities.
2001: Are ayurvedic and allopathic
medicines compatible? Can they be
given together?
BLS: Yes, both the medicines are
compatible and generally, there is no
problem in giving them together. But
giving them together doesn't make
much sense because we would not
know which medicine is healing the
patient.
331
2001: You carry out extractions in I
remote villages where facilities for >
sterilization hardly exist. Haven't you
faced the problem of tetanus?
BLS: No, we haven't had a single
case of tetanus so far. We take
extreme care to sterilize all our
;
equipment. We havn't faced any
complications in this respect.
;•
2001: The unicef has prepared a film
on your pioneering work in
guineaworm extraction. What are r.
some of the highlights of this film? !
BLS: The film is meant to be a
training tool for doctors who want to
specialize in extraction work. It has
been prepared in 14 modules
depending on the different stages of ’
guineaworm treatment including the
ways of recognizing the worm within .
the body, sterilization of body parts
and instruments used for surgery,
ways of making incisions without
breaking worms and methods of
extracting worms. The film includes
several case studies of patients with j
guineaworms from whom worms li
could not be extracted in time and ; [
who, as a result developed problems;
2001. APRIL 1991
35
SIDDHA
DRUGS AND
THE NEED TO
STANDARDISE
The Siddha medical system has
been hampered by its incapacity
to upgrade its knowledge through
an appropriate choice of
technologies required for drug
standardisation. Technology, once
adopted, could also create
employment in rural areas through
small-scale units set up for the
extraction, preservation and
formulation of Siddha drugs, write
Dr.K.K. Purushotharr.an and
Dr.A.Saraswathi.
Dr. K.K. Purushothaman and Dr. A. Saraswathi
*
he evolution of standards
in the field of drug
production have been
confined to modern drugs alone.
This industry uses only standard
raw materials and standardised
production procedures. An
example is the preparation of
acetyl salicylic acid from salicylic
acid by acetylation procedures or
quinine from cinchona bark. Many
preparations are made from a few
simple chemical components
ensuring uniformity in quality
from batch to batch.
Modem instrumentation
techniques have helped a skilled
hand to give accurate results with
very little material expended for
testing. These include all the
available chromatographic
methods, use of automatic
analysers and spectroscopic
instruments with only few
milligrams of the sample required
for a meaningful analysis. The
anabolic steroids or hallucinogenic
drugs like lysergic acid
diethylamide (LSD) are detected
and their potencies estimated by
this method. Conventional
analysis of many inorganic
preparations can be carried out
with 0.1 to 1% accuracy. In the
traditional drug market, however,
where the chances for adulteration
and substitution are far more, few
methods or techniques exist for
T
June 1989
the evolution of standards.
A specific problem with a
possible solution will exemplify
this. Myristica fragrans is a raw
drug commonly used .in the drug
industry. Myristica malabarica
resembles the former very closely
and is difficult to detect
macroscopically or
microscopically. Clever traders
can therefore adulterate M.fragrans
with M.malabarica as the former is
ten times more expensive than the
latter. Chemically M.malabarica is
characterised by a group of aryl
poly methylene ketones known as
malabaricones. The presence of
these components can be detected
by less than a milligram of the
concentrated extracts by the mass
spectroscopic method, which
could indicate scientifically the
character of the adulterant.
Another problem with
medicines made under traditional
systems is their lack of
development in methods of
classification. An example can be
found in the calcium group
comprising different structures
such as pearl, conch, shell and
coral. Therapeuticallv all of them
are used in different conditions.
They are also priced differently as
the cost of pearl, coral, conch and
shell vary widely. Analytically
they are made up of calcium
carbonate with traces of sulphate,
phosphate and chlor.de. Yet no
accepted method has been
evolved to distinguish them and
efforts to constitute them from
pure chemicals have no proven
therapeutic effects.
Yet another example is
Thampira centuram, analytically an
oxide of copper used in the
treatment of gastric or duodenal
ulcers. The prepara tons made by
Siddha textual procedures alone
have the expected biological effect.
Yet a clever manufacturer can
manufacture a synthetic product
which might pass all the tests in
an analytical laboratory but fail to
give the desired clincal response.
Clearly, much more work is
needed to differentiate the
properties of similar structures
through spectroscope
examinations employing, in
particular, the infra-red spectrum
for solving this problem.
The Siddha system. like
Ayurveda has a wel documented
body of literature. Nevertheless,
much has been handed down as
family secrets. These include a
wide spectrum rangng from dog
bites and snake bites to bone
setting. The obstacle- created in
* SUNBEAM, No.14, i: Main Road,
M.C.Nagar, Chittalapa’xani Post,
Madras-64.
the uniform spread of this
knowledge lie not only in the
reluctance on the part of many
practitioners to part with ancestral
knowledge but also in the official
reluctance to commit funds for
research in this field of drug
standardisation. Today, a large
number of practitioners have, in
fact, begun to feel the futility of
research as the fruits of these
findings do not benefit them. For
an isolate from a crude drug, if
ultimately proved to be an
excellent remedy, can only be
prescribed by an allopathic
physician and not by practitioners
of the traditional systems of
medicine. The government alone
can redress this situation through
appropriate legislation especially
since the institutional education
imparted in Indian medicine has a
sound scientific basis. Also, the
criticism levelled against the
Siddha system for its common use
of heavy metals such as gold,
silver and mercury which have
proven toxic effects needs
reappraisal as these very heavy
metals have been found to
improve immunity besides leading
themselves to the treatment of
diverse conditions.
In the use of plants and plant
products, the Siddha system does
not lag behind other traditional
systems. In fact, it has several
valuable alternatives and
describes many plants which are
not found in Ayurvedic literature.
Vengal (Pterocarpus marsupium')
and Cirukurinja (Gymnema
sylvstre), for example, are specific
remedies in the treatment of
diabetes, a disease of high
incidence in India. Koduveli
(Plumbago sp.) was recognized as
an anti-cancer drug by the Siddha
practitioners. In the treatment of a
variety of skin conditions, some
simple Siddha remedies are
available. Special mention should
be made of Vetpalai (Wrightia
iinotoria) in the treatment of
psoriasis, Poovarasu (Thespesia
populania) in certain types of skin
ulcers, Imbural (Oldenlandia
umbellata) for cough, haemoptysis
and tuberculosis, Thuthu valai
(Solatium trilobatum) for
respiratory diseases and cancer,
and Orilai (Desmodium gengeticum)
for inflammation and rheumatism.
What it lacks, however, is a range
in pain killers and sedatives so
amply developed in the allopathic
system.
In dealing with the chemistry
and biology of medicinal plants,
caution is required in the choice of
technology to be adopted in the
isolation and testing procedures.
Unfortunately, adequate scientific
methods have not been developed
by traditional medical systems to
meet this challenge. Investigation
failures cannot be fully attributed
to the drugs alone but to
methcxiology as well. There are
several examples. The
conventional extraction and
fractionation of Valerina did not
yield the expected results until a
low temperature and high
vacuum technology was used for
extraction and fractionation
causing isolation of particular
derivatives which proved useful
as sedativesand tranquillizers.
The successful story of Artemisia
annua from which artimisin, the
anti-malarial agent was isolated, is
yet another example. The
technology has since been
upgraded to produce this antimalarial agent for distribution on
a global basis under the active
participation of World Health
Organisation.
Though the Siddha system can
contribute significantly to the
health care of India's population
as a whole, it has a special role to
play in rural India, where cheap
and simple remedies are required.
The health problems faced by the
rural population can be identified
as simple skin diseases (scabies
and ulcers), intestinal worms,
particularly among children,
malabsorption of food, liver
diseases, cuts and wounds. To this
can be added the lack of milk
secretion among young mothers.
Today, there are nearly three
hundred plant products accepted
by the modern drug industry and
these plants are available in rural
India. As their collection,
preservation and distribution on a
large-scale is an impossibility,
simple glassware extraction units
can be used in.rural India through
a technology that aims to both
extract and preserve. Employment
opportunities will be thus created
that could extend to other smallscale units employing manual
labour in the production of Siddha
formulations as well.
To bring the Siddha medical
system into the mainstream,
modern-day advances will have to
be made in the technologies
required for drug standarisation.
The cultivation and processing of
plants for use as drugs must
necessarily be rural-based where
their acceptance and
appropriateness will make them a
naturally viable vehicle for health
care.
SUNDAY HERALD
JVMARCH 19, 1995
NATURE
Sinns wknowii A
People9 s tree
perfectly
heart-shaped
leaves flutter and sway on
delicate stalks. But the tree that
holds these leaves together has
how
tented, they grow food organically,
weathered umpteen storms and
willfully the Chilika lake
is being ruined, the
jungles of Ranthambhor are being
extinguished, or the elephants of
recycle almost every resource till
it is ready to be returned to the
earth and share both responsibilit
has still stood its ground. The tree
is none other than the Peepal.
ies and rewards with one another.
The Peepal is one of the longestliving trees in the world. It can
Bandipur are being wiped out, I
fear for my country. There was a
time when such acts of barbarity
But instead of honouring these
villages, protecting them as sym
bols of peace and democracy, we
live
for
hundreds,
perhaps
thousands, of years. One in Sri
Lanka is said to be over two
were believed to be perpetrated by
thieves in the dark — poachers,
criminals and the like. Today, it
would appear, all veils have been
have dedicated ourselves to the
proposition that they must be de
stroyed. Bribes nor political press
ures have been able to coerce
thousand years old.
lifted. It is open house on India.
Manibelli’s residents to give up
their heritage for SSP.
HEN
I
learn
of
W
How else can one explain the
way in which project after project
is being pushed by people who
noring basic human rights issues
should know better. “My project
is 100 per cent safe and will not
and even common sense, pumped
every last available rupee, into
adversely affect the ecology of
Chilika,” said Russi Mody, then
with the Tatas. It harbours a
raising the SSP wall in the past
few years. This was done to force
biodiversity which has only just
begun to be documented.
Yet, a prawn-culture project
whose avowed intent is to destroy
The government of Gujarat, ig
the people into giving up their
fight as the waters rose higher.
Their plan failed as the Narmada
battle continues, but the questions
the biodiversity of the Chilika
raised by the affected people re
main unanswered.
waters was claimed to be benign!
“But, we will compensate you.
branches together with the rest
less leaves make it an elegant tree.
Since the leaf tips are pointed, wa
ter drains off the leaves immedi
SLIGHT breeze blows. The
The Peepal is venerated by both
Hindus and Buddhists. Hindus
plant it near their temples and as
and appears airy. Instead of the
hanging roots which grow from
the
Banyan's
branches,
the
Peepal's roots are attached to the
trunk. This gives an appearance of
pillars supporting it
This fast-growing tree needs a
lot of space to grow, as it’s roots
ately after a rainfall. This helps
the tree remain dry and light.
neighbouring wall or tree. The
strong roots may even split the
wall or tree. However, the tree de
rives nourishment from air and
water and not from the host.
The trees grows tall, to a height
of about 15 metres. The outspread
the seeds help to propagate the
tree. Humans do not relish Peepal
figs as they are small and hard
unlike the large juicy figs of the
is ‘epiphytic ’ — it grows on a
edible fig, the Anjir or Gular tree.
Many parts of the Peepal are
sociate it with the three gods
Brahma,
Vishnu
and
Shiva.
used for medicinal purposes. Its
Buddhists
believe
that
Lord
Buddha found enlightment under
bark contains tannin and has as
tringent properties. An infusion of
this tree.
the bark is used to cure ulcers and
skin diseases; the leaves and ten
Interestingly, although the tree
is imbued with religious signifi
der shoots are used as a laxative.
They make excellent fodder for
cance, a mystical aura surrounds
it. Most villages believe these
cattle and elephants.
trees are haunted or have super
The sacred Peepal ,'hat sanc
natural effects. Whatever the rea
son people shy away from des
tifies temple precincts graces road
sides as well. As a shade tree, it
ecrating the tree.
provides respite to hot and weary
travellers. Like any other tree, it
The Peepal tree (Ficus religiosa)
today has spread all over India.
also enriches the soil, prevents
soil erosion and refreshes the air.
Bittu Sahgal
Chief Minister of Gujarat
the Sardar Project (SSP).
How I wish Gandhyi were alive
in the troubled age when we are
An out-and-out "people’s tree".
a member of the fig family. But
unlike the Banyan which is dark
TALK
awards the same ‘environmentally
benign’ certificate to his bete noir,
We will make you rich beyond
your dreams. If only you will
move.” Such are the blatantly
false promises being made by the
builders of the mega-project after
and enveloping, the Peepal allows
light to pass through its branches
Nita Colvin
griculture and civiliza
of pheromones that lure the pests
CEE-NFS
Pest compliments
A
tion are very closely inter
twined and mankind has
always been striving to enhance
out of crops, along with the use of
insect growth regulators. Insect
growth regulators are plant-deriv
productivity to meet ever growing
demands of food in addition to fod
to
typoical
tivity to resistance. The develop
which inhibit the growth and feed
der, fibre and fuel. Sustainable
example is the recent emergence
ment and use of TKM6 as an in
ing patterns of the pests.
of the boll worm in cotton.
stance of multiple resistance in
ed
the
pesticide.
A
poised to inflict the ultimate injus
another to a people grown tired of
exploitation.
tice on our children — intergenerational colonisation. Devoid
“My grandfather died here, his
spirit still resides in these hills
practices which were central to
of forests, clean water and safe
food, they will have to contend
and forests and waters. I visit with
ping included optimal use of natu
him and consult him in the quiet
rally available plant genetic bases
tant to devise a strategy that helps
with floods, droughts and disease
of my mind when I am troubled.
and careful deliberate selection
not only eliminating the key pests
practices
for no fault of theirs. After squeez
How can you build such values
overtime
maintain
but taking care to see that the oth
spacing is crucial, as in the case
ing electricity from dozens of nu
clear reactors for two miserable
into your cost-benefit ratios?” ask
the simple people of India. "You
mechanisms of meeting the needs
of the community.
er functional groups are not
unduly disturbed. Such a strategy
of brown plant hopper which pro
decades, we will bequeath these
wish to pay me Rs. 1 per year for
Ten thousand
the maintenance of regular crop
helped
to
In
order
to
avoid
such
unexpected problems, it is impor
rice is a typical example of a suc
Rotation and proper cropping
such
as
appropriate
Such practices did not involve
which includes aspects of inherent
poison-drenched albatrosses to our
my
doses of fertilizer also influence
times that money is not enough to
the
use
of techniques
like
monoculture that drastically alter
mechanisms such as plant resis
children who will have to protect
tance, culture methods and mech
pest populations as is well known
themselves from our toxic wastes
compensate for the security it of
fers me and will offer my daughter
ecosystems, or the use of chemi
cals which disrupt functional
anical methods, supported by the
and
which are found to increase with
when she grows."
chains in the ecosystem. The lat
ter is best exemplified by the use
biocontrol agents is termed inte
Chief
increased nitrogen availability
while an appropriate dose reduces
for the next 25,000 years.
Amidst signs of despair, how
ever, there are pinpoints of hope.
If you believe in rebirth, for in
Chief
tree.
Ministers
and
role
of
plant
products
grated pest management.
compounds
such
as sterols
Biological control by itself forms
a useful and integral pari of the
cessful resistant variety.
liferates dramatically in a densely
spaced rice field. Inappropriate
mahua
are haunted by insects, especially
the fig insect. Birds and bat de
vour the fruit and by dispersing
go deep into the ground. In the in
itial stages of its growth the Peepal
Like the Banyan and Gular, it is
The
The flowers of the Peepal cannot
be seen as they are within its fruit
— the figs. Growing in pairs, they
in the case of pests like leafhopper
the population of pests like leaf
folder and stem borer.
overall strategy and the best
known examples are the use of
parasites
against
borers
of
the internode
sugarcane
and
bollworms. Pupal parasites are
also effective in the control of
aphids on vegetables.
Integrated
pest
manage”®
*
aims at a judicious mix of all the
strategies which help main””™
stability of ecosystems without
disrupting any biological compO"
nent The injudicious use of pesti-1
Executives of large corporations
of pesticides that inadvertantly
This strategy is based on the
stance, then you can be sure that
if you do something good in this
are equally at a loss for words
eliminate along with the pests,
philosophy that total eradication
when confronted with such senti
even the natural enemies of the
of pests are necessary to help
lifetune, you will be born, the next
ments. Which is why they have be
pests which are beneficial to man.
maintain populations of predators
(Azospirillum) as a bio fertilizer
time around, in Manibelli On the
banks of Narmada, Manibelli has
nurtured an exemplary people.
Unmindful of the threat of sub
gun to rely on extravagant public
relations exercises to keep their
battered images intact History
has proven time and again, how
Though such compounds have
been very successfully used in
and parasites which in turn are
was found to help reduce short fly
activated to keep pest populations
damage of sorghum. Intercropping
minimization of the use of inor‘
ganic and harmful pesticides wll-
itially, they were later found to
at levels that are manageable.
is another means of managing pest
not only protect crop
*
from P®
* 5
disturb functional chains in the
by removing the facto.-of
ever, that the sins of the fathers
will not be washed clean by public
relations exercises, nor by doctor
ecosystem. This resulted in a situ
Based
both
on
indigenous
knowledge and recently emerging
populations. Interspersing green
mergence from the SSP a few
short kilometres from their peace
ating resistance in pests but also
ation where one pest was elimin
ated along with its natural enem
trends in the breeding of resistant,.
varieties of crops, it is important
gram and sunflower with cotton
reduces leaf hopper populations
while interspersing sorghum’with
ies, thus allowing another pest to
to rotate the use of varieties with
cowpea reduces stem borer ones.
emerge in its place which also ex
known properties of resistance,
Behavioral approaches to man
hibited a high degree of resistance
that help to maintain pest sensi
agement of pests include the use
ful abode, these Indians live out
their
existences
practicing
ed history.
Gandhiji’s vision for India.
Non-violent, self-reliant and con-
Sanctuary Features
The
use
of
blue-green
algae
cides can directly impact °n hu
man health
foodchain.
by infiltrating 1116
Moving
io131*
shield man from the toxic M®
**
of high levels of pestic’des.
R-Goplg^
MAY (16-31) 1997
18 IJCP's MEDINEWS
Ayurveda News
RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS
GUEST LINE
EFFECT OF D-400 (DIABECON),
A HERBOMINERAL FORMULATION ON
LIVER GLYCOGEN CONTENT AND
MICROSCOPIC STRUCTURE OF PANCREAS
AND LIVER IN STREPTOZOTOCIN-INDUCED
DIABETES IN RATS
MYTHS SURROUNDING AYURVEDA
Dr. Urmila Thatte, Associate Prol■essor, Depl. of Pharmacology.
Seth G.S. Medical College, Pa ret, Mumboi 400 012, Indio
Continued from issue Apr /16-30/. 1997
One more major myth
The story of another pa
You will agree with me
known Harda, also known
surrounding Ayurveda is
tient is even more poignant.
A 62 year old male patient
was brought to the casual
now that the name "Ayurve
da" is not a synonym for
as Haritaki or Terminalia
"safe". You may be sur
ly in an unconscious stale.
A detailed history from rel
prised to know that Charaka, the ancient Ayurvedic
sumed during pregnancy.
This is a constituent of a
atives revealed that he was
Veterinary College, Bangalore, India.
belief that because herbal
is natural and anything nat
a known diabetic and was
teacher has said that "A
potent poison becomes the
gative and is therefore con
Ind. J Exp Biol. |1996) : (34), 10, 964
ural is always safe, hence,
well controlled with the cor
best drug on proper admin
traindicated in pregnancy!
Ayurveda is safe. As Ay
rect drugs. Five days prior
to this he look a herbal
istration. On the contrary,
even the best drug becomes
Apart from plants, Ay
preparation (labelled as Ay
a potent poison if used
urveda also includes met
urvedic) for psoriasis, prob
ably assuming that "if not
wrongly". Further, he says,
in rather dramatic terms that
als in its formulary. Thus,
effective, it will at least
a "drug not perfectly under
Mitra, S.K., Gopumadhavan, S.,
R & D Centre, The Himalaya Drug Co., Makali, Bangalore, India.
Seshadri, S.J., Prof, of Pathology (Retd.).
Streplozotocin induces severe and irreversible
hyperglycaemia in experimental animals. A study
was made on the effect of oral administration of
D-400 (Diabecon|, a herbomineral formulation, at
a dose of 1 gm/kg/day, on streptozotocin-induced
diabetes in rats, liver glycogen content was assayed
biochemically al 2, 4 and 8 weeks after D-400
IDiabecon) treatment. Superoxide dismutase (SOD)
that everything herbal is
considered Ayurvedic. Us
ing some form of distorted
logic this has lead to the
urvedic drugs are outside
the preview of the Drugs
and Cosmetics Act, 1940.
Anyone could start up a
pharmaceutical company
chebula is best not con
large number of OTC prep
arations. If is a powerful pur
several preparations con
taining metals like mercury,
tomorrow and sell any com
bination of plants without
cause no harm". He devel
stood is (fatal) like poison,
lead and copper are avail
oped giddiness following
weapon, fire and thunder
able readily in the market
activity of pancreatic islet cells was assessed after
8 weeks of D-400 (Diabecon) treatment. The micro
proving their efficacy or
ingestion of the drug, but
bolt; while a drug properly
on an OTC basis. These
safely. One only need to
ignored it. Subsequently, he
understood is like amrit".
metals have to be diligent
scopic structure of pancreas and liver were exam
show that these drugs are
mentioned in the specified
became unconscious. He
was diagnosed to be in hy-
The subject of tera-
are suitable for human con
Ayurvedic texts and they
poglycaemic coma to
which he ultimately suc
cumbed. The story speaks
togenecily also figures in
Ayurveda Thus, certain
plants are to be avoided in
sumption and there is again
a long list of do's and dont's
for itself.
pregnancy e.g. the well
ined in both control and treated animals. D-400
(Diabecon) treatment showed progressive and sig
nificant increase in liver glycogen al 2, 4 and 8
weeks respectively. Streptozotocin-induced a de
crease in pancreatic islet cell superoxide dismutase
can set up a pharmacy.
Can anyone seriously ac
cept this stale of affairs ?
ly processed before they
regarding their use.
To be continued ..
which was reversed by D-400 (Diabecon) treatment
for a period of 8 weeks. The free radical scaveng
*
ABANA
(tablets)
ing activity of D-400 (Diabecon) may be attributed
Io Shilajeet, one of its important ingredients.
Streptozotocin-induced histopathological changes
in pancreas and liver were also partially reversed
¥
Ensures favourable lipid profile
r
Protects Ihe heart against sympathetic outbursts
Reduces the intensity and frequency of anginal attacks
by D-400 (Diabecon). The findings indicate that
ert fka )i\'or one) provonis sfr&piozolociri-incducec) dom-
superoxide dismutase activity.
A GASEX
bonnisan"
D-400 (Diabecon) helps improve glycogen stores
age through free radicals by increasing islet cell
THE HIMAEJ
¥ Controls mild to moderate hypertension
(drops, liquid)
r Keeps babies healthy, playful and happy
¥ Relieves common digestfve-comphlnts like wind, colic,
teething troubles etc.
¥ Regular use corrects digestive functions
¥ Eliminates gas spots — ensures dearer X-rays
¥ Completely sate even for long-term use
•3 ERIFORTE
(syrup, tablets)
Babies love its taste and actually ask for more
¥
cystone’
ROLE OF MENTATIN ECT-INDUCED
G S. Medical College and KEM Hospital, Bombay, India
the identical-looking placebo tablets were given at
a dose sf 2 tablets, t.i.d. concurrently with ECT.
Results of the present study show that Mental is sigM -.antly more efieclive than placebo in ECT-mduced
memory disturbances. After ECT there was deteno-
• .ii.n in
lemory function. Mental prevented defe-
rioralion
memory function subsequently, and at
the end
' 6 v -neks, there was significant improve
rs nt in memo;
; ruction in the Mental-treated group.
Ci’ ihe other l.-a-.-d, deterioration of memory func-
,-i c. ruld no; i;j prevented by treatment with pla-
<
. .
.
-. None of tri. patients developed any side el. licii would have required a reduction of the
■■ ■ omission of the drug The present study has
■ I that Menial is safe and effective in pre-.-M.i
; Ymmising memory disturbances which oc-
r ■!, . clients undergoing treatment with ECT.
¥
KOFLET with honey
Improves muscular tone, promotes cellular regeneration,
(cough syrup)
Has a gentle diuretic effect
¥
Helps adjust to and cope with stressful situations
¥
Acts as an anti-oxidant
¥
Provides comprehensive health care
Increases the watery bronchial secretions, eases
¥
HERBOLAX
¥
Does not cause sedation
(capsules, tablets)
¥ Corrects chronic constipation gently; re-educates the
¥
Provides the goodness of honey and Guduchi
bowels when used daily
Relieves irritable bowel syndrome
¥
DIABECON’
(tablets)
bronchospasm associated with bronchitis and asthma
expectoration
Exhibits mild antiseptic properties
(tablets)
t Stops diarrhoeas
¥
Liv.52’
Assures smooth evacuation without fluid and electrolyte
(drops, syrup, tablets)
imbalance
¥
Unparalleled in liver care
Safe for long-term use, no dependence
¥
Stimulates and increases the functional efficiency of Ihe
¥
Reduces hyperglycaemia & its symptoms
¥
Increases peripheral utilisation of glucose
¥
¥
Improves sense of well-being & quality of life
v
¥ Takes care of Ihe long-term complications
¥
Reduces bronchial mucosal irritability and related mild
¥
*
DIAREX
ing symptoms of these illnesses, yet it has its limita
with randomised distribution was done. Mentat or
Tentex forte
natural form
¥ Sate even during pregnancy
¥
choses. Though this treatment is effective in reliev
patients were suffering from schizophrenia and 20
Assures better results when used as adjuvant with
Provides Chyavanprash concentrate without unnecessary
¥
¥
from major depression. The double-blind technique
Initiates and maintains the coitus reflex
¥
Accelerates healing of wounds and fractures
sion, mania, schizophrenia and other functional psy
tients requiring ECT were included in the trial. Twenty
suppress sensation
¥
¥
¥ Treats chronic amoebiasis
animals. It is known Io attenuate amnesia induced
by treatment with electroconvulsive shock. Forty pa
Produces vascular engorgement of the penis by powerful
vasodilatation
¥ Stimulates the sensitive afferent nerve endings, does not
¥
y Relieves coughs of varied aetiology
in the treatment of patients suffering from depres
tions due to certain complications. Menial has
proved its effectiveness in amnesia in experimental
Strengthens erectile power, improves sexual potency
arrests degenerative changes
urinary stones, prevents recurrence
¥ Treats burning micturition
Ind Praclil (1993) : 3, 225.
Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is commonly used
(cream)
¥
calories and tat. besides vitamins and minerals in their
(tablets)
¥ Treats urinary tract inlections, disintegrates and expels
Shah, L.P., Hon. Ptoic sor and Head.
Poikar, S A., Senior Research Officer, Depi. of Psychiatry,
Expels gas. relieves gastric uneasiness
Promotes appetite and growth
™ Safe — free from opiates, alcohol, sedatives etc.
¥
HIMCOLIN
(tablets)
¥
liver, increases serom albumin
¥
Sale
Promotes hepato-cellular repair and regeneration
Reduces intra-hepatic congestion
Protects Ihe liver against the toxicity of alcohol, drugs and
chemicals
¥
Corrects anorexia
1997
MAY |16-31)
Ayurveda News
IJCP’s MEDINEWS
FOCUS
JOURNAL SCAN
ROLE OF SEPTILIN IN CHRONIC
PHARYNGITIS
PRELIMINARY EVIDENCE OF ANTIFILARIAL
EFFECT OF Cenfella asiatica ON CANINE
DIROFILARIASIS
Singh, B.M.P., M.B.,B.S. {Pai.), M S. (Enl),
Registrar, ENT Dept., Patna Medical College Hospital, Patna, India.
Ind. Med. J. {1992) . {86), 1, 12.
clinical study 35 cases of
chronic pharyngitis were
ondary causes, chronic
selected.
pharyngitis continues to be
a challenge to lhe otolaryn
and symptoms were noted
nation was done and rou
ing cough which are very
resistant to all sorts of treat
years of age and 1 tab
b.i d. in children below 1 2
l.i.d. in those above 12
years. The response Io treat
ment was judged by the im
cases (28 out of 35)
cosa of lhe upper respirato
showed good Io fair re
ry tract, but it is different
chemically from antibiotics
sponse with Septilin treat
and antihistamines. In a
devoid of any side effects
A
ment. Its long term use was
SERPINA
SPEMAN
y
¥
gated
(
duction by Hep3B cells in a dose-dependent man
Improves sperm count, motility and morphology —
ner.
Reduces prostatic enlargement, controls symptoms, often
avens surgery
prossicin
Non-hormonal, safe therapy, acts on both lhe upper and
fect of costunohde and dehydrocostus lactone on
HBsAg and hepatitis B e antigen |HBeAg|, a marker
y
lower sex centres
Removes the focus of irritation through a more complete
Helps check secondary infections
Speeds healing
¥ Controls premature ejaculation, restores confidence
¥
Provides relief in varicose veins
(tablets)
LUKOL"
(cream, tablets)
of movement
Controls. inflammation, reduces swelling and
tenderness — relieves pain, restores mobility
I
evacuation of the seminal vesicles
*
STYPLON
(tablets)
y
Effectively controls bleeding when blood loss is not an
Promotes circulation by exerting vasodilatory effects
¥ Stimulates the ovaries and endometrium
¥
Relaxes involuntary muscle tissue
y
emergency
Improves the strength and tone ot the capillaries
¥ Safe even during pregnancy
¥
Stimulates uric aad excretion — treats gout
y
Useful in bleeding gums, piles, epistaxis, intra-uterine
bleeding etc.
TENTEX forte
(syrup, tablets)
¥ Activates the mind
¥ Improves concentration, memory & learning ability
¥
Builds up the body’s own defence mechanism
¥
Clears chronic, recurrent infections safely
y
Non-hormonal, safe sex stimulant for men
¥ Corrects speech defects, improves articulation
¥
¥
Increases IgG levels
Increases chemotaxis of polymorphs at the site of the
¥
Improves erection and increases sexual desire
¥
Promotes sexual satisfaction and confidence
y
v Treats nocturnal enuresis
¥
infection
Prevents recurrent sinusitis and acne
Reliable, not a placebo
Assures better results when combined with Himcolin
¥ A valuable adjuvant to anticonvulsive therapy
¥ Relieves chronic allergic conditions
¥ Corrects intractable dermatological conditions
¥ Calms obstinate and irritable children
¥ Induces natural sleep
¥ Benefits the mentally retarded
for hepatitis B viral genome replication in human liver
cells, was also observed in another human hepatoma
cell line HepA2 which was derived from HepG2
cells by transfecting a tandemly repeat hepatitis B
virus (HBV) DNA. Similarly, the mRNA of HBsAg in
HepA2 cells was also suppressed by these two com
pounds. Our findings suggest that coslunolide and
dehydrocoslus lactone may have potential to develop
as specific anti-HBV drugs in the future.
septilin'
(syrup, tablets)
<-■> p r o s zo r>
¥
Helps shrink pile masses
¥
¥
¥
of
t
SPEMAN forte
y
Stnkes at the root of rheumaticdisorders, restores freedom
Northern blotting analysis shows that lhe sup-
coslunolide and dehydrocostus lactone were mainly
at the mRNA level. Furthermore, lhe suppressive ef
Designed for endunng liver protection
¥
Two active components, coslunolide and
dehydrocostus lactone, suppressed lhe HBsAg pro
corrects male infertility
restores liver function fast
RUMALAYA
ACTIVE COMPOUNDS FROM Saussurea
lappa THAT SUPPRESS HEPATITIS B VIRUS
SURFACE ANTIGEN GENE EXPRESSION IN
HUMAN HEPATOMA CELLS
from lhe root of Saussurea lappa, which is widely
used for many illnesses including cancer was investi
(tablets)
¥ Gives hope to childless couples
Relieves painful, inflamed, bleeding piles, often averts
Ffoteropia (19961 . (IXVII). 2, I 10
The antiviral activity of the crude exfracl prepared
(tablets)
¥ Controls hypertension, anxiety and tension
systemically
MENTAT
antifilarial activity of C. asiatica ethanol extract may
against infection in the mu
surgery
-r TYte on'.'y cornVArotion Therapy That acts both locally ond
¥
filarial density may be due to lhe sizeable reduction
of adult worm loads These results suggest that lhe
showed improvement with
this remedy. The majority of
¥
entire system
longed maintenance of the reduced level of micro
gic properties which en
hance the body's lesistance
¥ Prevents lioid peroxidation
-<
damage
x Inhibits Tumour Necrosis Factor (INF) activity
circulation
appreciable side effects in the treated dogs. The pro
result from lhe biotransformation of plant constituents
¥ Formulated lor treating severe hepatic disorders
¥ Acts directly on the uterine musculature, tones up the
more than 96% on day 240. In vitro, the drug did
not produce any immobilizing or lethal effect on the
microfilariae of D. immilis It did not produce any
by lhe digestive enzymes of lhe host
(ointment, tablets)
¥ Relieves painful menstruation and low backache
ment, a maximum 14.5 fold increase being recorded
on day 90. Thereafter, lhe count was reduced by
tients not improving on con
ventional
antibiotics
(tablets)
¥ Checks functional uterine bleeding, improves uterine
the blood rose gradually following the onset of treat
provement in symptoms Pa
PILEX
(tablets)
fected with Dirofilaria immilis. Microfilarial density in
taining anti-inflammatory,
antibacterial and anl-ialler-
Liv.52 DS
¥ Treats non-specific leucorrhoea
Centella asiatica was administered orally al 30 mg/
kg/day for 30 days on 2 stray dogs naturally in
an indigenous remedy con
.YAN range
Helps regeneration of hepatocytes and
A thorough clinical exami
ectomy cause hypertrophic
pharyngitis and a dry irritat
cauterization to antibiotics
and antiallergics. Septilin is
¥
Their age, sex
tine tests were carried out.
Septilin was given for 6-8
weeks in the doses of I tab.
ment ranging from chemical
¥
Ethanol exfracl obtained from the leaves of
Inspite of lhe best of treat
ments for both local and sec
gologists. Sometimes post
tonsillectomy and adenoid
19
Antiviral Res. (1995) . 27(1-2), 99.
(tablets)
y
POTENTIAL ANTIMUTAGENIC ACTIVITY OF
Glycyrrhiza glabra EXTRACT
cream used locally
Recently there has been considerable interest in
antimulagens and anticarcinogens of plant origin,
particularly in edible plants. The ability of G. gla
bra extract Io exhibit activity against the genotoxic
effects of a series of well-known mutagenic and car
cinogenic agents wen investigated Anlimutagenesis
assays have been carried out by a modification of
the Ames lest with different strains of Salmonella
typhimurium (TA98, TA 100), in the presence and in
the absence of metabolic activation (S9 mix), lhe
results showed that the exlracl of G. glabra signifi
cantly decreased (from 40% to 90%) lhe mutation
frequencies induced by the tested mutagens, over a
range of concentrations well below the toxic level.
The antimutagenic activity was a complex function
of lhe dose of G, glabra extract, and it could be
related to extracellular mechanisms of defence. Re
sults obtained can lead to a further understanding
of the mechanism by which cells and protect them
selves from environmental pollution, the protective
role of some dietary factors, especially from plants.
Phytotherapy Res {1996)
(10), 101.
20 IJCP's MEDINEWS
MAY |16-31) 1997
Ayurveda News
HERBAL INSIGHT
FLASHES
Commiphora mukul (Guggulu)
BROCCOLI (Cauliflower)
against osteoporosis. Be
sides, if contains iron and
folic acid which are benefi
simple and diffuse goitre
Eating is not just for
pleasure—-rhe right food
to dale. It has been shown
to boost lhe production of
very effectively. During the
can replenish your body
treatment there was an in
with nutrients to fight illness,
crease in T4 and T8 cells
in the patients serum.
prevent ageing and help
your body perform at its
best Broccoli has one of
anti-cancer enzymes. Ex
perts also believe that broc
coli is one of the top three
foods that could prolong
your life. The vegetable is
Another composite for
mulation with guggulu as
lhe highest concentrations
of sulphoraphane, one of
a helpful food supplement
for women. Il is rich in cal
one of lhe ingredients and
the
powerful
cium, which protects the
you eat, the lower your
chances of developing can
Inula racemosa is used in
phytochemicals discovered
postmenopausal women
cer of lhe colon.
Guggulu is used to control
most
cial for pregnant and lac
tating mothers. Researchers
have also reported that, the
more cruciferous vegetables
(of which broccoli is one)
controlling hyperlipidaemia
and as an anti-anginal. It is
reported to show activity
equal to lovastatin and
colestipol. Guggulu has
also been reported to con
Congratulations!
“ ‘Doc’, hope you wouldn’t mind this costume,
this is my last wish before my operation.”
Winners of Mar. ’97 Caption Contest
Dr. K.L. Ramchandani, DM. (Card.)
trol lhe Entamoeba histolyt
Commiphora
mukul
contains about 4.65% for
/C. mukul) is a small Iree
or shrub with spinescenl
eign matter and about
branches is found in lhe
arid rocky tracts of Rajpu-
1.45% of an aromatic es
sential oil besides gum and
resin.
lana, Khandesh, Mysore,
Sind, and Baluchistan.
C. mukul is lhe source of
Indian Bdellium, a gum res
in obtained by incision of
Preliminary clinical stud
Guggulu or the gum res
in from the bark contains lhe
octanordammarane terpe
tes etc. Crude guggulu was
administered orally in a
ed doses for 15 days to
uct which is collected dur
tory activity. The oleo-resin
one month. A fall in the to
ing lhe cold season. The
tal serum cholesterol and
resin is pale yellow, brown,
portion of the planl was
found to be a highly potent
or dull-green in colour with
anti-inflammatory agent, as
a bitter taste and balsamic
compared Io hydrocorti
odour. Il is mainly used Io
sone and bulazolidin
weight also revealed a sig
against Brownlee's formal nificant decline in 10 pa
ints
of obesity. This longdehyde-induced arlhritis in
albino rats. The crude aque "n study indicated that the
•
dose of 6 1 2 g. in 3 divid
um Iipid-phosphorus was
led in all the cases treat
ed with guggulu. The body
ous extract of the oleo-gum-
hypolipidaemic effect of
Guggulu has a wide
range of uses in indigenous
medicine. Il acts as an as
resm was found to suppress
fraction A of guggulu could
acute rat-paw oedema in
duced by carrageenin. It
be attributed to
(a) in
crease in the rote of remov
tringent and antiseptic.
When taken orally it acts
had also a suppressive ac
al / excretion of cholester
ol, via the gut, (b) decrease
as a bitter, stomachic and
tion against the granuloma
pouch lest In arthritis, lhe
carminative. Il also stimu
lates appetite and improves
extract suppressed lhe sec
ondary lesions very effec
zation of cholesterol from
digestion. Like all oleo-res-
tively without having any
tissues.
ins it causes an increase of
significant action on the pri
in the input / synthesis of
cholesterol, and (c) mobili
leucocytes in the blood and
mary phase. Side effects
Guggulu is one of the
stimulates phagocytosis. It
such as gastric ulceration,
constituents of the well
acts as a diaphoretic, ex
pectorant and diuretic, and
loss of weight and mortali
known Ayurvedic prepara
ty were negligible in ani
tion 'Rumalaya' which is
is said to be a uterine stim
mals treated with lhe extract
used Io treat and control
ulant and emmenagogue.
The resin is used in the form
as compared Io those treat
rheumatoid arthritis. It is ef
ed with betamethasone.
fective in reducing pain and
Guggulu is reported to
reduce cholesterol and tri
glyceride levels in hyperc-
We welcome your contribu
and spongy gums, pyor
rhoea alveolaris, chronic
fective than Clofibrale as a
Ayurveda News Please rush
tonsilitis and pharyngitis. In
halation of lhe fumes from
hypolipidaemic. When
ethyl acetate soluble por
them to:
burnt guggulu is recom
mended in hay fever, acute
tion of the resin was frac
Dr. S.K. Mitra
and chronic nasal catarrh,
neutral portions, the neutral
chronic laryngitis, chronic
bronchitis and phthisis.
portion showed hypocholeslerolaemic activity while
lhe acidic portion showed
I
*
BBABECON
(tablets)
&
DIABETES
O Protects
pancreatic p-cells
O Promotes insulin
secretion
Restores hepatic
glycogen
Dear Readers,
holesferolaemic subjects. Il
is reported to be more ef
tionated into acidic and
Dr. Vincet Kaur Varanasi.
You will be receiving
your prizes shortly.
O Reduces blood
glucose level
inflammation.
of a lotion for indolent ul
★ * *
“I am ready for the next ‘operation’ sir.”
ease, hypertension, diabe
former shows anti-inflamma
gle in dental caries, weak
Dr. Vinoda Rajccv, Meerut.
obesity, ischaemic heart dis
lhe bark. Each planl yields
cers and also as an ingre
dient of ointments for ulcers.
It is used as a mouth gar
“I changed, Doctor. Do I look alright now?”
olemia associated with
about 1.5-2 lb. of the prod
also in medicine.
operating me.”
Dr. B.N. Upendra, Bangalore.
ies were carried out on 22
patients of hypercholester
nes manusumbionic acid
and manusumbmone. The
prepare incense slicks, as
a fixative in perfumery and
“This would make you take due interest while
ica in intestinal and hepat
ic amoebiasis
DIABETICS
ft Improves sense of
well-being and
quality of life
* Postpones the
onset of long-term
complications
* Safe and can be
combined with
other OHAs, if
needed
tions and suggestions for
^DIABECON
R & D Centre
The Himalaya Drug Co.,
the beacon of hope for diabetics
Makali, Bangalore 562 123
Thank You,
Medifeam, R & D Centre
AG THE HIMALAYA DRUG CO.
For further information please write lo;
LOj MAKAll, BANGALORE 562 123
he commercial productanti-inflammatory activity.
Published, Printed and Edited by Dr. K.K.. Agarwal, on behalf of IJCP Publications at D-50, Defence Colony, New Delhi-24;
Printed st Rakesh Press: A-7, Naralna Indi. Area, Phase-ll, New Delhl-28. Reproduction of any part without permission is
prohibited; Note: IJCP's Medinews does not guarantee, directly or indirectly, the quality/efficacy of any product service described
in the advertisements or other material which is commercial In nature In this issue.
"LICENCED TO POST WITHOUT PRE-PAYMENT" BELOW
THE "REGISTRATION NO.DL-11463/97 LICENCED NO.
TECH NO. U(C)-171/97 R.N.NO.57149/93 POSTED IN
INDPSO NEW DELHI
SWASTHAKUTTA
AYURVEDIC
APPROACH
TO
HEALTHY LIVING
Central Councilfor Research In Ayurveda and Siddha
61-65 Institutional Area, opp.D-Block, Jaiiakpuri
New Delhi-110058. INDIA
Swasthavritta
According to Ayurveda a person
bearing a complete equilibrium of Dosha,
Agni, Dhatu, Mala and Physcial and
Psycosomatic functions along with
happy mind and spirit is the only healthy
person. For achieving this healthy
Drinking water :
A draught of water taken at the
time of getting up, cause a free passage
of motion and urine.
Excretion :
adopt certain principles subjected to
It is very necessary to inculcate
the habit of easing in the morning.
specific Ahar, Vihar and Achars based on
Cleaning of Teeth and Mouth :
manhood Ayurveda has laid stress to
Hetu (Material cause), kala (Season) and
from the time of getting up from bed to
Cleaning the teeth, tongue and
mouth every morning should be ensured.
Teeth may be cleaned by Babbula, Neem
or Dhaka stick. This helps in removing
the accumulation of dirt tartar etc. from
the teeth & tongue as well as applies
massage on gums and mind gets
cheared.
the time of going to bed.
Oil Massage :
Time to getting up :
It is advisable to get up early in
It is necessary to massage whole
body with oil. For massaging, Tila Taila
(Gingelly Oil), Sarsapa Taila (Mustard
the morning before sunrise in Bhrhma
Oil) or Narikela (Coconut oil) can be
Desha (Habitat). These priniciples are
defined as Charyas (Routine or life style.)
Dincharya
This comprises of the do's and
dont's during the day time i.e. starting
Muhurta. It helps in avoiding dreams as
used. But generally speaking Sarsapa
well as in providing a time when mind is
Taila is the best one. Medicated Oils may
clear and body losses are repaired.
also be used.
Oil massgae ensures (I) softness
all six Rasa (taste )i.e. sweet, saltish,
and unctuousness of skin there by
acid, bitter, acrid and astringent. Diet
eleminating chances of infection, (II) Free
should be balanced and the quantity
should be according to one's digestive
movement of joints and muscels, (III)
capacity.
Increased circulation of blood (IV) speedy
Tips on diet :
removal of matabolic waste products
through skin, and (v) maintenance of
1 Fresh ginger with a small amount of
perfect health. In some measure, it also
salt should be taken 10 to 15 minuti j
serves as an exercise.
before food.
Exercise :
2
The. diet, specially hard substances
should be properly chewed.
Regular exercise is essential for
perfect health. It brings up stamina and
3
resistance against disease, clears the
butter milk should follow food.
channels of body (Srotas), and increases
4
the blood circulation and efficiency of
Wherever possible intake of curd or
The food should be tasty, fresh and
good in appearance.
lungs.
5
Sath ;
It should neither be very hot nor
absolutely cold.
After that one should take bath
v Water should be avoided at least 15
with warm water at the place protected
minutes before food. The quantity of.
from draught. Bath increase Jatharagni,
water after food should be small. Let k_
Clears the pores of the skin and the skin
be drunk often.
becomes clear.
7 Heavy (Guru) food should be taken.
in a limited quantity.
Diet :
8 Heavy food should not be taken at
night.The proper time for night meal is
Diet should be regulated taking
two to three hours before going to bed.
into account the Desa, Kala (season) and
After night food, it is better to go for a
habit. Diet should be planned to include
short walk, of say hundred steps.
2
warned against coitus interruptus i.e.
Significance of this therapy is
withdrawal without emission. This is a
characterised by its approach through
(1)
very annoying procedure to both the
Sansodhan
(2)
Sanshaman
(3) Prevention and (4) removal of
parties who may become neurotic
etiological factors.
finally. It tis condemned by sexologists
even today. On the other hand, they
Snehan, Swedan (Poorvakarma)
have recommened sex enjoyment of
Vaman, Virechan, Vasti (Anuvasan &
Asthapan), Nasya and Shirovasti (Mukhya
suitable couples, as follows :
karma) are the parameters practiced in
In
Vasant - Sharad - Twice weekly
Panchkarma therapy.
in
Varsha - Greeshma - Fornightiy
Rejuvenation
In
Hemant - Shishir- According to
Longevity :
Approach of Ayurveda did not
capacity and
end when patient recovered from
inclination.
diseased or kept healthy. There are
Panch Karma :
number of tonics prescribed in Ayurvedic
literature to maintain the maxiuni
Panchkarma
therapy
is the
physical and mental vigour as long as
bed- rock of Ayurvedic approach to the
possible and the prolonging the life span.
treatment of both the diseases of acute
The observance of health, dietetic and
&
chronic nature. In addition this the hygenic rules are essential for the
rapy appears to be also ment for being
success of treatment prescribed for
utilized in measures calculated to the
longevity or rejuvenation.
preservation,
conservation
of
maintenance
and
The number of drugs and dietary
health
the
materials are advocated to be used viz.
and
Bhallataka,
promotion of longevity. It plays an
Vidanga,
important role in the regimen of
Amalaki, Guduchi.Atibala.Nagbala,
Swasthvritta. Panchkarma has been
Vidari.Satavari.Bij aka,Chit raka,
Agnimantha, Varahi, Pulses of Mudga
and masa, sali rice, thickened milk, hon
eys, clarified butter.
indicated as prophylactic measured in
the context of epidemics and pandemics.
4
Yastimadhu,
Table showing the specific Rasayanas used In specific conditions
Age in years
Bhava which is removed
Rasayan used
1-10
Balya
Vacha, Swarna, Kashmari
11-20
Vriddhi
Kashmari, Bala, Ashwagandha
21-30
Chhavi
Amalaka, Lauha Rasayan
31-40
Medha
Shankhapushpi, Ashwagandha
41-50
Twak
Bhnngaraja, Somaraji, Priyai
5 i -60
Dnshti
Tnphaiagnma
61-70
Shukra
Kewanch Beeja, Ghrit etc.
71-80
Vikrama
This age group is not fit
81-90
Buddhi
for Rasayana Karma
91-100
Karmendriya
(Poorve vayasi Madhya va)
Adharaniya Vega (Non-Suppressible Urges)
*
Sapfanin
iauna.Snatax
Suppression of wind leads to pain
There are thirteen natural urges.
in abdomen, tympanitis, indigetion, heart
These urges should never be suppressed
diseases, constipation or diarrhoea and
because suppression of natural urges
gas.
leads to many diseases as given below :
Suppression
Suppression of urine leads to
of semen
produce a stone(Spermolith),
difficulty in passing urine, urinary stone,
may
pair. in
testis and difficulty in intercourse.
atony of bladder and inflammation of
urinary tract.
Suppression
of
vomiting
produces different types of diseases like
Suppression of stool leads to pain
anaemia,
in abdomen, tympanites indigestion, gas
urticaria,
in abdomen, headache and ulcers.
hyperacidity, skin diseases and fever.
5
giddiness,
Social Hygiene
Suppression of sneezing may
produce rhinitis and chronic cold,
Man is a social animal and so one
headache, sinusitis and diseases of
respiratory system.
has to work in the society in a manner
which is conducive to better hygiene
Suppression of eructation leads
to hiccough, pain in chest, cough,
and sanitation of his community. This
anorexia and loss of appetite.
can only be achieved by individual's
Suppression of Yawning leads to
own efforts as well as his cooperation
diseases of the eyes, throat, ear and
with the concerned authorities of the
nose.
state e.g. (1) the house refuse SuOuie uvi
Suppression of hunger and thirst
be thrown at random, it should be
may lead to nutritional disorders and
debility. The body resistance and
consigned to its proper place, (II) the
immunity against infections are lowered,
gutters of drainage system should not
there by susceptiabiility to diseases
be blocked,(III) latrins and the urinals
increases. In the same way hunger pain,
should be kept properly cleaned, (IV)
dehydration etc. are produced.
water and water - pots be properly
Suppression of tears leads to
mental
disorders,
pain
in
cleaned.
chest,
giddiness and digestive disorders.
The most important point to be
Suppression of respiration may
kent
cause suffocation, 7v»piiaiory disorders,
^j;ua is that as soon as a case of
infectious diseases is seen, the same
heart disease and even death.
should be reported to the proper
Suppression of sleep by keeping
authorities, so that they can take proper
forcefully awaking, the diseases like
steps to check the spread of the disease
insomnia, mental disorders, digestive
and we may take such steps so as to help
disorders and diseases of sense organs
are caused.
the authorities in their efforts.
6
Ritu Charya
accoding to cold, heat ad rains. But the
main classification is that there are six
Not only the behaviour of a
person is responsible for causation of
seasons viz. Sisira, Vasanta, Grisma,
disease but seasonal changes also bring
Varsa, Sarada and Hemanta.
about disease. Our vast country from
Hemanta and Sisira are cold
Kanya - Kumari to Kashmir and from
seasons, Grisma is a hot season,Varsa is
Kutch to Bengal possesses variety of
a season of rains. Sarada and Vasanta are
seasons. The seasons are classified
moderate that is to say the days are
mainly by the movement of the sun.i.e.
Daksinayana
Uttarayana,
and
moderately hot and nights are cold and
pleasant.
and
Seasonal Variations of the Dosa
Prakopa
Prasama
Season
Sanchaya
Hemanta
-
Sisira
Kapha
-
-
Vasanta
-
Kapha
-
Grisma
Vata
-
Kapha
Varsa
Pitta
Vata
-
-
Pitta
Vata
Sarada
Pitta
7
Ahara Vihara and Sodhana according to the Season
Ahara (Diet)
Season
Vihara
Hemant &
Madhura, Amla and
Massage, Exercise woollen
Sisira
Lavana Ras, nutritious
blankets, protection against
diet
cold
Vasanta
Laghu and Ruksa Ahara
Massage, Exercise,
specially Laja, Canaka
fomentations
Purificatory
Measure
__
Vamana
(Bengal grams)
Grisma
Madhura, Laghu &
Snigdha Dravya. light
Sita and seasonal fruits
in digestion
Jambu (Jamun).cold air
like- Amra (mango),
and wherever possible
air passing through
Usira (Khasa)
Varsa
Kasaya and Madhura Rasa
Avoid sleeping on the ground,
Amla. Lavana Snehayukta
clear the dirty monsoon water
Dravya.digestive substances
from the area around
Basti
light diet,boiled and clean
curd, whey,lemon,ksara and
Ksara preparations
Sarada
Madhura,Kasaya Snigdha
To sit in moon light in the
Virecana &
Dravyas specially ghee
first quarter of night,
Blood-
and milk, sweets,rice and
its preparations.acrid
exercise, avoid curd and
diet etc.
letting
The principles laid down in the
Svasthavritta Dincharya Ritu Charya etc.
have been described here in brief. These
measured
are
for
preventing
the
diseases tis well as for promoting the
8
health. Proper following of these
principles leads to the perfect bodily
and mental health, and one can live
longer without any disease.
Jawahar Lal Nehru Bhartiya Chlkltaa Avam Homoeopathy
Anusnndhnn Bhawnn
Central Council for Research In Ayurveda £ Slddha
61-63, Institutional Area,- Janakpurl, New Delhi- 110050
T©l: 5828748, 5614870, 5614971, 5614872 Fax: 6528748
PRINTED ON RESOGRAPHIC
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Vol. XXI, No.11-12
Nov.-Dec., 1998
New Delhi
Chief Editor : Dr. Prem Kishore
Central Council for Research in Ayurveda and Siddha
3FJHETM V^ faSJRT W
?TTen weft, viRr VRcfta RtIRrut Rgfci vs
<j?r wntRn 3 faw 5.12.98 £cfra srgwn
SVV, ?f^THTgV RfldWrl 3RJVTETF1 vs Rs>h sv
r
Meeting on Research and Development of
Rasaushadhis.
A meeting on research and development of
Rasaushadhis was held at Regional Research Centre,
Hastinapur on 5.12.98 under the Chairmanship of
Smt. Shanta Shastri, Secretary, ISM&H. Sh. Pradeep
Bhargave, Joint Secretary, ISM&H, Vd. B.D.Triguna,
Vd. S.K. Mishra, Vd. G.L. Chanana, Dr. M.R. Uniyal,
Vd. Balendu Prakash, Dr. P.V.V. Prasad, Vd.
G.Dwivedi Vd. A.K. Mishra, Dr. Bajwa, Dr. K.D.
Sharma, Dr. B.N. Sharma and Dr. Prem Kishore,
Director were present. At the outset all the members
rfHdl stll-dl
Vlf^IS ’fl.fajt. VS Rl^lt. aRT VfftfWt
<f?l PRR
SH 3fqd'l<t>1
VSi
wilf&Rl j?< I R1 tsvs 4
HFfs, VRJ<Fd
vrf^s, wcTra ftrfWn qigfci vs ?Wit)aft, <r®[
fW<§HR
cfa cfl. VR. VTFFH, 3T. HTVRTH
XFPTTR,
SSVR1,
<fl. tfL tL SRJIV,
vTl
f^cfl, 'ife V» ‘fc”
'S1» flMSI,
SjS'ISvI STSi, <J?o
1_N E W S
Smt. Shanta Shastri Secretary, ISM & H. in meeting on
research and development of Rasaushadhis
L ETT E R
made a visit of the Centre. The participants highlighted
ft.qq. wf qft ft. ftq tak,
PRuitf ft vwRara
a) I qrftqapr 'tK^'l' ft
Tft
I TTTfft ft wjftq
RifftR-n ft Rftq th ft Mftftw fftftRn qft fftftft ft
qftfttfftft ft dqftfftn qv utri ^rar i TftlqR) ftqR
qRft ft fftlT-fftfft, q^ft qqftf ft M69H ft HRlftqR’1,
fftft Iftn ft HH<ftcHu( sft ftqfft eft qftq wroi ft
3rjft)qq fftft W I ftft
Tfftft (TRT wRl?1 ffttfl
qftqwn ft sraift ftt.qci.siT^.qq. sft ft.fti.ftf. qiRrarftr
ft ftftfft ft JJu|cjvll (ft 9ft I eft ftrf ft qq qrftil § I Tnaf
^i
w rwi ftq ftg
ft' ft q^ i
sf'Wdief
it?trr
the need for application of Rasaushadhis in Ayurvedic
therapy specially in management of emergent clinical
conditions. The procedure for the preparation of
Rasaushadhis, identification & standardisation of raw
material, standardisation of manufacturing procedure
and studying safety & efficacy of oral drugs were
approved. The quality control may be taken up at any
established laboratory of the Council, PLIM and HPL
Ghaziabad. The staff and expenditure were also
recommended.
Training in Hospital Administration-Participation
3 qfftiftq-qfftqq srRrqqlftfti ft
by Council’s Officers
qgqrfftqr
<c|i<szr qq qRqiy q><qji"I vIiqTH, (JpRft, ft
fftft ft 9 ft 20 HftR, 1998 eft 3nftRft 3RftTR
qwrq ft qfftr&ft ft
wftra fftfWn qirfft ft
ftftftft fftqrq, wrjj ft qfftqR
ft^traq, ■* ir?i
WR gRT qfftft ftftqftftftftft. 3TWTaH. 3TftlPTq
srRftift ftftq STftRTTq vR«TF1 (fft^r),
<q. ft. ft
RTf. RPR, 116190’ SI^I-IEfTR sftftl'ft (3ft,.). HRftq
9’00’ft ftq^TH,
ft. ft. 'TJPIQ’X, Si ftUTR
3lfft 01 ft (3ft) RHclft O>|9 frrfftoill TR®ITq, qfiftfcll, ft.
ift, srjHErn sftftrft (3ft.). ftftft 3ftftq srjftsrH
RR«(TR,
fteft, ft ft. ft. RftT, 3TftftTq ftSftTft
(3ft.), ftftft Rftft 3ftwrq iRftq, ftftw ft hfi
ftft ft ftftfft WH ft I
The Department of ISM&H, Ministry of Health and
Family Welfare, Govt, of India has given its approval
for participation of Dr. Aparananthan, R.O., CRI(S),
Chennai, Dr. P.K. S. Nair, ARO (Ay.) IIP,
Cheruthuruthy, Dr. D.Sudhakar, R.O.,(Ay.), UK,
Patiala, Dr. (Mrs.) Bharti, R.O. (Ay), CRIA, New Delhi
and Dr. G.Nanda, R.O. (Ay.), CRIA, Bhubneshwar in
training in Hospital Administration held at National
Institute of Health and Family Welfare, Munirka, New
Delhi from 9th to 20th November, 1998.
*1
*161
ift fftquui qr 6ft oft <iften/ftftft'l ft Riq
Preparatory meeting for epidemic control on
forthcoming Conference/Seminar
qRfftqi ft eft
ft. qqfftftR, Rrftqft, ftftft 3ftft qq fftg
sRpffsfrq qfftq,
Reft ft siRisTcir fftnqj 17.12.
98 ft ftftft srrg’cfa qq fftg srgfttrn qfftr ft ’jtu
0’1'4fciq 4 *i6l
ft
fftf^T0! ft lift if
qft ft q<[5
qRpft’ tfcRf’
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ffifaRn ftftwf, q^ fftft, ft WH TJRR,
fftqfq’, ft ft qq sft, q^ Reft, ft. ftqi eftrn, wr-qqi
fq^io>, sift.ft.qq.3TR., ^ft Reft, ft. qqj ripri, vrgqq
Pi^i0, qq.3ft.ft.ft., ^ft Reft ft vtjp qfftc; ft qffts
srfftfpft ft wfftra af 1
■ffcO’ if TjqRaRi
Tfq
ft dOvi
A preparatory meeting of the experts in the field of
epidemic control was held on 17.12.1998 in the
CCRAS’s Hqrs. office under the Chairmanship of Dr.
Prem Kishore, Director, CCRAS. Vd. S.K. Mishra, Dr.
B.N. Sinha, Tibbia College, New Delhi, Shri Shyam
Sunder, JID, CBHI, New Delhi, Dr. Neena Valecha,
Asstt. Director. ICMR, New Delhi and Dr. UmaChawla.
JID, NICD, New Delhi along with Sr. Officers of the
Council participated in the meeting.
After welcoming the members present in the
meeting, Dr. Prem Kishore gave brief account of
having a such meeting and invited suggestions for
holding a Seminar/Conference on Epidemic Control
qq ^qi'id qjft ft qqpnq ft.
ft fftqq ft ft[$m fftcRq ppgq
2
strgfa $ qiwi fa wnfa ffarpi qv
ffan
by Ayurvedic approach. Dr. K.D. Sharma, Dy. Director
(Tech.) explained the work done in the past by the
Council on the epidemic control by Ayurvedic
medicines at various places of the country.
Tfatfa/fafaq SJlfaffal q?fa tfa ffaj XJ5TFI STPlffa
^Kri ?fa, vjq-ffafapF (cRJ.) fa qffaq TRI
ffa I
far ffaffaq 7«nfai t? sjrgfa faqffa tri qgimfa ffatRRT
q^ fa fa ffaj ■qv wfa th ffaRq
ffan i
Members are of the view that a Committee may
be constituted, a list of diseases may be prepared
along with season/time of outbreak of epidemics,
medicines to be prescribed for each epidemic be
listed and protocol and proforma may be prepared
and also local administration at the district level may
be associated. Coordination may be established
TRfal qn faefaW «Tf fa ^<fa fav
fafaffa Tfa
wi ?ian Rgrrifa fal fafal fa ®j3fi/wi sfjtr
xjjll Tfa viiq, fflaf ifa
3FJTIR yfaiR qgiqifa fa> ffaiq
ffafaffa faqffa fa fafajfa fa qfas tst qqn faTR Ifan
mra i ^fa ffa Rirfara suirh mi far wfan fam mra i
?n wr far rniJsM fa fan falfafal fa anfaT ffaffaRn
qfafa fa far rrtt Tfafa fam rtt i 3f. wrai fa
qwfai
fa hth fafa fa fan mv? ffafaqfa
fa hth mi ^$nq fam i
between Allopathic and Ayurvedic System of Medicine
for such a programme. Dr. Chawla has suggested a
few names of experts for their participation in the
proposed conference/seminar.
far fafa^ii qy nm term
Meeting on Mantra Chikitsa
fa <pRqffafaq fa'jm fa ajsqsTciT fa ms ffaffam qv
W tarn (farm 14.12.98 fa qffar gzsqraq fa vrit-i
mm ’i
i
t^m fa ciqfal rr ?nfa, fa ffaww
fam, fa hhw-4 sfa, fa. fa ffaifa fa. fa.fa. vrfa,
fa spjcraTei fan, fa. fa.fa. fam fa ^t. fa.fa. mfa
wffaci fa I
A meeting for implementation of Mantra Chikitsa
was held on 14.12.1998 in the Conference Hall of the
CCRAS’s Hqrs. Office under the Chairmanship of Vd.
B.D. Triguna. Tapasvi JanakShahi, Vd. S.K. Mishra.
Vd. Nanak Chand Sharma, Dr. Prem Kishore, Dr.
K.D.Sharma, Shri A.L. Vachher, Dr. D.K. Mishra, Dr.
B.N. Sharma, participated in the meeting.
fa. mfa fa hrt faR ffafa fa mm ffaffaRn fa msnaj
cfanfam mi wk qs rnimtfa mqm fa mi sFj'qr
mcieii-ui in?nfafaf si fafam sppr fa faqfa fa fa; srffarra,
gqq fa7!,
Tapasvi Shahi, at the outset, narrated his past
experience on the treatment of incurable diseases
with "Mantras" in India as well as abroad. He treated
mfaei^/faiRfa, faTR fa
the cases over the years include Osteoarthritis, Renal
msrfafa smfa mifa arm fafam rrmR si fa mi mrms
mfa fa e> i ms fa mams fa s<Rm 0^11 faqfan fafai
t ffasrml uqsfa fa fafa fa Kim far sqfa msfa fafa mfa
11 qfafafa fa nrn Hnrem fa srt mfa
fafa
failure, Cardiac ailments, Spondylitis, Cancer, Frozen
cimb far,
nra
shoulder, Muscular dystrophy, Migraine and other
ailments of various kinds. Healing through mantra is
the divine power, which Tapasviji transmits into the
patients through the touch of his hands. This divine
1
power was showered on him by a Saint in Rishikesh.
fafafaq rnrgfa arjstrnn sisaim, fa ffafa fa fa
m^mmifa fa ml fam ffafasn mfa fen sisgRi nmm
may be
fa fa 1
Delhi.
It was recommended that the Mantra therapy
3
carried out by Shri Shahi at CRIA, New
HIWflM 33314 MRTFI,
Panchkarma training programme for Ayurvedic
Physicians from Sri Lanka at IIP Cheruturthy.
4 4td45T 4) 3114,43
feikj MM<f>4 mRiSPI <t>l4st>H
RR^cUm)
One month training programme in Panchakarma
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<NcbK SRI MR44g3c1 10 3iRik Rf41RT34 <4 fcf<? Govt, of Sri Lanka was started on 2.11.98 and
M3T4 RtHWH 4 335 w 351 vRlSRl 3514553 RdIT 2. completed on 1/12/98 at Indian Institute of
11.98 41 R-licb 1.12.98 M35 VT^TTl 4MI ’TTF I $4 VTI- Panchkarma, Cheruthuruthy, Kerala. It was
3T3T335HTV, VH, 4lo (3TgTM31T) 4 ^VTMM \3gUICd RhMI I inaugurated by Sh. S. Ajay Kumar, M.P., (Ottappala).
RPbcX-f<|4 34 MM3>4 34 14414 yullfei<l'i 441—v4?H, These doctors were given the training in various
v4mH, MM3, 3R4, HRJ, T3VT34i4I gM 14d1%rl 311R 4
Panchkarma procedures like Snehana, Swedana,
MftlSFl Rm W I M3 35 4 RPhoUI <4 fcrf^T^ W1m4 MV Vamana, Basti, Nasya and Kerala specialities like
<31^113 «4 vnai-vnai 144 mtH givi mmPiichmi mtvIm 41 Navarakizhi, Pizhchil etc. Twelve guest lectures on
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various topics of Pancakarma treatment were also
Ml 4)^35 qRim M3T VT35RI <4 R Pb’R-134 35 VMM arranged alongwith practical demonstration by the
Rmr-RmR 34 4i cZTcR«n 34 7i? i uRa^i ^4 414 m5
experts. Besides, the daily routine practical training
Mi!3ld 4L4l.<4.V'T 3*^34), MHT4 <16134? 1443135 gTVl with theory classes alongwith discussion with the
RPhon34 34 wi-w 41 Rmt M3i i mRis-tt mhvJmmi doctors from the faculty were also arranged. The
351 MMWTV 41. tf|.c4. 4Rtr, VT4VM, mRmT Wfl 143513 doctors were awarded certificates on completion of
Man grci vm 5®7 Rf45Ri35, 3tt4 terarai. 34g35R the course at the end of the training by Dr. P.K.N.
gRl "31 iy44 53 §CO 3ff4fife3" MV \Jg4lSJH <4 VMM Namboodri, A.D. Incharge. The training programme
isni
was concluded with a talk on “Ayurveda in its
H1W4m
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perspective" by Dr. P.K. Warrier, Member, G.B. of
344)3 3ITJ4m 31^'tiMH, 3^ RevTl 4
CCRAS and Manager, Trustee & Chief Physician,
Aryavaidyasala, Kottaikal.
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Visit
of
Delegation
of
Sri
Lankan
Ayurvedic Physicians to HQrs Office and CRI
New Delhi
Two seperate delegations of Ayurvedic Physicians
led by senior officers of Ministry of Health and
Indigenous medicines of Sri Lanka visited the Council’s
Hqrs and CRI, New Delhi on 2-3 Nov., and 24-25
Nov., 1998. They were taken around the museum
and herbarium of the Hqrs office. They were shown
the drugs samples, herbarium sheets and
photographs of medicinal plants and charts on
Ksharsutra technique, Panchkarma chikitsa. The
physicians were interested in Shankhapushpi,
Kumkum. Haridra etc. They were introduced with
senior officers of the Council in the Conference Hall.
The programme officers gave brief account of the
research work being looked after by them. A video
film "Resurgence" was also shown to them.
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On 25.11.98, the members of the delegation also
visited CRI, New Delhi. They were taken around the
various speciality clinics of Ksharsutra, eye clinic and
Panchkarma therapy apart from visiting the
laboratories of Pathology, Biochemistry, Chemistry
etc. They were also shown the video film on
ftre RRR <4 FURRl gRT f4
** 25.11.98 *1 ^uflu
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Panchkarma therapy.
Awareness for prevention of AIDS
World AIDS Day is observed on 1st December
every year all over the world. A function on awareness
for prevention of AIDS was organised by the Council
on 1.12.1998 Dr. Prem Kishore, Director and Dr. K.D.
Sharma, Dy. Director (Tech.) addressed the staff of
thff?’CORAS and other Councils and explained the
preventive measures for spreading of AIDS. Dr. V.P.
Singh, Asstt. Director (Homoeopathy), CCRH
delivered a lecture explaining the gravity of the
problems particularly among the younger generation
and the preventive measures, since there is no vaccine
for prevention and drugs for cure. He also gave few
examples of his experience of coming across with
HlV/AIDS affected patients and their treatment by
him. He stressed the need to create HIV/AID
awareness in the community for prevention and control
of this disease which spreads through un-protected
multiple sex, transfusion of infected blood, by using
unsterlized needles and syrings and other equipments
and from infected mother to child mainly.
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“AIDS programme’’ was also held at RRAPCRIA,
Mumbai on 26.10.1998 to provide a basic knowledge
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UUR-URR XR
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Dr. D.D. Chaturvedi, Director C.R.I. (Ay), Mumbai giving
his views on HIV infection
5
about HIV infection to the staff of the Institute. On this
occasion, Dr. D.D. Chaturvedi, Director CRI Mumbai
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aufafara ffari 7rtt i far. fai.fa). qtjftfa fftftvK nK vr«tfi
<ft iffas 3Tfftcblfafa ft TftVI q? 3Flft C2WIFT ffaft I <3°
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fafftfa 3ft fa fa? oil! fasKR 37 8ERR, ftRlpTT ffafa 3’ [ffa
SIR H 3?TOI t I fa. WT<ffa fak Vl.fa. (faq-fftsHfa,
fa. TH- fa. Wfafa, fa. VK fa. WK fa q*LftK cFTTft,
fa. ftfa ^OTISTFU fav fa fa. fa. ftgK ft fa 3TK1 fftw
and other senior officers of Institute gave their lecture
on AIDS related subjects. Dr. Chaturvedi discussed
karnsky scale used to measure the progress in the
treatment of the patient, cause of infection, clinical
feature etc. Dr. Jasbir Kaur AD (Bio-chem.) described
the history of HIV and laboratory diagnosis. Dr. N.K.
Malviya, Dr. A.D. Jadhav, Mr. H.H. Tumane, Dr.
Veena Upadhyay and Mr. P.J. Metha also spoke
C'-'Q-r'i ffaq |
about AIDS.
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3rd Meeting of the Executive Committee of the
Council
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3rd Meeting of the Executive Committee of the
Council was held on 21.12.1998 at Hqrs. office under
the Chairmanship of Vd. B.D. Triguna. Shri Pradip
Bhargava, Joint Secretary, Department of ISM&H,
Dr. J.R. Krishnamoorthy, Shri Ram Lal, Desk Officer
(Finance), representing Joint Secretary (Finance)
attended the meeting as members and Dr. Prem
Kishore, Director as Member-Secretary. The
Committee discussed the recommendations of 32nd
meeting of SAC held on 26.8.1998, 26th meeting of
SAC (Siddha) held on 17.8.1998 and 32nd meeting of
SFC held on 30.9.1998. The Committee also approved
the Research and Development of Rasausadhis at
RRC (Ay.), Hastinapur, as per the decisions taken in
the meeting chaired by Secretary (ISM&H) on
5.12.1998 at Hastinapur. It also approved
the draft Annual Report of the Council for the year
1997-98.
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qR><< qfaqrifafa qfftfct fa fasfa
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Meeting of Heads of the Institutes/Centres of
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South Zone for Monitoring of Research
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Programme.
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A meeting of the Head of the Institutes/Centres of
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ift Ift'iiqi 5.12.98 8fft gRvm^V ft Rlfaq (iff. fa. q. qft was held on 27.12.1998 at National Institute of Mental
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Health and Neurosciences, Bangalore under the
efafa SFJIfETH cfti^ (31Tg.) ?ftffqrj< 8ft fapi "TRftqfftftl Chairmanship of Dr. Prem Kishore, Director. At the
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cfSfT qq 1997-98 fa fan? qfaqq <ft 8fifftq5 qfaftqq qft of the meeting. The meeting was called to review the
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work done by the Institutes/Centres and to plan the
6
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Senior Officers Meeting at Bangalore
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work for the next five years. Dr. K.D. Sharma, Deputy
Director (Technical) in his address emphasised that
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the research work done so far may be compiled in the
form of research papers, booklets, monographs for
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their publication as early as possible.
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3uy[c[§in ^fcigixi tittfi, ftmrr, ft. v. xixx<ift, ftm
ftfftrra ftf any ft atftn
Dr. P.C. Sharma, Pune; Dr. P.K.N. Namboodari,
ftnarrn, ft "it. ■si
Cheruthuruthy; Dr. P. P.N. Bhattathiri, Vijayawada;
ft.
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Dr. Momin Ali, IIHM, Hyderabad; Dr. A. Saraswathi,
CSMDRIA, Chennai; Dr. K.Kuppurajan, ALRCA,
Chennai; Dr. B.S. Venkataram, Bangalore; Dr. T.
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Bikshapathi, RRC, Bangalore; Dr. N.G.K. Pillai,
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Trivandrum presented the work of their respective
Institute/Centre. Shri A.L. Vachher, Dy. Director
(Admn.), discussed the administrative and financial
problems of the Institutes/Centres.
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Meeting of the Sub-Committee of SAC (Ay)
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A meeting of sub-committee SAC(Ay.) for
finalisation of protocol was held under the
Chairmanship of Dr. Jayprakash Narayan at National
Institute of Mental Health & Neurosciences, Bangalore
on 28th and 29th December, 1998.
Atthe outset, the participants observed one minute
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silence to pay homage to late Prof. Namjoshi, Member,
SAC(Ay.), CCRAS.
7
The Chairman informed the members about the
latest development in the diagnosis through pulse by
adopting modern electronic equipments. Dr. Prem
Kishore, Director outlined the agenda and the
members gave their opinion on the various issues
concerning research work in the Council. They were
of the view that the work done by the Council should
be published. Vd. S.K. Mishra stressed the need to
set up a Instt. on Literary Research and publication of
literary research work done by the units of the Council.
3-7RHH £ V3 HT^r R HTSZH R RtH A §T FWRI R R^
Dr. Narayan suggested that Agenda Items may
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be discussed in detail imthree’-separate groups viz: '
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Clinical/Family Welfare, Drug Reseach and Literary
x?Rf $
Research. The Recommendations of these groups
were considered in the meeting held on 29.12.98 and
suitable recommendations were made after thorough
discussion.
Visit of Russian delegation
A six members delegation headed by Dr. Svetlana
Mayskaya, General Director, NAAMI Medical Centre,
Moscow has visited the Hqrs. Office and Central
Research Institute for Ayurveda, New Delhi on
22.12.1998. On different aspects of Ay. The delegation
did discussions with Vd. B.D. Triguna. Chairman
€
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Raj Vd. Padma Bhusan B.D. Trigunaji discussing with
Russian delegation
8
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Executive Committee of the Council. Vd. Tngunaji
said that the culture and customs of Russia are very
much similar with India and Ayurveda system of
Medicine would be more suitable to them.
The delegation also visited Drug Museum of
Council’s Hq. The delegation consists of experts and
specialists on medicine, Prof. Vyacheslar Gaptor,
Chancellor, Institute of Medico-Social Rehabilitalogy,
t>
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Council's Hq.
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Moscow, Mr. Allexei Kaspeev, Head, Deptt. of
f^nni tui <pt
Organising Medical Help, Ministry of Health of the
RWh R’Trni
Russian Federation, Dr. Tatiana Kisseleva,
Chairperson. International Medical Commission.
Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation. Ms.
Mariam Salaganik Indologist and Ms. Svetlana
Tchistiakova, Director, NAAMI Medical Centre,
Moscow. They were shown various departments of
the Institute and discussed research problems. They
were shown a video film on research activities of the
Council.
WHO Study tour from Myanmar
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Under the WHO Study tour, two groups from
Myanmar visited CRIA and H.Q. Office. Dr. Myat Moe
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and Dr. U. Khin Zaw (1st group) visited the H.Q. Office
on 7.12.98 and discussed the various research
programmes with Deputy Director (Tech.) and
I
programme officers. They also visited DPD Library
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Myanmar delegation at CCRAS Hq.
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and Herbarium/Museum and saw the Medicinal Plants
335 4-413 3TTg4cf 3T37TETH 7R-3H, F< P.cvfl and Drug Samples.They visited theCentral Research
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Institute for Ayurveda from 8.12.98 to 10.12.98 and
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seen the various techniques of Pancakarma cikitsa
iff f^t i st.
and Kshar-sutra treatment besides eye clinic for
4^RT (cFfrt 7PJ?) 33
I 1.12.98 35)
treatment of Myopic children with Ayurvedic drug. Dr.
3)^ra 3TFg4F 3FTFTETH 7R«TH, 3?
ij 3FFWRT
Thein Kyaw and Dr. U. Theinwon (2nd Group) visited
FFR V3 ST.
§3TT I ST. TTH 1W1< PifUl
*,
CRIA, New Delhi on 11.12.98. The delegation was
5) W^TFI 3$ ^3TpT35
35t435H1 3?1 FgRTjyl SFctPrjI 3) Pert
given a brief account of important achievements of
S% FfH35Tff
the clinical programmes of the Institute by Dr. Prem
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techniques, Eye Clinic-Myopia etc. The other details
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the Video film "Resurgence".
10
Forthcoming Seminars
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Seminar on Literary
Feb.
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Last Date for abstract
Varanasi.
22.1.99 and for full paper
22.1.1999 V4
12.99
22-
23,
1999,
1.2.99
2.
2.
Proposed Date
Title
National Seminar
8th to 10th March, 1999
on Rasayana at
Last Date for abstract
New Delhi.
27.1.99 and for full paper
- 6.2.99
List of Appointment/Promotion/Retirements
5>.Y1. HTH
S.No.
9^
(31)
Name
Designation
Date
A. Appointment
iff
41^
■mmikTI
7.12.98
Shri Suresh Basu Peon
'41.9.71.
7.12.98
IIP, Cheruthuruthy (Compe(4) Hq|"lfcl
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Shri K. Natarajan
Head Clerk
U.D.C.
IIHM, Hyderabad
4.12.98
C. Retirements
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31.12.98
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Attendant
A.R.U., Bangalore
Shri B.B.L. YadavaR.A. (Bot.)
n., vRrgv
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Smt. Sonam
Tsering
30.11.98
31.12.98
RRI (Ay.), Jaipur
31.12.98
Shri R.D. Pataskar R O fP'connosvl
PRU, Pune
■ii.sFg.v., vyi
11
31.12.98
Regd. No. N/333 date 9-1-1979
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India International Trade Fair-1998-Council’s
Participation
The Council has participated in the India
International Trade Fair 1998 from 14th to 27th
November, 1998 and put up display of activities
relating to Mother and Child Health Care Programme.
The Pamphlets and folders on activities and
achievements of the Council-Swasthya vritta,
Panchkarma, ano-rectal diseases, cow milk,
Pippalayadi yoga, were distributed to the visitors free
of cost. A CCRAS-publications sale counter was also
put upto there. The total amount of sale proceeds
were over Rs. 2000/-. Main emphasis was laid on
mother and child care and charts on Maternity in
Ayurveda, regimens during pregnancy, post natalcare,
minor ailments during pregnancy and preventive
measures, Sishu paricharya, Garbhani paricharya,
rehabilitation of post-polio paralysis with Panchkarma
therapy were displayed in the exhibition. The specialist
cosultancy for the patients was also organised on this
occassion.
The display was put up in the pavilion of Deptt. of
Family Welfare, Ministry of Health & Family Welfare
under the overall control of Deptt. of ISM&H, Min, of
Health & Family Welfare.
Perfect Health Mela-Council’s Participation
The Council participated in Perfect Health Mela
from 18.12.98 to 29.12.98 and put an exhibition on
medicinal plants and drug samples. Dr. S. Singh,
ARO (Ay.) and Dr. MasilaMani. R.O. (Siddha) deputed
for free medical check up. besides educating the
visitors with the principles of healthy livings and
preventive aspects of various diseases. Pamphlets
on cow-milk, Kshar-sutra, Pancakarma therapy,
contraceptive were also distributed. The Council also
put up a stall for sale of Council’s publications. A total
sale of publications comes to Rs. 4040/-. The
Council was awarded a medal for best promotion of
Ayurveda.
Edited and Published by Dr.Prem Kishore, Director on behalf of lhe CCRAS, Jawahar Lal Nehru Bhartiya Chikitsa avam Homoeopathy Anusandhan
Bhawan, No.61-65, Opposite D-Block, Institutional Area, Janakpuri, New Delhi -110 058.
Editor-Dr. K.D. Sharma, Associate Editors- Shri D.K. Jain & Dr. D.P. Sharma
Printedat: Yugantar Press. Mayapun, New Delhi-64. Phone; 5135949
RMMH VW
AYURVEDIC CONTRACEPTIVE
BACKGROUND
RMpRIdd, ■dHl-q') W
'JTHlfad
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fers fen feta sngfa fe -4' fem w ti fei fe 4fe4' fa fafe R5T Mt
fefafem wti 134 wfa1^ 4 w wife faffed ig feta ferfe fete
fen m
11 fei 4 fefe, fatal fe fen 4 4fafe fe-fauqc-fe fe-fa
fem faf Mi Riwk Mt stwh fem w 4 i
Devices for fertility regulation and elimination of foetus are recorded in
Ancient Classics of Ayurveda. The demerits of the big family are also indicated.
The specific formulations for contraceptive have been putforth in 13th Century
A.D. by Bhava Prakash. Among them the Pippalyadi Yoga a combination of
Pippali, Vidanga and Tankana, has been extensively studied by Council in
fertile female volunteers for more than a decade.
DRUG PREPARATION AND DOSAGE
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4 aflte ffa
850
4001
1117
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Vidanga
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0
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The fine powder of these drugs in mixed together in equal proportions
and tablets of 500 mg. each are prepared with excipients. The drug has been
studied in following dose schedule in a series of clinical trials:
A) 1 tab. 500 mg./Once a day D5 to full cycle, B) 1 tab. 500 mg./twicej
day D5 to full cycle and C)1 tab.500mg./twiceadayD1 to full cycle.
9
anfer 4 fe 4 mtf yffetf ph fasten fe fa, i wr
■mrnr mr fete fen w fef 4 Mt fem w f i
Initially the drug has been tried in the dose of 500 mg./ once daily from 5th
day till last day of the cycle consecutively for three menstrual cycles but it did not
showed desired level of efficacy.
Subsequently, the dose schedule was changed to 500 mg/BD from 5th
day to last day of the cycle consecutively for three cycles. Significant
improvement in efficacy of the drug was observed with successive
modifications. Further study of this drug with the dose of 500 mg/BD from day
one to last day of cycle consecutively for three cycles had shown 100% efficacy
of the drug since no pregnancy was reported due to drug failure in this study.
Efficacy of this drug with different doses is shown in the table.
ww uffeirn
500 fa.TI. 4tW TOT 2 (3f)
TOT
3T39H fate' 500 fa.TT.fe 4
1. 4sbl5dl< 3WH
1. Pippali (Piperlongum Linn.) fruits 2. Vidanga (Embelia ribes Burm.f.)
fruits 3. Tankana (Borax) purified. (Chankia Sohaga)
CLINICAL STUDIES
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The formulation Pippalyadi Yoga consists of equal parts of following
drugs with excipients etc:
Efficacy of Pippalyadi Yoga with different doses
S.No.Cycles/Pearl
Index
Dose 1
500mg./OD
D5 to last day
Dose 2 (a)
500 mg./BD
D5 to last day
1. Cycles studied
850
4001
Dose 2 (b)
500 mg./BD
D1 to last day.
1117
"
2. Pearl index (Efficacy of drug calculated per Hundred Women years)
Pregnancy
due to failure
7.06
1.20
0
-do-
Omission
28.24
6.60
5.37
Total
35.29
7.80
5.37
These trials were conducted on fertile female volunteers in age range of
20-34 years having a menstrual cycle between 26-30 days (with 3-5 days
menstruation period) and with inter pregnancy period between 13-24 months.
The study with the dose of 500mg/BD from day one had established the efficacy
of Pippalyadi Yoga in prevention of child birth.
The prolonged adn.
ionshe
side effec'. ?r toxic effects. Findings of this stuoy uas aiov
sta:i..
any significant j
-.-’corded in i
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SIJWIH
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61-65 WM
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: 561490,5614971,5614972
&<,
fXwD—110058
: 5528758
For Further Details Contact:
Director
Central Council for Research in Ayurveda & Siddha
Jawahar Lal Nehru Bhartiya Chikitsa avm Homoeopathy
Anusandhan Bhavan, 61-65, Institutional Area,
Opp. D Block, Janakpuri, New Delhi-110058
Ph.: 5614970, 5614971,5614972 Fax : 5528748
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Ph.: 5614970, 5614971, 5614972 Fax : 5528748
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Kerala specialities in Panchakarma
PANCHAKARMA
Purvakarma
Snehana Swedana Vamana
Pradhanakarma
Paschatkarma
Virechana Anuvasana Asthapana Nasya Samsarjanakarma
Panchakarma is one of the unique therapeutic procedure in
Ayurveda advocated for the radical elimination of disease causing
factors and to maintain the equilibrium of dosas. The five fold
measures comprehended by this therapy for internal purification of
body system are Vamana (Emesis), Virechana (Purgation),
Anuvasana (Oil enema), Asthapana (Decoction enema) and
Nasya (Nasal insufflation). The chances of recurrence of the
disease are very rare in patients undergone Panchakarma therapyg
as it also promotes positive health by rejuvenating the vital body'
systems. It prevents ageing process and improves memory and
functions of sense organs. Panchakarma therapy is very effective
in the management of auto-immune disorders, chronic ailments
like rheumatic arthritis, bronchial asthma, G.l.T. disorders and
mental diseases. Panchakarma requires some prepapratory
measures i.e. snehana and swedana and samsarjana karma as
post Panchakarma measure.
Snehana (Oleation) - is of two types internal and external. Internal
administration of sneha (snehapana) is again classified into (1)
Acchasnehapana - in take of ghee, oil, muscle fat, bone marrow in
high doses and (ii) Vicharana, intake of snehadravya in small doses
as preparatory measure (purvakarma) of sodhana therapy.
External oleation is known as ABHYANGA.
Swedana (Sudation) - Procedure used to induce sweating with or
without use of heat (Agneya and Anagneya).
,
Vamana (Emesis) - Elimination of morbid dosas in the body
through the mouth.
Virechana (Purgation) - Elimination of dosas by inducing
controlled purgation.
Pindasweda - is the process by which certain medicinal puddings,
especially the cooked navara type of rice in the form of boluses tied
up in cotton cloth is applied the whole body or a specific part of the
body, for a period of 7 or 14 days. It is used in the treatment of
neuromuscular disorders, hemiplegia, chronic rheumatic
disorders, for rejuvination, geriatric problems etc.
Pizhichil - is the process by which warm medicated oil is poured on
the whole body in a specific manner with simultaneous gentle
massage. It is used in the treatment of various neurological
diseases, rheumatic disorders, for rejuvenation, preventing ageing
process etc.
Sirobasti - is the process of keeping certain amount of medicated
lukewarm oil on the head for a prescribed period of time by using a
special type of cap without top, fixed properly on the head for the
treatment of various neurological disorders, diseases of head,
facial palsy etc.
Sirodhara - is the process by which medicated oil, milk, buttermilk
etc. is poured in a continuous stream on the head, especially
forehead in a specific manner. It is in indicated mental disorders,
insomnia and certain skin diseases. Duration of treatment: 7 to 14
days.
Sirolepana - is a procedure in which paste of medicinal
herbs/drugs is applied on the scalp for a specified period. It is an
effective method of treatment for neurological disorders and mental
diseases.
DISEASES IN WHICH PANCHAKARMA THERAPY HAS BEEN
SUCCESSFULLY APPLIED.
| VATAVYADHIS
TREATMENT
Pakshaghat/
Pangu
Snehana, Svedana, Abhyanga, Vamana,
Sastikasali Pinda Sveda, Virechana,
Basti.
Gridhrasi
Abhyanga, Snehana, Basti
Basti (Enema therapy) - The method of treatment by which
medicines in suspension are administered through anorectal,
urethral and vaginal route with an instrument called Bastiyantra,
This process is of two types; Anuvasana (Oil enema) and
Asthapana (Decoction enema)
Saisaviyavata
Sastikasali Pinda Sveda, Abhyanga
Tamak Swas
Vaman
Nasya (Nasal insufflation) - Administration of medicine through
nostrils.
Parinamsula
Snehan with Ghrityogas
Amvata
Basti Chikitsa, Rukshasveda
Samsarjana karma - is special post panchakarma dietary regimen
and particular Dincharya for a specified period of convalecence.
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For Further Details Contact:
Director
Central Council for Research in Ayurveda & Siddha
Jawahar Lal Nehru Bhartiya Chikitsa avm Homoeopathy
Anusandhan Bhavan, 61-65, Institutional Area,
Opp. D Block, Janakpuri, New Delhi-110058
Ph.: 5614970, 5614971,5614972 Fax : 5528748
TSt HJlO<
*T
The rapid changes in the living habits due to increased
urbanisation has resulted in incidence of many uncommon
diseases. The main concern is focussed on the acute
diseases like Heart disease, Cancer, AIDS etc.
Nevertheless, some of the chronic painful disorders like ano
rectal diseases are also causing a lot of suffering to the
people. Excessive physical and mental strain and irregular
dietary habits lead to abnormal bowel movement which if
persists, causes ano-rectal diseases like Arsha
(Haemorrhoids), Bhagandara (Fistula-in-ano) and
Parikartika (Fissure-in-ano). The Ayurvedic management of
these conditions have been widely practiced successfully.
The introduction of the ancient Kshar Sutra therapy has givm
a new impetus to the Ayurvedic management of theW
diseases. The details of these conditions are briefly
discussed.
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FTF fFTTH 8JR TJT trfM ■§TTTT
FTHdlel M'
tl
TFT Ft
Ft
fFFrTTT M' TFTT FT
FTTFFFTT hMT t
Mt FT 11
TF-fFT TFTT
'’jMtr TF ■JFFFT TFTT M Mt
FT TJT SJTT trfFFn FTFt THTFTTt t 3FTTT ?TTF fMn, FMt-FMt
Techniques
<1 JFl TFT ■Sdld
After fixing the patient in lithtomy position, the part is
properly cleaned. A specially designed probe is inserted
through the external opening inside the fistulous track, then
the index finger of opposite hand is put inside the anal canal
and probe is touched with the tip of the finger and brought out
M fvldl'hf '’p Wl =FT
d<5 FI ■HI'-h
WRIT TOTT t1 TO failh WT FT TOR R? WWI °FI
tot t to TOR to Rtt tot qivii
wtt■g® Ft tot fw
3TgMt R7T 7^1
Mt
3RF WT TOT tl TOTOT TO stgMt TO W '‘TFT
fiski TO gg TOTO PiTOtf ItlTO 'did tl TOTTTO TO fest M
through the anal canal directed by the finger. After bringing
SRI
out the probe through anal canal Kshar Sutra is put inside the
8JTTFTJT TOFT TOT TOTTO TO qiit-H WTO fvTTO Rcl tl
eye of the probe and probe is pulled back and taken out of the
external opening of the track. Thus the Kshar Sutra is passed
through the fistulous track forming a loop and tied. This Kshar
TOR TOR WTO TOTO FI TOTO TOFT FT W gg TRF
RTOF
(FJR) TOTOTO
W fTOR TOTTO tl 3RTOTO FTW TOTO TOR-FJTO TOTOTO fTOH TOW t,
w fe wro TOiMt tor gft w cheats spt Mrf tow W tow ti srto
^WTOTg TORT TOTO-FTOTOFT TOW, 3WjtgWT TOFT TOT WT TRf RTO faRTOTO
TOT Mt RRhoHl TORT TO FTTOTO TOFFTO TOTOTt1
Diagram showing different types of
Fistula-in-ano
Sutra is changed every week till the whole track is cut through
and healed. Other post operative procedures such as loc^
fomentation, medicated oiling and using laxatives are alsW
followed.
This technique has been very well acceptea/adopted
by the practitioners of Ayurveda as well as modern medicine.
This technique is presently practiced in many centres in the
country. The efficacy of this approach has also been proved
to? WRft TOrgTOro to PrtRbrti*i to ftoto-futo TOgfroro wrofro
TO fMfTORFFFl'M Mt TRft-TOTTO FTOl^d TOTO TFRfTO ?t F?t 11 TOTORTTO M
?FI WRlt TOTO 3T«TRT TORT TO 3TTOTOTO TOW w
by studies conducted by ICMR. The facilities for the
Tf'FFT RTT WTBT fqfeFTT SigFNH Wr
application and research on the techniques of Kshar Sutra
tW fclT W tl ajR-FJR ’dcb-ik
are further developed at Central Research Institutes for
Ayurveda of the Council at New Delhi and Mumbai. The
Institutes have also arranged fortraining programmes on the
FF di'Stlq
fFFTT W
sft RyrpHT
gRT
Tjznrj Tjcj BFRT'aTH cfit WF
FTWR.
it evil TRI
| WITH ?RT 8JR-FJT d
* |cb
R [rtrt>fyd
tr TIRTOT RTFferq TRI
11 3IH WFU'-TH 3FR
Kshar Sutra techniques and workshops. Further steps are
*ldtlk'1l3Tf ^F 3TWT Mt ftPt
proposed for its extension in othercentresunderthe Council.
Mt W fsRTTR tg WM ftFH FRI11
R
Haemorrhoids
3T?f
Haemorrhoids or bleeding piles is another common
anorectal problem with or without prolapsible mass. Often
<041 RRT 3FR OIHI—4 gR TtR M fRRR
R>
RRT
3RTRT W Tfef Mt RR?M fl RTR: Mfcf Rt WET RT RRot Wfcl
MtcTT t? I RTRt RTRt fir <Rd<HIR MR! RTT RR ct RETTM1
SERpTR?
W RRK RR R”T
3 3ERpW Rol RRFT gR Th o OCR to
■rehM 1
RigRRh rfrrt f fe 3Rf rr Rg® wr sifaqia Mtrt ti
RiMt-RRtt Mt RtRFg •3H«sti‘<ul h 3T?f h 4<RI Mt <^<1 RRT RTR Mt
Mt rett t (faw?t strrt siimW
RTRE R>t 3jR Picf>
rrt r rer w rf h
RTR M ht f°F? R§R Mt chdiMT Midi MI
Haemorrhoids with prolapsible mass
there is profuse painless bleeding, sometimes blood coming
in streams and occuring before or after defaecation.
Constipation and straining are believed to be the cause.
Ayurveda attributes it to weak digestive Agni. Sometimes
congested
haemorrhoidal
veins
get
infected
and
thrombosed, protruding outside the anus which is very
(ftrem)
uncomfortable and painful.
Fissure-in-ano
uRcbRchi
Fissure-in-ano is a vertical tear of anal canal, a sort of
injury caused due to foreign body, hard stool, excessivJ
)
qftchftfan r rrt rft r rrt orrrr Rtu (rr) rh rett t,
RR RRT 3OR RR RfRRRTR RR
h URRlidR, RcRfRRT Roll'd
*
straining and improper co-ordination of sphincteric muscles
during defaecation, it may occur in diarrhoea and dysentery
also. Recurrent episodes of Fissure-in-ano cause lipping of
the anal sking gradually developing into sentinal tag. It is a
very painful condition although bleeding is absent or very
little.
Modern
management
advocate
dilatation
under
Rol RFT (Mdlg ul) 3TRRT gR Ri Pi Rid Rit <1
*1
*
R
WT Ri
hdnMH11# RRR RlPiRpRd RTRRRI h WI MEH Ml RR RtRRR RR
RRTfRRH
Mt Mt RRRT Ml RR RR RpRTfHRiT MlR RT RWS RR RR
Tpchl^t STRfg
*
■itPe-lvl hl’ RR RR RTRR RR RR Ml R? RRT 3RRR
hRRTgpf
RI RRft TRRRTR RRRRMtRltl RTRtHRT PnPcbRIl R
rectal clinic has
MMhtt RR RRT MRR gRT Rlt fRPRRR 3RTRT gRI R?t RRRRRT Rfw
achieved success in the medicinal management of Fissure-
RT RRR ch4 Ph<41 Rldl M1 gR TFT 'PdPhR-ri R RTR 3iigdRI<4 stlRT^TRT
in-ano on Ayurvedic lines which aims at giving relief in pain,
R Mt 5^+1 PlPbeUI M <14101 di Ml<<1 RR M fRRRR RRRRR RRRI Rlt
anaesthesia
or sphincterotomy.
Ano
smooth passage of soft and non-irritant motion and prompt
RTR RRHT, RRT RTF! TJTR gW R>lPd<<4 RR RTR RMrT RRRT RR RR RR
healing of the fissure.
WTFMRRRTRI
atHchKl tg TP# #' :
A <vl l=b,
1# fcg 3FJ#TH ##?,
<rl«4|^< HIH ^6 'MHd'ld RlpMlI T# glUl^sfr
STJU^H 'Wf, 61-65 T#n3lf
*
®ell
8#
TH#, '4’1*JJ<1 , # fc<#l-110058
#5 : 561490,5614971,5614972 #PI : 5528758
For Further Details Contact:
Director
Central Council for Research in Ayurveda & Siddha
Jawahar Lal Nehru Bhartiya Chikitsa avm Homoeopathy
Anusandhan Bhavan, 61-65, Institutional Area,
Opp. D Block, Janakpuri, New Delhi-110058
Ph.: 5614970, 5614971, 5614972 Fax : 5528748
"pM (2AYURVEDIC DRUQ FORMULATION t
ARE THEY RATIONAL, ?
(Wish v as Ran
*
)
Theoretically yes, pratically difficult to say. Ayurveda is a way
of
life
and the treatment is individualised depending on the
"prakriti" of a patient. It encompasses preventive as
well
as
curative
aspect of a disease. Initially only herbal medicines
were used, but with the advent of Persians the metals were in
cluded.
This goes to prove that Ayurveda was willing to grasp
newer concepts that co^ld relieve the sufferings of the' patient.
The various "grantha"(textbooks)? give different "patha"(process
es) of manufacturing the same medicine. This was obvious because
the preparation of a medicine depended mainly on the availabili
ty of the medicinal subastance.
Depending on the region, various different plants were suggested
as
substitutes. Actually these were not substitutes for them,
because
each vaidya prepared his own medicines suitable for a
particular patient and then wrote it down for his students. when
we study all
these pathas-processes together, we
call
them
substitutes.
But this was also a process of standardisation
depending on the availability.
Many processes are given for achieving a standardisation.
The
plants and parts thereof were collected at a particular season
so that probally maximum alkaloids were saturated in the plant at
that time.Who does it now? Elaborate procedures of collection of
a plant are given in text books and we feel that these procedures
evolved right collection, cleaning and storage of the plants.Then
the plants grown
in a given region were sufficient for that
region.
Today the situations have changed and
indiscriminate
falling of trees and collection of plants and monoculture of some
plants is changing the plant pathology and plant ecology.
I will give a few examples. Depending upon intensity of tempera
ture required, Sori- Babha 1i-Khair wood was used for the process
of heating.
"Chausastha-P1mpa 11" was a process of pulverising
pimpali
for 64 hours, probably to help release the active alka
loid. Purification of mercury as advised in garlic juice or aloe
juice. Cooking bhallatak in milk, vardhaman pimpali a process of
gardually
increasing the dose for enhancing metabolism and to
prevent "apunarbhav" meaning strengthen the system and prevent
recurrence. Tncatu a combination of sunths, pimpali and miri or
kajjali a combination of mercury and sulphur for making the drug
reach the target organ. Many such examples could be given. For
mally vaidyas specially prepared medicines for each
individual
patient depending on the prakriti. There was no generalisation
as we find today. In a way even in morden medecine, initially the
medicine or the mixture were prepared individually. But with the
advent of manufacturing drug companies, the doctor had to toe the
line of
the drug companies.The same is hapenning in Ayurveda.
Each medicine was then prepared strictly according to the rituals
given
in
text-books and most of the processes were evolved
to
increase the potency of a medicine. They knew their limitations
and were mentioned that way. Take for example a
powder or a
churn
.
*
It is said that cfturha is effective maxium for six months
depending on
temperaturt, humidity' and exposure to light.Then
this was not a problem, because churnas were
freshly prepared.
But
today with the commercialisation things have changed and
ayurveda has not remained a way of healthy life, but has become a
way of exploitation for the drug manufactures,
including the
multinationals.
No DPCO, excise facility, no controls has not
promoted ayurveda.
•.}
-x
•«
/
Fortunately the new budget measures have removed the fiscal
benefits on branded products, but other shortcommings continue.
With this short history now we come to the main subject of ra
tionality of ayurvedic formulations. There are not .many generic
single drug
formulations in ayurveda.But all
tire formulations
mentioned
in the text-books and strictly manufactured according
to the processes given in the patha can be called as generic
products. These products are rational,but they are theoretically
rational. I say theoretically because majority of these products
are not prepared strictly according to text-book pathas. In short
we can say that commercialisation of ayurveda has vertually taken
ayurveda to irrationality and even the so called generic products
are not very rational.
Shabnam Minwala has already reported how even every day products
are substandard and how some of the raw materials are just not
available. Pushpa Girimaji has reported in 1991 that in last five
years
<86 to 91),the number of ayurvedic companies has doubled
from 2,500 to over 5000. In fact,the Rs 600 crore industry now
constitutes over 15 7. of the total pharmacu11 ca 1 market and
is
estimated to be growing at the rate of 30 7. annually. Now in 1994
these figures must have changed to a great extent.
Dr. P.V.Unnikrishnan of VHAI says a time-tested traditional
system has been commercia 1ised,nege11ve1y affecting students of
this
discipline
apd
rendering
valuable
plant
species
extinct.Instead of bringing people closure to their own time
tested practises and cures,it succeded in commercializing
the
system to such an extent that it came to resemble any other
commercial
channel
accessible to any counter. Once
lucrative
sales
were
assured,everyone jumped on to
the
ayurvedic
bandwagon.Every day hundreds of products are dumped
onto the
market,all
carrying an ayurvedic label. Their range vary from
toffees with a high sugar content labelled 'Ayurvedic digestive
drops' (vis Swad which is 97’Z sugar ) to high alcohol containing
products eg., Nrith sanjeevani. The marketing baits were plenti
ful covering body builders and vitalisers like special Chyawanprash, re 1 icensed or reclassified product designed to eljude price
control such as Vicks Vaporub, hairoils and shampoos.
The
list
goes on
increasing. Recurringly,
the noble theme preferred is
" a search for safer natural alternatives." The modus operandi
:
adulteration,
exaggerated claims, false classification and re
classification and reclassification.
How then do you expect
rationality in Ayurvedic medicines ?
Now
let us have a look at the existing drug rules for
ayurvedic
products. Th
*
drug are classified as 1) granthokta (according to
text-book and 2) Patent or proprietory. The definitions given in
the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940) are as follows i
GRANTHOKTAr
... includes all medicines intented for internal or
external use, for or in the d i agnos i s ,'f t r ea tmen t, mitigation or
prevention of (disease or disorder in human beings or animals,
and manufactured)
exclusively in accordance with the formulae
described in,the authoritative books of ayurveda <56 books speci
fied in first schedule).
/
Patent or proprietary medicine means t in relation.to ayurvedic
system of medicine all formulations containing only sucy ingre
dients mentioned in the formulae described in the authoritative
books of ayurveda — specified in first schedule but does not
include a medicine which is administerd by parenteral route and
also a formulation included in the authoritative books as speci
fied and 11) in relation to any other system of medicine,a drug
which is a remedy or prescription presented in a form ready for
internal of external administration of human beings or animals
and which is not included in the edition of Indian Pharmacopoeia
for the time being or any other Pharmacopoeia authorised in this
behalf by the central government after consultation with the
DTAB.From these definitions one can find that anything can taken
as an ayurvedic drug. There is one technical officer stationed at
Bombay to screen all these applications. It seems for last two
years this post is vacant and the applications are sent to Podar
Medical
College for disposal. No wonder there is a big rise in
arrational ayurvedic preparations.
There
are no set standards for examining the end products.
CCR1MI.H has evolved pharmacop i e a 1 standards for Ayurvedic foi—
mulaions, and persons like Dr. Sharidini Dahanukar and others are
trying
to find a way out. Today the drug inspector does the
examination by the way of Rasa-gandha-sparsha i.e.
smell,colour
and touch. In the abscence of standards, today checking of the
end product is done by checking of manufactures records of pur
chases of
the raw materials. There too one cannot insist on a
bill because some times the raw material is collected from vil
lagers.
A mere entry in the purchase register is good enough to
prove that the said ingredient is included in the end product.
Many different
forms of Ayurved or homeopathic systems have
emerged and these do not need any license for manufacture of any
drug
that
they desire- rational or
irrational.
Sukshma
Ayurved,Sanjeevan Chikitsa,
Electro homeopathey are some of
these.
I learn that Bihar or L).P. state government has already
allowed ano Ayurvedic injectible medicine (though it
is prohibltedin the definition of a drug). It is strange that there is no
compulsion of using sterile water for ophthalmic preparations and
likewise this injectible also does not need sterile water. Ac
cording to Ayurveda wax,ghee or oil is used for preparing oint
ments.
Today jelly or vasseline is used, gelatine capsules are
used,
but
there
is no compulsion of adhering to the minimum
standards of these materials as stated for modern medicine.
3
DPCO
(Drug Price Controls Order) is not applicable to ayurvedic
drugs. With the result an ointment like Kailash Jeevan' basical
ly
'ral.a' i.e. Italian Millet or Setaria Italica powder mix in
ghee and washed in water for 1.00 times (shat dhrut) costs as much
as Rs. 91/» for 240 gm ointment.' Another example is MP produced
"Healthy drink" widely advertised in news papers, being sold at
Rs 150/- for 120 ml syrup and 45 tablets (to be taken together).
Take another example of Chyawanprash being sold for
Rs 70/- to
Rs 300/- per kg. If Chyawanprash is prepared strictly according
to the text books, it should not cost anything less than Rs 15<^/to Rs 200/- per kg.
/
The main ingredient of Chyawanprash is 'ami a' (phy11 anthus emblica).
This is a seasonal fruit. How then is
Chyawanprashs pre
pared !:>..• v--/ . *
if>e year ? Either it is prepare,..
season from fresh fruits and sold the year round or
mava' a
perservative form of amla extract is prepared and throughout the
year or avalkathi i.e. dried amla is used. Obviously these will
differ in property and prices as well. Ashtavargayukta Chyawanprasha contains over 30 medicines that are available
in Hima
layas. With the ever increasing prices of gold, is really gold
used for Suvarna bhasma ? There is no compulsion for the manufac
tures of bhasma to estimate the percentage of the parent material
in the bhasma. Fortunately Maharashtra FDA has developed atomic
absorption test for costly metal and pearls ect., How then can
you expect genuimty and rational prices ? In the absence of DPCO
the retailers can change the printed prices on the label and the
FDA cannot take any action, probably action should be taken under
Weights and Measures Act.
Clinical
trials are mandatory for substantiating new claims or
for getting proprietory formulations sanctioned, but no schedule
of clinical
trials is prescribed. Prosecution is possible if
steroid like drug is found in Ayurvedic preparations but if the
manufacturer proves that the steroid is the inherent component of
the Ayurvedic ingredients, no action can be taken. Tobacco paste
(for local application) has been banned in Maharashtra,but one
firm sales it as snuff (used for the same purpose of application
to teeth) and no action can be taken. Take the example of self
generated alcohol from the fermentation of dhayati' flowers. But
today everyone uses yeist of some directly add alcohol.
Under Magic Remedies Act action cannot be taken against very
misleading advertisements of Ayurvedic products. Such advertise
ments are creating all sorts of misunderstandings and in a way
they are prospering at the cost of frankness of the modern medi
cine. Ginseng imported at great cost is being sold in many combifrom the
nations and
there is no price control as one can see
prices of
Rs 40.65
Ambroas-AFD10 capsules
Rs 38.00
B1ovita 1-Micro Labs
-doRs 42.00
Ginsec-Duphai—interfran
6 capsules
Rs 40.67
G1nsoma-A1 embic10 capsules
Gintona-Lyka labs-doRs 43.80
Rs 44.00
Jenshenq-Biologica 1 Evans
-do-
when doctors have -forgotten to use generic Arogya Vardhini"
for
hepatitis but every one wants to use Liv-52 and similar branded
preparations. Everyday product,which are often spurious,adu1terated,
irrational
and
hazardous
varying
from
toffees,shampoos,vita 1isers to high alcohol products are dumped
into the market under ayurvedic garb. Getting an ayurvedic li
cence and affixing a herbal label is a sure passport to big
profits. Look at the way in which
"Genseng" products have become
top selling products. Ever though scientific studies point out
the serious health hazards of ginseng like "Ginseng Abuse Syn
drom"
(similar to corticosteroids poisoning) and questions have
been raised about the doubtful therapeutic value of ginseng, and
even after some countries like USA and Pakistan banned it, gin
seng has become one of the top seller in India. This is not
promotion of true Ayurveda.
Drug companies
like Dabur has an annual
turnover of Rs 200
crores,
growing at a tremendous pace of rise of 25’/. annually,
collects 807. of its turnover from just 24 products, including
toffees,hair oils,ect., which are non-essentials. A rational drug
policy for traditional systems of medicines, through and active
participation of health activists,professiona1s,soc1a 1 scien
tist s , consume rs and people working at grass root level,which will
look into the identification, development and production of those
medicines which truly meet the health needs of the people under
an essential drug list needed for primary health care and other
national health programmes is the need of the hour. There is an
urgent need to screen all the existing ayurvedic and other tradi
tional
system of medicine drugs available in the market and ban
such
irrational
and hazardous products. There must be strict
monitoring and curtailment of advertaisments that misguide the
entice people. Medicinal plants are becoming extinct and endan
gered due to irresponsible commercial exploitation and export.
This has to be cheked. In the end i will only say that ayurveda,
with all its 1imitations,is a good and has to be encouraged.
Its
commercial exploitation has to be checked and checked severely.
5
APPENDIX 4
USE OF AYURVEDIC MEDICINES FOR THE TREATMENT OF MINOR
AILMENTS
4.1
INTRODUCTION TO AYURVEDA
Ayurveda is a system of medicine which has been prevalent in this country since time imme
morial. Even now, knowingly or unknowingly, people in our villages follow the principles of
Ayurveda in their daily regimens, food and drink. Several of the rituals, social functions and cus
toms of most Indian communities are based on the Ayurvedic principles. When somebody falls
ill the old lady of the housealways makes an attempt to treat the patient with home remedies
available in the kitchen and with available herbs.
Most of these Ayurvedic medicines are prepared out of herbs. Minerals and animal products
are also used in Ayurveda. Before adding them to the medicine, minerals are processed several
times and made into a non-toxic absorbable form. Therefore, almost all Ayurvedic medicines
do not produce any injurious effect on the body even when they are used for a prolonged
period. Most of the Ayurvedic medicines work simultaneously as tonics. This is a unique feature
of Ayurvedic treatment.
Ayurveda places a great deal of emphasis on the correct diet, for example if a person is
suffering from a cold and cough, he should not take curds and other sour foods.
According to Ayurveda the functions of the organs of the body are interrelated. Therefore,
during treatment the patient is treated as a whole even though some emphasis is given on the treat
ment of the affected part. According to Ayurveda if either the body or the mind of the patient is
affected, the other will be affected sooner or later. Therefore, all the therapies used in Ayurveda
simultaneously act both on the body and the mind. The psychosomatic concept of disease is given
much emphasis while treating chronic cases. There is no contraindication to the use of allo
pathic drugs while the patient is under Ayurvedic treatment. For instance, if a patient has an
ulcer or abscess, along with triple-sulpha tablets given by mouth, the ulcer can be washed with
water boiled with ncem leaves.
For complete examination of the patient certain detailed techniques such as urine examina
tion and pulse examination are necessary. These require specialized knowledge and thorough
study by the practitioners of Ayurvedic medicine. The Ayurvedic medicines provided for the use
of the Health Workers are of a general nature and can be given without any specialized examina
tion. In case of acute or serious illness, the local Ayurvedic physician may be consulted.
4.2 LIST OF AYURVEDIC MEDICINES TO BE CARRIED BY THE HEALTH WORKERS
(MALE AND FEMALE)
A.
Asava Eye Drops and Taila
1.
2.
3.
B.
Mrigamadasava
Netra bindu
Nirgundi taila
C/iurnas and Anjana
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Dasahanga lepa
Isafagul Chilka
Jatiphaladi churna
Krishanjana
Pravala pishti
Triphala churna •
A—4.2
C.
MANUAL FOR HEALTH WORKER (FEMALE)
Malham
1. Gandhaka malham
2. Paradadi malham
3. Sudhakara malham
D.
Tablets
1. Arogyavardhini
2. Chandramsu rasa
3. Chandraprabha vali
4. Eladi gutika
5. Gandhakamishrana
6. Godantimishrana
7. Gorochanadi vati
8. Kamadudhamishrana
9. Karpura rasa
10. Kasturibhairava rasa
11. Kasturyadi vati
12. Khadiradi vati
13. Kutaja parpati
14. Lakshadi guggulu
15. Lasunadi vati
16. Maha shanka vati
17.
18.
19.
20.
21.
22.
23.
24.
25.
26.
27.
28.
29.
30.
31.
Mahayogaraja guggulu
Nagarjunabhra
Naradiya laxmivilasa
Navayasa lauha
Prabhakaramishrana
Punarnavamandura
Saptamrita lauha
Saptavimsatika guggulu
Sarivadi vati
Shringarabhra rasa
Simhanada guggulu
Shulavajrini
Sutashekharamishrana
Tribhuvanamishrana
Vangeshwara vati
4.3 GUIDE FOR THE USE AND ADMINISTRATION OF AYURVEDIC MEDICINES TO
ADULTS (15 YEARS AND OVER)
Sr.
No.
Condition
Name of medicine
Dose
Duration
1. CONDITIONS AFFECTING THE SKIN
1. Gandhakamalham
1.1 Itching :
2. Gandhakamishrana
1.2
Skin rashes :
To be applied ex
ternally. The affec
ted part should be
washed with water
boiled with neem
leaves before this
application.
1 tablet
twice
daily
1. Gandhaka malham
2. Gandhakamishrana
Remarks
—
To be applied ex
ternally. The affec
ted part should
be washed with
water boiled with
neem leaves before
this application.
1 tablet
twice
daily
APPENDIXES
Sr.
No
Name of medicine
Condition
Dose
Duration
1. Parodadi malham
1.3 Patches on
THE SKIN
2. Arogyavardhini
2 tablets
thrice
daily with
hot water
1. Sudhakara malham
1.4 Skjn
To be applied ex
ternally. Fomen
tation
of the
part with hot
water boiled with
neem leaves.
swellings :
(Boil, Abscess, etc.)
2. Saptavimsatika
guggulu
1.5
Ulcers :
1.6 Abrasions
Remarks
To be applied ex
ternally. The affec
ted part should
be washed with
water boiled with
neem leaves be
fore this applica
tion.
1 tablet
thrice
daily with
hot water
1. Paradadi malham
To be applied ex
ternally. Advised
to wash with
triphala
churna
mixed with hot
water.
*• -do—
—do—
AND WOUNDS :
1.7 Burns and
scalds :
1. Sudhakara malham
To be applied ex
ternally. Advised
to wash with
triphala
churna
mixed with hot
water.
1.8 Scorpion
sting :
1. Dasahanga lepa
For external appli
cation in
the
form of a paste
by mixing with
warm oil.
2.
CONDITIONS AFFECTING THE MUSCLES AND JOINTS
2.1
Pain in
joints :
1. Mahayogaraja
guggulu
2 tablets
thrice
daily with
warm water
Light fomentation
with hot water
mixed with salt to
be applied to the
joints.
A—4.4
MANUAL FOR HEALTH WORKER (FEMALE)
Sr.
No.
Name of medicine
Condition
2.2 Swelling of
joints :
2.3
Backache :
2.4 Sprains and
dislocations
2.5
Fractures :
Dose
Duration
Remarks
—do—
—do—
—do—
-do-
1. Simhanada guggulu
1 tablet
twice
daily
Fomentation with
hot water to be
applied to the
back.
1. Lakshadi guggulu
2 tablets
thrice
daily
Refer to Primary
Health Centre.
—do—
—do—
—do—
—do—
:
3. CONDITIONS AFFECTING THE RESPIRATORY SYSTEM
3.1
Sore throat :
3.2 Cough :
3.3
Pain in
chest :
3.4 Electric
Shock :
1. Shringarabhara
rasa
2 tablets
thrice
daily with
honey
1. Naradiya
laxmivilasa
2 tablets
2. Khadiradi
vati
1 tablet
thrice
daily with
honey
six times
per day
1. Prabhakaramishrana
2 tablets
thrice
daily with
water
2. Nagarjunabhra
3. Shulavajrini
—do—
—do—
thrice
daily with
warm water
I. Mrigamadasava
1 tea
spoonful
2. Kasturibhairava
rasa
at inter
vals of
one hour
for 6 doses
at intervals
1 tablet
of one hour
mixed
with honey for 6 doses
or water
4.
CONDITIONS AFFECTING THE CIRCULATORY SYSTEM
4.1
Shock :
1. Mrigamadasava
1 teaspoonful
at intervals
of one hour
for 6 doses
Gargle with salt
water or with
triphala
churna
mixed with hot
water.
To be kept in the
mouth and suck
ed.
Fomentation with
vasapatra to be
applied to the
chest.
This treatment is
carried out only in
mild cases.
A—4.5
APPENDIXES
Sr.
No.
Condition
Name of medicine
Dose
2. Kasturibhairava
rasa
1 tablet
mixed with
honey or
water
at intervals
of one hour
for 6 doses
1. Kamadudhamishrana
2 tablets
2. Pravala pishti
1 tablet
thrice
daily with
water
thrice
daily with
honey
4.3 Swollen legs :
1. Punarnavamandura
2 tablets
thrice
daily with
warm water
4.4 Anaemia :
1. Navayasa lauha
2 tablets
thrice
daily with
warm water
4.2 Haemorr
hage :
Duration
Remarks
Light fomentation
with salt water
to be applied.
5. CONDITIONS AFFECTING THE DIGESTIVE SYSTEM
5.1
Diarrhoea :
5.2 Vomiting :
5.3 Constipation :
1. Kutaja parpati
2 tablets
thrice
daily with
water
2. Jatiphaladi churna
1 tea
spoonful
3. Karpura rasa
1 tablet
thrice
daily with
buttermilk
twice daily
with water
1. Sutashekharamishrana
1 tablet
at intervals
of one hour
with water
2. Eladi gutika
—do—
—do—
1. Triphala churna
1 tea
spoonful
at bed
time with
warm water
2. Isafagul chilka
—do—
Milk, butter, oil,
fried foods are
prohibited. The
patient should be
given curd, rice,
and buttermilk.
The patient should
be given a little
quantity of di
luted nimbu juice
or pineapple juice
at intervals of
15 minutes.
The patient should
drink plenty of
warm water.
■- Z
A—4.6
MANUAL FOR HEALTH WORKER (FEMALE)
Sr.
Dose
Duration
Remarks
1. Lasunadi vati
2 tablets
four times
daily with
warm water
Two teaspoons
ginger juice or
one
teaspoon
garlic juice is
also to be given.
2. Maha shanka vati
—do—
—do—
No..
Condition
Name of medicine
5.4
Abdominal
Pain :
6.
CONDITIONS AFFECTING THE NERVOUS SYSTEM
6.1
Headache:
6.2 Concussion
1. Godantimishrana
1 tea
spoon
1. Kasturyadi vati
2 tablets
OF THE
BRAIN :
7.
CONDITIONS AFFECTING THE EYE
7.1
Sore eyes :
1. Netra bindu
Disturbances
1. Saptamrita lauha
7.2
Dry eyes :
1. Krishnanjana
7.4 Yellow eyes :
1. Arogyavardhini
7.5
1. Netra bindu
Eye Injury :
7.6 Stye :
—do—
■ thrice
daily with
honey
Refer to Primary
Health Centre.
To be dropped in
the eye thrice daily.
2 tablets
of vision :
7.3
thrice
daily with
warm water
twice
daily with
milk
Two
teaspoons
triphala
chuma
with milk is to
be given at bed
time.
For use as eye
drops.
2 tablets
thrice
daily with
warm water
Sugar cane juice
is to be given
twice daily after
meals.
To be dropped in
the eye thrice daily
Eye should not
be exposed to
light, dust and
smoke.
—do—
No.
Condition
Name of medicine
8.
CONDITIONS AFFECTING THE EAR
8.1
Earache :
8.2 Ear
Dose
1. Nirgundi tail?.
1. Sarivadi vati
2 tablets
discharge :
Duration
twice
daily
For ear drops. No
head bath to
be taken.
twice
daily with
water
No head bath to
be taken.
9.
CONDITIONS AFFECTING THE REPRODUCTIVE SYSTEM
9.1
Urethral
DISCHARGE .*
9.2 Sore on the
1. Vangeshwara vati
2 tablets
2. Chandraprabha vati
—do—
thrice
daily with
milk
—do—
1. Paradadi malhatn
For application
over the sore.
The affected part
should be washed
with water boiled
with neem leaves
before the appli
cation.
GENITALS :
9.3 Vaginal
1. Chandramsu rasa
2 tablets
BLEEDING :
2. Kamadudhamishrana —do—
10.
FEVERS
Remarks
I. Tribhuvanamishrana
1 tablet
2. Naradiya
laxmivilasa
3. Gorochanadi vati
1 tablet
1 tablet
thrice
daily with
water
—do—
four times
daily with
honey
thrice daily
with honey
four times
daily with
honey.
,
- 12-
AYURVCDA & SIDDHA
CENTRAL COUNCIL FOR RESEARCH IN AYURVEDA & SIDDHA
DEPARTMENT OF INDIAN SYSTEM OF MEDICINE & HOMOEOPATHY
MINISTRY OF HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE, (GOVT. OF INDIA)
NEW DELHI
psychiatry, (5) midwifery and pediatrics, (6) toxicology, (7)
AYURVEDA & SIDDHA
rejuvenation and tonics and (8) aphrodiasics. It is because of
Ayurveda
•
Ayurveda is not only a system of medicine but also repre
sents a way of healthy living. Ayurveda is formed by the
combination of two words viz., ‘Ayas' meaning life and 'Veda'
meaning knowledge of science. In effect, it means the "Sci
these eight branches that Ayurveda is known as the Astanga
- ayurveda.
•
semen and vital essence or Ojas (which incidentally, is known
ence of Life".
•
Ayurveda is a branch of the Vedas. The Rigveda and the
Atharveda are replete with information on various aspects of
medical science.
as the vital force in the naturopathic system of medicine).
•
Ayurveda believes in the theory of Tridosha : Vata, Pitta and
Kapha. Vata is a combination of two elements of the universe,
namely, air and ether, Pitta an amalgam of fire and earth and
Kapha the combination of ether and water. According to this
theory, the Tridoshas remain in a balanced state in the hu
man body and when this balance is disturbed it results in a
disease.
Ayurvedic practitioners take into consideration the body con
stitution of a patient before prescribing any medicine be
cause the medicine which suits a Vatiya constitution will not
help a patient having Shelshmic constitution.
True medicine, according to Ayurveda, is one which cures
disease without causing any side effect. It is in this aspect
that Ayurveda enjoys an advantage over the modern system
of medicine.
Health, according to Ayurveda, is the natural state of all the
three aspects of human being i.e. body, mind and the soul
(Indriyas, Manas and Atma). When the natural state comes in
contact with unhappiness (Dukhasamayoga) diseases result.
A regulated diet is prescribed alongwith the medicine. The
regimen of diet is as important as the remedies since the
former helps to restore the balance as much as the latter.
Ayurveda has eight distinct - branches (1) general medicine,
(2) surgery, (3) ear, nose, throat, eye and mouth diseases, (4)
Ayurveda pays attention to the state of the digestion. The
condition of the gastric juicds tells the physician about the
state of the patient. Attention is also paid to the condition of
The universe, according to ancient Indian thinking, is com
posed of five basic elements, the Panca Mahabhootas, namely
: Prithvi (earth), Apya (water), Teja (fire), Vayu (air) and Aka^
(ether). As the human body is similarly constituted, there is a
fundamental harmony between universe and man, a healthy
balance between the microcosm and the macrocosm.
Practitioners of Ayurveda are keen observers. They also study
the state of the body fluids, blood, flesh, fat, bone marrow,
various channels (Srotas) because Srotarodha (blockade of
the channels) gives rise to disease.
•
It is only when a detailed diagnosis has been made that the
Ayurvedic practitioner ventures to start the treatment. And
when the diagnosis is correct, the remedy would invariably be
effective.
Siddha
o
Siddha medicine, which dates back to around 2000 B.C., origi
nated in Southern India The word Siddha is derived from
“Siddha” meaning “an object to be attained”, “perfection" or
“heavenly bloss”.
0
According to Siddha system, the human body is composed of
96 Tatwas, 72000 blood vessels and 1300 nerves. Besides
these there are 10 Nadi (main arteries), 10 Vayu (vital pranas)
and 14 Vegangal (natural functions). All of them play important roles in different functions of the body.
•
The Siddha medicine also recognises the role of three humours,
called Mukkuthram (Vatham, Pittam and Kapam). These
humours remain in a balanced state in normal healthy person
and disturbance in their equilibrium leads to ill health.
•
The diagonsis is done by the Siddha physician on the basis
of Mukkuthram and Ennvagal Theru (eight entities) i.e. Nadi
(pulse), Na (tongue), Nirma (colour), Moozhi (voice), Kan (eyes),
Sparsham (touch),. Malam (faeces) and Muthiram (urine).
•
The treatment is mainly directed towards restoration of equi
librium of the three humours (Vatham, Pittam and Kapam)
and for the purpose one or more of the following cleansing
procedures are adopted.
I
(a) Vanthi (vomitting), (b) Bedhi (purgation), (c) Peccu (en-
I
ema) and (d) Nasyam (nasal drops). After above procedures,
and Pancakarma techniques in para/hemiplegia, have been
successfully demonstrated.
the patient becomes suitable for receiving drugs for the treat
Health care research studies being carried out by the Council
ment.
•
include service oriented Survey and Surveillance Research
For Vatharogagal (neuro-muscular disorders) a specialized
Programme, Community Health Care Research Programme
and Tribal Health Care Research Programme.
treatment called Tokkanam is applied which is similar to
Pancakarma therapy of Ayurveda. In this treatment, Siddha
physician makes use of 12 types of medicated oils and five
methods of application.
•
;
J
of arteries and veins, nerves, joints etc. and are called
Varmanilaigal. For the purpose of treatment, Siddha phy^
-I
Activities and Achievements of CCRAS
•
•
Medico botanical survey mainly includes identification, collec
tion and supply of medicinal plants besides locating the zones
of the distribution of particular drugs. So far, 400 forest areas
have been explored and more that one lakh twenty thousand
an apex body for the formation, coordination, development
and promotion of research on scientific lines in Ayurveda and
Siddha.
plant specimens representing a large number of different fami
lies, genera and species have been collected. About 3000
Research activities of the Council include Clinical and Funda
drug samples of plant, mineral and animal origins have been
collected. Information on 3,800 folklores have also been col
lected and a monograph covering about 2,900 folklores has
been compiled.
programme.
The Council has initiated steps for developing medicinal plants
The Council is also financing a number of research units lo
gardens/farms at Jhansi (U.P.). Mangaiiawas (Rajasthan), Pune
cated in various institutions of Ayurveda, Siddha and allied
sciences. The emphasis is on finding effective and low
(Maharastra), Itanagar (Arunachal Pradesh) and Ranikhet (U.P)
for experimental as well as small scale cultivation of medicinal
remedies for various disease.
plants.
The research activities of the Council, for the past three de
The Pharmacognostical investigations on about 175 important
cades, have resulted in the evolution of drugs/formulations
like Ayush-64 for malaria, Ayush-56 for epilepsy, Ayush-82
Ayurvedic medicinal plant/drugs mentioned in Ayurvedic For
mulary Part-I and 11 Siddha drugs have been completed so
for diabetes mellitus, 777 oil for psoriasis, Pippalyadi yoga as
far.
an oral contraceptive and about 18 patents on processes
developed in the Council’s laboratories, which are poised for
commercial exploitation.
•
About 500 villages and 155 tribal pockets consisting of a total
population of more than 7.5 lakhs have been covered so far.
Incidental medical aid has been extended to more than 3.0
lakh patients including patients from neighbouring villages/
tribal pockets.
The Central Council for Research in Ayurveda and Siddha is
mental Research, Drug Research, Literary Research, Family
Welfare Research and Child Survival and Surveillance of Mother
•
living and the therapeutic usefulness of the herbs available.
Siddha texts like 'Varma Kannadi1 and 'Varma Suthiram' have
described 108 vital points which are located on vital junctions
cians gives pressure by specialized technique on these points
to cure ailments.
•
Under these programmes the physicians also try to the edu
cate the rural/tribal folk about the ways and means of healthy
In addition to this, other drugs like- Guggulu for Medoroga,
Mandookaparni for mental retardation, Katuki for liver disor
ders and treatment procedures like Ksarasutra in piles, fis
tula-in ano, fissure, Amasaya Shodhan in peptic disorders
Chemical studies of 290 drugs used in the Ayurvedic and
Siddha systems of medicine have been carried out. A mono
graph entitled “Phytochemical Investigation of Medicinal Plants
used in Ayurveda” covering 205 drugs has been published.
So far. more than 3-10 drugs used in Ayurveda and Siddha
including single drugs, compound formulations and coded drugs
'have been investigated in-vivo and vitro experimental models
for routine pharmacological screening as well as for specific
Clinical screening and pharmacological studies of the oral
effects. A monograph entitled "Pharmacological Investigations
of certain Ayurvedic and Siddha plants" covering 246 drugs
contraceptive agents are being carried out under Family Welfare
Research Programme. So far 12 recipes at clinical level and
about 25 drugs through pharmacological studies have been
has been published.
attempted.
Physico-chemical values/data for about 500 single drugs and
detailed standardization values for about 50 formulations and
rapid analytical values for about 675 formulations of Volume
I and II of Ayurvedic Formulary of Government of India, Rural
Health Scheme Kit Medicine and the medicines included in
WHO medicare programme have been laid down.
The Council has obtained 18 patents for the process/preparations arising out of the research studies.
Some of The Selected Clinical Disorders and Their Treatment
in Ayurveda and Siddha are as under :
Ayurveda
The Council is maintaining a Musk Deer Breeding Farm at
Maharuri where musk deer is kept in captivity. At present
there are 21 animals.
W
Efforts have also been made to translate/scrutinise, edit, pub
lish and get the old and rare literatures microfilmed, collection
of references on drugs and diseases by preparing bibliographi
cal journals.
Diseases
Single
Simple
Formulations!
•
Herbal Drugs
combinations
Procedures
Rheumatoid
-Yastimadhu
- Sunthi-Guduci,
arthritis
- Bhallataka
—Sunthi-Guggulu,
-Maha Rasnadi
-Nirgundi-Guggulu
-Kwatha and
-Satavari-Yoga
—Avipattikara-Curna,
Coded
Drugs/lsolates
-Yogaraja Guggulu
-Balukasveda
Hyperacidity
—Satavari
-Suta Sekhara Rasa
—Amalaki
The clinical therapeutic trials in Siddha medicines have dem
onstrated efficacy of Thambirachendooram in Vali Gunman
(Peptic ulcer); Keezhaneili and Karisalal in Manjal Kamalal
(Infective hepatitis); Pediga linga thuvar and Amaioduparpam
in Kazhichal (Dysenteric disorders); Annabedi chendooram in
Veluppunoi (Anaemia), 777 oil in Kalanjaga padai (Psoriasis);
Sivanaramirtham, Akasakarudan Kishanuga Churnam, in
Karappan (Skin disorders); RGXA/K2/SKX etc. in Putrunoi (Can
cer). Other studies such as Koiyya/Avarai in Neerazhivu (Dia
betes mellitus); Panchondhisudar Thailam in Kakkai Valipra
(Epilepsy); Gowri Chintamani and Linga Chenduram in Sa®
Peptic ulcer
-Satavari
-Pippali-Haritaki
-Suta Sekhara Rasa
-Amalaki
-Satavari Yoga
-Snehanawith
-Mahatiktak Ghrta,
-Indukanta Ghrta
-Amasaya Sodhana,
Varuna, Apamarga
-Swasa Kesari
■Swasa Kuthara Rasa,
Bronchial
-Haridra
asthma
-Sirisa
-Naradiya Lakshmi-
-Kantakari
vilasa Rasa
Talisadi Curna
d||betes mellitus
-Bimbi
Ayush-82
-Dhatri Nisa
CRIA-8
-Bilva
dhi Vata Soolai (Rheumatoid arthritis) have also been con
ducted.
-Mamajjaka
Heart disease
Literary research in Siddha include publication of 10 books
collection of 318 cudjan leaves and 23 old books.
The Council has published about 50 books/monographs and •
proceedings. It is also publishing quarterly "Journal of Re
search in Ayurveda and Siddha" and “Bulletin of EthnomedicoBotanical Research" besides a half yearly “Bulletin of Indian
Institute of History of Medicine." The Council is also publish
ing monthly/bimonthly News Letter to apprise the scientific
community with the activities of the Council.
Nimbatiktam
-Karavira
-Puskara-Guggulu
-
-Puskaramula
Dysurea
-Varuna
Urinary calculi
-Varuna
Filariasis
-Trinapancamula
- Kulatha
Kvatha
-Goksuru
-Candra Prabhavati
-Sakhotaka
-Nityananda Rasa
-Sundarsana
Ghanavati
-Punarnavarista
Mental
-Mandukaparni
retardation
-Brahmi
-Ayush-64
-12-
MRVCDA & SIDDHA
CENTRAL COUNCIL FOR RESEARCH IN AYURVEDA & SIDDHA
DEPARTMENT OF INDIAN SYSTEM OF MEDICINE & HOMOEOPATHY
MINISTRY OF HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE, (GOVT. OF INDIA)
NEW DELHI
o Availability of unbiased drug information...
o Adequate quality control and drug control...
o Drug legislation reform...
Introduction
This is a special Drug Action Network Newsletter
number - in view of the National Drug Policy being round
the corner and in view of several new Drug Action Networkers
wanting to be updated about the activities.
Obituary
Dr. Olle Hansson
Drug Action initiatives are increasing, they are
autonomous, taken up by individuals and groups who feel the
strong need to respond to the deteriorating drug scene.
The ever increasing and often unecessary chemicalization
of body and the environment is becoming a health hazard in itself.
The increasing drug shortages and the continued
sales of irrational drugs cannot and should not be tolerated
in a country with a fairly well developed drug industry.
The drug scene cannot be improved in isolation, changes
in the health, economic and political scene have to tak-e place.
A section on Pesticide has been added in the news
letter since several pharmaceutical companies are also
involved in the pesticide business, and since several All
India Drug Action Network (AIDAN) members are involved in
pesticide action.
India has championed the cause of the New Economic
Order, and has been a signatory to the Alma Ata Charter, which
commits it to ensuring a rational drug policy for its people.
VHAI AND AIDAN stand committed to making efforts towards a
new Pharmaceutical Order, as part of our efforts in ensuring
social justice (at least in health care).
VHAI's dear friend and courageous health campaigner, who
fought for over 3 decades for a New Pharmaceutical Order
and for the patients' right to unbiased information,
passed away on 23.5.85 in Stockholm.
This issue is a team effort of
Dr. Olle Hansson after his testimony in the Tokyo District
Court in 1976, where he fought on behalf of several thousand
*
SMON
victims for compensation, had commented on this
preventable drug induced suffering - in the following words:
Taposh Ranjan Roy, jPadam Khanna,
Gloria David, John Bhatia and
Dr. Mira Shiva
Coordinator
Low Cost Drugs & Rational
Therapeutics;
and
Convenor
AH’ India Drug Action Network
C-14, COMMUNITY CENTRE,
SAFDARJUNG DEVELOPMENT AREA
NEW DELHI-110016 INDIA
"From humanitarian point of view it is a tragedy.
From the medical point of view it is a scandal.
From the moral point of view it is shameful."
These words pertain to all needless drug induced suffering
even today.
*(subacute myelo optic neuropathy is the syndrome of blindness,
crippling and pain in the limbs caused by clioquinols (i.e.
mexaform like drugs) which affected over 11,000 Japanese.
ALL INDIA DRUG ACTION NETWORK MEETINGS - An Update
- formalization of AIDAN's Rational Drug Policy statement
- Discussion on : NETEN (Injectable contraceptive)
(1)
30 - 31st August, 1984, Wardha, focussed on three main
areas:
Patent Act & Paris Convention
Impact of liberalization
AIDAN's (All India Drug Action Network) stand on the
Rational Drug Policy.
EP Drugs
AIDAN's organizational structure.
Bhopal etc.
Identification of priority areas of work.
A.
Propagation of the concept of Essential Drugs and the
need to draw the graded essential drug list was seen as
the top priority.
B.
Voluntary boycott of hazardous, irrational drugs by
member institutions would be initiated side by side.
antidiarrheols sp. lomotil for children chloramphenicol
combinations e.g. chloramphenicol+streptomycin.
over the counter drugs (OTC) mainly haemetenics, tonics,
painkillers sp. Oxyphenbutazone.
An effort to keep all the networkers informed about the
drug education material being produced by different groups
would be made, to avoid duplication of efforts and to ensure
support towards each others’ efforts.
Organizational Structure
All India Drug Action Network (AIDAN) would continue to
function,, as a loose informal network of groups and
individuals, concerned and active in health and drug issues.
AIDAN's Coordinating Committee would constitute of
organizations deeply involved in this work for some
time and these are:
combination of steroids including anabolic steroids.
high dose EP drugs.
(Estrogen Progesteron combination)
would be given special attention.
Efforts to evolve alternative channels of unbiased drug
and health information was seen as the 3rd priority.
Seriousness of the existing:
- shortages of drugs e.g. Anti-T.B., Anti-Leperosy
& Vitamin 'A' etc. needed to be documented and
highlighted.
(2)
31st January 1985: Bangalore - The All India Drug Action
Network meeting focussed on obtaining consensus on AIDAN's
Rational Drug Policy statement.
-discussed the need for production of Banned&bannable drug
list
- Role of AIDAN members in Bhopal issue.
For details contact:
(3)
Coordinator, AIDAN, VHAI.
18th, 19th, 20th August, 1985 - All India Drug Action Network
Coordinating Committee met in VHAI (Voluntary Health
Association of India), Delhi.
The agenda was to review the changes regarding:
- drug policy situation
(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
(5)
(6)
(7)
(8)
(9)
(10)
(11)
Arogya Dakshata Mandal, Pune
Catholic Hospital Association of India, Delhi
Consumer Education & Research Centre, Ahmedabad
Consumer Guidance Society of India, Bombay
Drug Action Forum West Bengal, Calcutta
Delhi Science Forum, Delhi
Kerala Sastra Sahitya Parishad, Kerala
Locost, Baroda
Lok Vigyan Sangathana
Medico Friends Circle, Pune
Voluntary Health Association of India, Delhi.
Dr. Mira Shiva was asked to function as the formal
Coordinator as she had been doing the defacto
coordination for the past fexv years.
The five main demands for a Rational Drug Policy identified
by AIDAN and its individual members were:
Ensuring of:
*
availability of essential and life saving drugs (i.e.
production and streamlined distribution) to tne
peripheral areas.
*
withdrawal of hazardous and irrational drugs.
*
availability of unbiased drug information to health
personnel and consumers.
(This would include updating of our National Drug
1
Formulary which has not been done since 1977 and
provision of therapeutic guidelines as in British National
Formulary.
Provision of Consumer Caution in regional
languages - for problem drugs).
*
Indian Academy of Paediatrics Leads the Way
In Self Reliance
Adequate Quality Control and Drug Control
AIAP held its annual conference recently in
Trivandrum. Like last time it managed to
meet the hospitality expenses with the registra
tion fees of the participants.
It was able
to maintain the academic standard and the
quality of the annual convention.
It has
proved that annual conventions can be held
without the assistance and sponsorship from
the pharmaceutical industry. AIDAN and its
coordinator appreciate and welcome this.
Let
this courageous and pioneering effort inspire
and influence other professional and
academic bodies.
(so that every 5th drug in the market is not
substandard as it is at present according to
Government’s own figures, and an improvement in
the existing drug control mechanism has to be
ensured.)
*
Drug legislation reforms need to prevent drug
companies from misusing legalistic loopholes
against the people.
DOUBLE
STANDARDS
Congratulations to the All India Association
of Paediatrics!
In Expressing
Concern About
the National
Drug Policy
Indian Academy of Paediatrics organized
a workshop on "Protection of the Child
Consumer" at Gorakhpur.
15th - 17th September.
Discussions on Rational Drug use and Rational
Drug Policy formed important aspect of the
meeting.
Dr. Andrew Herxheimer of Health Action
International (HAI).
Dr. Rane of Arogya
Dakshata Mandal, Dr. Mira Shiva of Voluntary
Health Association of India (VHAI) contributed.
Dr. Raj Anand of ACASH and Dr. Pawan Surekha of
G.S.I.
C.
and both of them also of IAP helped in
organizing.
Dr. Mathur coordinated the workshop.
information contact :
’ ’For the growing child who lacks appetite, for the growing child whu
underweight.
[Merck, Sharp and Dohme’s claim for cyproheptadine (PERIACTIN), sold as ar,
appetite stimulant in Pakistan and other developing countries. ] ■
PERIACTIN has not been promoted as an appetite stimulant in the US since 1971
because the US Food and Drug Administration considers that there is inadequate
information to support this claim.
Dr. G.P. Mathur,
Prof. & Head of the Dept, of Pediatrics
B R D Medical College, Gorakhpur-273013.
NATIONAL MEETING ON DIARRHEAL DISEASES CONTROL PROGRAMME
ON 17-18 DECEMBER 1984, WHO, NEW DELHI
A two day national meeting was held at the Health Ministry
to obtain the views of the representatives of various
organisations and to draw up an action plan.
VHAI STRONGLY RECOMMENDED THE FOLLOWING
screening of the antidiarrheals in the market.
2
For more
withdrawal of irrational antidiarrheals
consumer caution and consumer information in
regional languages.
easy availability of low cost ORS packets to
complement the home made ORS.
inclusion of need based health education in the
school curriculum eg. home management of
diarrhoea.
involvement of other mass organisations eg. peoples
science movements, environment action groups, non-formal
education etc.
Mrs. Sarla Grewal, Secretary to the Health Ministry in
her introductory words expressed the need to involve
the non-health sector in the national health activities.
She stressed the need for a consultative body to look into
the problems of NGO's.
"We are partaker,s in the health work". We should work
hand in hand. We shall together think, discuss, plan and
evolve a new way of working.
Dr. Muttalik from WHO stated that governments have come
to a conclusion all over the world that the helping hand
of the NGO's is not merely a necessity but an indispensable
one.
VHAI was invited to this to present its view.
Many
of the participants shared their views, problems, needs and
suggestions.
Some of them are given below:-
ensuring water supply.
(1)
Involving NGO's in areas of a) health education
b) Monitoring and evaluation of health activities
c) Research and pilot studies d) Self help promotion.
(2)
Making available Vaccines free of charge and
minimal service charges be allowed.
(3)
Coordination between health, labour and social
welfare ministries.
(4)
Setting up of loans and grants to NGO's.
(5)
Production of essential drugs and making them
easily available all over tne country.
(6)
Introducing health insurance scheme.
(7)
Integrating health education with.agriculture
and adult education.
(8)
Updating the family folders with health information.
(9)
Selection of community health workers in
consultation with local NGO's.
(10)
Giving credibility and respectability to the NGO's.
curtailment of development and agricultural policies
that interfere with the availability of water, or lead
to the contamination and pollution of water.
Some Meetings of Importance
NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF SCIENCE TECHNOLOGY AND DEVELOPMENT
SCIENCE (NJSTADS)
NISTADS held a two day workshop on "Research and development
in the production of essential drugs" at Gurgaon on 29-30th
October, 84. The workshop was inaugurated by Mr. Vasant
Sathe, Minister for Chemicals and Fertilizers.
Dr. Gathoskar,
Drug Controller of India, Mr. Das Gupta, Deputy Drug
Controller, representatives of various drug companies,
Planning Commission, BICP and CSIR were present.
Dr. D. Banerjee-JNU, Dr. Narendra Mehrotra-NISTADS,
Mr. Srinivasan-LOCOST, Dr. Mira Shiva-VHAI were in
different panels, namely Research and Development on
the concept of essential drugs, Research and Development
on the production and availability of essential drugs.
For a detailed report contact:
O
o
Mr. Narendra Mehrotra,
NISTADS,
Hillside Road,
New Delhi-110 012.
o
MEETING OF NGOs WITH THE HEALTH MINISTRY
AT VIGYAN BHAWAN, NEW DELHI
25TH FEBRUARY, 1985.
A SPIRIT OF PARTNERSHIP WAS REAFFIRMED
Over 40 Non-Governmental organisations from all over
India especially those involved in health and development
programmes participated in this one day meeting.
o
o
o
NGQ - Government collaboration
The Executive Director of VHAI, Dr. James Tong, was invited to
be part of the working group on "Scope & Role of Non-Govt.
organizations in implementation of national strategies for
achievement of the objective of Health for all by 2000 AD as
a drafting Committee Member,
he
represented VHAI in
preparing the NGO & Govt, collaboration report for the World
Health Assembly 1985.
0
O
O
3
Meetings With Policy Makers
Meeting with Mr. Veerendra Patil, Minister for Chemicals
on 21.9.19ST
The Coordinator of All India Drug Action Network (AIDAN)
met Mr. Veerendra Patil, Minister for Chemicals and
Fertilizers on 21st September, 1985.
The minister stated
very clearly that his Ministry was looking at the drug
pricing and production only in the New Drug Policy,
and all questions raised by us were pertaining to Health
Ministry.
The coordination role of Chemicals Ministry in ensuring a
rational, comprehensive people oriented drug policy was
pointed out.
Need for a joint meeting between the Health
Ministry, Chemicals Ministry and the Health & Consumer
Groups involved with the drug issues was recognised by the
Minister.
For details, contact the Coordinator (VHAI).
Network News
Arogya Dakshata Man da] , Pune
A.D.M. has been very active in keeping the issue of
Rational Drug Policy alive in Maharashtra.
Pune Journal of Continuing Medical Education has been
covering several important health and drug issues.
Dr. Patwardhan in his internal communication to All
India Drug Action Network (AIDAN) members had informed
us of some pertinent questions raised by him during
his meeting with Dr. Timmer who on behalf of Hoechst
was on a tour to convince the health personnel here
of the alleged safety of analgin.
Dr. B.C. Mehta of Bombay has recently reported deaths
due to Baralgan which little known to several doctors
contains analgin.
Meeting with Mr. Jaichandra Singh, the new Minister for
Chemicals'on 4.11,1985:
A meeting with Dr. Jaichandra Singh, Chemicals Minister
and Dr. Mira Shiva alongwith Mrs. Purabi Pandey, Head of
the Government Liaison Section in Voluntary Health
Association of India was held on 4.11.1985.
Our main concerns about the drug policy were shared and the
figures of decreasing Vit. 'A' production provided.
Mr. Jaichandra Singh stated that his Ministry would welcome
comments and views regarding the new drug policy. What we
found shocking was the failure of the Health Ministry to ,
submit any document with regard to the New Drug Policy from
the health point of view.
Whether or not the Health Ministry
was asked to do so is not known.
Non-governmental
organisations have felt the responsibility of attempting to
ensure a Rational Drug Policy on their own.
The Health
Ministry cannot be absolved of its responsibility,and the
formulation of the National Drug Policy must consider the
views of all those involved with the drug policy issues like
Academic Bodies Non-governmental Organisations, World Health
Organization etc. etc.
Food first, never
anabolic steroids
Some are born'ill, some acquire illness and some have illness thrust
upon them. In the last group are some undernourished children of
the Third World who have suffered the side-effects of anabolic
steroids. Promoted as an answer for malnutrition and underweight
in children, these male hormone drugs produce grotesque
side^effedts like irreversible sex changes in girls and atrophy of the
testicles in boys.
For details contact: Dr. W.V. Rane
Arogya Dakshata Mandal
2115 Sadashiv Peth
Pune.
Catholic Hospital Association of India, Delhi
had for its annual convention last year the theme
"Towards a people Oriented Drug Policy".
This
was followed up at this year's convention with
a 1% day workshop on the same theme in Lucknow.
CHAI's monthly medical service last year dealt
with drugs in its Oct-Nov'84 Special Convention
issue and this year a special issue on
'A People on Drug Policy' has been brought out
in Oct-Nov'85 issue.
Rationalization in selection and prescription of
drugs is already beginning in several
health
institutes linked with CHAI.
We look forward to
their production of a book on home remedies for
trivial health problems.
Contact : Fr. John Vattamattom
CHAI
1, Ashok Road,
CBCI Centre,
NEW DELHI - 110 001.
Consumer Guidance Society of India,
(C.G.S.I) Bombay.
C.
G.S.I.
studied the Bombay market for continued
availability of banned drugs as their contribution
J
C.G.S.I. has brought out two educational pamphlets
on 'diarrhoea care' and breast feeding.
C.G.S.I.
Hutment J,
Mahapalika Marg,
BOMBAY - 400 001.
Consumer Education Research Centre, Ahmedabad
organized in Delhi along with two other organizations
a seminar on Patents and Trade Monopolies.
CERC has
also just released its booklet 'INADEQUATE INFORMATION'
on OTC Analgesic Drugs by Kishore Jain and Pramod
Kulkami, 1983.
For details contact: Manubhai Shah
CERC
3 Suleman Chambers
4 Battery Street
BOMBAY - 400 039.
has been very active in Bhopal medical work.
Several
meetings and seminars with local groups have been
organized.DAFWB's Bengali booklet
has been
translated into Hindi and Posters on the same theme
*
i.e.
"Drugs for the People or People for the Drugs"
is available for Re.l/-.
Dr. P.K. Sarkar's weekly
contribution to Telegraph on drugs (every Saturday)
is very helpful to the lay public and even health
personnel.
Contact : Dr. Sujit K. Das
FC Block, Flat No.S/3/5
Sector III, Salt Lake
CALCUTTA - 700 064
WEST BENGAL.
□ Annual Subicrlption
( Four is
*ue»)
Voluntary Health Association of India (VHAI) and the
entire All India Drug Action Network (AIDAN) expresses
anguish at such underhand efforts at trying to silence
the health & drug activists - who believe in peoples
right to information and work towards it.
Networkers are requested to respond appropriately to this
matter and write to :
Drug Action Forum, West Bengal
If you are interested to
subscribe to DAFWE’s journal,
then please send your subsc
ription by Dank Draft or Money
Order in the n -me of DRUG /ACTION
FORUM# WEST BENGAL. Please don’t
forget to write your name and
postal address in the communica
tion coupon (at the lower end)
of the N.O. form.
Dr. Sarkar's writings in the lay press have not been
appreciated by those interested in 'peoples continued
ignorance'.
The President of the West Bengal Drug
Producers Guild has indulged in character assassination
of Dr. Pijus Sarkar of Drug Action Forum W.B. (which is a
coordinating committee member of AIDAN).
He has been
falsely accused of "taking heavy bribes from a number
of Pharmaceutical Concerns outside West Bengal. This
has been done in a memorandum to Chief Minister of West
Bengal (Ref. No. BDPG/PR/763/85-86; dated 1.11.1985,
Sub: Protection to growing drug industries in West Bengal).
: R«. 12.00
□ Communication Addreti
Dr. P. K. Sarkar
Journal Office
Drug Action Forum, W.B.
254, Block-B
Lake Town
Calcutta: 700 089
Ph : 57 48 78
Mr. N.K.
Sarkar,
President
West Bengal Drug Producers Guild
P-3, India Exchange Place
Calcutta - 700 001.
*
**
&
Shri Jyoti Basu
Hon'ble Chief Minister
West Bengal
Writers' Buildings
Calcutta - 700 001.
*
Alakaloid Research Laboratories Ex-Employees'
Co-operative Industrial Society Limited, Calcutta,
The 1st workers Co-operative Drug factory has finalised its
list of products to be manufactured according to the 'List
of Essential Drugs' of WHO.
It will manufacture in four
sections injectables, tablets,oral liquids and capsules.
The co-operative will also produce oral rehydrant salts.
It has a plan to manufacture 0RS tablets without glucose.
Each tablet can dissolve in 200 ml of water (a glass)
and sugar or molasses (gur) has to be added.
This tablet
will be much cheaper than the pouch of rackets available in
the market. The co-operative invites suggestions/opinions
in respect of rationality of such tablets.
The Co-operative hopes to start its manufacturing from
January, 1986.
Contact:
Amitava Guha
Alkaloid Research Laboratories
Ex-Employees' Co-operative
Industrial Society Limited
Behala Industrial Estate
Block No.Ill 620,
Diamond Harbour Road,
Calcutta-700034.
5
Kerala
Sastra
Sahitya
Parishad
(K S S P)
KSSP organized its annual jatha last year, where
some of the plays focussed on the drugs issue, role
of multinationals, and Bhopal.
The plays done in the
style of street theatre, very powerfully communicated
their message to the masses as the troupe travelled
from village to village - as part of the People Science
Movement.
*
Medico Friends Circle, H.Q. Bangalore
has been involved in Bhopal health impact study the
report of which has just been released.
The Bhopal Disaster Aftermath : an epidemological and
socio medical survey.
The Book is available from Dr. Ravi Narayana
326-V Main 1, Block
Koramangala,
Bangalore - 560 034.
Analytic studies of the anti-diarrhoeals and analgesics
sold in the market are available at Rs. 5/- each from:
Dr. Anant Phadke
50 LIC Quarters,
Pune (Maharashtra)
SCIENCE FOR SOCIAL REVOLUTION
KSSP was also involved in raising public awareness about
the Bhopal issue.
Results of the Pregnancy impact study of Bhopal gas
tragedy undertaken by MFC alongwith Kishore Bharti
and Eklavya will be out soon.
For information on this
contact:
Dr. C. Sathyamala
C-152, DDA Flats,
The annual Jatha this year has just started 7th Nov - 7th Dec. 1985.
New Delhi - 110 017.
LOCOST (Lowcost Standard Therapeutics)
LOCOST is ensuring provision of quality, reasonably priced
essential drugs under generic names.
LOCOST
*s
services to the members included provision of
drug information, prescription auditing and help in getting
drugs checked for quality control.
For price list & further information contact:
LocosT
G.VHA, Gujarat - On 1st, 2nd Dec'84 last year organized
a meeting on ’"Rational Drug Use' .
A one month training programme on Rational Therapeutics
has recently been completed.
Lok Vigyan Sangathna, Bombay
G. VHA is extending its full support to Locost.
focussed on "Over the Counter Drugs" in.its 2 week Jatha
last year in Maharashtra.
Street plays, discussions and
mobile exhibitions were organized.
Kerala - Organized a meeting on."Rational Therapeutics,
Low Cost - Cost Effective Health Care".
For details contact :
6
Srinivasan
Coordinator LOCOST
GPO Post Box 40134
Vadodara 390001
GUJARAT
INDIA >
State VHA1s
A.P. - VHA, Hyderabad - Following the A.P. Voluntary
Health Association Annual Convention General Body Meeting
on ’misuse of drugs' to which the Health Secretary and
State Drug Controller had been invited a DAF A.P. was
formed.
Between 16 - 20th November’84 a five day
"Rational Drug Therapy Workshop" was organized.
Padma Prakash
11 June Blossom Society
60-A Pali Road, Bandra,
Bombay - 400 050.
0.VHA, Orissa - On 2nd, 3rd October*85 organized a workshop
on ’Rational Drug Use
*
at the end of which Orissa Drug Action
forum was launched. Dr. Santra, Secretary 0. VHA was elected
the Chairman.
WB, VHA CENTRAL DRUG PURCHASE UNIT IS NOW CALLED
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT MEDICINAL UNIT, INDIA
It has been involved in trying to build alternative drug
distribution channels for voluntary health institutions
so as to provide quality, essential and generic drugs
at reasonable price - through a bulk purchase initiative
since 1984.
The price list, and their new publication on drugs in
Bengali available from:
D.P. Poddar
8 Rawdon Street
Calcutta - 700017
West Bengal
*
"Preparation of drug education material for
the patients" - Delhi Oct '85.
Dag Hammarskjald Foundation invited Mira Shiva for a
discussion meeting on "Another Development of Pharmaceutical"
in April '85 to contribute a paper on Rational Drug use.
A special issue of Development Dialogue on "Another
Development of Pharmaceuticals" will be shortly available
from the Dag Hammarskjald:
SVEN HAMRELL
DAG HAMMARSKJALD FOUNDATION
DAG HAMMARSKJALD CENTRE
OVRE SLOTTSGATAN 2, S-752
20 UPPASALA
SWEDEN
Delhi Science Forum
Investigated the cause of leak in Bhopal, the health
impact etc. and brought out one of the earliest
scientific reports "Bhopal Gas Tragedy" - cost Rs.3/-.
DSF has been involved in a rehabilitation study and
has put together a pictorial exhibition on Bhopal.
*
As a part of Joint VHAI-CHAI training program on Health
Care training in Jabalpur,
Catriona Robertson dealt with
Rational Drug use.
Dr. Mira Shiva was invited to the WHO's informal meeting on:
VHAI (Voluntary Health Association of India)
VHAI’s main role has been monitoring the changes in
the Drug Policy keeping the network informed and in
dialoguing with policy makers and parliamentarians
about the Rational Drug Policy.
Organizing Public Meetings
A public talk by Dr. Andrew Herxheimer, Editor Drugs &
Therapeutics Bulletin, HAI Campaigner and WHO Consultant
on Essential drugs, in Vishva Yuvak Kendra on 12th Sept.
was organized by Voluntary Health Association of India.
A press conference, exhibition of drug education material,
video recording of his interview by Praful Bidwai was
also arranged. The video recording was done by Sanjay
Acharya and after editing will be available for networkers
wanting to use it.
Building and Strengthening the Drug Action Network (DAN)
LCD & RT team helped the Orissa VHA in conducting its
1st "People Drugs Workshop" initiate the formation of
Orissa Drug Forum in Puri.
o
Preparation of Drug Education Material
Drug Action Alerts - On Oxyphenbutazone
- On UN consolidated list - Hatch Bill
- New Drug Policy.
Obituary, on passing away of a Health Campaigner, a friend
of the third world Dr. Olle Hansson.
Handouts prepared - Drug needs of a national priority TB
-
Hatch Bill
Patent Act and the Paris Convention
Banned and Bannable Drug List
VHAI's Health Action Series II
Gloria David of the LCD team helped in HAI's international
EP drug marketing study, lOCU's tobacco marketing study,
IOCU's international anabolic steroid.
Taposh Roy & Mira Shiva helped in the Health impact study
of Bhopal gas tragedy.
Mira Shiva on behalf of VHAI contributed to the Indian
Academy of Paediatrics and highlighted the issue of Vitamin
'A'shortages and iodized salt was brought out at the
workshop on protecting the child consumer" in Gorakhpur,
U.P. in mid August.
Helped CHAI in planning and participate in CHAI's workshop
on "People Oriented Rational Drug Policy" and spoke on
Rational Drug Policy and Primary Health Care.
7
6)
Diarrhoea Campaign
1)
Journal - Issue No.64, November, 1983 is on ORT
and several other have been on diarrhea care
contact:
Dr. W.V. Rane
Arogya Dakshata Mandal,
2115 Sadashiv Peth
Pune.
VHAI ORT PROJECT
Relevant information on oral rehydration therapy and
the diarrhoea management was mass mailed to 200,000
doctors and health personnel.
The purpose of this
VHAI-UNICEF joint project is to assess the existing
diarrhoea care practices and to promote rational
diarrhoea care.
For details contact:
7)
Ms. Minaxi Saxena
ORT PROJECT, VHAI
2)
(a)
(b)
(c)
Better Care during diarrhoea
The Taste of Tears
An education slide set on
Diarrhoea Care
Rs. 3.20
Rs. 6.00
Rs.56.00
ANTI-DIARRHEALS - Study
A very comprehensive analysis of anti-diarrheals
available in the market, was done by Dr. Sirish
Madhok on behalf of MFC.
For copies, write to
Dr. Anant Phadke, MFC, 50 LIC Quarters, University
Road, Pune-400016.
Printed copies are also
available from KSSP at the cost of Rs.2/-.
4)
WB-VHA which worked very closely
with CINI and the Government during
the last W. Bengal Dysentry Epidemic
has produced diarrhoea Care stickers
VOLUNTARY HEALTH ASSOCIATION OF INDIA (VHAI)
Besides several handouts on diarrhoea care, VHAI has
brought out :
3)
PUNE JOURNAL OF CONTINUING MEDICAL EDUCATION
8)
HEALTH ACTION INTERNATIONAL
Various drug action groups who are the members of the
Health Action International, decided to join the
Diarrhoea Campaign.
This decision was taken at the IOCU Congress.
HAI' s
Diarrhoea pack is almost ready and will be available
soon.
Note: If your group has produced any educational
material on diarrhoea care and you would like
to share the information with others - just
drop a line.
E.P. Drugs
ORT AND THE CREDIBILITY GAP
DANGEROUS DRUGS - E.P. DRUGS
Counterfact No.8 from the Centre for Educational
Development is a very well done feature on the subject,
prepared by Vimal Balasubramanian, Subscribe to
counterfact. Write to:
CHILD IN NEED INSTITUTE
The Rational Therapeutics division of the VOLUNTARY HEALTH
ASSOCIATION OF INDIA (VHAI) has urged health and consumer
groups to popularise the urine pregnancy test as an
alternative to the widely misused Estrogen-Progesterone (EP)
hormonal pregnancy test which can result in birth defects
The alternative kit, which is safe and accurate is available
from Hindustan Antibiotics Ltd.
for Rs.62/- (10 tests)
A
VHAI circular has called for active propagation of this
safe test along with the education of the public on the
hazards of the EP pregnancy test.
CINI has brought out:
(a) Diarrhoea management flash cards in Bengali.
(b) T-shirts
(carrying the ORT symbol of scoop and pinch).
For details write to:
Dr. Sameer Chowdhry, CINI (Child in Need Institute)
Via Daulatpur,. PO Amgachi,
Via Joka, Dist-. 24 Parganas, West Bengal.
VHAI's latest update titled "The unfinished EP Campaien"
recalls how a countrywide campaign against the combination
hormone drugs was launched m early 1982, followed by a ban
order issued by the Drugs Controller in June
198?
Subsequently Unichem, Nicholas and Organon obtained
stay order on the ban from the Bombay and Calcutta Hivh
Courts
Until the case is finally decided manufacture and
sale of EP drugs will continue.
Anjum Rajabali - CEF
3, Suleman Chambers,
4, Battery Street,
Bombay - 400039.
5)
8
Several lakhs of women are estimated to undergo hormonal
pregnancy tests every year despite the recommendation of
the ICMR for its withdrawal and despite its recent media
publicity on dangers.
The VHAI, therefore has appealed
to concerned individuals and groups to document evidences
of the continued misuse.
It has requested to inform the
people about the availability of a safe alternative test.
It has also urged the monitoring groups to look out for
babies born in the last few years with birth defects and
specifically check for use of any hormonal pregnancy test
or hormones during pregnancy.
Vimal Balasubramanian,
Secunderabad.
Alerted by the action of the Indian Groups, Health Action
International's 'Women's network for Pharmaceuticals has
taken up the issue of EP drugs as a worldwide campaign.
Will This Stay Order Stay Till After 2000 A.D. ???
VHAI & AIDAN EXPRESS THEIR SHOCK AND DISMAY AT THE LEGAL
SANCTIONS PROVIDED FOR THE CONTINUED SALES OF DRUGS KNOWN
TO BE HAZARDOUS AND DRUGS BASICALLY BANNED BY THE DRUG
CONTROLLER OF INDIA - SPECIALLY WHEN ORGANON (CALLING •
ITSELF INFAR) IS NOT ALLOWED TO PRODUCE OR SELL THE
PRODUCT IN ITS OWN PARENT COUNTRY - NETHERLAND.
CONTINUED SALES OF SUCH PRODUCT REFLECTS POORLY.ON THE
LEGAL STRUCTURE OF A COUNTRY, ITS HEALTH MINISTRY, ON
INTERNATIONAL AGENCIES LIKE WHO AND, THE NATIONAL GOVTS
OF PARENT COUNTRIES OF SUCH COMPANIES.
INJECTABLE CONTRACEPTIVES
1.
Serious concern has been expressed by various
women's groups and AIDAN members regarding the
official plans to launch injectable contraceptives.
ICMR's NETEN study is at the last stage of the field
trials. (Norethisterone Enanthate)
German Remedies
is already trying to procure orders from prospective
Prescribers.
2.
Over use of these hormonal preparations for women
specially those having poor nutritional status, can
have its own associated problems.
Discontinuation 507,
of women in the ICMR study has been because of
associated menstural problems specially secondary
amenorrhea.
According to some who are familiar
with Family Planning Programme of India, if the
injectable contraceptives fail, it will not be
because of us but due to lack of incentives given
to the Family Planning Workers for this - unlike
what is done for I.U.D.'s and tubectomies.
The misuse of EP drugs in Latin America and Africa has been
observed. MEMOS, the Dutch drug action group has taken the
responsibility to conduct an international study about the
use of EP drugs.
NOTE :
The Stay Order obtained by Organon, Unichem and Nicholas
against the ban of EP drugs issued by Drug Controller of
India has not been challenged by Chemicals or Health
Ministry todate, inspite of various reminders by Voluntary
Health Association of India (VHAI) and All India Drug Action
Network (AIDAN).
The following EP drugs are still being sold
Disecron Forte
Nicholas
Unichem
EP Forte
Gestaplon
Khandelwal
Mac
Lutestron Forte
Menstrogen
Infar (Organon)
Orasecron Forte
Nicholas
Orgualutin
Infar (Organon)
Osterone
Lyka
HINDUSTAN ANTIBIOTICS LIMITED'S (HAL) - NANCY KIT
HAL's Nancy kit is now commercially available at the cost of
Rs.65/-. The kit has ten sets.
It is offered at a subsidized
cost to voluntary health institutions.
Nancy kit is an
alternative to hormonal pregnancy test. A slide set has been
produced to popularise its use among the consumers health
and women's groups.
This slide set shows the method of
testing step by step. The slide set is available with VHAI
and HAL (Hindustan Antibiotics Ltd.)
Depoprovera, the long acting injectable contraceptive
has not been cleared for use in US by FDA nor by
the Govt, of India.
4.
Dr. Jhaveri, a leading gynecologist from Bombay has
filed a writ petition at the Bombay High Court so
as to be allowed to import Depo Provera.
If this
petition is accepted, then obtaining permission to
produce the injectable contraceptives could logically
follow.
For details, contact: Mr. P.L. Savara, Market Research
and Development Associates, Hindustan Antibiotics Ltd.,
Pimpri, Pune-411018.
(Note: HAL is a public sector company)
9
CIBA GEIGY’s Maxaform Withdrawal Worldwide at Last
In October, 1982, Ciba Geigy had published a new policy on
control of diarrhoeal diseases.
This policy included the
announcement of the worldwide gradual phasing out of all oral
Clioquinol containing products over a period of three to
five years. The drugs in consideration here, ENTEROVIOFORM,
MEXAFORM and others, are ones which have been used for the
control of diarrhoeal disease for decades.
However, in
connection with a series of SMON cases in Japan, these drugs
became the object of discussion, controversy and public
concern.
In keeping with the announced policy, SALES OF THE PRODUCTS
CONCERNED have been DISCONTINUED SINCE OCTOBER '82 IN SOME
90 COUNTRIES.
THE GRADUAL PHASING OUT OF THESE DRUGS HAS
TAKEN PLACE WITH THE APPROVAL OF THE NATIONAL HEALTH
AUTHORITIES.
The World Health Organization in Geneva was
regularly informed of the present state of developments.
TODAY, THE METHOD OF ORAL REHYDRATION OFFERS A SIGNIFICANT
ALTERNATIVE THERAPY IN THE CONTROL OF DIARRHEAL DISEASES,
PARTICULARLY IN THE FIELD OF INFANT DIARRHEAL DISEASES. CIBAGEIGY HAS DECIDED TO ACCOUNT THE PRESENT CONCEPTS AND
DEVELOPMENTS IN THIS FIELD INTO A NEW POLICY, ABANDONING
THE USE OF CLIOQUINOL CONTAINING AND RELATED DRUGS.
Consequently, Ciba Geigy will accelerate its original policy
on controlling diarrhoeal diseases whereby the supply of the
antidiarrhoeal products will be stopped by the end of the
first quarter of 1985.
EVENTHOUGH THE CONTINUED AVAILABILITY OF THE PRODUCTS HAS
OCCURRED WITH THE FULL KNOWLEDGE OF THE NATIONAL HEALTH
AUTHORITIES, THIS HAS BEEN GREATLY CRITICIZED BY VARIOUS
CONSUMER ORGANISATIONS.
WITH THE SPEEDED-UP PHASING OUT
OF CLIOQUINOL-CONTAINING DRUGS, CIBA-GEIGY HOPES TO
ADDRESS THE CONCERNS OF THESE CONSUMER GROUPS.
* (Remember the Swedish Boycott).
To help create an all-around better climate between consumers
and Ciba Geigy, Dr. Von Planta met with Dr. Olle Hansson in
Gothenburg, Sweden.
At the meeting, BOTH PARTIES AGREED
THAT INDUSTRY AND CONSUMERS HAVE MANY PARALLEL INTERESTS AND
SHOULD ESTABLISH AN OPEN DIALOGUE.
The discussion covered a
broad spectrum of topics of mutual interest. Also discussed
was Ciba-Geigy's policy concerning drugs which contain
clioquinol.
The meeting between Dr. Hansson and Dr. Von Planta confirmed
the importance of continued dialogue which began in Gothenburg.
(Press Release by Ciba Geigy, November 26, 1984).
Source
:
Such battles against power and influence yielding corporations
have never been easy. They are based on the principles that
INJUSTICE of any kind should not be tolerated and a
CONVICTION that something needs to be done by each one of us.
An ICMR expert committee which met in 1977 had recommended
that .periodic evaluation of the situation regarding role of
hydroxyquinolines should be done.
It also recommended that a prospective study to monitor
SMON cases in India from recognized neurological centres
be undertaken.
In 1980 THE DRUG CONSULTATIVE COMMITTEE HAD RECOMMENDED
WITHDRAWAL OF HYDROXYQUINOLINES.
BAN OF FIXED DOSE
COMBINATIONS OF PHENACETIN AND HALOGENATED HYDROXYOUINOl INF
WAS TO BE EFFECTIVE _ FROM 1.11.82.
The date of the ban of
fixed dose combination of amidopyrine,
phenacetin and
halogenated hydroxyquinolines was extended to 31 3 R3
through DO No.X19013/8/81-D dated 13.8.82.
In spite of the repeated demands from consumers’
organisations, those involved in drug and health acn™
and socially conscious health personnel regretablv
ban has not been made effective.
8
aoly the
Noriaki Mizuma,Secretary General, ICADIS.
The withdrawal of CIBA GEIGY's Mexaform and Enterovioform is
effective from 31.3.1985.
10
Note:
The gap created by Ciba Geigy's withdrawal of Mexaform and
EntBiovioform will be filled up by over 90 brands of
hydroxyquinolines available in the Indian market.
Our
health and drug control authorities can of course choose
to follow the examples of our third world neighbours_of
Malaysia, Sri-Lanka, Nepal, Bangladesh and Pakistan in
Banning the hydroxyquinolines.
A point to note is that
no drug house, specially a well known and power weilding
one like Ciba Geigy would have ever withdrawn a well selling
item like Mexaform or enterovioform-had enough implicating
evidence not become widely available.
TO GET HAZARDOUS
AND IRRATIONAL DRUGS OUT OF OUR MARKETS IS OUR RESPONSIBILITY.
WE OWE IT TO OUR PEOPLE, TO THE SMON VICTIMS WHO HAVE SET
ASIDE THEIR COMPENSATION FOR PREVENTION OF DRUG INDUCED
SUFFERING, AND INDIVIDUALS LIKE DR. OLLE HANSSON WHO HAVE
FOUGHT A LONG AND LONELY BATTLE AGAINST DRUG MISUSE AND
DRUG DISINFORMATION.
VHAI's Banned&bannable drug list contains the
other
brands of hydroxyquinolines.
Unwanted Drugs
IOCU LAUNCHES CAMPAIGN AGAINST UNDESIRABLE
COMBINATION DRUGS.
A new consumer campaign to curb undesirable combination
drug marketing was launched at IOCU's 11th World Congress.
ONE DRUG AT A TIME
To mark its beginning, IOCU has published 'ONE DRUG AT A
TIME - a report on the limitations of fixed ratio combi
nation medicines'.
It was written by Charles Medawar,
Director of the UK action research group Social Audit.
ONE DRUG AT A TIME targets more than 120 undesirable
drug combination, and backs up its case against them
with the latest scientific evidences.
The report will
give consumer groups round the world the ammunition they
need to campaign against expensive drug mixtures which
make no sense therapeutically.
In some countries 70% of all medicines prescribed are
combinations.
New mixtures are introduced all the time.
30% of all new medicines are combinations.
They tend to
cost much more than equivalent single-ingredient products,
and can contain irrational ingredients that needlessly
expose users to side-effects.
Neither can their dosages
be adjusted to meet individual needs.
The Olle Hansson Award
IOCU is confident that 'ONE DRUG AT A TIME’ will inspire
consumer groups to campaign vigorously against irrational
drugs marketed in their countries - and to work for drug
policies that will put people's health before company
profits.
To encourage groups to participate, IOCU is
inaugurating "THE OLLE HANSSON AWARD" which will be given
to the consumer group which mounts the most effective and
creative campaign against undesirable combination medicines
in 1985.
This is named to honour Swedish paediatrician
Dr. Olle Hansson's pioneering work against unethical drugs
marketing.
The award will include travel grant and a
period of attachment at either IOCU's Hague or Penang office
for a representative of the group concerned.
For details, contact:Virginia Beardshaw,
HAI's European Coordinator,
IOCU, Emmastraut 9,
2595 EG The Hague,
NETHERLAND.
Anabolic Steroids
Drugs and Therapeutics Bulletin (UK) says:
"ANABOLIC STEROIDS HAVE A NUMBER OF SERIOUS AND DANGEROUS
SIDE-EFFECTS.
THESE RISKS FAR OUTWEIGHT ANY POSSIBLE SLIGHT
BENEFIT THE DRUGS MAY CONFER IN STIMULATING GROWTH.
They
are of value in the treatment of anemia during hemodialysis,
but their use in aplastic anemia requires further study.
Clinical benefit has not been shown in patients with osteoporsia, renal failure or general debility".
For this reason, anabolic steroids are rarely used in
Holland.
According to Dr. Van der Meer, "WEMOS is a Dutch consumer
action group, working amongst others on pharmaceuticals.
As such, we complained about the Dutch company Organon for
selling anabolic steroids in several developing countriesalso India - for indications not allowed in, for instance,
the Netherlands. These indications included convalescense,
weakness, stimulating of growth and height.
The complaint
was presented to the Disciplinary Court of the Netherlands
Association of Pharmaceutical Manufacturers (NEFARMA).
The case was based on the Code of Pharmaceutical Marketing
Practices of the International Federation of Pharmaceutical
Manufacturers Associations (IFPMA), a voluntary industry
code."
The NEFARMA disciplinary court condemned Organon for the
unethical sales of anabolic steroids, also in India.
Organon has put consumers, especially children at risk,
says the court.
According to the court from now on, Organon
should label its drugs with the same medical information as
given in its home country, because of the dangers when not
properly used.
(The full text of this verdict is available
at : IFPMA, 67, rue de St - Jean, Geneva Switzerland).
For more information on the above, contact:
Dr. J.B.W. Van der Meer
POSTBOX 4098
MINAHASSASTRAAT
020 653115 Amsterdam
Netherland.
Worldwide protest against such double standards in the
sales of anabolic steroids, led to withdrawal by Organon
of its product 'Fertabolin'.
This .in no way has decreased
the prescription by doctors of other brands of anabolic
steroids, the list of which is available in VHAI's
(Voluntary Health Association of India) Banned, Bannable
Drug List.
11
•0)
Sharp Decline in Drug Production
On Baralgan - an analgin product
"Take the instance of Baralgan, a very well known drug.
This is a fixed dose combination of two drugs - Analgin
and an atropine-like substance.
Analgin (a very harmful
painkiller) is effective for muscle pain, joint pain,
fever, etc. having no action on abdominal colicy pains.
On the other hand atropine-like drugs are effective in
relieving spasmodic pains like abdominal colic, gall
bladder or renal colic etc. and atropine has no action on
joint, muscle, bone pains.
Therefore, if one takes
Baralgan for colicy pains there will be relief due to the
atropinic substance present in it but one will also be
taking analgin unnecessarily and may have to suffer from
all sorts of hazards due to it (this will be discussed
later).
It is rational to take atropine-like anticolic
drugs in colicy pains and simple pain killers like aspirin
Paracetamol etc. to relieve joint and muscle pain, headache,
etc."
Source : Dr. Piyush Sarkar
in The Telegraph
12.10.1985
Health Education Messages
WB-VHA has been able to approach West Bengal Government to
print health education messages in Bengali at the back of
school children's exercise-books.
The messages were
prepared by WB-VHA.
In Kerala - the back of the ration cards will carry 10
important health education messages.
The effort was made
by Augustine Veliath of VHAI on behalf of UNICEF.
Prevention of Blindness Education
For a free booklet on the prevention of blindness, write
to the following address indicating the language of your
choice:
Voluntary Health Association of India,
C-14, Community Centre,
Safdarjung Development Area,
New Delhi - 110016.
Ask your friends and neighbours to make use of this
opportunity and learn more about the care of eyes.
Reaching out to the PHCs and ANM Schools
10 copies each of VHAI's Better Care during diarrhoea,
Better Eye Care and Better Ear Care are being sent to
each of the 6000 Primary health centres all over India.
Each and every ANM school are receiving 100 copies each
of the above three booklets.
This is sponsored by
UNICEF through VHAI.
We hope that some day soon, we will
be able to send the WHO's Essential Drugs list to all
Primary Health Centres.
12
The DGTD, which monitors the output of select drugs, has
reported a 42.8 per cent decline in penicillin production
during January-June, 1985 at 94.9 mmu against 165.9 mmu
for the same period of 1984.
Similarly, streptomycin has
dropped by 12.4 per cent to 100 tonnes from 114.2, chloramphen
col to 31.9 tonnes from 34.4 tonnes and vitamin A to 29.2 mmu
against 32.7 in the same period last year.
The production of antibiotics like erythromycin and chloram
phenicol powder has declined to 19.11 tonnes in 1984-85
against 31.51 tonnes in 1983-84 and to 88.53 tonnes against
96.94 tonnes respectively.
There have been marginal rises
in items like insulin, with output in 1984-85 being placed
at 2,541 mmu against 2,394 mmu.
However, the overall
picture is dismal and current trends could mean that the
seventh plan targets have not been achieved.
Vitamin ‘A’ Shortages
WHO's "POINT OF FACT" on Vit. 'A' deficiency and nutritional
blindness states the role of Vit.
'A' in human growth and
immunological responses, besides Vit. 'A' deficiency is
known to be the "single most" frequent cause of blindness
among pre-school children in developing countries.
It is not merely a question of blindness with Vit.'A'
deficiency, but the recognized association of increased
morbidity and mortality due to respiratory and gastro
intestinal infection.
"Children with mild Vit. 'A'
deficiency are at 2-3 times greater risk of infection
and at 4-12 times greater risk of dying than children
with normal Vit.'A; status.
Xerophthalmia Nutritional blindness and death are associated
with usual disasters and we have had our share of disasters
draughts, Bhopals, floods etc.
’
Children who ai;e being weaned, and are not on breast milk
and unable to obtain their quota of Vit.'A' from extra milk
or food, are the worst sufferers.
Vit,'A' Deficiency
As a response to Sri Jaganath Patnaik's unstarred Loksabha
question 6371, Mr. Veerendra Patil said that Vit 'A' is
centralized item and main item is marketted as Vit 'A'
Palmitate (oily) and Vit.'A' Acetate (dry powder).'
M/s Roche and Glaxo are the major producers of Vit 'A
the entire production of Vit.'A' in the country during
1982-83 and 1983-84 was from these two companies
&
d
S.No.
Name of the Co.
Name of Formulation
Composition
Pack Size
1.
M/s Roche Products
Arovit Tabs
Vit'A' 50,000
10 per tab.
8’s
22,37,336
21,77,927
21,25,428
2.
-do-
Arovit Drugs
1,50,000
10 per amp.
7.5
amp
20,233
11,195
6,686
3.
-do-
Arovit Inj.
1 lakh
10 per amp.
3 amp
2,67,250
2,35,308
1,79,199
4.
-do-
Arovit Forte
3 lakh
10 per amp.
3 amp
1,93,164
1,46,686
1,42,119
5.
-do-
Rovigon Tab
Each tab.
contains
Vit'A' 10,000
10 Vit'A'
25 inj
8' s
17,68,533
14,52,019
13,34,547
Prepaline Caps.
24,000 IV
42,965
6.
M/s Glaxo Lab.
Nos. of the units produced during the
year ended December 1982
1984
1983
100's
64,148
42,525
7.
-do-
Prepaline Inj.
1 ml.
23,790
19,364
4,014
8.
-do-
' Prepaline Inj.
.(Forte)
1 ml.
4,34,651
3,80,806
28,956
It is not known that out of the above production figures
which is the amount of Vit.'A' that is used for POULTRY FEED
and for addition in edible oil and,how much remains for the
children that are getting blinded every day for want of Vit.'A'.
L , such a large undernourished child population
Shortages of Vit ''A',
and with 40,000 children becoming blind each year is
CRIMINAL.
DANGEROUS? NONSENSE |1
WHATEVER GAVE YOU SUCH AN IDEA !!
Aspirin Shortage Price Shoots Up To Rs.100/-
BOMBAY: There is an acute shortage of aspirin - that
uncommon pain reliever drug in the country and the black
market price for the commodity has shot up to Rs. 100/per kg as compared to the controlled price of Rs.54/-.
The drug is not available in enough quantity even at high
price level reports 'Prandev' in 'Indian Express'.
* Source : The Eastern Pharmacist
Vol.XXVII No.335 dt. Nov.
MULTI-
-ESKAY
13
MANAGEMENT OF ASTHMA
Drug Utilisation Studies
*
Dr. Trisha Greenlaugh, a young British Doctor and an
Oxfam contact, did her three months study research in
India.
She also participated in the AIDAN meeting at
Wardha. Her major findings are:
o
Injections were given to 75% patients and 40% received
Intravenous injections. Most of those patients were not
in acute distress. They were either able to walk or
cycle to the clinic.
Salbutamol was prescribed mainly
in hospitals and that also only rarely.
DRUG UTILISATION STUDIES
o
SYSTEMIC STEROIDS
5% medications included steroids.
Steroids were combined
with Antihistamine or Bronchodilators. In 40% cases of
self medication, steroids were used unknowingly.
Steroids were very widely used by general practioners
for infections, fevers, sore throats and to relieve
from apparent symptoms.
SELF PRESCRIPTION
64% of all patients bought medicines over the counter
without prescription.
13% of them bought antimicrobial.
34% of the medicines they bought were for less than
one day’s use.
o
DOCTOR’S PRESCRIPTION
55% of all patients who approached private general
practitioners were prescribed antibiotics.
Of these,
23% received two or more.
42% took anti-microbials for less than a day.
11% took anti-microbials in correct dosage- Hospitals
gave correct dosage in 87% cases,Primary Health
Centres in 50% cases and general practitioners in 25%
cases.
o
THE USE OF CHLORAMPHENICOL
77% of all the Oral Penicillin was given in combination
with Streptomycin.
69% of all Streptomycin was given
in a fixed dosage combining with penicillin or
chloramphenicol.
Chloramphenicol was given by General Practitioners
alongwith 10 trimoxazole 30%, Cephalosporins - 8%,
Streptomycin 12% and Ampicillin-10%.
Only in 40%
chloramphenicol was given without another antibiotics.
In half the cases, Chloramphenicol was given with
chloroquin.
The most popular self medication with
an antibiotic was chloramphenicol.
71% patients
bought this for less than a day supply.
28% of all
the sales of chloramphenicol and streptomycin combi
nations.
Note : To know more about this, read the chapter Antidiarrheals in VHAI's Health Action Series
book - ”A TASTE OF TEARS".
14
Protest Against the U.S. Bill No. 52878
Last year the U.S. Bill No.52878 was presented to the U.S.
Senate.
Luckily it was not passed.
If passed, this would
allow export of hazardous and irrational drugs which were
not marketed in U.S.
Many members have participated in
this protest by sending protest letters.
These protest
letters have been duly forwarded to the concerned U.S.
authorities with a copy to Dr. Sidney Wolffe of Health
Research Group.
It seems that the 'HATCH BILL' is being brought into US
Senate. There is a move to get Senator Edward Kennedy to
co-sponsor the BILL, which if he does, the chances of this
BILL becoming law are very bright.
The BILL will allow export of pharmaceuticals not APPROVED
FOR USE IN USA to countries with regulatory and drug
enforcement procedures considered adequate by F,D.A.
The problem for the Third World countries will be that
re-export of these products from the above mentioned
countries cannot be regulated.
Please send your views by cable or letter immediately to:
1.
Sen, Edward Kennedy
US Senate
113 Russel Senate
Office Buildings
Washington DC 20510
U.S.A.
and if possible a copy to:
2.
Mr Joe Goffman
Public Citizen
Congress Watch
215 Pennsylvania Ave
Washington DC 20003
With a copy to AIDAN Coordinator
b/K Will Put Bar on Brand Name Drug
ON THREE TOP SELLING DRUG IS SPONSORING A LECTURE TOUR BY
AN ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR OF PHARMACY TO DECRY GENERIC NAMED
DRUGS AT PUBLIC MEETINGS AND TV APPEARANCES".
A WIDE RANGE OF EXPENSIVE "BRAND NAME" DRUGS ARE NO LONGER
AVAILABLE ON PRESCRIPTION WHERE THERE ARE CHEAPER ALTERNATIVES
AVAILABLE AS ANNOUNCED LAST YEAR BY THE UK GOVERNMENT.
In an attempt to cut the nations £ 1400 million annual drugs
bill, doctors have been told only to prescribe the cheapest
drug on the National Health Service.
The move, announced by the SOCIAL SERVICES SECRETARY,
Mr. Norman Fowler in the Commons, would apply to
sedatives, tranquillisers, sleeping pills and common
remedies now available over the chemist’s counter.
He said: "THE PATIENT CAN STILL OBTAIN THESE KIND OF MEDICINES
ON PRESCRIPTION FROM HIS DOCTOR UNDER THE HEALTH SERVICES BUT
THEY WILL BE THE CHEAPER GENERIC ALTERNATIVE.
IF THE PATIENT
STILL WISHES TO GO FOR A PARTICULAR BRAND NAME THEN HE WILL
HAVE THE ALTERNATIVE OF BUYING IT OVER THE COUNTER FROM HIS
LOCAL CHEMIST OR ELSE ASKING HIS DOCTOR TO PRESCRIBE IT
PRIVATELY."
'
Mr. Fowler said that this wide range of medicines was
prescribed for "minor conditions"
100
According to TIME MAGAZINE, SEPTEMBER 17, 1984 A BILL WAS
UNANIMOUSLY PASSED IN THE HOUSE and that would speed up
approvals of generic drugs by FDA.
Because of this change
to generic, copies of (Perhaps 150) the leading brands will
disappear.
IT IS ESTIMATED THAT BY 1987 in USA 25% OF ALL
PRESCRIPTIONS WILL BE FILLED WITH GENERIC DRUGS AS AGAINST
15% IN 1983.
ACCORDING TO FDA, THE TREND WOULD PRODUCE
DRAMATIC SAVINGS FOR CONSUMERS, POTENTIALLY, ONE BILLION
DOLLAR OVER THE NEXT TWELVE YEARS.
According to Time ’Glossy brochures,
free samples,
visits by drug detail men are being made to ensure ’brand
loyalty. Trip to Greece, Gifts such as jewellery, trip to
China and Crystal can be won by pharmacists placing orders
with Searle’.
"AMERICAN HOME PRODUCTS WHICH LOSES ITS PATENT THIS YEAR
"Dr. Peter Rheinstein, FDA’s director, of standard maintains
that 'THERE ARE NO MORE SAFETY PROBLEMS WITH FDA APPROVED
GENERIC DRUGS THAN WITH BRAND NAME MEDICATIONS'.
About 50
states have passed laws to substitute a generic equivalent
for a brand name prescription unless a doctor specifically
forbids it.
Medic aid programmes and several insurance
companies provide 100% reimbursement only for generic drugs
and 80% for brand names".
A pharmacist of Walgreen which has 947 outlets in States
and Peurto Rico on receiving a prescription marked ’no
substitution’ calls up the prescribing doctor in front of
the patient to tell the physician the extra COST TO BE PAID
FOR THE BRAND DRUG AS COMPARED TO GENERIC DRUG.
However extra patent protection to new Drugs and added
financial incentive is given to research oriented firms.
Note:
"In most cases these conditions will remedy themselves
without medical intervention and the medicines are prescribed
for relieving the symptoms.
By any standards these are the
important drugs.
Most of them can be bought over the
counter from the local chemist without the need to consult a
doctor or obtain a prescription".
He told MPs that the measure could save "in the region of
million a year".
The over-use of such drugs had expanded
dramatically in recent years.
- Guardian (U.K.)
"Skepticism amongst doctors and pharmacists about quality
of some generic product is being encouraged
(We recognise that ’generic prescribing’ has to go along
with EFFICIENT QUALITY CONTROL and drug control systems.
One in every five drugs in the Indian market is substandard
according to official sources themselves.
FOR INEFFICIENT
QUALITY CONTROL, SOLUTION IS NOT MORE BRANDS BUT BETTER
CONTROLS).
The purpose of giving the two news bits on Generic drug
policies in UK & USA, is to merely point out that, the
argument that the concept of ESSENTIAL DRUG & GENERIC NAMES
are relevant only for the starving least Developed Countries
is utterly FALSE and that the Pharmaceutical reforms are
needed and are taking place the world over.
CONSOLIDATED LIST OF PRODUCTS WHOSE CONSUMPTION AND/OR SALE
HAVE BEEN BANNED, WITHDRAWAN, SEVERELLY RESTRICTED OR NOT
APPROVED BY GOVERNMENTS.
Consolidated list of products whose consumption and/or sale
have been banned, withdrawn, severally restricted or not
approved by governments. (Prepared by the United Nations
Secretariat in accordance with General Assembly Resolution
37/137).
This very useful document gives a list of the
restricted and banned drugs - in other words drugs, chemicals
and pesticides requiring great caution or withdrawal.
For
copy of the document, updated in 1984, write to: -
Mr. Peter Hansen, Asst. Sec. Gen.,
DIESA, UN DCII 1820, NY New York 10017, U.S.A.
15
We have recently gathered that there is a move to EXCLUDE
the brand name and the manufacturing data and also to
exclude drugs that were recommended for being weeded out
because of their therapeutic uselessness.
The Magasaysay Prize
Dr. Zafrullah Chowdhury
For countries with poor drug controls and gross lack of
availability of unbiased drug information any such
dilution of information related to hazardous chemicals
and pharmaceuticals is unacceptable.'
We are aware these changes are being contemplated because
of pressure from certain sources.
Please write immediately
to the following and express your concern:
1.
Mr. Luis Gomes
Asstt. Secretary General
UNITED NATIONS
DIESA - Programme Planning & Coordination Office
DC 2, 18th Floor
New York, NY 10017, U.S.A.
2.
Mr Peter Hansen
Executive Director
UNITED NATIONS
Centre on Transnational Corporations
DC 2, 12th Floor
New York, NY 10017, U.S.A.
It seems that World Health Organization and United Nation
Environment Program (UNEP) will be playing a major role in
compilation of the 1986 consolidated list.
It is important that the above organizations are kept
informed of NGO's concern and demand for a comprehensive
updated consolidated list.
You could communicate your
views to :
1)
2)
Mrs Inger Brugemann
Director of External Coordination
WORLD HEALTH ORGANIZATION
20 Avenue Appia
1211 Geneva 10, Switizerland
Mr Jan Huismans
Director
IRPTC/UNEP
Palais des Nations
1211 Geneva 10, Switzerland.
o
o
o
For spearheading the formulation of the Bangladesh's
courageous people oriented drug policy, a policy which
in his own words found inspiration from India's report
of the Hathi Committee.
VHAI & AIDAN congratulate Dr. Zafrullah and note with
appreciation the recognition given to the formulation of
the people oriented drug policy, besides the recognition
given to one of the chief formulators.
VHAI's Past links with Dr. Zafrullah
VHAI was the first non-governmental organisation in India
to give whole-hearted support to the Bangladesh drug policy
in its earliest troubled days in August 1982.
It had
galvanized the support for the drug policy amongst other
socially conscious individuals and organisations.
It organized a nation-wide tour of Dr. Zafrullah in
January 1983 to meet the key drug action groups.
For more information on Dr. Zafrullah's work on
Gonosasthya Kendra and Bangladesh Drug Policy contact VHAI or Dr. Zafrullah Chowdhury
Project Coordinator
Gonoshosthaya Kendra
PO Nayarhat Via Dhamrai
Dharia-13.
Bangladesh Drug Policy
We Want Consumer Action in India
1.
In support of Bangladesh's Drug Policy - VHAI.
We hope that our Indian health authorities would ensure
that consumer caution, is available in all regional
languages.
The absence of such caution should be treated
as a criminal offence - which it is.
2.
Drug Control Ordinance promulgated - VHAI.
3.
The Bangladesh ban on hazardous and irrational
drugs, its review and present status - VHAI.
16
4.
National Drug policy for Bangladesh from expert
committee report - Reproduced.
5.
Bangladesh War - Part I and Part II - VHAI & RUSTIC.
6.
Criteria for recommended withdrawal of products from
Bangladesh market.
7.
Bangladesh: Finding the right prescription?War On Want.
8.
Gonoshosthya Kendra - Peoples'Health Centre - VHAI.
9.
Essential Drugs for the poor-a myth or reality-Dr. Zafrullah.
10.
Bangladesh Drug Policy (Special issue of Health for
the Millions) - VHAI.
11.
Pills, Policies and Profits (reactions to the Bangladesh
Drug Policy)
Francis Rolf, War On Want.
Resolutions of the IOCU World Congress
Some of the resolutions that are relevant to us are given below
RESOLUTION - 1 - BHOPAL TRAGEDY
BHOPAL RESOLUTION was PASSED BY THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE
11TH IOCU WORLD CONGRESS AT ITS OPENING SESSION ON 9.12.84.
Recognising the devastating toll of human life and suffering
taken by the worst chemical disaster the world has yet known,
the General Assembly deplores the gas leakage tragedy in
Bhopal, India, as the latest evidence of gross lack of care
to ensure consumer safety by multinational corporations in
Third World countries; and CALLS UPON the appropriate
authorities to impose and enforce stronger environmental and
safety regulations, penalties for all who transgress them;
and redress and compensation for all who suffer.
RESOLUTION - 5 PHARMACEUTICALS
Nobel Prize 1985 (Physicians)
International Physicians for the Prevention of Nuclear
Wars, Boston, U.S.A.
For the first time Noble Prize has been awarded for
social action of this kind to Physicians.
It indicates that the seriousness of the contemporary
health challenges dealing with the basic issue of survival
are being increasingly recognized.
Never before in history
has the mankind known such an epidemic of the nuclear war
germs and ironically it is those that are diseased most, who
possess the greatest power of destruction today.
For Physicians to have shown such deep concern and
galvanized such support is indeed praise worthy.
Alternative Nobel Prize of 1985
- Lokayan, Delhi
Lokayan has been awarded the "Right Livelihood Prize"
popularly known in Europe as the "alternative Nobel
Prize alongwith Peter Vergas, a well known Hungarian
environmentalist of the Danube Circle and Pat Mooney and
Cary Fowler of the International Genetic Resources
Group in Canada for their pioneering work on the
destruction of seeds and transnational agro-business.
Past links
In 1983 VHAI - Lokayan jointly organized a workshop for
field activists on 'Politics of Health' at Deenbandhu,
T N Coordinated by Dr. Mira Shiva & David Werner,.
author of "Where There is No Doctor", had been invited
to act as a chief resource person.
RECOGNISING the unique power of pharmaceutical products to
help or harm consumer health and RECALLING earlier General
Assembly resolutions on the need to put people's health
before any consideration of economic gain; this General
ASSEMBLY REAFFIRMS lOCU's commitment to work for rational
and economic drug policies worldwide and URGES IOCU to work
to ensure that all medicines have significant therapeutic
value; meet real medical need; are acceptably safe and offer
satisfactory value for money.
Further, recognising that
full and accurate information on drugs is essential for
their safe and effective use, this General Assembly urges
IOCU to do everything possible to ensure that the supply
of drug information to prescribers, dispensers and consumers
is improved in both quality and quantity.
RESOLUTION - 20 - INDIAN DRUG POLICY
In view of the fact that changes to the Indian National Drug
policy are envisaged for the near future, this General
Assembly strongly RECOMMENDS that these changes should be
essentially in keeping with the concept of a Rational Drug
Policy.
Further, the General Assembly RECOMMENDS that the interest
of the people, and their health needs, guide the drafting
of this policy - ensuring easy availability of essential
drugs at reasonable cost and withdrawal of known hazardous
and irrational drugs.
For further information please contact:
HAI's European Coordinator
HAI Clearinghouse
IOCU
IOCU
Emmastraat 9
P 0 Box 1045
2595 EG The Hague
Penang
The Netherlands.
Malaysia.
17
liM)
Essential Drug programmes
i Kenya
In less than three years, essential drugs have been made
available to the whole rural population (85% of Kenya's
inhabitants), even those who live in the most remote areas.
Project staff have designed. developed and put into
operation systems of procurement, storage, packing and
distribution, training and information. All government
rural health facilities (dispensaries and health centres)
now receive a regular supply of a limited number of good
quality essential drugs at low prices.
The Kenya system uses drugs packed in ’’ration kits."
In these kits, the range of drugs is in accordance with
WHO's Model List of Essential Drugs; the quantities
supplied match rural epidemiology (the disease pattern)
and the attendance rate at each facility.
Ration-kit packaging and distribution have reduced wastage
and diversion of stocks. The cost per treated patient is
estimated at US$ 0.16 (Rs.1.97 approx.) at health centres
and US$ 0.19 (Rs. 2.34 approx.) at dispensaries. The per
capita cost per year for the whole rural population is
estimated at US$ 0.29 (Rs.3.57 approx.)
Responding to the hard reality
Price's medical Text book latest edition is available under
a new name 'Oxford Text book of medicine'.
Its first two
chapters are on
Community Health
Medicines in an unjust world
The latter written by Maurice King highlights the limited
role of drugs in Health Care, the shooting medical care
costs.
One week hospitalisation cost
in USA.
In 1968
$ 469
1978
$ 1543
1983
$ 2872
According to Maurice King, ''medicine has often failed to
reach the poor but this is the first time that it has
been able to bankrupt the middle classes in significant
numbers.
Key questions are asked regarding modern medical technology
as to how effective they are and at what cost ? and whether
there should be something for everyone, or more for the
fortunate few ?
Kidney
trans plant
For further improvements, the evaluation mission has
recommended strengthening the training, health education
and community participation components of the project.
It also proposed a cost recovery scheme which will initially
divert resources to the rural health services, and later
contribute to direct financing of the drug supply system.
national
or regional
hospital
At a later stage, the Ministry of Health plans to turn its
attention to essential drug distribution, ordering and
prescribing at the large district hospitals.
Source :
WHO's Essential Drug Monitor
No. 1 - 1985.
Drug Information in Urdu for Pakistan
The PAKISTANI FEDERAL MINISTRY OF HEALTH HAS DECIDED THAT
THE LEAFLETS ENCLOSED IN BOTTLES OF DRUGS AND MEDICINES
SHOULD ALSO BE PRINTED IN THE NATIONAL LANGUAGE, URDU,
FOR THE BENEFIT OF CONSUMERS. Complaints had been received
that the majority of the Pakistani population did not know
English and so could not read the important instructions
accompanying their medicines.
Medical News, Pakistan, 14.8.84.
18
O'
Percentage of the population having
access to health care of a particular
technological level.
direct
hospital
health
centre
community
health
worker
Choices have to be made in favour of the poor and the large
majority.
India's new drug policy will reflect the level
of its concern for its people.
3
International News
THE DRUG
INDUSTRY’S
VERSION
THE GOVERNMENT’S
VERSION
Fowler's Brand Drugs
Ban
To
Save
100 Million Pounds
By
DAVID HENCKE
ANDREW VELTCH
Source: Guardian(U.K) - 1-9-84
.....................
wrv-
fXcnuryi-you'ion’ti'Cl poor treatment from
your divtnr family doctor care under the NHS is
the envy of the world.
...don’t take ft from
the government
From April 1 1985 why should you take anything
lean than the best?
The government is set to divide the NHS into a
two-class system .. one for those who can pay for the
most appropriate medicines and the other for these
who can't - the elderly, the. poor, the unemployed.
You know who will be getting the pour treat
ment from thia proposal. Don't you?
Fill in the form for your M.P and send it to us
Well do the re-»
Boni get sick
„sget angry.
Computerised Information System (CIS)
BANGLADESH NDP "SUCCESSFUL"
The Bangladesh New Drug Policy, introduced in 1982, has been
"very successful" writes Dr N Islam of the Institute of
Postgraduate Medicine and Research, Dacca, in a recent
letter to The Lancet (May 4th, 1985).
There is no shortage of 150 essential drugs; prices have
remained static or have fallen; production by national
companies has risen; multinational companies are now
producing more essential products and no company has
suffered any loss; the price of imported raw materials
has declined dramatically; and the price of finished
products has also fallen, says Dr Islam.
Dr Islam provides the following list of prices of certain
raw materials before and after the Ordinance (in $/kg):
Raw material
Price before
Ordinance____
Tetracycline HC1
Oxytetracycline HC1
Ampicillin
Amoxicillin trihydrate
Cloxscillin sodium
Doxycycline HC1
Trimethoprim
Glibenclamide
Hyoscine N-butylbromide
75
80
120
140
115
1,250
150
2,350
1,358
Price after
Ordinance
28
30
60
66
72
250
46
150
830
Dr Islam also gives the maximum retail prices of a number
of -essential drugs before and after the Ordinance (in Taka
per capsule or tablet):
Price before
Price after
Ordinance
Ordinance
Ampicillin 250mg
Tetracycline 250mg
Co-trimoxazole
Amoxicillin
Metronidazole 400mg
2.00
1.04
2.30
3.50
1.42
1.50
0.70
1.15
2.35
0.85
According to Dr Islam, some drugs which were banned under
the new policy are still available and are prescribed, but
this is uncommon, and he is "optimistic about the eventual
outcome".
The best example is nikethamide (Coramin) which,
says Dr Islam, used to be included in almost every
prescription for "immediate cure of anything from indigestion
to infarction".
"This drug has now almost vanished from
prescriptions... the awareness of physicians has resulted
in the elimination of this drug from the market, and the
same will happen with other popular yet useless drugs",
according to Dr Islam.
20
COMPUTERISED INFORMATION SYSTEM (CIS)
CIS aims at providing a wide spectrum of services.
Creation of data bases is on the process for the following
topics.
Drug industry
Drug policy and planning
Research and development on drugs and
pharmaceutical patents
Indigenous system of medicine
Folklore medicine
Ongoing research projects in India
Union catalogue of periodicals
Data generated at CDRI
Synthetic compounds
Natural products
Library automation
Management information
International data based linkage
For more details, write to:
Scientist-in-charge,
National Information Centre
for Drugs and Pharmaceuticals,
Central Drug Research Institute,
Post Box No.173,
Lucknow - 226 001.
India.
Dr. Andrew Herxheimer
A public lecture by Dr. Andrex
*
Herxheimer on "DRUG - DRUG
POLICY-PEOPLES HEALTH" was organised by Voluntary Health
Association of India on 13.9.1985.
Dr. Herxheimer said
*
that the Indian market was full of useless drugs, the
enforcement of the drug policy was weak, the staff was not
well paid and the medical scientific and human consideration
in the drug policy were not properly taken care of.
----------The drug policy, he said, must ensure that essential drugs
were available together with good and sufficient up to date
information about them.
The claims made by manufacturersmusi
be strictly controlled.
He said an up to date printed national formulary which gives
unbiased non commercial information was essential.
Besides Dr. Herxheimer said, all health professionals need
more education on the proper use of drugs.
*Dr. Andrew Herxheimer - is the Founder Editor of the
fortnightly, Drugs and Therapeutics Bulletin, U.K.
- Consultant to World Health Organisation on
various subjects.
- Chairman of the Health Working Group of IOCU since 1981
- Founder Member of HEALTH ACTION INTERNATIONAL
- Joint.Editor of Book "PHARMACEUTICALS & HEALTH POLICY
For details contact: LCD & RT,
VHAI, New Delhi.
BENGARPET
Tablet Mission Industries
remains the oldest initiative at cutting down costs
and provision of essential drugs for details contact:
All India Mission Tablet Industry
Bangarpet - 563114
(Karnataka)
0
NEW DRUG POLICY
0°
Economic St Political Weekly
Sept 7, 1985.
ON THE WRONG TRACK
THE new drug policy was to have seen the light of the day
during the monsoon session of Parliament.
But the government
has apparently, yet again, decided to postpone the announce
ment.
The policy has been on the anvil for over two years
now, ever since the ministry of chemicals and fertilisers had
set up the National Drug and Pharmaceuticals Development
Council (NDPDC) for the purpose of reviewing the working
of the drug policy of 1978 and to suggest necessary changes
towards formulating a new policy.
The NDPDC had set up
three working groups and their respective recommendations
were reviewed and collated by the steering committee last
year. The final draft of the drug policy produced by the
Council was mostly based on the steering committee s
recommendations. This draft was however severely criticised
bv the parliamentary consultative committee attached to
the ministry which advised the Centre against accepting
the draft. Since then there have been extensive discussions
and the final version of the drug policy is reported to
be at last ready.
Although the policy statement has not been released officially,
the documents leading upto the final draft give ample
indication of the direction of the new policy.
Last fort
night a delegation of the All India Drug Action Network
(AIDAN), a forum and co-ordinating body of organisations
and individuals working towards the implementation of a
people-oriented rational drug policy, presented a memorandum
to the minister for chemicals and fertiliser, Veerendra
Patil, voicing their criticism of the proposed new policy.
The AIDAN memorandum points out that the aim of a national
drug policy should be to cater to the drug needs of the
people and not "to decide on the selectivity of price
regulations" as stated by the steering committee. The
recommendations in the proposed new policy are seen as
a retrograde step after the "progressive" directions set
by the Hathi Committee. AIDAN has drawn attention to the
fact that the constitution, methodology and the terms of
reference of the NDPDC are vastly different from those
adopted by the Hathi Committee.
The Council has no real
representation from people's and consumer groups.
In
consequence the drug consumers have had no say in the for
mulation of a policy which will affect their health and
their lives.
The memorandum further demands that an essential drug
\\
list be prepared on the basis of health needs alone and
not by extrapolating the current sales statistics. AIDAN1s
rational drug policy statement submitted to the ministry
late last year, has pointed out that the demand pattern
computed by the starring committee had no relation what
soever to the existing disease patterns. This has led the
committee to make such ridiculous projections as an
escalating demand for oxyphenbutazone when the drug is in
fact being banned in most countries and at least one
manufacturer, Ciba Geigy, has withdrawn its product from
the world market.
On the other hand there has been a gross
underestimation of requirements for such necessary drugs
and rifampicin and INH for leprosy and tuberculosis which
account for such large-scale morbidity.
There is no
reference in the committee’s recommendations to the WHO's
essential drugs list which has now been universally accepted.
AIDAN has urged the government to withdraw all formulations
which have been consistently proven to be hazardous and
irrational, or useless.
These constitute a majority of the
drugs available in the marekt and unless they are withdrawn
resources will not be available for the production of life
saving and other essential drugs.
The delegation urged the
minister to implement immediately the government's ban
order with reference to 22 categories of drugs issued in
1983.
The memorandum has also emphasised the need for continuing
education of doctors especially on rational drug use to
counter the promotional information disseminated by drug
companies.
AIDAN is of the opinion that India should not
be a party to the Paris Convention on Patent Laws since this
would jeopardise the goal of self-reliance.
It has
expressed concern at the introduction of Net-En, an injectable
contraceptive, into the family planning programme even
though its safety has not been conclusively proven.
In reply, the minister is reported to have said that most of
the issues raised were outside the purview of his ministry.
For instance, the ministry had no authority to implement
the drug ban order which was the responsibility of the health
ministry.
Apparently, while the areas of production and
price control of drugs lie with the ministry of chemicals
and fertilisers, the estimation of drug requirement, the
banning of hazardous drugs, etc, are the responsibility
of the health ministry.
This long-standing state of confusion
has no doubt been very convenient for both the ministries
which have consistently shifted blame for the ills of the
situation. This has also resulted in consolidating the
skewed production patterns and unscrupulous irrational market
practices. The minister suggested that a joint meeting of
the two ministries be called to review the memorandum.
In view of the fact that the meetings with officials and
ministers have not yielded results.
AIDAN has decided to
launch a people's movement.
Its various member organisations
have already been active on this front. They have published
brand name lists of banned and bannable drugs and are
distributing them among doctors, consumers and retailers.
All drugs under two categories - antidiarrhoeals and
analgesics - have been reviewed with a view to weeding out
irrational drug combinations.
A prioritised drug list has
been finalised and studies have been launched to assess drug
requirements of certain essential drugs including vaccines
and vitamins based on actual need. Member groups such as
the Kerala Sastra Sahitya Parishad, the Medico Friend Circle,
West Bengal Drug Action Forum and Voluntary Health Association
of India have already been doing consistent work both in
terms of research and critical reviews of existing therapies
as well as dissemination.
It remains to be seen if the
government will take any note of the people-oriented and
medically sound comments and suggestions of groups such as
these.
Plea to withdraw
needless drug
combinations
22
AIDAN - Rational Drug Policy Statement Delhi August 19gj>
OBJECTIVES OF THE RATIONAL DRUG POLICY
We feel that the Rational Drug Policy objectives should
include the following:
A.
B.
C.
ASSESSING THE DRUG-NEEDS
1)
to identify the drug needs in consonance with
the health needs of the people, particularly
those required for primary health care; to
prepare a graded essential and priority list of
drugs for different levels of health expertise in
keeping with actual health needs of the people.
2)
to eliminate irrational, useless and hazardous
drugs.
PRODUCTION, PRICE AND QUALITY CONTROL
1)
To make all drugs available at low prices to the
people, particularly the essential and priority
drugs.
2)
To ensure quality control of all drugs.
DRUG DISTRIBUTION
To establish a national corporation for the distribution
of drugs; retailing of drugs through fair price shops
and government's health infrastructures.
D.
DRUG INFORMATION AND ETHICAL MARKETING
1)
To ensure a drug information system for health
personnel and consumers
2)
To ensure ethical marketing.
3)
To abolish brand names and introduce generic
names for all drugs.
AIDAN hai formulated an
E.
SELF - RELIANCE
1)
To develop self reliance in drug technology.
2)
To foster and encourage the growth of the
Indian Sector and to provide a leadership
role to the public sector.
r
3)
To aim at quick self sufficiency in the output
imports3
3 VLeW t0 reducinS the quantum of
F.
RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT
To promote research and development for self-reliance
and in accordance with the needs of the Indian people.
G.
H.
1)
To provide comprehensive drug legislation and
administrative support to deal effectively with
and implement all the above aims and objectives.
2)
To ensure smooth Centre-State relations and
inter-departmental coordination for effective
and relevant drug production, drug control and
drug supply.
HUMANPOWER DEVELOPMENT
The reasons why the National Drug & Pharmaceutical Develop
ment Council (NDPDC's) recommendations should not form the
basis of our new drug policy.
The aim of the NDPDC's Steering Committee in its own
words was "to decide on the selectivity of price
regulation" the entire document consists of
discussions regarding the profitability and viability
of the drug industry - and the bargaining by the
different sectors in the industry.
Representation in the NDPDC
While the need to have around 507. representation from
the industry was felt, representation from the
voluntary health sector, consumer bodies involved
in drugs issue, was conspicuous by its TOTAL ABSENCE.
3.
Total Perspective
While Hathi Committee had looked into the entire drug
scenario, the NDPDC's National Drug Policy
recommendations are limited to "drug pricing and drug
production" from the industry s point of view, the
absence of peoples perspective is tragic.
4.
5.
LEGISLATION AND ADMINISTRATION
To fulfill the needs of the above Rational Drug Policy,
different type of technical personnel (e.g. druggists,
paramedics, etc) need to be adequately and appropriately
trained in adequate numbers.
2.
to clear cut conclusions in the interest of the
people.
Groundwork, study and analysis of existing drug
situation
While Hathi Committee members had taken great pains
to study the drug situation, get different points
of view*7 analyze and give recommendations as a
rnrrmii t-t-pp the NDPDC report seems totally garbled,
sZ it has faned to Synthesize the facts and come
No Independent Review of the Impact of DPCO 1979
has been done the NCAER (National Council of Advanced
Economic Research) Report sponsored by OPP1 which
has been heavily quoted cannot be considered independent.
The nation would like to know as to how the various
drug companies are responding to the nation's drug
needs? What percentage of the drugs produced by each
are essential drugs? What is their production trend
eg. steady decrease of Vit. 'A', Penicillin production
& the action taken by the Government.
The drug policy is not in keeping with the National
Health policy priorities.
The very basis of setting production demand is
unacceptable.
Past warped production patterns cannot be
extra polated to form the basis of future demands nor
can poor production growth rates.
The difference between the need of the people and the
market demand based on the purchasing power has to be
recognized.
Projected production figures of known controversial
and hazardous drugs indicates the low priority given to
rational therapeautics e.g. hydroxyquinolines,
Oxyphen butazone, analgin etc.
Great concern for Export than Better Drug
Distribution within India.
While great pains have been taken to provide subsidies for
drug production for exports, similar efforts for drug
production of essential drugs, and their distribution
within India has not been made.
Need to plug legal bottlenecks
No recommendations have been made to present drug
companies from using legalistic loop holes to sabotage
the few progressive decisions taken by the Govt, have been
made Govt.'s past experience with the cases in the court
of gross over pricing by the drug industry, the resistance
to switch over to generic names for new drugs, continued
sales of drugs banned by Drug Controller, should have been
a warning enough.
What is totally unacceptable are the four major ommissions
in the formulation of the National Drug Policy.
There
has been;
(i)
No effort in identifying and weeding out of
23
&
AIMS & OBJECTIVES OF A RATIONAL DRUG
ELIMINATE IRRATIONAL,
USELESS & HAZARDOUS
DRUGS
POLICY
ENSURE A DRUG
MONITORING &
DRUG INFORMATION
SYSTEM FOR
HEALTH PERSONNEL
& CONSUMER
NAMES OF THE
BANNED BRANDS
TO BE WIDELY
PUBLICISED IN
JOURNALS GIVING
PROPER REASONS
ENSURE ETHICAL
MARKETING
NATIONAL DRUGS
& THERAPEUTICS
AUTHORITY TO
SCREEN ALL
SALES PROMOTION
MATERIAL FOR
UNBIASED
PUBLICITY
ENSURE USE OF
GENERIC NAMES
& ABOLISH ALL
BRAND NAMES
OF QUALITY
DRUGS
DEVELOP SELF RELIANCE
IN DRUG TECHNOLOGY
BY PROMOTING R & D
IN ACCORDANCE WITH
THE HEALTH NEEDS OF
THE INDIAN PEOPLE
FOSTER & ENCOUR
AGE THE GROWTH
OF THE INDIAN
SECTOR & PROVIDE
A LEADERSHIP ROLE
IN THE PUBLIC
SECTOR
ENSURE PROPER
LABELING &
ALSO THAT ALL
CONSUMER
CAUTION IS IN
REGIONAL
LANGUAGES
REDUCE THE
QUANTUM OF
IMPORTS BY
AIMING AT
QUICK SELF
SUFFICIENCY
RAD OF ALL
NON-ALLOPATHIC
DRUGS TO BE
ENCOURAGED
ALL RESEARCH
ON HUMAN BEINGS
MUST BE IN
ACCORDANCE
WITH HELSINKI
DECLARATION
medically accepted hazardous and irrational
drugs/drug combinations.
WHO has helped Kenya with SIDA help to implement its R.D.P.
by helping in the distribution of Ration Kit system.
(ii)
No effort to make available unbiased drug
information to health personnel and people.
*
(iii)
No effort to evolve distribution schemes for
drugs for the people.
(iv)
No effort to ensure ethical marketing and
trade practices, & quality control.
The concerns felt by VHAI and the various groups
constituting the All India Drug Action Network (AIDAN)
as regards the Rational Drug Policy was submitted on
29th October '84 at the Expert Committee called by the
Chemicals Ministry.
WORLD HEALTH
July'84 issue magazine of WHO focussed on World Health
Essential Drugs of the World.
It deals with the
concept of Essential Drugs.
At the World Health Assembly
NORDIC RESOLUTION, and after
*
The concerns have separately been expressed to the
appropriate authorities in Chemicals and Health
Ministry.
In May'84 at the World Health Assembly session, NORDIC
countries proposed a resolution in favour of WHO's
rational use of drugs and the essential drugs action
programme.
116 countries voted for it.
Japan and
West Germany abstained and U.S. voted against it.
*
We wait the formulation of a people oriented Rational
Drug Policy.
At WHA.1985 - where national NGO representatives from
various countries were invited for the first time, the
issue of Rational Drug Policies was brought up again.
*
In November 1985 - a very critical meeting between WHO,
Drug Industry representatives and consumer and health
activists will take place in Nairobi between 25 - 29th.
WHO’s Action Programme for Essential Drugs
1977
WHO produced the technical report series 615
on 'Selection of Essential Drugs'.
1981
:
Action Program for Essential drugs was launched.
1981
:
WHO's Technical Report series 641 on 'Selection
of Essential Drugs' was produced.
1983
:
WHO's Technical Report series 683 was produced
on '
1985
:
WHO's Technical Report an updated issue 722 on
Use of Essential Drugs is the latest (4th ed.)
Since the Action Programme was launched in 1981, more than
80 countries have either drawn up essential drugs lists
or started projects in support of primary health care,
providing safe and reliable essential drugs and vaccines
which:-
-
meet real medical needs
have significant therapeutic value
are acceptably safe
offer satisfactory value for money
WHO's role and seriousness in ensuring international
codes for ethical marketing practices and international
controls will become clear after this meeting.
At its rational best, can WHO whose funding comes mainly
from those countries, who happen to be the biggest
pharmaceutical exporters dictate terms to them ? Is
it not the right of the third world governments to
demand such codes from the UN system since it is
their interest, that UN system is supposed to safeguard?
Have the efforts of the national governments in rationalizing
their own country's drug policy
been sincere or have they
too been a party to people's exploitation?
Rational Drug policies, international codes will not be
handed down to the people passively, out of any benevolance.
A critical understanding of the issues involved and role
of international agencies like WHO, UNCTAD, UNIDO, national
governments is needed by more and more health professionals,
academicians, scientists, those involves in development
and organizational work and the people themselves to ensure
the safeguarding of their interest.
A new pharmaceutical order is an imperative.
The expectation from the national governments and UN agencies
like WHO is their help in this process.
25
The expectation from the drug industry, national or multi
national is that while they look after their own interests
they do not do so at the cost of the people's' health and
people's scarce resources.
*
WHO'S ESSENTIAL DRUGS MONITOR has just been started
to provide an information channel of what is happening
regarding Rational Drug Policies and Rational Drug use.
5.
Monitoring and disseminating information on Bhopal.
6.
Supportive . help'to . 'Jana Swasthya Kendra.' ,
7.
Influencing policy makers to recognise the gravity
of the health situation in Bhopal and to ensure long
term relief measures.
Bhopal.
For a copy write to:
The Editor
Essential Drugs Monitor
WHO
CH-1211, Geneva 27
Switzerland.
OR
Voluntary Health Association
of India
C-14, Community Centre,
Safdarjung Development Area
New Delhi-110016.
The IDRC Reports, Volume 14, Number 1 - April 1985 on
'Drugs: Essential and harmful' is available from:
International Development Research Centre
IT Jorbagh, New Delhi - 110003.
BHOPAL
Voluntary Health Association of India's response to the
tragedy had been to help voluntary groups doing health
related relief work among the gas affected victims of
Bhopal.
From the 16th - 21st March 1985, VHAI in colla
boration with 'Nagarik Rahat Aur Punarvas Committee'■(NRPC)
and with the supportive help of doctors from KEM Hospital,
Bombay had conducted a thorough Medical Survey of the gas
affected population of Bhopal.
Specific activities undertaken by VHAI
1.
2.
Digging up and distribution of relevant need based
materials needed for health and rehabilitation of
victims.
Creating public awareness
video on Bhopal -
a)
b)
c)
3.
4.
PESTICIDE
ACTION
Pesticide information action will be an important aspect
of PEHA section's activities alongwith drug action.
- the special issue of VHAI's bi-monthly on pesticide
would be brought out by January
- alongwith drugs information, VHAI will act as a
clearing house for pesticide information, specially
the health related aspects
: Screening of film and
'World without tommorow' a film by Tapan Bose
Video film by B.B.C. and Granada T.V.
Delhi Science Forum's Bhopal exhibits.
Organising meetings : A meeting was called on behalf of
'All India Drug Action Network', specifically to bring
together voluntary groups doing relief work and to
discuss long term health relief measures.
Supporting Social Action groups on health related issues.
- VHAI joins the Dirty. Dozen Campaign against the
misuse of the following hazardous pesticide
• CIRCLE OF POISON : PESTICIDES & PEOPLE IN A HUNGRY WORLD
-
DAVID WEIR
-
M. SCHAPIRO
(I.F.D.P. San Francisco)
1980
Deals with International
Sales
•
THE PESTICIDE HANDBOOK PROFILES FOR ACTION
It gives profiles o.f 44 Problem Pesticides Reading List
of action Groups.
Note :
Effort to obtain relevant books & material on
Pesticides is being made to make them available for ACTION
• PESTICIDE POISONING REPORT FROM SOME
ASIAN COUNTRIES
By Foo Gaik Sim
IOCU
P 0 Box 1045
Penang
Malaysia
•
SILENT SPRING - RACHEL CARSON (Houghton Mifflin Boston 1962)
The book that gave many of us our first insights into the
ecologically hazardous nature of pesticides is more relevant
today for us. than it ever was, would have liked to ensure
it as ESSENTIAL READING in Medical Colleges, Agriculture
Colleges, Social Work Schools, Consumer groups, concerned
individuals & POLICY MAKERS.
AIMS OF THE PESTICIDE ACTION NETWORK
1.
The expansion of traditional biological and integrated
pest management and an end to unnecessary sale and use
of chemical pesticides.
2.
The imposition of export and import controls on the
movement of hazardous chemicals.
RECOMMENDED READING ON PESTICIDE
AWAY WITH THE POISONOUS CHEMICALS
3.
Immediate notification by any government of a ban or
restriction on a chemical pesticide.
4.
Public release of information by all governments on
the export and import of chemical pesticides, naming
the companies involved and the known health effects of
the products.
A very creatively designed, simple practical 23 paged
booklet on daily living without poisonous chemicals.
The withdrawal of funding by international development
agencies of projects using pesticide which can not be
safely used under local conditions.
Available from : Sibylle Sharma - Hablik
32 Rue Suffren,
PONDICHERRY 605001
South India
The reversal of the Green Revolution practice of
developing seeds which need large doses of expensive
pesticides and fertilizers.
A GROWING PROBLEM : PESTICIDES AND THE THIRD WORLD POOR
DAVID BULL (Oxfam 1982)
An end to the vicious circle whereby poisonous pesticides
used in the Third World end up as residues in food
eaten all over the world.
Well documented book, highlights the impact of pesticides
increasing usage and recommends specific plan of action by
NGO's Gove -’iments, industry & international bodies
(available at VHAI)
Authors
: Sibylle Sharma Hablik & Joan Scheel
Cost
: Rs.5
27
Some other important and useful books on Drugs:
"ROCHE Versus ADAMS" - by Stanley Adams, Fontana/Collins,
1985 (236 pages) Price : US $ 3.60 Sea Mail
US $ 6.00 Air Mail
Available : Third World Network
8.7 Contonment Road
Penang, Malayasia.
CORPORATE CRIME IN THE PHARMACEUTICAL INDUSTRY by John
Braithwaite, 1984 Price :
25
Available : Routledge & Kegan Paul
London
"DRUGS & WORLD HEALTH - An International Consumer Perspective
by Charles Medawar, 1984 Price :
2.95 $ 4.00
Available : I.O.C.U.
Emmartraat 9,
2595, EG The Hague
Netherlands.
"BITTER PILLS" Medicines & The Third World Poor (1982)
- by Dianna Melrose, Price :
4.95
Available : OXFAM
274 Banbury Road
Oxford OX 27D2
London (UK)
THE USE OF ESSENTIAL DRUGS - Report of a OTO Export
Committee - Tecnnical Report Series No.685 : 1983
Available : WHO
Action Program for Essential Drugs
Geneva
Switzerland
*
THE WRONG KIND OF MEDICINE by Charles Medawa,
Available
1984
Social Audit
9 Poland Street
P0 Box 111
London NW1 8XG
Recommended Reading for Anabolic Steroids
ESSENTIAL DRUGS FOR THE WORLD, 1984
Report of the International Study on Anabolic Steroids
Available : WHO
Geneva
Switzerland
GETTING ESSENTIAL DRUGS TO THE PEOPLE *
by IOCU (Eva Lachovich)
Study Coordinator
Box 1045
Penang
MALAYSIA
Contact No.63/73
Available : VHAI
"PHARMACEUTICALS & HEALTH POLICY" International Perspectives
on Provision and Control of Medicines.
Edited : Herxheimer, Stenzl & Woodcock, 1981
Price :
3.95
Available : I.O.C.U.
P.O. Box 1045
Penang
Malayasia
PILLS POLICIES AND PROFITS - Reactions to the Bangladesh
Drug Policy - by Francis Rolt
Available : War on Want
Three Castles House
1 London Bridge Street
London SEI 9SG
"ROCHE Versus ADAMS" by Stanley Adams Fontana/Collins 1985
(236 Pages) Price US $ 3.60 Sea Mail
US $ 6.00 Air Mail
Available:
28
Third World Network
87 Contonment Road
Penang, Malaysia.
Turning the tide
on trade in
hazardous products
A few copies are available at VHAI.
Five Pillars OF THE Consumer Movement |
PROTECTING THE EARTH
CARING PEOPLE
C live O ffle y
The consumer movement is people
who care about others and about
themselves. It's about value for money
of goods. But more importantly it’s
about value for people.
Consumers must be conservcrs, pro
tecting and preserving the earth. We
must be aware of the consequences of
our actions so the earth's resources arc
not squandered by the few at the
expense of the many.
KNOWING YOUR RIGHTS
FIGHTING FOR JUSTICE
Human rights are central to the con
sumer movement, especially, the right
of people to have their basic needs
met.
Political and economic systems often
discriminate against the powerless.
Consumers can help to build fair,
rational and just societies.
DISCOVERING YOUR POWER
Acting together ordinary people can make a difference. Consumers can use their join!
power io protect lheir interests and to fight those forces that threaten them
WAR
<”*
Want
somu
HEALTH
FOR ALL
nsu'ftntHtliirH'itn
DRUG STUDY GROUP
by the year
2000
*
Rational
Printed at RAKMO ENTERPRISES, Ne
t
*
Delhi.
- Media
RF_DR.A_12_SUDHA.pdf
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