he Fundamental Principles of Ayurveda is one of the excellent works of Prof. C. Dwarakanath given to the medical literature. Knowledge of the basic principles of Padartha Vijnana and Dosa - Dhatu - Mala Vijnana is essential to understand Ayurveda in detail and to attain perfection in this ancient medical science. Thus it is useful hand-book to beginners in Ayurveda. The subject matter in this book is presented in three sections, part I - III, and encompasses the essential features of Ayurveda in a clear, authentic, critically analysed and, abridged format.
Part I deals with "Padartha Vijnana" the basic principles on this concept are derived from the Darsanas (Nyaya - Vaisesika Darsanas), the Natural Philosophies enunciated by ancient Indian scholars. Ayurveda is the Science of Life. This life science is based on the fact that every Living being (Microcosm) in the universe is constituted by "Pancamahabhutas and Atma" i.e. a miniature respresentation or manifestation of Macrocosm or the universe. The proper understanding of this basic concept is essential to learn Ayurveda and, Prof. C. Dwarakanath has explained this topic in a lucid style in this section.
Part II deals with the applied aspects taken from Sarhkhya and Patafijaii system of Natural philosophies. This section explains the origin of the universe, its evolution, origin of life, phenomena of life process, non-living things, and the Pramanas - ancient logical theories to know the "whole truth".
Part III deals with the Dosa - Dhatu - Mala concepts of Ayurveda, Dravyas and their properties. The entire gamut of Ayurvedic system of medicine -philosophy, pathology and therapeutics, is based on these principles of Tridosas, Sapta dhatus, Trimalas and Dravyas. Hence the knowledge about these fundamental concepts is essential to understand Ayurveda in detail.
The subject matter in Ayurveda is cryptically explained in Sanskrit language. Today many people, particularly non-Indians (foreigners) do not understand Sanskrit. It is heartening that they are evinding keen interest to learn Ayurveda and serve humanity through this ancient Indian medical system. The book is written in English and, contains Sanskrit verses where relevant. Prof. C. Dwarakanath has explained the subject with competitive contemporary scientific thoughts whereever possible and, without deviating from the original meaning as described in Ayurveda. The book also contains useful foot-notes.
I opine that this book is very useful to the students of Ayurveda, teachers, physicians and, all those who wish to learn the basics of Ayurveda. The book is an asset to one's personal library. |
