Bhagwan Dash Livres

Ayurveda provides rational methods for the treatment of many diseases which are considered to be obstinate and incurable in other systems of medicine. Simultaneously, it lays a great deal of emphasis on the maintenance of positive health of an individual. It thus aims at both the prevention and the cure of diseases.

Though massage is described as a preparatory measure to be administered prior to Panchakarma or the "five specialized therapies" of classical Ayurveda, its utility as an independent and distinct therapuetic measure is well recognized due to its rejuvenating effect on the body and the mind. If an individual desires good health, massage should be incorporated into their everyday routine. In addition, it is invaluable in curing several obstinate and otherwise incurable diseases.

Vol. I covers a broad range of topics, beginning with the quest for longevity and the therapeutic properties of various plants, such as Achyranthes Aspera and Cassia Fistula. It delves into purgatives, dietetics—both quantitative and qualitative—and the importance of not suppressing natural urges. The text provides detailed descriptions of sense organs and discusses the quadruple of therapeutics in both brief and extensive formats. It explores fundamental desires of life, the merits and demerits of Vata, and therapies like oleation and fomentation. The requirements and duties of a physician are outlined, alongside an enumeration of diseases related to the head, types of swelling, and abdominal diseases. Major chapters focus on diseases, undesirable constitutions, and various therapeutic approaches, including blood formation and the origin of man and his ailments. Vol. II begins with the diagnosis of various conditions such as fever, Raktapitta, and Gulma. It continues with specific attributes of tastes, stomach capacity, and epidemics, as well as the understanding of diseases and channels of circulation. The section on Sarira discusses the empirical soul, embryological development, and the constitution of physique. Finally, it examines changes indicating imminent death, including alterations in complexion, voice, and tactile sensations, providing a comprehensive view of health, disease, and the human condition.