The development of Ayurvedic Science follows mainly two types of tradition. They are an Indian tradition or Samhitha tradition which is spread all over the India and regional tradition which is confined to the local area. Almost all Samhitha and Samgraha granthas in Pan Indian tradition were written in Sanskrit. The Sanskrit language has helped to achieve a common characteristic as a science.

In the early days, Sanskrit learning was a part of the Indian education system. For the purpose of learning Sanskrit, use of Ashtanga Hridaya was popular. This has helped a lot to propagate the Ayurvedic culture among the elite of higher education even if they are not involved in medicine. Fundamentals of Ayurveda are generally written in the form sutras (concise). Sanskrit learning is essential for the proper interpretation and application of these sutras.

Sanskrit helps us to understand what is mentioned indirectly. For example, in the kalpana of lavana bhaskara choorna, the term ‘lavanani’is used. As this term is used in Bahuvachana (plural), we have to assume that for the preparation of medicine three lavanas must be taken. This could be understood only with the proper understanding of the Sanskrit language and grammar.

Expert: Dr. Vinod D.S.

• BSc, BAMS, Vaidyaratnam P S Varier Ayurveda College Kottkka, Ph.D. Scholar;
• MD(Ay), Government Ayurveda College, Thiruvananthapuram;
• Professor, Department of Samhita, Sanskrit & Sidhanta, Vaidyaratnam P S Varier Ayurveda College Kottakkal;
• Teaching experience: 14 years.