Revival of Rare Ayurvedic Manuscripts

In a remarkable effort to preserve India’s traditional medicine, the Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences (CCRAS) has revived two Ayurvedic manuscripts. Unveiled during a ceremony in Mumbai, these works are very important for the understanding and application of Ayurveda . The event was attended by esteemed figures in the field, including Prof. Vd. Rabinarayan Acharya, who emphasised the need to integrate ancient wisdom with modern healthcare.

About the Revived Manuscripts

The two manuscripts are Dravyaratnākara Nighaṇṭu and Dravyanamākara Nighaṇṭu. Both texts provide vital information about Ayurvedic knowledge and practices. Their revival marks an important step in ensuring that this ancient knowledge continues to inform contemporary medical practices.

Dravyaratnākara Nighaṇṭu

Authored by Mudgala Paṇḍita in 1480 AD, this lexicon comprises eighteen chapters detailing drug synonyms and therapeutic actions. It marks medicinal properties derived from plants, minerals, and animal sources. Historically in Maharashtra, it draws from classical texts, including Dhanvantari and Raja Nighaṇṭu. The critical edition prepared by Dr. S. D. Kamat revitalises this text for modern practitioners.

Dravyanamākara Nighaṇṭu

Attributed to Bhisma Vaidya, this work serves as an appendix to Dhanvantari Nighaṇṭu. It focuses on homonyms of drug and plant names, an essential aspect of Ayurvedic study. With 182 verses, this meticulously edited text enhances the understanding of Ayurvedic pharmacology. Dr. Kamat’s contributions further solidify its relevance for scholars and practitioners alike.

Significance of the Revival

The revival of these manuscripts is not merely an academic exercise. It bridges the gap between ancient Ayurvedic practices and contemporary research. Such initiatives can transform healthcare approaches, making ancient knowledge applicable in modern contexts. The critical editions will serve as vital resources for students, researchers, and practitioners, encouraging deeper engagement with classical Ayurvedic literature.

Future Implications

The work done by CCRAS and its collaborators ensures that India’s Ayurvedic heritage is preserved and enhanced. By digitising and interpreting these texts, they are safeguarding invaluable resources for future generations. This revival not only enriches the traditional healthcare system but also encourages scholarly exploration in Ayurveda.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Critically analyse the role of traditional medicine in contemporary healthcare systems across the globe.
2. Explain the significance of manuscript preservation in the context of cultural heritage and knowledge systems.
3. What are the key features of the Dravyaratnākara Nighaṇṭu? How does it contribute to the field of Ayurveda?
4. What is the importance of homonyms in Ayurvedic studies? Discuss with suitable examples from the Dravyanamākara Nighaṇṭu.

Answer Hints:

1. Critically analyse the role of traditional medicine in contemporary healthcare systems across the globe.

1. Traditional medicine encompasses diverse practices, including Ayurveda, Traditional Chinese Medicine, and herbal remedies.
2. It offers holistic approaches to health, emphasizing prevention and wellness rather than just treatment.
3. Many healthcare systems are integrating traditional practices with modern medicine, recognizing their complementary benefits.
4. Research shows that traditional medicine can enhance patient satisfaction and provide alternative treatment options.
5. Regulatory frameworks are being developed globally to ensure safety and efficacy in the use of traditional medicine.

2. Explain the significance of manuscript preservation in the context of cultural heritage and knowledge systems.

1. Manuscript preservation safeguards historical knowledge, ensuring that ancient wisdom is not lost to time.
2. Preserved manuscripts serve as primary sources for understanding cultural, medical, and scientific advancements of past civilizations.
3. They promote scholarly research and discourse, encouraging a deeper connection to cultural identity and heritage.
4. Preservation efforts contribute to the continuity of knowledge systems, allowing future generations to learn from historical insights.
5. Digitization of manuscripts enhances accessibility, enabling broader engagement with cultural heritage globally.

3. What are the key features of the Dravyaratnākara Nighaṇṭu? How does it contribute to the field of Ayurveda?

1. Authored by Mudgala Paṇḍita in 1480 AD, it is a lexicon with eighteen chapters focused on drug synonyms and therapeutic actions.
2. The text documents medicinal properties from plant, mineral, and animal sources, enriching Ayurvedic pharmacology.
3. It draws from classical texts like Dhanvantari and Raja Nighaṇṭu, ensuring continuity in Ayurvedic knowledge.
4. Its revival enhances educational resources for students and practitioners, promoting deeper understanding of Dravyaguna.
5. This critical edition serves as a bridge between ancient practices and contemporary applications in healthcare.

4. What is the importance of homonyms in Ayurvedic studies? Discuss with suitable examples from the Dravyanamākara Nighaṇṭu.

1. Homonyms in Ayurveda refer to words that have multiple meanings, crucial for accurate identification of drugs and plants.
2. The Dravyanamākara Nighaṇṭu focuses on this complexity, aiding practitioners in distinguishing between similar-sounding substances.
3. About homonyms prevents misidentification and misuse of medicinal resources, ensuring patient safety.
4. For example, the same name might refer to different plants with varied therapeutic properties, necessitating clarity.
5. This precision is vital for effective Ayurvedic treatment and enhances the overall efficacy of the practice.