Rediscovering Ancient Remedies

There are different opinions among scholars on the native medicine system in Sri Lanka, which is Ayurveda or the Sri Lankan indigenous medicine system (Deshiya Chikitsa/Helawedakama). Some scholars stated that the Ayurvedic medical system is practiced along with the Sri Lankan indigenous medicine, which had originated and flourished on the island. The other scholars believed that Ayurveda has originated in India and subsequently expanded it into Sri Lanka. The studies done by the various scholars identified some characteristics inherent to Ayurveda and Sri Lankan indigenous medicine while comparing and contrasting these two systems.

Sri Lankans are believed that the Pulasthi Rishi, the great grandfather of the mythical King Ravana, initiated this ancient heritage of medicinal lore. From then on, this medical lore was developed through our ancient agricultural civilisation, compatible with all livelihoods. Those days, there were no highly paid doctors like today. The medical practitioner might be a Buddhist monk, a farmer, or a blacksmith from the village. He or she passes on this knowledge of medicine from generation to generation, based on their family lineage. They did the medical practices as honorary services, and no charge was claimed. Currently. Sri Lankan Ayurveda practitioners earn a Bachelor's degree after 6 years of study in Ayurveda and a year-long hospital internship.

Robert Knox, a British captive in Sri Lanka for 20 years from 1660 to 1680, stated clearly in his book "AN Historical Relation of the Island CEYLON IN THE EAST INDIA" that "the Sinhalese were very knowledgeable in practical medicine, and the forest was their medicinal treasure trove."

Not only the Ayurveda and Sri Lankan indigenous medicine but also the Unani (Greco-Arabic medicine), and Siddha (medical systems originating from Tamil traditions in India) medicine systems are also practiced in Sri Lanka.

All these complementary medicines in Sri Lanka influence one another. The terms “traditional medicine,” “indigenous medicine,” or “Ayurveda” are used interchangeably to describe all these complementary medicines.

The term Ayurveda is made up of two Sanskrit words “Ayuh” and “Vada” which means the science of life. It is believed that the Rishies or sages who were disciplined in thought, word and action received the knowledge revealed to them when they were in deep meditation. As such, the Sage Punarvasu Atreya and his disciples become aware of the science of life. The Sage Punarvasu disclosed the origin of Ayurveda and he quotes that “Ayurveda is eternal”.

Agnivesa, the chief disciple of Sage Punarvasu Atreya authored the Agnivesa Samhita, a foundational Ayurvedic text, the classical literature of Ayurveda. This work, composed in Sanskrit, detailed the principles of diagnosis, treatment, and herbal medicine.

Later, the Agnivesa Samhita was extensively edited, expanded, and preserved by Charaka, becoming the Charaka Samhita, one of Ayurveda's most celebrated texts.

The Charaka Samhita has described “human” in many ways to spotlight some of his important aspects

1. Human is said to be the outcome of the 24 tendencies (Chaturvimsati Tattva)
• Avyakta (Atma or Purusha + Moola Prakruti) 1
• Buddhi Mahat or Intellect 1
• Ahamkara or I-consciousness 1
• Tanmatra 5
• Panchabhoota 5
• Gnana Indriya 5
• Karma Indriya 5
• Manas 1
2. Human has been analysed as a complex organism which comprises of the three-fold functional factors (Tridhatu), the even-fold structural components (Sapta Dhatu) and the excretions (Mala)

The physio-pathological conditions explained in Ayurveda are based on the detailed study of the above areas.

In Ayurveda, the three-fold functional factors refer to the Tridhatu, which are the three essential aspects responsible for maintaining life and ensuring proper functioning in the human body. These are:

• Dosha (Functional Principles)
• Agni (Digestive and Metabolic Fire)
• Ojas (Vital Energy or Immunity)

These factors govern physical, mental, and spiritual well-being.

I. Dosha: Bioenergetic Forces

The Doshas are the primary functional principles that govern all physiological and psychological processes in the body. They are derived from the five elements (Pancha Mahabhuta) and represent combinations of these elements:

The Pancha Mahabhuta or the “Pentad (five) cosmic states of matters” are the five great elements that form the foundation of all creation, including the human body and the universe. These elements are the building blocks of life and serve as the basis for understanding the structure and functioning of the body, as well as the diagnosis and treatment of diseases.

(Cosmic Evolution refers to the scientific and philosophical narrative describing the development of the universe from its origins to its current state, encompassing physical, chemical, biological, and cultural evolution.)

The Five Pancha Mahabhutas are:

• Akasha (Ether/Space)
• Characteristics: Subtle, light, all-pervasive, formless.
• Functions in the Body: Provides space for all processes and structures (e.g., cavities like the mouth, nostrils, and respiratory tract).
• Associated Sense Organ: Ear (hearing).
• Quality: Sound (Shabda).
• Vayu (Air)
• Characteristics: Mobile, dry, light, cool, and subtle.
• Functions in the Body: Governs movement, including circulation, respiration, and nerve impulses.
• Associated Sense Organ: Skin (touch).
• Quality: Touch (Sparsha).
• Teyu - Agni (Fire)
• Characteristics: Hot, sharp, penetrating, transformative.
• Functions in the Body: Responsible for digestion, metabolism, and transformation of matter into energy.
• Associated Sense Organ: Eyes (vision).
• Quality: Form (Rupa).
• Apo - Jala (Water)
• Characteristics: Cool, cohesive, soft, and fluid.
• Functions in the Body: Maintains fluid balance, supports hydration, and provides lubrication (e.g., saliva, blood, plasma).
• Associated Sense Organ: Tongue (taste).
• Quality: Taste (Rasa).
• Prithvi (Earth)
• Characteristics: Dense, heavy, stable, and solid.
• Functions in the Body: Provides structure, stability, and firmness (e.g., bones, muscles, teeth).
• Associated Sense Organ: Nose (smell).
• Quality: Smell (Gandha).

Pancha Mahabhuta, the five great elements that form the foundation of all creation, including the human body and the universe exist as an absolutely homogeneous and absolutely inert quantum or mass in cosmic space when charged by Rajas with specific units of energy results in the manifestation of a series of Infra-atomic particles known as “Tanmatras”

Tanmatras are the subtle elements or the basic building blocks of material existence. They are considered the essence of the five sensory perceptions and are fundamental to understanding how the senses interact with the world. The Tanmatras are:

• Shabda (Sound)
• Associated with the sense of hearing and the element of ether (Akasha).
• It represents vibration and the basis of sound.
• Sparsha (Touch)
• Associated with the sense of touch and the element of air (Vayu).
• It signifies texture and the tactile aspect of experience.
• Rupa (Form)
• Associated with the sense of sight and the element of fire (Agni).
• It represents light, color, and form.
• Rasa (Taste)
• Associated with the sense of taste and the element of water (Jala).
• It embodies the essence of flavor.
• Gandha (Smell)
• Associated with the sense of smell and the element of earth (Prithvi).
• It signifies fragrance and scent.

Role of Tanmatras & Pancha Mahabhutas in Ayurveda

The Tanmatras are crucial in the formation of the five Mahabhutas (elements). They are responsible for the interaction between the internal sensory organs and the external world. In health and disease, the balance or imbalance of Tanmatras and their corresponding elements influences physical and mental well-being. The Pancha Mahabhutas formulates the human body.

• They are combine to create the Tridoshas (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha) that govern physiological functions. Health is maintained when the Panchabhootas are in balance. Imbalances lead to disease. Ayurvedic treatments aim to restore harmony between these elements.
• The Panchabhootas connect the microcosm (human body) with the macrocosm (universe), emphasizing the unity of existence.
• Foods and habits are categorized based on their elemental composition. For example:
  • Spicy foods are associated with Agni.
  • Oily foods with Jala.
  • Rough or dry foods with Vayu.

The Three Doshas:

• Vata (Air + Ether):

  Governs movement and communication.

  • Functions: Breathing, circulation, nervous system activity, elimination.
  • Imbalance: Anxiety, dry skin, constipation, restlessness.
• Pitta (Fire + Water):

  Governs transformation and metabolism.

  • Functions: Digestion, absorption, body temperature regulation, vision.
  • Imbalance: Inflammation, acidity, anger, skin rashes.
• Kapha (Earth + Water):

  Governs structure and cohesion.

  • Functions: Lubrication, growth, immunity, stability.
  • Imbalance: Lethargy, weight gain, congestion, attachment.

• Every individual has a unique combination of Doshas, known as their Prakriti (natural constitution).
• Imbalances in Doshas, called Vikriti, lead to diseases.

II. Agni: Digestive and Metabolic Fire

Agni is the transformative energy responsible for digestion, absorption, assimilation, and metabolism. It exists at various levels in the body:

• Jatharagni: Main digestive fire in the stomach.
• Bhutagni: Elemental fire associated with the five elements (Pancha Mahabhuta).
• Dhatu Agni: Metabolic fire for tissue-level transformation in the seven Dhatus.

• Balanced Agni (Sama Agni): Ensures proper digestion, energy production, and immunity.
• Imbalanced Agni:
  • Mandagni (Weak): Leads to poor digestion and toxin (Ama) formation.
  • Tikshnagni (Excessive): Causes hyperacidity and tissue damage.
  • Vishamagni (Variable): Unpredictable digestion due to Vata imbalance.

Agni is central to maintaining vitality and preventing diseases.

III. Ojas: Vital Energy or Immunity

Ojas is the essence of all Dhatus (bodily tissues) and represents vitality, immunity, and resilience. It is considered the essence of proper digestion, nourishment, and balanced Doshas.

• Functions of Ojas:
  • Provides immunity against diseases.
  • Promotes physical strength and stamina.
  • Supports mental clarity and emotional stability.
• Types of Ojas:
  • Para Ojas: Subtle and vital, located in the heart, maintaining life.
  • Apara Ojas: Circulates throughout the body, contributing to general strength.
• Depleted Ojas (Ojakshaya):

  Results from excessive stress, poor diet, or chronic illness, leading to fatigue, vulnerability to diseases, and emotional instability.

• Excess Ojas (Ojavisramsa): Can cause sluggishness and Kapha-related disorders.

Ojas reflects the cumulative health of the body, mind, and spirit.

1. Interconnection of the Three Factors

• Dosha governs all functions in the body.
• Agni ensures proper metabolism, which nourishes the Dhatus and generates Ojas.
• Balanced Ojas supports immunity and sustains the body’s vitality.

An imbalance in any of these factors disrupts the others, leading to the formation of toxins (Ama) and disease.

2. Dhatu: Structural Components

The Dhatus are the bodily tissues that provide structure and support to the body. There are seven Dhatus, each nourished sequentially from food through the digestive process:

• Rasa (Plasma): Nutritional essence; supports nourishment and immunity.
• Rakta (Blood): Vital for oxygenation and life force.
• Mamsa (Muscle): Provides strength and structure.
• Meda (Fat): Lubrication and energy storage.
• Asthi (Bone): Structural framework and protection.
• Majja (Bone Marrow & Nerve Tissue): Fills bones and supports brain and nervous system.
• Shukra (Reproductive Tissue): Governs reproductive functions and vitality.

Healthy Dhatus maintain bodily strength, immunity, and vitality. Improper digestion or Dosha imbalances can weaken or damage Dhatus, leading to diseases.

3. Mala: Waste Products

The Mala are the by-products of metabolism that must be eliminated from the body for health maintenance. Ayurveda identifies three primary Malas:

• Purisha (Feces): Solid waste elimination, essential for removing toxins.
• Mutra (Urine): Liquid waste elimination, regulates water and salt balance.
• Sweda (Sweat): Regulates body temperature and aids in detoxification.

Proper elimination of Malas is crucial for maintaining health. Disturbances in elimination can lead to toxin accumulation (Ama) and disease

Interrelationship of Dosha, Dhatu, and Mala:

• Doshas govern the functioning of Dhatus and the production/elimination of Malas.
• Balanced Doshas ensure healthy Dhatus and proper elimination of Malas.
• Imbalances disrupt this harmony, leading to the accumulation of toxins (Ama) and disease.

This holistic framework helps in diagnosing and treating various conditions in Ayurveda by focusing on restoring balance among these components.

Ayurveda has developed eight key specializations, in order to provide a holistic and systematic approach to health and wellness. Each specialization focuses on a particular area of medicine to ensure comprehensive care for individuals. each addressing different aspects of health and wellness:

• Kayachikitsa (Internal Medicine): Focuses on diagnosing and treating diseases related to the body's metabolism and overall health.
• Shalakya Tantra (ENT and Ophthalmology): Specializes in conditions affecting the eyes, ears, nose, throat, and related structures.
• Shalya Tantra (Surgery): Deals with surgical techniques and treatments, including removal of foreign objects and treatment of wounds.
• Agada Tantra (Toxicology): Concentrates on the management and treatment of poisoning, including bites and stings.
• Bhuta Vidya (Psychiatry): Addresses mental health issues, including psychological disorders and spiritual healing.
• Kaumarabhritya Tantra (Pediatrics): Focuses on the health, development, and diseases of infants, children, and adolescents.
• Rasayana Tantra (Rejuvenation Therapy): Promotes anti-aging treatments, enhancing longevity, vitality, and immunity.
• Vajikarana Tantra (Aphrodisiac Therapy): Focuses on reproductive health, enhancing fertility, and improving sexual wellness.

Sri Lankan Indigenous Medicine has developed specialized areas of treatment, each often carried forward by specific families or lineages of traditional healers.

• Kadum Bidum – Orthopedics - Fractures and Dislocations.

  Specializes in treating bone fractures, joint dislocations, and musculoskeletal injuries using herbal poultices, oils, and splints.

• Satrpa Visha Toxicology - Snakebite and Poison Treatment.

  Specializes in treating venomous bites and poisonings using antidotes, herbal medicines, and spiritual rituals.

• Akshi Roga- Ophthalmology - Eye Disorders.

  Specializes in treating eye-related issues such as infections, cataracts, and vision problems.

• Gedi Vana Pilika – Tumours and Cancers.

  Specializes in treating of tumors, abscesses, and related growths (pilika) on the body

• Charma Roga – Dermatology - Skin Diseases.

  Treats conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and fungal infections with herbal pastes, oils, and baths.

• Kantha Roga – Gynecology and Obstetrics - Women's Health.

  Provides care during pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum, and addresses fertility and menstrual issues.

• Arsas Roga – Recto Anal conditions.

  Refers to the traditional treatments for recto-anal conditions, including hemorrhoids (piles), fistulas, fissures, and other disorders related to the rectum and anus.

• Davum Pilussum – Burns.

  Refers to burns and scalds in Sri Lankan Indigenous Medicine. Traditional treatments for burns focus on immediate pain relief, preventing infections, reducing scarring, and promoting the natural healing of the affected skin.

• Vidum Pilussum – Surgery.

  Refers to wounds, ulcers, and open sores that occur due to injuries, infections, or chronic conditions. The treatment of Vidum Pilissum is deeply rooted in traditional healing methods that emphasize cleansing, infection control, tissue regeneration, and holistic care for overall health.

• Nila Vedakama – Acupressure.

  Refers to the traditional system of orthopedic and musculoskeletal care. This branch of indigenous healing specializes in diagnosing and treating conditions related to bones (nila), joints, muscles, and ligaments.