Fever in the Carakasamhitā - An Analysis

Abstract

Sanskrit has continued to be the most important vehicle for intellectual discourse throughout the centuries. It can be said that the Vedas and Upanișads stand as basic source of oriental knowledge system. The six Vedāngas, Dharmasāstras, Purăņas, works on ancient Indian medical science etc. contributed much in the development of Indian knowledge system. Present day world is looking towards India with great hope perhaps for its great intellectual property reflected through Sanskrit tradition. Among the ancient texts on Ayurveda, the Carakasamhită is considered to be the most authoritative since it represents the fundamental principles of medicine. The methods of treatment underlined in the Carakasamhitā are significantfor maintaining sound health and prevention of diseases. Among the eight Sthānas or sections of the Carakasamhitā, the Nidānasthāna deals with the causes of diseases, the origination and development of diseases and diagnosis of diseases. The first Chapter of the Nidänasthāna deals with the various types offever and diagnosis which was perhaps existed during the time of the Carakasamhitā. It considers Jvara as the most powerful disease since it effects body, mind and senses. There was a belief at that time that the gods were responsible for causing fever and they can only provide remedies. The paper highlights the concepts of Jvara in the light of Carakasamhitā which are important in determining the cause offever and its proper management.