Glossary of Sanskrit Terms for the Ayurvedic Practitioner

November 2004 by Marisa Laursen and Robert Talbert

This reference guide evolved naturally out of our studies of Ayurveda and deepening interest in the original language of this sacred science. It was compiled with the loving intent of helping to make the ancient language of Sanskrit more accessible to students and practitioners of Ayurveda. This reference contains the terms used in the primary textbooks utilized by the California College of Ayurveda plus terms drawn from a variety of other sources. The language of Sanskrit is vast, and this guide represents only a starting point for ones studies. It is the intention of the authors to provide updated versions as a continuing reference.

Om Namaste

Marisa Laursen: marisa@shantihealth.com

Rob Talbert: rob@jivaka.com

A abadha abhyanga abhyaga That which produces constant discomfort. Ayurvedic massage; specifically, the application of herbal oils to the body and its subsequent absorption into the body. abhyantara krimi abhyantara snehana abhysyandis Advaita Vednta Advaita Vednta bhyatara snehana Herbs which block the channel of rasavaha srota, causing congestion. One of the three systems of thought in Vedanda philosophy popularized by Shankara. It teaches that the manifest creation, the soul, and God are identical. This non-dualist form argues that we are the whole and that parts are simply illusion. agni Fire; the force residing within the body that creates digestion; responsible for the transformation of one substance into another; metabolism. Agni is contained within pitta. agnidosa agnisadana aham brahmasmi ahamkara ahara rasa ajna ajna chakra ahamkra hra rasa j j chakra faulty agni Herbs which reduce appetite. I am Brahma (in Vedanta philosophy) Sense of self or separateness; loosely translated as ego The elemental form, or essence, of food (the quality of the food as opposed to the food itself). Command The sixth chakra, located in the region commonly called the "third eye" between the eyebrows. The "command station" of the body and mind. Contains the qualities of subtle ether. akasha akruti aksepaka alochaka pitta ama lochaka pitta ma ksha kruti Ether; the idea of connectedness or space; the space that exists between all things. The volume and tension of the pulse Convulsions. Subdosha of pitta. Digests light/visual impressions. On higher level, related to perception. Resides in eyes (pupils). Toxic residue that is left behind as a by-product of poor digestion. Internal parasites. Internal oleation.

ama vata amadosha amasaya amavataghana amavatham ambu ambuvaha srota

ma vta mhaya

Rheumatoid arthritis (vata carrying ama into the joints). The vitiation of poorly digested food. Stomach Anti-rheumatic herbs. Anti-rheumatic herbs. Water The channel that carries water; also called the udakavaha srota; the water metabolism system of the body, consisting of all the metabolic functions that regulate retention and elimination (those functions residing outside of the urinary system including the production of ADH by the pituitary gland, insulin by the pancreas, and the desire for water contained within the palate); it originates in the kloman (pancreas) and the palate.

amla amrit anada anagni sveda nada

Sour Sacred nectar; the highest form of ojas; the source of immortality and eternal bliss. Also called soma. bliss, absolute joy Non-direct fire fomentation; therapeutic actions that do not require a formal source of heat, including exercise, wearing heavy clothing, wrapping a patient in blankets, exposure to the sun, and fasting.

anahagna anahata chakra ananda anandagni anhata chakra nanda nandagni

Laxative The fourth chakra, located at the center of the chest. Contains the qualities of the air element. Bliss The agni that metabolizes ether, which in this context is pure joy. Faulty metabolism causes diseases that are spiritual in nature such as unhappiness, dissatisfaction and a feeling of separation from God.

anandamaya kosha

nandamaya kosha The bliss sheath; it makes up the majority of the causal body; contains the anandagni, which is responsible for metabolizing ether.

ananta

An atypical migraine headache (atypical due to the pattern of pain). Ananta is the name of the serpent upon which Lord Vishnu rests; in pictures of the great God, the serpent rises up from the back of Lord Vishnu's head; so does a headache of this type.

anga angamarda-prashamana anna annagni

Root meaning "limb, portion", as in Ashtnga Yoga Anti-rheumatic, analgesic herbs. Food The agni which metabolizes food. The annagni consists of the jathagni, the dhtu agnis and the bhta agnis and is responsible for metabolizing the earth element and converting it into the building blocks of the body. Faulty metabolism causes physical disease.

annakitta annamaya kosha

The remains of food in the large intestine. The food sheath or food body; our physical body which is built from the food we eat. The dominant element within its structure is the earth element. Contains the annagni which is responsible for metabolizing the earth element.

annapurna annavaha srota

annaprn

" One who gives nourishment", The Goddess of Food. The channel that carries food; originates in the stomach; the first half of the digestive channel (from the mouth to the end of the small intestine).

antaragni

Internal fire; the most important of all the agnis. Also called jatharagni (digestive fire) and antaragni (internal fire).

antarayama antarmukhi yoni vyapat anubandha anuloma anulomana-vilomana anupana anupasaya anupasaya anuvasana basti apana vayu apara ojas apna vyu

See dhanusthambha. Severe vaginal pain that is supposedly due to engaging in sex after a heavy meal and/or unusual sexual position. That which transmigrates from one body to the next (the subtlest aspect of who we are; our soul). Mild laxative, carminative. Alternate nostril breathing. The medium used to carry herbs into the body. Examples include water, milk, honey, alcohol, ghee, and sesame oil. See upasaya. Discomfort; also called asatmya. Tonifying basti. Subdosha of vta. Downward and outward moving air. Responsible for elimination of waste. Resides in the colon. One of the two types of ojas (the other being para ojas). Dwells in the vessels next to the heart, and when diminished, affects the immune system, resulting in illness.

apas apasmara apatanaka apatantraka ardhavabhedaka ardita

pas

Water; the idea of flow and liquidity. Epilepsy. See dhanusthambha. See dhanusthambha. Pain in half the head. Hemifacial paralysis or facial palsy, a condition caused by injury to cranial nerve VII. It has the appearance of a stroke and may be caused by gross trauma such as a head injury or minor trauma such as sleeping on an uncomfortrable pillow. Also called ekayama. The term can also mean tetanus.

arishta arka arocaka nidana artava artavaha srota

rihha arocaka nidana rtava rtavaha srota

Medicated wine made with a decoction. Water extract prepared from distillation. Diagnosis of anorexia (loss of appetite) Egg The channel that carries menstrual fluid and ovum; consists of the fallopian tubes, uterus and vaginal canal; originates in the ovaries and uterus (the female reproductive system).

artavajanana artha aruci asana asara Asatmya asava

rtavajanana

Herbs which promote ovulation/menses. Prosperity anorexia

sana

Posture, the third limb of Yoga. Refers to yoga postures. Non-useful components of metabolism. Discomfort; also called anupasaya.

sava

Medicated wine made with freshly pressed herbal juice. A popular example is Kumari Asava, which is useful for reproductive and digestive complaints and liver tonification.

ashaya asha Ashtanga Hridayam

shaya

Vessel The number eight (8). Example: Ashnga Yoga (the eight limbs of yoga).

Ashtnga Hridayam (Aga Hdayam)

One of the three most important books in Classical yurveda (the other two are the Caraka Samhita and the Sushruta Samhita). Written by Vagbhat in the 7th century AD, Vagbhat may be the same author who wrote Ashtanga Samgraha (although this is uncertain; there may be two Vagbhats).

Ashtanga Samgraha

Ashtnga Samgraha

One of the three supplemental (or "lesser") classical yurveda books (the other two are the Madhava Nidanam and the Sarangadhara Sahit). Written by Vagbhat in the 7th century AD, this may be the same author who wrote Ashtanga Hridayam (although this is uncertain; there may be two Vagbats).

Ashtanga Yoga ashtapana ashya asmari asmari bheda asthi asthi agni

Ashtnga Yoga (Aga Yoga) asha mar

"Eight limbed yoga", The term refers spcifically to Rja - Yoga which contains eight limbs or steps. See Rja Yoga. Corrective enema. Prefix meaning eight; e.g. ashtnga means eight limbed Urinary stones. Lithotrope. Bone A dhtu agni; helps build asthi (bone); the health of this agni determines the health of asthi. Resides in the purisha dhara kal, the membrane that precedes asthi.

asthi dhatu

asthi dhtu

One of the seven "dhtus" or tissues; consists of bones, nails, teeth, hair. Composed of air and earth; provides framework. Psychological function is to "stand tall", attain stature.

asthi saushiryam asthila asthivaha srota

Osteoporosis Prostrate gland; also called paurusha granthi. The channel that carries posaka medas or unstable medas prior to becoming asthi dhtu; originates in the fatty tissues of the hips and buttocks; carrier of vta (bone porosity) and kapha (bone element) doshas.

atanka aticarana yoni vyapat atisara atma vichara atman atulygotriya atyagni atyagni audbhida tman atsra

That which makes life miserable. Swelling and pain in the vagina caused by excess intercourse (physical irritation). Diarrhea The process of dispelling of illusion In Snkhya philosophy, the aspect of god that resides within each of us; our spirit or soul. Embrology. High agni; when the strength of the digestive fire is too high. Also called tikshnagni. Hyperactive agni. Salt from the earth

aum avabahu avagha sveda

see Om Paralysis. A treatment in which a person reclines in a bathtub filled with hot water and herbal decoctions. Oils may be added as well.

avalambaka kapha

Subdosha of kapha. Protects lungs and respiratory tissues. Related to attachment and holding on to things and to weight gain. Located in chest (heart and lungs).

avaleha avila Ayurveda B baddhodara bahaya krimi bahirayama bala balya basti vila yurveda

Sweet candy, jam or jelly. Cloudy Knowledge of life; ayus (life) and veda (knowledge). Intestinal obstruction. External parasites. See dhanusthambha. The strength or force of the pulse. Herbs which increase strength and are tonifying. Basti literally means bladder, and in yurveda the term is used to mean enema (a bladder was traditionally used as the device that holds the liquid used in enemas). Enemas fall in two categories, either purifying (niruha basti) or tonifying (anuvasana basti).

basti shodan bayha snehana bhagat bhasma

Herbs which cleanse the bladder. External oleation Native healer. An oxide prepared by purifying a substance, usually a metal, then cooking it until it becomes an ash. These are more expensive and powerful than herbs. Most are not allowed in the USA. Not considered a traditional part of Ayurvedic medicine.

bhayaja bhedana bhedaniya bhrajaka pitta bhritya bhuta bhta bhrjaka pitta

Fear Mild purgative, laxative. Mild purgative, laxative. Subdosha of pitta. Digests touch, temperature, pressure, pain. Resides in skin. The term for a parent, child caretaker or guide. element, "that which manifests as matter"

bhuta agnis bhutonmada bija mantra

bhta agnis

The elemental agnis; there are five, one for each element (akashagni, vayagni, tejagni, jalagni, and prithviagni). Possession by evil spirits.

bja mantra

A seed mantra; the essence of all other mantras. Thus, of all mantras, they have the most power. The ancient people of India described chakras as having the shape of a lotus flower. At the center of the lotus is a primary energy that is symbolized by a letter in the Sanskrit alphabet. Chanted, this is called a bija mantra. Chanting a bija mantra increases the rotation of the chakra or the frequency of prna moving through the chakra and enhances and heightens its functions.

bodhaka kapha

Subdosha of kapha. Moistens mouth; saliva. Protects mouth from heat of food and roughness of food and chewing. Responsible for aesthetic taste. Located in mouth.

brahaman brahmacharya brihat panchamula Brihat Treya brahmacharya

The combination of unmanifested pure potential and pure consciousness that exists prior to creation Sexual restraint The five great roots; part of the dashmool formula used for niruha basti. The three most important books in Classical yurveda. Consists of the Caraka Sahit, Sushruta Sahit, and the Ashtanga Hridayam.

brimhana brimhana chikits buddhi buddhi smruti prada C Caraka Samhita Caraka Sahit

Make heavy; increases fat and muscle tone; tonifying pancha karma treatment. Tonification therapy, the purpose of which is to increase the internal strength of the patient. Intellect Herbs which benefit the intellect and memory. Considered the greatest of all the classical texts on yurveda. Written by Caraka, it contains the teachings of the sage Agnivesa, who was one of the six students of the great sage Atreya. It is Agnivesa's teachings which makes up the bulk of what is known about classical yurveda. Caraka was himself a great physician.

catur

The number four (4). Example: caturtha ("fourth"; in Vedanta, a technical term referring to the transcendental Self beyond the three states of waking, dreaming and sleep).

chakra

Part of the subtle nervous system (the ndis are another part). There are seven charkas, and these chakras serve as an energetic template of the nerve plexuses that function in the physical body. Chakras have the potential to generate two qualities of energy; ordinary subtle energy and a heightened subtle energy.

chakradhara chakshushva chaksu chala chardi chardi-nigrahana chedana chidrodara

An oil treatment in which oil is poured over the chakras. Herbs that benefit the eyes, promote vision. Eyes. Mobile Herbs that induce vomiting. Anti-emetic herbs (reduce vomiting) Herbs that scrape away ama; also an expectorant. A condition of perforation of the intestine resulting in abdominal swelling. Usually caused by the intake of sharp objects, wood, sand, bone or nails. Also called ksatodara.

chikitsa chinamsuka

chikits

Treatment Piamater (The delicate and highly vascular membrane immediately investing the brain and spinal cord).

chinna chit churna (choorna) cikitsa citta la D daha-prashamana dahashamaka dakodara chra (cra) cikits

Cheyne stokes respiration which occurs in terminal states of illness; a type of breathing that occurs near death. Consciousness absolute; the ocean within which we all are connected. Powdered herb; usually a powdered formula of herbs see chikits Consciousness Colic pain Herbs that are refrigerants; cooling to the body. Herbs which alleviate burning sensations. See udakodara.

dandaka

A condition in which there is gross stiffness of the body; vata and kapha invade all channels and tissues of the body; considered incurable.

darshana dasha dashadauhrda daa-

Philosophy; observation; looking for signs and symptoms of disease by observation The number ten (10). Example: dashmula (the ten roots formula). prefix meaning 10, e.g. the herbal compound daamla (dashamula) "ten roots" The heart-to-heart connection between a mother and her embryo whereby the embryo is able to communicate its desires to the mother through the channels which carry nutrients; in this way the heart of the mother and the heart of the fetus are connected. Also called a Bi-cardiac state.

deha-samshodanas desa dhamini dhamini dhamini dhammillaka dhanustambha dhanusthambha

Herbs that induce vomiting. Habitat Artery See nadi. Arteries. Cerebellum. Tetanus. Another term sometimes used for tetanus is ardita. Sometimes means tetanus, sometimes refers to a type of convulsion. Also called apatantraka or apatanaka. There are two kinds; antarayama, where the body bends forward and bahirayama, where the body bends backward.

dhara dharana dhari dharma dhatu dhatu agni dhatu srotas

dhr dhra

To pour or flow concentration, the sixth limb of Yoga. The mental contemplation and retention of information into memory. That aspect of life that keeps the body from decaying God-given purpose

dhtu dhtu agni dhtu srotas

Tissue Tissue agnis; there are seven, one for each of the major tissues of the body. Channels through which the dhtus move as they are being formed; there are seven in all, and each leads to a kal (membrane).

dhuma dhyana

dhma dhyna

smoke inhalation therapy Meditation, the seventh limb of Yoga. Endurance

dinacharya dipana (deepana) dosha dpana doha

Rejuvenation of the mind; daily practices. Digestive stimulant, the action of kindling agni Three main forces which govern the body (vta, pitta and kapha); literally means faulty or to cause harm, although they only do so when they are functioning abnormally. When functioning normally, they maintain the good health of the body and guide all of the normal bodily functions

draksha drava dravya dravya guna

drakha

Medicated wine; a fermented decoction or infusion. Liquid Substance; matter The qualities of a substance. The term is used synonymously with pharmacology, although the principles of dravya guna are the foundation for all sensory treatments, the basic knowledge necessary for treating all imbalances in the body.

dravyagunashastra

The branch of knowledge that deals with the dravyas (drugs as well as diet) that help in the maintenance of health and alleviation of diseases in the purush (human body), which is a concomitance of panchamahabhootas and atma (the soul or the consciousness). It also deals with the properties, actions, dose, time of administration and various preparations of these dravyas. Food items, like drugs, are also considered in these dravyas.

dugdha dhara durgandhyanashana dvi E eka

Milk as the base (instead of oil) in shirodhara. Deodorant. The number two (2). Example: dvipada sirasana (two feet to head yoga pose). Prefix one, the singular reality or transcendental Self beyond the multiplicity experienced by the unenlightened ego-bound individual. The number one (1). Example: ekamla (one root theory).

ekamula

ekamla

Literally means "one root". A herbal therapy technique where only one herb is given to the client ("putting all your eggs in one basket"). Haritaki(Terminalia chebula) and Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia) are often canditates for this technique.

ekayama

See ardita.

10

ela F flatus G galaugha gandha gandusha garbhada garbharoga garbhashayya sankochaka gati

el

Cardamom Excessive accumulation of gas in the intestines. Pharyngitis, laryngitis. Smell; odor The practice of gargling with medicated oil to strengthen the gums and voice. Herbs which increase fertility. Diseases of the uterus. Herbs which stimulate labor. The movement of the pulse; a description of its movement based on comparing it to the movements of different animals.

ghana ghee

Pill; powder of a dried liquid. The clarified oil of butter. It is sattvic and has the unique prabhava of raising agni without aggravating pitta. It's easy to digest, benefits all three doshas, and carries into the body whatever it is mixed with.

ghrita grahani grahi grishma guhyaroga gulma gulma guna gunas guru guti (gutika) H hdaya halimaka hamsa gati gui grshma

A perparation of ghee (clarified butter) in which herbs are infused or boiled into the ghee. 1. Small intestine disease. 2. Ulcers. Anti-diarrhea, binds stool. The summer season Diseases of the female reproductive system. Tumor, lump or diverticulosis. Abdominal tumor Quality or properties. Three basic qualities of nature; tamas, rajas, sattva. Teacher; one who removes the darkness of ignorance; one through whom one finds a channel to God; heavy. Tablet or pill. Mind Hepatitis C or malignant jaundice The quality of the pulse is likened to the movement of a swan; the primary description of a kapha pulse.

11

hara haram haridra haridra meha hasta hasti meha haridr

(suffix) Reduces as in vta hara, pitta hara, and kapha hara. Pacifies Turmeric A type of prameha in which the urine is pungent and yelloworange. Upper extremity. Vata-type diabetes insipidus; a type of prameha in which the urine is passed continuously, without force, and is mixed with lasika (lymph).

hemanta hidhma or hikka hikkanigrahaka hima hrdroga hrdya hrid roga hridaya hridaya dhara kala I ida nadi da ndi hdroga hrdayam hidhm or hikk

The winter season Hiccups Reduces hiccups. Cold infusion (aka shita kashaya). Heart disease. Heart. Heart disease. Herbs which aid the heart. hridaya dhr kal The pericardium and endocardium (the membrane which surrounds the heart). The ndi that runs from the base of the spine (the muladhara chakra) to the left nostril . It is also called the "lunar ndi", as it is associated with the water element. Its energy is cool, and increased movement within it increases the "watery" emotions such as love, attachment, and deep feeling.

iksh iksu meha Indra J jala neti jalodara jatghni yoni vyapat jatharagni jtharagni

Sugar cane Type 2 diabetes; the urine is very sweet like sugar, typical of kapha-type diabetes mellitus. An ancient Vedic deity; cosmic prana See neti See udakodara. This is a condition where each baby a woman tries to bear dies at birth or shortly thereafter. The digestive fire; the most important of all the agnis. Also called kayagni (bodily fire) and antaragni (internal fire).

12

jatismara jentaka sveda

Sattvic individuals who can recollect the events of past lives. A special hut, built according to specific instructions, with a clay oven inside in which special herbs are burned. A well-oiled patient lies down on a bench in the hut for 20 minutes.

jihva jiva jivaniya jivanmukta jivatman jivita jnana jnanendriya jvara jwara jwaraghna jwarahara jyotish K kala kala meha kalashanja kalka kalpa kama kamala kampa vata kampana kampavata kanda kandughna kanthya kma kmala kampa vta kal kla meha jna jnendriya jvanmukta jvtman jva

Tongue. Individual consciousness; sould; a reflection of the Divine. Restorative, vitalizer. Liberated soul The lower aspect of the soul, connected to the physical plane, according to Mmmsa philosophy. That which keeps us alive Knowledge or wisdom. In Snkhya philosophy, the five sense faculties (hearing, touch, vision, taste, smell). That which torments. Fever Reduces fever. Reduces fever. Vedic astrology. 1) Membrane 2) Time 3) Black A type of prameha in which the urine is like black ink. Chorea; other terms include ardita and tandava. Herbal paste. World cycle, world age Pleasure (as a goal, it means the pursuit of pleasure and ecstasy, the primary goal of the senses). Jaundice or hepatitis A. Parkinson's disease; also called vepathu. Tremors. Tremors due to vata; often the term used for Parkinson's disease. Prolapsed uterus. Anti-pruritic. Demulcent, aids the throat.

13

kapalabhati

A fairly aggressive form of prnayama involving forcibly expelling air from the lungs as the diaphragm and abdominal muscles contract.

kapha

The force behind the structure and stability of the body; the elements are water and earth; its qualities are heavy, cold, moist, static, smooth and soft; its root is in the upper stomach. Also a term for mucous.

kaphaja krimi karaa karam karma karmendriya karna purana karnini yoni vyapat karsana kasa kasa roga kasahara kasa-svasahara kashaya (kashayam) kathina kathinya katti basti katu kayagni kthinya kashya ksa ksa roga

Parasites in the digestive tract. Also called purishaja krimi. Method of processing; one of the eight factors determining the utility of food. Aggravates 1) The force that binds the soul to the cycle of life and death. 2) The action of a substance. In Snkhya philosophy, the five faculties of action (speech, grasping, walking, procreation, elimination). The practice of placing oil drops in the ear. Decreased or absent menses. Cleansing Cough Bronchitis Reduces cough. Expectorant, aids breathing and cough. Astringent taste or decoction. Hard The consistency of the blood vessel wall. The application of an oil pool to the back. Pungent taste. Bodily fire; the digestive fire; the most important of all the agnis. Also called jatharagni (digestive fire) and antaragni (internal fire).

keshya kha khara khavaigunya kh khra khvaigunya

Promotes healthy hair. Space Rough A weak or defective space within a tissue or organ where a pathological condition is likely to begin; a potential site of relocation.

khya

To realize.

14

kitchari, kitcheree kledaka kapha klesha

kichar

A meal of basmati rice cooked with split yellow mung dal ( 3 : 1 : 0.25 water:rice:dal). Part of samsarjana karma. Subdosha of kapha. Protects lining of stomach against acids. Located in stomach. The five affliction of humanity (ignorance, egoism, attachment, hatred, clinging to life), according to Vedanta philosophy.

kloman (kloma) komar bhritya komar, kumar kopana kosha koa

Pancreas Pedriatic Ayurveda; that part of Ayurveda which deals with child rearing, childhood illness and their treatment. A title by which a child is addressed. (suffix) Increases, as in vta kopana, pitta kopana, and kapha kopana. Sheath or layer; energetic fields of vibration that correspond to the five elements in their subtle form which are physical manifestations of creation. There are 5 koshas, and each is a layer of our existence; they are annamaya kosha, prnamaya kosha, manomaya kosha, vijnanamaya kosha, and anandamaya kosha. There are two additional layers, "Sat" and "Chit" which are not physical.

krimi krimighna krimija-siratapa

kmi

Parasites Anthelmintic, antiparasitic. A type of headache which is due to a parasitic infection which arises due to an overindulgence in unhealthy foods and improper food combining.

ksara meha ksataja ksatodara ksaya kshara kshaya kshira ksudra

A type of prameha in which the urine is like alkali (strongly basic and caustic such that there is burning). Cough due to chest injury. See chidrodara. Consumption; tissue depletion; to diminish; wasting of the body associated with tuberculosis. Alkali, alkaline extract. Decreased dosha. Plant exudate or resin. Heavy breathing.

15

kumbhi sveda

A treatment in which a bowl is placed in the ground and filled with a decoction of herbs. The herbs are heated with hot iron balls. A patient sits on a chair or lies in a bed over the bowl. There are openings in the bed or chair to allow heat to penetrate into the body.

kundalini energy

kundalin energy

An energetic template of physical sexual energy. At its heightened level, though, it is not sexual but is the force that activates the chakras and causes them to function on a higher level, thereby altering perception and experience. Kundalini moves through the central ndi called the sushumna ndi, upon which the charkas are often stated to be "strung like lotuses".

kushtagna kwatha (kwath) L laghu laghu panchamula laghu treya kwtha

Herb which eliminates skin disease. Decoction (made by boiling the hard parts of herbs). Light laghu pachamla The five lesser roots; part of the dashmool formula used for niruha basti. The three supplemental (or "lesser") Classical yurveda books, consisting of the Ashtanga Samgraha, Madhava Nidanam and the Sarangadhara Sahit.

lagnu (lagu) laksana lala meha langhana langhana chikitsa lavaa lavana lekhana lepa lingum lohama lohitaksya M laghana chikits

Light A type of prameha in which there is slimy urine with threads like saliva. Make light; reduces bulk; purifying pancha karma treatment. Reduction therapy, the purpose of which is to either decrease the quantity of a dhtu or purify a dhtu. Salt Salty. Herbs which reduce fatty tissue and support weight loss. Body paste; used for strains, sprains and arthritis. Penis; also called medra. Iron, as used in a bhasma made of iron. A condition resulting in ammenorrhea accompanied by burning and emaciation.

16

madakaraka madakari madhava nidanam

Herbs which create sleep. Narcotic herbs. One of the three supplemental (or "lesser") classical books on yurveda (the other two are the Ashtanga Samgraha and the Sarangadhara Sahit). Written by Madhavakara, it is considered the major text on pathology and the diagnosis of disease.

madhu madhu (madhura or mathura) madhu meha madhumeha mahaMahad mahan mahasneha mahat mahavaha srota mahvaha srota mahn mah-

Honey Sweet taste. Vata-type diabetes mellitus (type 1); a type of prameha in which urine resembles honey and is sweet. Diabetes insipidus; juvenile diabetes; glycosuria. great Intelligence; the cosmic aspect of the intellect which also contains the individual intellect (Buddhi, ego). "The great dyspnea" (difficulaty breathing); also occurs in terminal illness. A medicated oil consisting of the four fats ghee, sesame oil, muscle fat and bone marrow. All the cosmic laws that make up the intelligence of the universe according to Snkhya philosophy. The Great Channel, consisting of the annavaha srota and the purishavaha srota (the entirety of the digestive channel from mouth to anus).

mahayoni vyapat

Similar to vatiki yoni vyapat, this is a type of vaginal pain specifically described to be due to a prolapse of the uterus and vaginal muscles.

majja agni

majj agni

A dhtu agni; helps build majj; the health of this agni determines the health of majj. Resides in the majj dhara kal, the membrane that precedes majj.

majja dhara kala

majj dhr kal

The membrane that holds bone marrow and the majj agni.

17

majja dhatu

majj dhtu

One of the seven "dhtus" or tissues; consists of the nervous system and anything that fills an empty space within the body, such as the brain, spinal cord, bone marrow. Also includes the sclera of the eyes. Composed of water and earth. Psychological function is fullness, completeness, peacefulness, calm, anxiety, depression, grief.

majja meha majjavaha srota majjvaha srota

A type of prameha in which the urine is mixed with marrow. The channel that carries posaka asthi or unstable asthi prior to becoming majj dhtu; originates in the bones and joints of the body and supplies the nerves and bone marrow; primary carrier of vta dosha.

mala mala stambhana mamsa mamsa dhara kala mmsa dhtu mmsa

Waste Herbs that stop the flow of waste (urine, feces, blood). Muscle mmsa dhr kal The membrane that holds mmsa (muscle) and the mmsagni. mmsa dhtu One of the seven "dhtus" or tissues; consists of muscles, ligaments and skin. Composed mainly of earth and some water and fire. Psychologically, provides courage, fortitude, selfconfidence.

mamsa sarpi mmsagni mmsagni

Medicated meat soup. A dhtu agni; helps build mmsa; the health of this agni determines the health of mmsa. Resides in the mmsa dhara kal, the membrane that precedes mmsa.

mmsavaha srota

mmsavaha srota

The channel that carries posaka rakta or the unstable rakta prior to becoming mmsa dhtu; according to Caraka Sahit it originates in the ligaments and skin (the upadhtu of mmsa dhtu); according to Sushruta Sahit it originates in the nerves, serum and capillaries; a carrier of kapha dosha.

managni

The agni which is responsible for the metabolism of fire, which in this context takes the form of sensory impressions; it is constantly metabolizing the energies coming from our environment into our bodies and our mind. Faulty metabolism causes mental disease.

18

manas manasika manda

The limited mind projected by ahamkara. Faculty of cognition and action. Conditions which originate in the mind. 1)slow, dull 2) A meal of drinking only the lukewarm water in which white basmati rice is boiled ( 16:1 water:rice). Part of samsarjana karma.

mandagni manduka gati manipura chakra mandka gati manipra chakra

Low agni; when the strength of the digestive fire is too low. The feel of the pulse is likened to the movement of a frog; the primary description of the pitta pulse. The third chakra, located in the region of the solar plexus just above the umbilicus. Its related tissues are the liver, spleen, pancreas and small intestine. Contains the qualities of the fire element.

manjista meha manobuddhivaha srota manomaya kosha manovaha srota

A type of prameha in which the urine smells foul and is slightly red like manjista. Channel of understanding. The mind sheath; the primary astral body. It contains the managni, which is responsible for metabolizing fire. The channel that carries thought; refers to the entire mind, so it is the carrier of feelings and emotions as well. Has no physical location; resides within the mind, yet it is subtler. It is the channel through which the body is created; it can be seen as the channel that exists between the physical body and the astral body and through which astral impressions move. According to Caraka Sahit, these are the channels that connect the mind to the senses, which has led some authors to include the brain as a part of manovaha srota.

mantha mantra (mantram)

A mixture of flour, sugar, and ghee. A sacred syllable or sequence of syllables (sometimes a name, a word, or a phrase) that is used in meditation, often assigned by one's guru, and believed to tune one into the Divine. One of the most well known is the sacred sound Om (or Aum).

marica

Black pepper

19

marma

Points on the body where veins, arteries, tendon bone and flesh meet. Also it can be where vta, pitta, kapha, sattva, rajas and tamas meets. There are 108 marma points in our body. These points can be used to heal or to harm. They are strong energy centers and are somewhat similar to acupuncture points. Massaging these points helps to remove energy and toxic blocks from the body, also improving the function of internal organs.

mastiska, matulungua mastulunga avarnana kala medagni

Brain and cerebrum. Meninges. A dhtu agni; helps build medas (fat); the health of this agni determines the health of medas. Resides in the medo dhara kal, the membrane that precedes medas.

medas medas dhatu medas dhtu

Fat; the fatty tissues of the body. One of the seven "dhtus" or tissues; consists of fat (composed primarily of water). Lubricates tissues of body through oiliness. Psychological function is the ability to love and receive love.

medhya medhya rasayana medo dhara kala medohara medovaha srota medo dhr kal

Herbs which promote intellect. Herbs which are rejuvenatives for the mind. The membrane that holds fat and the medagni. Reduces blood lipids. The channel that carries posaka mmsa or unstable mmsa prior to becoming medas dhtu; originates in the kidneys and adipose tissues of the body; carier of kapha dosha.

medra Mimamsa Mmmsa

Penis; also called lingum. One of the six orthodox doctrines of philosophy (shad darshan) of Hinduism, founded by Jaimini. It can be seen as the ritualistic path of Vedic knowledge.

moksha mridu mrudu mudhagarbham mudra mudr

Liberation of the soul from the cycle of life and death; the goal of our higher nature. Soft. Soft Malposition of the baby in utero. A gesture or arrangement of the fingers used in meditation for communication between body, mind and consciousness.

20

mukka paka mula muladhara chakra mla

Ulcer Root creates the foundation for a person's psycho-spiritual development. Contains the qualities of the earth element. mldhra chakra The first, or root, chakra. Located at the base of the spine, it

mutra mutra jathara mutraghta mutragranthi mutra-jnana mutrakcchra mutrakrichra mutraksaya mutrala mutrasada mutra-samgrahaniya mutrashaya mutrashukra mutratita mutratsanga mutravaha srota

mtra

Urine. The habitual holding of urine which causes vata to move upwards causing severe pain and distention.

mtrghta mtragranthi mtra-jnana mtrakcchra mtrakrichra mtrala mtrasamgrahaniya mtrshaya

Urinary retention syndromes. A tumor occurring inside the bladder which produces symptoms similar to a urinary stone. Herbs which increase urine formation. Dysuria or painful urinination. Dysuria, difficulty passing urine. Diminished urine in the aged, debilitated, and dehydrated. Diuretic. Thick, non-unctuous (non-sticky) urine. Urinary astringent; reduces urination. The urinary bladder. The mixing of urine and semen in those who engage in sexual intercourse whle having the urge to urinate. Mild pain in the bladder due to the holding of urine. Residual urine left in the bladder, urethra, or penis causing the penis to feel heavy.

mtravaha srota

The channel that carries urine; consists of the kidneys, ureters, bladder and urethra; according to the Sushruta Sahit, it originates in the bladder and penis, although it is commonly understood to originate in the bladder and urethra; carries water (kapha) out of the body.

mutra-virechaniva mutra-vishodana N

mtra-virechaniva Strong diuretic, urinary purgative. mtra-vishodana Urinary antiseptic.

21

nadi

ndi

Part of the subtle nervous sytem (charkas are another part). ndis are subtle nerve channels; an energetic template of the nerves through which prna (subtle energies) flow. These channels permeate the entire subtle body. The mind is the sum total of all the ndis. Classical yogic texts state that there are 72,000 ndis. Nadi bears different meanings in different texts; it is commonly translated to mean nerve, but can also mean subtle channels or channels in general. Other terms used synomously with nadi include dhamini, sira and srota.

nadi dhatu nadi pariksha nadi svedana ndi pariksha ndi svedana

Some texts refer to the brain, spinal cord and nerves as a separate dhatu. Pulse diagnosis. A special type of steam therapy in which steam is applied through a hose connected to a pressure cooker while the patient is either lying on a massage table or sitting in an upright positon.

nadi vijnanam

ndi vijnam

The reading of the pulse; used to detect existing or potential states of health and disease in a person's body, mind or spirit.

nasa nashta rakta nasya

Nose. Amenorrhea (lack of bleeding) Nasal drops; clears nasal passages and sinuses. Alleviates all the doshas from the neck up, maximizes absorption of prna, treats diseases of the head, sinuses and nasal passages.

nava

The number nine (9). Example: nava karna dravya (the nine causative factors of the universe in the Vasisheshika school of philosophy).

nla neti netra basti netrahita nidana nidanam nidrajnana

nla

Blue Cleansing of the nose with warm salty water using a special neti pot. The application of an oil pool over the eyes. Herbs which aid the eyes. Cause; similar to Western term etiology; understanding the causitive factors of a condition. Diagnosis Hypnotic

22

nidrakara nila meha nirama niruha basti nirvana nisarika niyama Nyaya Nyya nirvna

Herbal sedatives; brings on sleep. A type of prameha in which the urine is blue. Without ama Purifying basti. State of pure existence; no-mind state Arachnoid membrane. Observances, the second limb of Yoga One of the six orthodox doctrines of philosophy (shad darshan) of Hinduism, founded by Gautama. It means arugment or analyiss. It outlines four methods of arriving at the truth (pramnas) which are direct perception, inference, analogy and testimony.

O odona ojas A meal of plain basmati rice ( 2:1 water:rice). Part of samsarjana karma. The subtle immune system; the essence that gives the tissues and the mind strength and endurance; the force that keeps the tissues healthy. Composed primarily of earth and water (qualities similar to kapha). Produced from the essence of shukra. When strong, no disease can affect the body. The energetic template of kapha. Om (aum) The primal sound; the sound or vibration from which the entire universe emanates. According to the Vedas, "om" is the most sacred of all words. Used by Hindu yogis to represent the vibration which pervades the entire universe; the same sound as the one heard internally as a result of practicing yoga. P pachaka pitta pchaka pitta Subdosha of pitta. Most important fire. Converts food to the form that can be absorbed; the fire of digestion. Regulates body temperature. Resides in the small intestines and lower half of stomach (the home of pitta). pachanas pada padadaha padaharsa Herbs which digest ama. Lower extremity. The sensation of burning in the toes. The sensation of pins-and-needles in the feet due to a vata and kapha disturbance.

23

padma gati paca paka pakvashaya shula pancha pka

The pulse of enlightenment, felt under the kapha finger. The number five (5). Example: paca karma (the five actions). prefix meaning five, e.g. pacha karma

pakvshaya shla The five sense organs pacha Also called Shodhana. Strong reduction therapy; the single most powerful healing therapy utilized in yurveda. Used only on strong patients; eliminates ama and excess doshas, then rebuilds internal strength (ojas). There are three components to the process; purva karma, pradhana karma, and prashat krama.

pancha jnanendriya

pacha jnendriya

The five potentials for action (potential organs for motor experience); the five associated organs are the anus, penis, feet, hands and mouth; other texts state the five sense organs.

pancha karma

pacha karma

Five primary preparations of herbs including swarasa (fresh juices), phanta (hot infusions), hima (cold infusions), kwatha (decoctions) and kalka (moist bolus or paste).

pancha karmendriyas pancha karmendryani pancha kasayas pancha maha bhutus pantha papma para para ojas pacha karmendryani pacha kasayas pacha maha bhtus

Five motor organs. The five great elements: ether, air, fire, water & earth. Digestion Colic Passage That which is born from sinful acts. beyond One of the two types of ojas (the other being apara ojas). This is the superior type; it dwells in the heart, and is the container of life itself. Any diminishment in volume would result in instantaneous death.

paramatman paravak parinama paripluta

The higher aspect of the soul, connected to purusha, according to Mmmsa philosophy. The speech of eternal wisdom. Transformation and decay due to time and motion. A condition in which the vagina becomes swollen and painful, with a yellow or blue discharge.

24

pariseka sveda

A shower of medicated decoctions used after an oil massage. The decoction is poured through a hose or a can with many small holes above the patient's head.

pashat krama Patanjali pattiki yoni vyapat Ptajali

Rejuvenation; see rasayana. Name of the celebrated sage who created The Yoga Sutras. This is a condition of burning and ulceration in the wall of the vagina. This is most likely a vaginal infection that has become systemic resulting in fever. Herpes simplex is a form of pattiki yoni vyapat.

paurusha granthi payu peya phanta picchila pinda sveda pingala nadi pingal ndi pey pha

Prostrate gland; also called asthila. Rectum. A meal of drinking thin rice liquid ( 8:1 water:rice). Part of samsarjana karma. Hot infusion. Oily, sticky. The local application of a pinda or bolus (small round mass) which is warm. The ndi that begins at the base of the spine within the muladhara chakra and ends at the right nostril. It is also called the "solar ndi" and is associated with the fire element. Its energy is warm, and stimulation of this ndi increases the fire of the intellect increasing reason, perception, and discrimination.

pista meha pitta pitta

A type of prameha in which the urine is thick like corn flour and white in color. The force in the body that is responsible for digestion and metabolism; its elements are fire along with a small amount of water; its principal quality is heat, although it is also light, slightly oily, unstable and sharp.

pitta dhara kala pittaka pittodara pizzichilli

pitta dhr kal

The membrane that holds pitta and the raktagni.

An oil treatment in which oil is poured onto the body through a hose and massaged into the body. This is the heaviest oil treatment and therefore the most nourishing.

pliha pliodara posaka dhatu

plh posaka dhtu

Spleen Splenic (plh) enlargement. The unstable portion of ahara rasa

25

posya dhatu prabhava

posya dhtu prabhva (prabhv)

The stable portion of ahara rasa Special action of a substance, an action not easily explained by its qualities; gives substances unique healing capabilities. Leukorrhea; a white discharge from the vagina. Herbs which aid menstrual and vaginal disorders. The five classical actions of pancha karma (vamana, virechana, basti, nasya and rakta mokshana). Herbs that promote conception, reduce miscarriage. Intellectual blasphemy; the failure of the intellect; crimes against wisdom Pain following intercourse in the back, calves, and thighs ocurring in girls too young for intercourse.

pradara pradarahara pradhan karma prajashatapana prajnaparadha prakarana yoni vyapat prakriti prakruti prakiti

Pure potential for matter (unmanifested potential); the soul's guna (sattva, rajas or tamas) in its seed form. The inherent ideal balance of the three doshas within an individual; this is determined at conception and does not change throughout a person's lifetime.

pramanas

pramnas

Literally means "proof". The four methods of arriving at truth as outlined in the Nyya philosophy; these include direct perception, inference, analogy and testimony.

pramanthi prameha

Herbs that remove excess doshas at a cellular level; considered a prabhava of some herbs. Polyuria (excessive urinary volume) and diabetes. There are 20 types of prameha. Not all types of prameha are diabetes, but diabetes is a type of prameha.

pramehaghna prana prna

Herbs that reduce blood sugar. 1) Life-force energy 2) One of the subdoshas of vta 3) Breath 4) One of the energies controlling the functioning of the subtle body (the other two are tejas and ojas); the energetic template of vta responsible for circulation within the subtle energy field and for the movement of the subtle body through the subtle universe.

prana vaha srota

prna vaha srota

Respiratory system.

26

prana vayu

prna vyu

Subdosha of vta; inward moving air. Original or primary vyu because life force energy (prna) must first come into the body. Associated with movement of thought and intake of emotions. Resides in the brain and moves downward into the chest.

pranagni

prnagni

The agni which metabolizes water (water is the container that prna is held within when it is confined to the body). Faulty metabolism disturbs the prna and causes physical and mental disease.

pranamaya kosha

prnamaya kosha

The breath sheath; the bridge between the physical body (annamaya kosha) and the astral body (manomaya kosha). It contains the prnagni, which is responsible for metabolizing water.

pranavaha srota

prnavaha srota

The channel that carries prna; usually refers to the respiratory system (nasal passages, sinuses, bronchi and lungs); also relates to the colon which, through the process of digestion, also extracts and absorbs a large amount of prna; originates in the heart.

pranayama

prnyma

Culivation of breath, the fourth limb of Yoga. Breathing practices such as alternate nostril breathing, lunar prnyma, solar prnyma, kapalbhati.

prasada praschat krama prastara sveda

The useful components of metabolism. Rasayana; rejuvenation following pancha karma. A special bed in which a patient lies after oleation. The bed is made with warming grains and leaves combined with spices and herbs.

pratyahara pratysyaya pravahikahara prevepana prithvi pj purisha dhara kala purishaja krimi

pratyhra pratyyya

Withdrawl of the senses, the fifth limb of Yoga Common cold Herbs which manage dysentery. Excessive shaking.

prithv pj

Earth; the idea of solidity and mobility Ritualistic meditation, done with devotion and affection; a Hindu ritual worship designed to concentrate on God.

purisha dhr kal The membrane that holds feces and bone; it is where asthiagni resides; it is where vta is metabolized. See kaphaja krimi.

27

purishavaha srota

The channel that carries feces; consists of the large intestine and rectum, which together make up the excretory system and is the second half of the mahavaha srota; the home of vta dosha.

Purusha purva karma prva karma

Pure potential for consciousness (unmanifested potential); God. Preparatory techniques for pancha karma; brings ama and any excess doshas present in the body back to their sites of origin in the digestive tract so that they can be removed by the procedures of pradhan karma.

purva rupa Q R Raja - Yoga

prvarpa

Early signs and symptoms of a condition; in Western terminology this is called the prodrome.

Rja - Yoga

"The royal yoga", one of the four most important yogic paths towards union with God; its system is presented by Patajali as described in the Yoga-Stra. The path contins the following eight steps: yama (restraint), niyama (observance), asana (posture), pryma(cultivation of breath), pratyahra (sense withdrawal), dhra (concentration), dhyna(meditation), samdhi (integration)

rajah rajas

Menstruation Action, turbulence, distraction; one of the three gunas, or basic qualities of nature. Applied to the mind, rajas is the state of mind dominated by lots of activity, which distracts people from their true nature as spirit.

rajata rajayaksmadi rajoni vriti, rajonivrit rakta rakta bhrisaranas rakta capa vriddhi rakta dhatu rakta dhtu rjayakma

Silver, as used in a bhasma made of silver. Tuberculosis. Also called rogarat, sosa, or ksaya. Menopause. Blood Emmenagogue (promotes menstruation). Hypertension (high blood pressure). One of the seven "dhtus" or tissues; consists of blood/ red blood cells. Also involves blood vessels, liver and spleen. Contains the fire element; invigorates tissues and the mind.

rakta meha rakta mokshana

A type of prameha in which the urine is blood red. Bloodletting. The purpose is to remove toxic blood from the body and stimulate new blood formation.

28

rakta pradhara rakta prasadana rakta rodaka rakta samgrahaka rakta shodaka rakta shodana rakta stambhana rakta stambhana rakta vardhana raktagni

Abnormal menstrual bleeding. Blood purifying, alterative herbs. Hemostatic herbs (astringent herbs that stop bleeding). Hemostatic herbs (astringent herbs that stop bleeding). Blood purifying, alterative herbs. Blood purifying, alterative herbs. Hemostats; astringent herbs that stop bleeding. Hemostat (stops the flow of blood). Herbs that increase blood, aid anemia. A dhtu agni; helps build rakta; the health of this agni determines the health of rakta. Resides in pitta dhara kal, the membrane that precedes rakta.

raktaja krimi raktasthivi sanniat raktasthivi sanniat raktavaha srota

Systemic parasites that travel through the blood. Pneumonia Pneumonia The channel that carries posaka rasa (the unstable portion of rasa prior to becoming rakta). Also called rudhira or that which carriers the red blood cells and hemoglobin; often used synonymously with blood vessels; originates in the liver and spleen; primary carrier of pitta dosha.

ranjaka pitta rasa (rasam)

rajaka pitta

Subdosha of pitta. Imparts color. Resides in liver, gall bladder, spleen, blood. 1) Taste; 2) bodily fluid; "the juice of life"; plasma (the watery component of blood). It can also mean sap, mercury or vitality. In the subtle body, rasa is the substance that provides satisfaction.

rasa dhatu

rasa dhtu

One of the seven "dhtus" or tissues; consists of all bodily fluids (plasma, lymph, chyle, breast milk, menses). In the subtle body, provides a sense of satisfaction.

rasa shastra rasa vidya rasagni

Medicinal use of metals The application of alchemy toward healing. A dhtu agni; helps build rasa; the health of this agni determines the health of rasa. Resides in the sleshma dhara kal, the membrane that precedes rasa.

rasavaha srota

rasavaha srota

The channel through which ahara rasa flows; originates in the heart and blood vessels and includes lymphatic vessels; primary carrier of kapha dosha.

rasavahini

Capillary

29

rasayana

rasyana

Rejuvenative tonic; nourishes all dhtus and builds ojas. A specialized form of tonification that follows purification such as pancha karma; a special term meaning "that which promotes longevity by preventing aging and by making the body young again". Also called pashat krama.

rasayani rasi rechana rishi rochana roga rogarat roma kupa roma sanjanana roma-satana roopana ruchya rudhira ruksha (ruksham) rukshana rupa rutu rutu S sadhaka pitta sdhaka pitta rpa rksha roma kpa

Lymphatic Quantity Strong purgative. A seer; an enlightened Vedic sage. Herbs which stimulate appetite or a flavoring agent. Pain; that which gives rise to pain or disease. The terms tapa and shula are also used synonymously for pain. That which overpowers. Sweat glands; one of the openings of the ambu vaha srotas Herbs that promote hair growth. Depilatories. Vulnerary (firms tissues and organs) Herbs that stimulate taste. See rakatavaha srota. Rough quality, dry. Roughening. Signs and symptoms; clinical manifestation of disease; sight The seasons of the year. Season or time of the month. Subdosha of pitta. Digests and makes sense of sensory input; burns illusions away from truth. Fire of sdhaka pitta gives off light and heat; heat provides passion, courage, anger and the light provides wisdom and clarity. Resides in the mind, brain.

sadhana

The process of making action sacred (for example, food sadhana is the action of making the consumption of food sacred).

sadhyasadhyata

Prognosis.

30

sahasra padma chakra

The seventh chakra, located at the crown of the head (also called the crown chakra). It's meaning is "thousand petaled lotus". Contains causal ether, the subtlest ether of all, the ether of the ocean of consciousness itself.

saindhava sakara sama sama prakruti samadhi samagni samana vayu samna vyu samdhi

Rock salt Urinary gravel (pieces of stone passing through the urine that may cause mild pain and blocked flow). 1. With ama 2. Balanced. The ideal, tridoshic, balanced prakruti. A balanced state of body, mind and consciousness. integration, the eight limb of Yoga. Absorption and pure awareness; a balanced state of supreme intelligence. Normal (balanced) agni Subdosha of vta; moves from periphery to center. Balancing air. Carries sensory impressions to the brain, venous blood to the heart, nutrients and oxygen into the bloodstream. Governs absorption. In the mind, balances and stabilizes the other vyus. Resides in small intestine; it's the "air that stokes the fire".

samanya samjna-stapana samjnavaha srota samprapti samsarjana karma samskaras samprpti

Purvarupa which disappear at the onset of the actual disease. Resuscitative. Channel of consciousness. Pathogenisis of disease; the disease process from its earliest causal stages until complete manifestation. Graduated re-administration of diet; rekindling of agni. Usually used after pradhan karma (the five actions) of PK. Generated by karma, they set the stage for our life, giving us our tendencies and creating our basic reactions to the world; they lie deep within our personality and affect our deepest belief systems.

smudra samyoga san sanair meha

Sea salt Combination, as in food combining. Truth A type of prameha in which the urine passes slowly with little effort.

31

sandha yoni vyapat

In the ancient texts it was observed that some women, as they grew to maturity, did not like men. The condition was considered incurable, and could be an observation made of lesbian women.

sandhaniya sandhi vata sandra sandra meha sangya sthapana sankhaka Sankhya Snkhya sandhi vta

Healing. Osteoarthritis Dense A type of prameha in which the urine is thick when kept overnight, with no sugar present. Herbs that restore consciousness. Temporal headache. One of the six orthodox doctrines of philosophy (shad darshan) of Hinduism, founded by the sage Kpila. As a dualistic philosophy, it teaches that the univers arises throught the union of prakriti and purusha. Literally means "enumeration".

sannipatika (sannipata) sannipatika yoni vyapat

Tri-dosha (all three doshas are involved) This condition, which is the result of all three doshas becoming vitiated, results in menorrhagia (painful menstruation); leads to infertility.

sannipatikodara santosh sapta sara sarangadhara sahit sra Contentment; the cultivation of satisfaction. The number seven (7). Example: sapta dhtus (the seven tissues). Healthy essence One of the three supplemental (or "lesser") classical books on yurveda (the other two are the Ashtanga Samgraha and the Madhava Nidanam). Written by Sarangadhara sometime between 1200-1500 AD, it is famous for its reference to pulse diagnosis and is the first to bring mention to this art. sarkara sarpa gati sarva sarvaroga nidanam arkar Urinary gravel (pieces of stone passing through the urine that may cause mild pain and blocked flow). The feel of the pulse is likened to the movement of a cobra; the main description of the vata pulse. general The general understanding or diagnosis of pain or disease.

32

sat sat-chit-ananda sat-chit-nanda

All-encompassing, absolute truth; it is what exists beyond the illusion of creation. Where the distant edge of the anandamaya kosha (the subtlest aspect of human creation) blends with the final two layers of existence (sat and chit), these three layers make up the threefold reality of Purusha itself. Sat-chit-ananda is literally absolute existence-pure consciousness-perfect bliss (on lower levels, in the subtle body, this corresponds to prna-tejas-ojas, and in the physical body, to vta-pitta-kapha).

satmya satsang sattva

Comfort; see upasaya. The company of the wise; the support of others on our journey. Clarity, purity. One of the three gunas, or basic qualities of nature. Applied to the mind, sattva is the state of mind that is clear, pure, absent of any distraction, turbulence, ignorance; a transcendent state of mind immersed in the perfection of creation.

satva

Sun-dried paste prepared from a cold infusion which is set in the sun until all the water has evaporated and the concentrated herbs become solid.

shabdha shad shad Shad Darshan shamana (samana) shamana chikitsa shamana chikits

Sound prefix meaning six, e.g. shad darshan The number six (6). Example: shad darsana (the six philosophical systems). The six philosophies of life: Snkhya, Nyya, Vasisheshika, Mmmsa, Yoga and Vednta Make balanced; palliation therapy (tonifying while purifying); pacifies doshas without expelling them. Palliation therapy; a mild reduction therapy which is generally performed on a patient who is not strong enough for pancha karma procedures. Its overall effect is that of a gentle cleanse.

shankhaka shanti sharada sharbata

A type of headache precipitated by a pitta-provoking lifestyle and low ojas. Peace of mind; the cultivation of bliss. The autumn season. Syrup

33

shastra sheeta (seetha) sheetali shirah shula shiro shiro shiro roga shiro tapa shirobasti shirodhara shishira shita kashaya shita purva jvara shita virya shitali shlakshna shlesma shodana shodhana shodhana chikitsa shonitasthapana shoolahara shotha shothaghna shothahara (sothahara) shramsanas (sramsanas) shuddhi shukra shukra agni shta prva jvara shita vrya shtal hirobasti hirodhr hiro shta

Science Cold A form of pranayama. Headache; also called shiro roga or shiro tapa. head Head. Headache; also called shirah shula or shiro tapa. Headache; also called shiro roga or shirah shula. A head oil application where oil is held on top of the head for some time. Warm oil poured onto the forehead. Medicated oil applied to the shaved head. The application of warm medicated oil to the forehead over the sixth chakra. The late winter season. Cold infusion (aka hima). 1) Cooling virya. 2) A type of pranayama that is cooling to the system; inhalation is through a curled tongue. Slimy, smooth. To hug Purifying. Make go away; reducing; includes main practices of P.K. shodhana chikits See pancha karma. Hemostat; promotes clotting. Pain-relieving herb. Swelling in both feet. Herbs that reduce swelling; anti-inflammatory. Herbs that reduce swelling; anti-inflammatory. Laxatives; expel feces prior to complete digestion. Pure Reproductive tissue; the most refined of the seven dhatus, containing the essence of all other dhatus. A dhtu agni; helps build shukra; the health of this agni determines the health of shukra. Resides in the shukra dhara kal, the membrane that precedes shukra.

34

shukra dhara kala shukra dhatu

shukra dhr kal The membrane that holds semen and creative potential. Contains that shukra agni. shukra dhtu One of the seven "dhtus" or tissues; consists of reproductive tissue, sperm, semen, prostrate fluids, seminal vesicles, prostate gland, ovum, ovaries. Composed of highly refined water; contains the essence of all other dhtus. Psychologically, the ability to sustain creativity (sexually and creative projects).

shukrala shukra-shodana shukrasmari shukravaha srota ukrmari

A Sanskrit term for an herb that increases sperm count, a category of herb specific to yurveda. Purifies the semen. Seminal types of asmari (urinary stones). The channel that carries posaka majj or unstable majj dhtu prior to becoming shukra dhtu; according to the Caraka Sahit it originates in the testes and pudendum, according to the Sushruta Sahit it originates in the testes and breasts, and according to David Frawley it originates in the testes and uterus; the path that sperm travels from the testes until ejaculated by the penis; carrier of kapha dhtu.

shukravridhikara shula shula prasamana shnya siddha dugdha siddha ghrita siddha taila siddhas sikita meha sira sirakampa sirasakta, siroroga sirsa jala sisa sita

Herbs which increase sperm count. Pain; the terms roga and tapa are also used synonymously for pain. Intestinal antispasmodic. The number zero (0). Example: shnyat, the emptiness or void; a central notion of Buddhism. Medicated milk. Medicated ghee Medicated oil Mystical powers A type of prameha in which the urine contains sand-like particles. Vein; head. Also see nadi. Head tremor. Head disease. Cerebrospinal fluid. Lead, as used in a bhasma made of lead. Cold

35

sita meha slaishmika yoni vyapat sleshaka kapha sleshma sleshma dhara kal smriti sneha snehana snigdha so-hum sokaja soma soma roga sonita sthapaha sosa spandin sparsha sramahara srota so-hum

A type of prameha in which the urine is sweet and very cold. Itching in the vagina accompanied by the discharge of pale, slimy blood (mucous mixed with blood). Subdosha of kapha. Provides lubrication in joints, allows for "fluid" motion, provides joint stability. Located in joints. Mucous or phlegm; synonymous with kapha. The membrane that holds kapha and the rasagni. Loss of memory. medicated ghee and oil 1) Oleation or fat; the term for oil therapy 2) Love Unctuous, oily. A mantra used in harmony with inhalation and expiration to enter into meditation; "I am that". Grief See amrit. Endometriosis Hemostat That which causes drying up and loss of tissue Quivering. Touch Energy compensator, stimulant. Channels in the body; some are gross and some are subtle. In some texts, srota is used synonymously with nadi. The ears are also called srota.

srotmsi stambhana stanya vaha srota

Bodily channels; plural for "srotas" (bodily systems or channels). Obstruction; restrains or stops flow; astringent. The channel that carries breast milk; consists of the lactation ducts within the breast, but has its origins in the wall of the uterus (so there is a direct connection between the breasts and the uterus and both should be treated when there is a problem with milk production).

stanya-jnana stanya-shodana sthira sthula sucimuki yoni vyapat sthla

Lactagogue; increases milk. Purifies mother's milk. Static Gross This is a condition where the vaginal canal is narrowed.

36

sukra meha

Considered the second most important book in yurveda (the first is the Caraka Sahit). Written by ushrut, it is best known for its expositions on surgery. It also contains much information on anatomy and physiology and on philosophy. It is the only classical text to list the names and locations of the marma points.

sukshma (sookshma) sundara sura meha surya suryavarta suryavarta sushka yoni vyapat sushruta samhita sushumna kanda sushumna ndi

skshma

A type of prameha in which the urine is mixed with sperm. Subtle, penetrating quality; permeates small spaces. Beautiful, beauty

srya sryvarta

1) A type of prameha in which the urine looks like beer with a clear head and thicker bottom part. 2) Sun. 1) Headache following exposure to the sun. 2) The sun, the sun god. A headache which is worse with exposure to the sun. Vaginal dryness leading to pain.

suruta sahit sushumn ndi

A migraine headache. Spinal cord. Arises from the first chakra (muladhara chakra) and is the energetic template of the spinal canal. Its significance is given the highest importance as all of the charkas are understood to be strung upon it like lotuses. Awakened kundalini energy flows through the sushumna ndi. As it does, it interacts with the chakras resulting in the transformation of consciousness.

sushumna sirsaka sva svadhishtana chakra svarabheda nidana svasa svastha svedana chikits svedavaha srota svedana chikits

Medulla oblongata. Self The second chakra, located in the region just above the pubic bone. Contains the qualities of the water element. svarabheda nidana Diagnosis of hoarseness of voice. vsa Dyspnea (difficulty breathing). Also can refer to asthma. Perfect health, "established in the self" - "sva" means self and "stha" means established. Heat therapy; increases body temperature, causing an increase in circulation. The channel that carries sweat; the sebaceous system of the body consisting of hair follicles and skin pores; originates in the adipose tissue of the body.

37

swarasa swarya swasahara swedana (svedana) swedanajnana swedu T taila takra takra dhara tala tamaka /tamaka svasa tamas tla tamaka /tamaka vsa

Fresh juice. Herbs that are beneficial to the voice. Herbs that make breathing easy. Herbs that induce sweating; diaphoretic; fomentation. Herbs that induce sweating; diaphoretic; fomentation. Sweet taste. Oil Indian buttermilk; watered down yogurt, usually mixed with spices. Indian buttermilk as the base (instead of oil) in shirodhara. Rhythm ( as with pulse diagnosis). Bronchial asthma Inertia, darkness, ignorance; one of the three gunas, or basic qualities of nature. Applied to the mind, tamas is a state of mind where there is little activity; the mind is dull and ignorant of its connection to God.

tamogunas tamra tandava tanmatras tanmtras

Herbs that dull the mind. Copper, as used in a bhasma made of copper. Chorea; other terms include ardita and kalashanja. The potential for sensory experience on the subtlest level; root energies for sensory experience; sound (shabdha; the guna of ether), touch (sparsha; the guna of air), sight (rupa; the guna of fire), taste (rasa; the guna of water) and smell (gandha; the guna of earth).

tapa tapa sveda tapamana tarpaka kapha tapamna

Pain; the terms shula and roga are also used synonymously for pain. The use of dry sources of heat such as bricks or sand to apply fomentation (best for kapha). The temperature of the pulse. Subdosha of kapha. Protects (lubricates) mind, brain, nerves from heat generated by critical thinking and heated emotion and from movement of thought and nerve impulses. Resides in head/brain.

tarpana tat twam asi

An oil treatment in which an oily cotton ball is inserted into the ears, vagina, or over the eyes, using medicated oils. Thou are that (Vedanta philosophy)

38

tattvas

"Truth, true being, fundamental principle", Principles upon which all of creation rests. Every Indian philosopy contains a certain number of tattvas as the basis of its system of thought. In Snkhya, there are twenty-five tattvas or fundamental principles.

tejas

1) Fire 2)The idea of light, heat and transformation 3) One of the energies controlling the functioning the subtle body (the other two are prna and ojas); the energetic template of pitta. Tejas is responsible for metabolizing psychic or subtle impressions.

tikshna tikshnagni tikta tikta ghrita til trataka tri tridosharam (tridosha) trisna trisna-nigrahana twachaya twak U udak udaka meha

tkshna tkshnagni

Sharp, irritant. High agni; when the strength of the digestive fire is too high. Also called atyagni. Bitter Bitter ghee; a special Ayurvedic preparation of ghee and bitter herbs. sesame

traka

Candle gazing; the focal point is a ghee lamp placed one arm's length away. The number three (3); prefix three. Example: tridosha (the three doshas). Alleviates all three doshas.

ti

Thirst Reduces thirst. Herbs that aid the skin. Skin. Water Kapha-type diabetes insipidus; a large volume of urine that is cold, white or clear, odorless, not sweet, and has a possible slight sliminess and turbidity.

udakavaha srota udakodara udana udna

See ambuvaha srota. A condition of ascites or a fluid-filled abdominal cavity. Also called jalodara or dakodara. Pushes upward.

39

udana vayu

udna vyu

Subdosha of vta. Upward and outward moving air. Energy that motivates action; motivates expressions through the use of the muscles and voice. Resides in the throat and chest.

udara roga udarda-prasamana udavarta udvritta yoni vyapat unmada upadhatu upadravya upanaha upanaha sveda upasaya unmda upadhtu

Abdominal pain; a generalized term for a wide variety of problems that might occur in the digestive system. Anti-allergy; reduces hives. Belching, "upward moving air". Frothy menstrual blood caused by the suppression of natural urges. Mental disorder; psychotic disease; insanity. Secondary tissues. Complications Poultice. A hot herbal decoction or infusion is added to flour. The paste is then applied hot to the skin or joint. The local application of a poultice used to bandage an affected limb. Literally, "that which gives comfort to the patient". An attempt to verify the diagnosis through the proper administration of treatment. If successful (upasaya), the diagnosis is confirmed. If unsuccessful (anupasaya), additional information has been gained through the trial, which is useful for altering the treatment plan. Trial and error. Also called satmya.

upashta upayogasamstha upayoktra urdhva urdhva jatru granthi urdhvarga amlapitta urustambha ushma svedana ushnodaka usna (ushna) usna virya usnavata usna vrya rdhva jatru granthi

Genital organs. Rules of intake (guidelines for healthy eating). Responsibility Prolonged expiration and an inability to exhale. Hyperthyroidism. Gastritis; hyperacidity. Paraplegia Sweatbox or steam tent. Regular intake of hot water throughout the day; a general vta alleviating measure suggested for Raynaud's Disease. Hot; also anger, digestion, cleansing, judgement. Warming virya. Hot vata.

40

usnisaka

Pons (a rounded eminence off the ventral surface of the brainstem. The origins of cranial nerves V, VI, VII and VIII are at the border of the pons).

uttara basti V vacate gana

1. Urinary enema. 2. A basti applied to the vagina (vaginal douching). A group of herbs used in a similar fashion to the vataskadi group of herbs. These herbs are similar to calamus in their qualitiesand include ginger and turmeric. They are known to correct kapha, fat, stiffness of the thighs, and breast milk disorders.

vaidya Vaisheshika

Ayurvedic physician One of the six orthodox doctrines of philosophy (shad darshan) of Hinduism, founded by Kanda. It means "difference" and organizes the world into nine dravyas or substances.

vajikarana vajikarana therapy

Reproductive tonic; aphrodisiac (literally, "the sexual power of a horse"). Tonification with herbs and formulations usually used in rasayana therapy but not applied after purification; very strong tonification, however, the extent of the nourishment ends at the shukra dhtu (when tonification is applied without prior purification, ojas is generally not produced in great quantities).

vajra vak vkk valaya vamana vamini yoni vyapat vanga varasika

Diamond; Indra's flash of lightning or his "thunderbolt," said to have been made from th bones of the seer Dadhchi. Speech. Kidney Sore throat. Vomit; also a category of herbs that induce vomiting. This is a condtion where semen is discharged from the vagina a week after intercourse. Tin, as used in a bhasma made of tin. Dura mater (the outermost, toughest and most fibrous of the three membranes (meninges) covering the brain and spinal cord).

varnya varsha varsh

Herbs that aid the complexion. The rainy season or monsoon season.

41

Varuna vasa vasa meha vasanta vata vta

Someone who is sattvic, loving, compassionate. Muscle fat. A type of pramena in which the urine is mixed with muscle fat. The spring season. The force within the body responsible for all motion; its elements are air and ether; its qualities are light, cold, dry, mobile, subtle and rough; its root is the large intestine.

vata asthila vata basti vata gulma vata slaishmika jwara vata vyadhi vatakantaka vatakundalika vataskadi

vta asthila vta basti vta gulma vta slaishmika jwara

A condition whereby a tumor forms between the rectum and bladder which blocks urination. Difficulty urinating due to the habit of suppressing the urge to urinate. Diverticulosis Influenza. Diseases of the nervous system. Sprained or strained ankle. Circular movement of urine in the bladder. A group of herbs that pacify vata, pitta and kapha. Includes kutki, black pepper, calamus, and vidanga; good for abdominal tumors, rhinitis, fever, colic and hemorrhoids.

vati vatiki yoni vyapat

vai

Pill This is a condition where there is a pricking pain in the vagina along with the expulsion of gas and a discharge of frothy menstrual blood that is red or blackish.

vayasthapana Vayavya vayu veda vedanasthapana Vedanta Vednta Vyavya vyu

Herbs that promote longevity. A rajasic personality type. Air; the idea of motion Knowledge; teaching Herbs that reduce pain; analgesic. One of the six orthodox doctrines of philosophy (shad darshan) of Hinduism, founded by Bdaryana. It is the basis of Jna Yoga or the Yoga of Knowledge.

vedas vega vepathu vepathu vega vepathu

India's ancient books of wisdom Rate (as with pulse diagnois). Parkinson's disease or tremors; also called kampa vta. Shaking as in being off track or out of alignment.

42

vidahi

Potency or action (warming or cooling). Virya has two meanings depending on context; the other is strength, although this is a less common definition. Sweet, bitter and astringent rasas (tastes) have a cool virya and generally pacify pitta and decrease agni. Pungent, sour and salty rasas have a warm virya and generally pacify vta and kapha and increase agni.

vidaryadi gana

A group of herbs that is nourishing and alleviates vata and pitta; useful for tumors, weight loss, body aches and coughs. Vidari kand is an example of this group.

vijnagni vijnamaya kosha

Gastric irritant. The agni responsible for metabolizing air (air in this context is knowledge and its organization in the mind). Faulty metabolism results in confusion, disorganization and poor discrimination.

vikasi

viksi

The intelligence sheath; the bridge between the astral and causal bodies. Contains the vijnagni which is responsible for the metabolism of air. The buddhi (intellect) resides within this sheath, which provides the capacity to reason, deduce, discriminate, and discern.

vikruti vikruti vilepi vipaka (vipakam) vipluta yoni vipluta yoni vyapat virechena vikuti vlep vipka

Expansive current doha imbalance (as differentiated from prakiti or life constitution) A meal of drinking thick rice soup ( 4:1 water:rice). Part of samsarjana karma. Doshic imbalance Dysmenorrhea (painful menstruation) Vaginal itching likely caused by a mild and sometimes chronic vaginal infection. Post digestive effect. Comes from the root "paka", meaning digestion. This is the long-term action that a substance will have on the body after it is digested. There are three long-term actions noted in yurveda; nourishing (sweet taste), digestionincreasing (sour taste) and purifying (pungent taste).

virya (veerya, veeryam) vrya visaghna vishada

Purgation; forceful elimination of feces. Anti-poison. Clear

43

vishmagni vishuddha chakra vishva visista visphota vistambhi vranarupana vrata vrata katha vriddhi vrikka shotha vrishya vrittis vyaasthambhana vyadhikshamatva vyana vayu

vihmgni

Variable agni; sometimes the agni is high, sometimes low. qualities of the ether element. Universe; a synonym for the pulse. Purvarupa which do not disappear at the onset of the actual disease. Herpes zoster or shingles. Anti-carminative Herbs that aid the healing of wounds; vulnerary. Vows, an ancient Vedic spiritual tradition of women. Vow stories, told to pass cultural and spiritual knowledge from generation to generation. Increased dosha. Nephritis (inflammation of the kidney). Herbs that increase virility; aphrodisiac.

vihuddha chakra The fifth chakra, located in the region of the throat. Contains the

vttis

Disturbances within the mind. Herbs that reduce pain; analgesic. Forgiveness, literally forgiveness of disease; immunity.

vyna vyu

Subdosha of vta. Moves from center to periphery. "Diffusing air". Major role in circulation (arterial circulation, nerve energy, movement of thought, carries sweat to outside of body). Force the moves the joints. Resides in the heart (center of circulation).

vyavis W XYZ yakrdhalayudara yakrit yakrtottejaka yakrut yakrut roga yaksma yama Yama yatra yava

Herbs that act rapidly.

Liver (yakrit) enlargement. Liver. Liver stimulant, cholegogue. The liver. Liver disorders. Symptom complex or syndrome. restraint, the first limb of Yoga The name of the god of death. Holy journey. Barley

44

yoga

1) Union or balance; a holistic system of refining the body, the mind, and the spirit in unison. Ultimately, it is well-being, peace and bliss. 2) "Combination" when used in reference to herbs.

Yoga

One of the six orthodox doctrines of philosophy (shad darshan) of Hinduism, propounded by Ptajali. It outlines an eight fold path that includes: yama (restraint), niyama (observance), asana (posture), pryma(cultivation of breath), pratyahra (sense withdrawal), dhra (concentration), dhyna(meditation), samdhi (integration)

yogi yoni yoni vyaapat yonivyad yusha yuha

One who is enlightened, blissful. One who practices yoga. Vagina. Disorders of the genitourinary tract, specifically of the vagina. Diseases of the female genital tract. A meal of rice and split yellow mung dal soup. Part of samsarjana karma.

45

References
Feuerstein, Georg, Shambala Encyclopedia of Yoga, Shambhala Publications, Inc., Boston, Massachusetts, 1997. Fischer-Schreiber, Ingrid, The Encyclopedia of Eastern Philosophy and Religion, Shambhala Publications, Inc., Boston, Massachusetts, 1986, translation 1989. Halpern, Marc, Principles of Ayurvedic Medicine, 5th edition, Students Textbook, Part One, California College of Ayurveda, Grass Valley, California, January 2003. Halpern, Marc, Clinical Ayurvedic Medicine, 4th edition, Students Textbook, Part Two, California College of Ayurveda, Grass Valley, California, August 2003. Lad, Vasant, Secrets of the Pulse, The Ayurvedic Press, Albuquerque, New Mexico, 1996. Lad, Vasant, Textbook of Ayurveda, The Ayurvedic Press, Albuquerque, New Mexico, 2001. Macdonell, Arthur Anthony, A Practical Sanskrit Dictionary with Transliteration Accentuation and Etymological Analysis Throughout, Manohar Publishers & Distributors, New Delhi, 2001. Tirtha, Swami Sada Shiva, The Ayurveda Encyclopedia, Ayurveda Holistic Center Press, Bayville, New York, 1998.