PHARMACOLOGY OF ABHYANGA: AN AYURVEDIC PERSPECTIVE
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.22159/prl.ijayush.v15i06%20(June).2085Keywords:
Abhyanga, Panchakarma therapies, Sneha DravyaAbstract
Abhyanga, the practice of systematic oil massage, holds a significant place in Ayurveda as both a preventive and therapeutic measure. It is described as an essential component of Dinacharya as well as an important Poorva Karma in Panchakarma therapies. Beyond its visible effects on the skin and muscles, Abhyanga exerts deep pharmacological actions on Dosha, Dhatu, Mala, and Srotas. These effects are mediated through the properties of Sneha Dravya, the role of Bhrajaka Pitta, and the unique Ayurvedic understanding of transdermal absorption. This article presents a detailed and original discussion on the pharmacology of Abhyanga in a simple, humanized, and examination-oriented manner, strictly based on Ayurvedic principles.References
Agnivesha. Charaka Samhita, Sutra Sthana, Swedadhyaya, Adhyaya 14. In: Acharya YT, editor. Varanasi: Chaukhambha Surbharati Prakashan; 2017. p. 87-95.
Agnivesha. Charaka Samhita, Chikitsa Sthana, Vatavyadhi Chikitsa, Adhyaya 28. In: Acharya YT, editor. Varanasi: Chaukhambha Surbharati Prakashan; 2017. p. 617-627.
Sushruta. Sushruta Samhita, Chikitsa Sthana, Swedavacharaniya Chikitsa, Adhyaya 32. In: Acharya YT, editor. Varanasi: Chaukhambha Sanskrit Sansthan; 2018. p. 513-520.
Sushruta. Sushruta Samhita, Nidana Sthana, Vatavyadhi Nidana, Adhyaya 1. In: Acharya YT, editor. Varanasi: Chaukhambha Sanskrit Sansthan; 2018. p. 257-265.
Vagbhata. Ashtanga Hridaya, Sutra Sthana, Swedavidhi Adhyaya, Adhyaya 17. In: Paradakara HSS, editor. Varanasi: Chaukhambha Surbharati Prakashan; 2019. p. 255-263.
Vagbhata. Ashtanga Hridaya, Nidana Sthana, Vatavyadhi Nidana, Adhyaya 15. In: Paradakara HSS, editor. Varanasi: Chaukhambha Surbharati Prakashan; 2019. p. 530-540.
Sharma PV. Dravyaguna Vijnana, Vol. 2. Varanasi: Chaukhambha Bharati Academy; 2019. p. 758-761.
Sharma RK, Dash B. Charaka Samhita, Vol. 5, Chikitsa Sthana. Varanasi: Chowkhamba Sanskrit Series Office; 2018. p. 35-75.
Sharma U, Jariyal S, Kumari V. Pharmacology of Abhyanga: An Ayurvedic perspective. Department of Panchakarma, Smt. Urmila Devi Ayurvedic College, Shri Guru Ravidas Ayurveda University, Punjab.
