A
Abhyanga
An ayurvedic oil massage in which massage is done so that warm oil reach into the tissues of the entire body. This helps to facilitate the removal of accumulated ama (toxins) and the doshas (vata, pitta and kapha) from the body.
Acara
Good conduct, an established rule of behavior.
Agada tantra
Toxicology , a branch of Ayurveda that deals with poisons and their treatment.
Ahamkara
Conception of one's individuality, egoism, pride.
Ajasrika
Activities that enhances and leads to good health.
Ajirna
Indigestion, poor digestion.
Akasa
Ether, sky or the atmosphere.
Akriti
Physical appearance or external structure or shape.
Alabu
A container that made with dried gourd.
Alocaka (Pitta)
A type of Pitta governing vision.
Amala (Amalaki)
A well known Ayurvedic herb which is also known as Emblica officinalis (Emblica myrobalan)
Amavata
A disease caused by ama (toxins) and vata, similar to the arthritis in modern medicine.
Amla
Sour or bitter taste.
Anjana
Also called Kajala it is a black pigment applied in eyes and eyelashes to enhance their beauty.
Anna-vaha srotas
The channels that transports food in the body, the digestive system.
Anupana
A fluid that transports medicine or a drink taken with or after medicine.
Anurasa
A secondary or subordinate flavor, like a little sweetness in sour fruit.
Anuvasana (Basti)
Enema given with an oily stuff.
Apa
The water element or water.
Apana
One of the five types of vata, that moves downward and is accountable for expulsion of faces, flatus, urine, menstrual blood etc.
Aparadha
Offence, sin, wrong or punitive action or guilt.
Apara-ojas
One of the two types of vital fluid (ojas) present in the body that is considered inferior or less important.
Ardhavabhedaka
A kind of migraine that affects and causes pain to half of the head or skull.
Arsha
Saintly, religious, virtuous and sacred.
Asana
Posture, position or small sitting mat.
Asatmendriyartha samyoga
Improper contact of senses with their objects.
Asatmya
Unwholesome or improper.
Astanga Hrdya
An ancient Ayurvedic text written by well known ancient scholar Vagabhatta.
Adaptogens
A branch of herbs that improve body's adaptability to stress, including infection, mental stresses and fatigue. It supports the adrenal glands and the pituitary glands and improves the resistance power of the body.
Agni
Agni is the synonym of fire and heat. In Ayurveda it is considered the basis of the digestive system and the process of release of energy. The term includes the body heat, body temperature, sight, the digestive fire; its function include transformation, absorption, elimination and discrimination.
Ahara rasa
A nutrient substance produced in the digestive tract by the enzymes known as the bile juice.
Alochaka
It is one of the five varieties of pitta that helps in grabbing an image of external objects.
Ama
The toxins that enter the blood stream and are circulated in the entire body. These are produced in the body by the raw, undigested food products that become fetid.Almost every disease is a result of toxicity ormits crisis. Toxins are vital for prana (vital life energy), ojas (immunity), and tejas (cell metabolic energy). The state of retention of toxins in the blood results in toxemia.
Anodynes
Herbs that reduce the sensitivity of the nerves and act as that of the analgesics.
Antihydrotics
Herbs that reduce sweating.
Anthelminthics
Herb that destroys or wipe out the parasitic worms from the digestive system.
Anticoagulant
Herbs that resist the coagulation in the affected area and helps in massage also.
Anti-inflammatory
It restrains inflammation and neutralizes its effects.
Antioxidants
The medicines that absorb or attach themselves to the oxygen free radicals that are highly receptive to compounds that attack the cell membranes, enzymes etc.
Antispasmodic
The medicines that helps preventing and relieving spasm or contraction.
Aphrodisiac
It acts as a stimulant and heightens senses and stimulates sexual drive when consumes.
Appetizer
Herbs or medicines that stimulate and increase appetite.
Artha
It relates to meaning, or the essence of every thought.
Asthi
It is one of the seven components and the bone tissues that supports the body and provide it protection, shape, nourishment and endurance.
Astringent
A medicine that has a binding effect as it checks hemorrhages and secretions.
Atman
Atman means the true self, the cause of consciousness and all functions of the mind.
Atreya
Atreya, the author of Charaka Samhita.
Aum
Also said as OM, the god's name has in itself the sounds for all omniscience, omnipresence and omnipotence. The letters A, U, M, represent the outer, the inner, and the super conscious stages of consciousness, waking, dream, and the state of extreme sleep.
Avalambaka
It is located in the heart and the sacrum and has the essential function of nourishing, lubricating and protecting the heart and support the sacrum.
Avyakta
It refers to indistinct, not evident or expressed and inarticulate.
Ayurveda
Formed with a combination of two words, Ayur means life and Veda means knowledge, Ayurveda refers to the knowledge of life. The roots of Ayurveda rest in the ancient Indian culture. Ayurveda includes or describes the secrets of association of man with nature and why we need to cooperate with Nature completely in order to insure our well being.
Acne: An inflammatory eruption occurring usually on the face and neck.
Agni: digestive fire, synonymous with properly balanced cell metabolism in Western medicine.
Akasha: Ether or space.
Alambusha nadi: Yogic nadi, channel.
Alochaka pitta: Form of pitta governing vision.
Ama: residual impurities deposited in the cells as the result of improper digestion. Also mental ama, impure or negative thoughts and moods.
Anaemia: A below-normal level in the number of red blood cells.
Analgesic: A substance that relieves pain.
Anna:Food.
Annamaya kosha: Physical or gross body.
Apana vayu: Downward moving vayu.
Arishta: Symptom suggestive of death.
Aromatic: Taste which stimulates the gastrointestinal tract.
Artava: Menstrual Blood.
Artavaha srotas : Menstrual channels.
Arthritis: An inflammatory condition of the joints.
Asana: Posture, third stage of yoga.
Ascites: An excessive accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity.
Ashvini mudra: Yogic practise of contracting anal sphinctor muscles.
Asthi: Bone.
Asthidhara kala: Special membrane for bone.
Asthma: A respiratory disorder in which there is breathlessness wheezing and cough (dry or with mucus expectoration).
Atrophy: A wasting or diminution of size or physiological activity of a part of the body.
Attributes: The inherent qualities or properties of a substance.
Avalambaka Kapha: Form of Kapha in chest.
Avasthapaka: Primary phase of digestion.
B
Bahya Snehana
External oleation used during Purvakarma that dissolves and dislodges ama (toxins) from the dhatus.|
Bala
A Sanskrit word which means strength or power.
Balya
An energizer that provides strength to the body.
Bashpa Svedana
Steam bath. A therapy practiced as the preparatory procedures of Panchakarma specifically used to widen the srotas or channels of the body to facilitate the removal of ama (toxins).
Basti
The enema therapy of Panchakarma that therapeutically purifies and rejuvenates the colon. Basti is the most effective treatment for vata disorders. Basti is useful in constipation, distention, chronic fever, cold, sexual disorders, kidney stones, heart pain, backache, sciatica and other joint pains like arthritis, rheumatism, gout, muscle spasm and headaches.
Bheda
The sixth stage of disease symptoms characterized by complications. Also refers to division, variety and distinction.
Bhedaniya
The substances that break down fecal matter and help wipe them out of the body thus cleans the colon.
Bhrajak Pitta
A type of Pitta that gives color or luster to the skin and the metabolic function of the skin.
Bhakti
It means devotion for the almighty, showing faithfulness, worship and loyalty towards the god or creator.
Bhutagni
The fire (enzyme) that digests elements (bhuta).
Bhutas
The five basic elements.
Bhuta-vidya
Demonology, the science that deals with micro-organisms and evil spirits.
Bodhaka
Located at the root of the tongue and the pharynx it is one of the five subtypes of kapha that helps us to sense the taste of food.
Brahma
The first god in the Hindu God trinity known as the creator of all mankind. It is considered that he has the universe as his body that manifests the energy of creation.
Brahma-muhurta
Early morning time preceding sunrise.
Brahmacharya
A state of continence followed during student life, routine followed while studying Vedas.
Bruhan Nasya
Administrating medicated oil into the nostrils to nourish both the senses and the brain.
Bruhaniya
The herbs or the natural substances that promote growth.
Buddhi
Refers to the intellect of the living beings, the faculty of wisdom, intelligence and discrimination.
Basti : enema
Betel leaf: A leaf eaten after a meal to assist digestion
Bhajani: A mixture of roasted cereals
Bhajiyas: Fried items of onion and other vegetables
Bharta: A mashed preparation (of aubergines)
Bhasma: Residue after incineration
Bhutagni : digestive fire governing element.
Bile: A bitter fluid secreted by the liver which flows into the small intestine, which is stored in the gallbladder. It helps to metabolize fat
C
Caksu
Also spell as Chaksu it means Eye.
Carminative
The Ayurvedic herbs that relieve intestinal gas, pain and distention and promote peristalsis.
Chakhyushya
Natural Ayurvedic herbs that are considered good for eyes and increase the tone of the ciliary muscles.
Chakra
The energy centers in the body that are related to the nerve plexus center and governs the body functions.
Charaka
Charaka the most renowned scholar of Ayurveda who wrote the bible of Ayurveda known as Charaka Samhita. He is also considered to be the father of Ayurveda. Charaka's encounter with nature and its beings for many years led to the writing of the great text relating to Ayurveda, naturotherapy and use of natural substances for curing and preventing diseases when mankind was unaware of the medicinal values of these substances and the various measures quoted by him.
Charaka Samhita
Written by the father of Ayurveda Charaka it is the first and most authoritative text on Ayurveda.
Churna
A Sanskrit word that means powder.
Cikitsa
Treatment, a therapy or a practice or science of medicine.
Citraka
An Ayurvedic herb that is also known as Plumbago zeylanica.
Citraka- mula
The root of the herb citrak (Plumbago zeylanica) useful to increase the strength of the digestive power.
Citrakadi vati
A compound Ayurvedic medicine made with using citrak as the main ingredient.
Consciousness
It refers to the state of being aware to the sensations, emotions, thoughts and with oneself.Cure
The literal meaning of the word is to heal.
Chapati: A type of Indian bread
Charak: Great Ayurvedic profounder who has written one of the classic Ayurvedic text Charak Samhita.
Charaka samhita: One of the oldest Ayurvedic text
Cholesterol: A fatty substance in crystalized form found in all animal fats, oils, milk, egg yolks, bile, blood, brain tissue, liver, kidney and adrenal glands.
Churna: Powder of medicine
Chyavanprash: A formualtion based on honey, amla and other 45 ingredients.
Colitis: A chronic disease characterized by the inflamation of colon
Compress: A pad of folded linen applied so as to create pressure upon exterior parts of the body
Conjunctivitis: A painful and infectious illness in the eyes which makes them red and makes the eyelids swollen and sticky
Cosmic energy: The all-pervading energy in the universe
D
Dhatu: one of the body's seven basic constituents
Diabetes: A clinical condition characterized by the excessive secretion of urine and increased blood-sugar level
Dinacharya: daily routine
Diuretic: A substance that increases the secretion of urine
Dosha: three basic metabolic principles connecting the mind and body and biological humour.
Dosha vaishmya: pathological condition of dosha
Drava: type of attribute liquid
E
Emetics
It is any substance that eliminates removes the impurity from the upper part of the body.
Etiology
The study of the causes of all diseases. According to Ayurveda the root cause of most of the diseases is overuse, misuse or no use of the five senses.
Emetic: Medicine that produces vomiting
Expectorant: A substance that promotes the ejection of mucus.
F
Flora: Healthful bacteria which are present in various parts of the body, list of plants of a particular place
Fomentation: Treatment by warm and moist application to skin
G
Ghee
Clarified butter made by heating unsalted butter.
Ghrta
A Sanskrit word means ghee.
Govinda
One of the most popular name of the Hindu God, Lord Krishna known as the rescuer of the earth.
Guna
All material entities including the mind these are the composites of the three gunas, namely the sattva, rajjas and tamas.
Gandharva
Celestial musicians or Heavenly singers who entertain devas and gods.
Goksuru
A herbal plant known as Puncture vine or Tribulus terrestris(Latin name).
Guduci
A herb known as Tinospora cordifolia (Latin name).
Guggulu
A gum from the herb called Indian Bedellium.
Gati : quality of the pulse
Gonorrhoea: A common venereal disease most often affecting the genitourinary tract
Gout: Metabolic disease marked by acute arthritis and inflammation of the joints
Grahani : Chronic diarrhoea, malabsorption syndrome in the small intestine
Gulma : Any tumor, lump or diverticulosis
Guna: fundamental natural quality (e.g., dry, moist, hot, cold, etc.). Also applied to sattva, rajas, and tamas, the "three gunas"
Guru: type of attribute, heavy, spiritual teacher, Grishma, Summer, Teacher
H
Haritaki
Chebulic myrofalan, Latin name: Terminalia chebula.
Harsani
Delightful, pleasant.
Insufficient, deficien
Halasana : Plough posture
Hath Yoga : Yoga of physical postures
Hemant: Early winter
Hemoptysis: Coughing up of blood from the respiratory tract
Hemostatic: A substance that checks the flow of blood
Hima : Type of attribute, cold
Hing: Asafoetida
Hrid roga : Heart disease
Hives: Eruptions of very itchy skin caused by an allergic substance
I
Indrya
Faculty of sense, organ of sense.
Isabgol
An herb commonly used as laxative. Latin Name: Plantago ovata.
Iccha
It is a Sanskrit word meaning "the will".
Indriyas
The five senses. One of the four components of Ayu.
Isvara
Means the God or the Lord who is exists forever, free and where the Lordship reaches extremity God exists.
Jaggery
Dried, unprocessed sugarcane juice.
Jala
Water, fluid, liquid or the water element one of the universal principle of liquidity and cohesion.
Jalauka
Leech.
Jathara
A Sanskrit word refers to stomach, belly or abdomen.
Jathara Agni
The digestive fire, located in the gastrointestinal tract.
Jati
Jasmine.
Jiva
The empirical self, individual soul or the living being.
Jiva Atma
The individual soul. One of the four components of Ayu.
Jala neti : Yogic cleansing of nasal passages by water
Jatharagni : Digestive fire, responsible for the digestion and transformation of food material
Jaundice : A condition characterized by yellowness of the skin and elevated level of bilirubin
K
Kal Basti
A basti that is used at a specific time for maximum effect.
Kala
A specific time period, season.
Kama
It refers to the healthy and spiritual use of senses. It also refers to the sexual desire apart from the other two i.e. the dharma and artha which are mostly desired by men and are the three things from which a yogi, the saint must keep himself away from besides greed, fear, sleep and wrath.
Kamya
Desirable, amiable, action performed for desiring an object.
Kanthya
It is the natural substances that recovers the hoarseness of voice and are good for throat, speech and voice.
Kapha
One of the tridosha that governes cohesion, liquidity and growth of the body. It is the water humor, the intracellular fluid and the extra cellular fluid that plays significant role in the nutrition and existence of body cells and tissues.
Kapikachhu
An herb that improves the function of shukra dhatu.
Karanja
A herbal plant known as Indian beech or Pongamia pinnata (Latin name).
Karana
Doing, making, effecting, causing, reason.
Karavira
Herb known as Indian oleander or Nerium indicum (Latin name).
Karma
The term refers to the religious act or rite but now has the literal meaning of action, work, deeds in life for one's present, past and future. It also refers to the procedure of Panchakarma therapy.
Karma Basti
A month-long basti treatment that is used to cure vata-related disorders.
Karmendriya
An organ of action, the working sense.
Karna-taila
A Sanskrit word used for the act of oiling the ears.
Kasaya
Astringent taste.
Kaumarabhrtya
The branch of Ayurveda that deals with child- care. Similar to the modern medicine - pediatrics.
Kathina
Hard, firm, stiff, harsh, inflexible, cruel, tuff, rigid.
Katti Basti
A treatment for region of the back in which medicated oil is externally and locally applied to the curable part.
Katu
Pungent or hot, spicy taste or flavor.
Katuka
An herb that is also known as Picrorhiza kurroa (Latin name).
Kaya
A Sanskrit word that means body, habitation.
Kaya Kalpa
An ancient rejuvenation therapy or procedure.
Kaya-cikitsa
Treatment of body diseases by giving internal Medicine.
Kedari kulya
Irrigation canal analogy, a theory of Ayurveda that describes the formation of tissues.
Keshyam
Natural herbs and substances that strengthen hair and the hair root.
Khale kapota
The grain pigeon analogy, a theory that explains the formation of tissues.
Khumbhaka
A breathing technique in which the breath is retained in a state of suspense when the mind is relaxed. This exercise revitalizes the nervous system.
Kichadi
A meal prepared with basmati rice and split mungdal. Sometimes few other legumes and vegetables are also used.
Kledaka
Wet, moist or phlegm in stomach.
Kledaka kapha
One of the five subtypes of kapha that performs the vital function of moistening the food and liquefying the digested contents in the stomach.
Kosha
It refers to the subtle bodies, the sheaths. Human body has five sheaths in all, namely the sheath of knowledge, the sheath of bliss, the sheath of prana, the sheath of mind and the sheath of food.
Ksheer Basti
A medicated milk decoction administered through the rectum which nourishes all the dhatus of the body.
Krishna
A popular name of Lord Krishna, the ninth incarnation of Vishnu and is the embodiment of love and divine joy that destroys all pains and sufferings.
Kriya
Action, act, deed, applying a remedy.
Kriyakala
The time taken to complete a certain action or the duration of an action.
Kubera
The Hindu God of riches and treasure.
Kundalini
The spiritual life force, Shakti kundalini is the residue that remains after material consciousness is dissolved.
Kuti
Cottage or hut usually made of mud and other natural substances.
Kutipravesika
An Ayurvedic term refers to the entering or living in a cottage for the purpose of rejuvenation.
Laghu
Little, small, minute.
Lekhana Basti
An Ayurvedic procedure, a strong, penetrating, cleansing basti, that is used specifically to reduce kapha dosha and meda dhatu.
Lekhaniya
These are the natural substances that remove fat from the body by scraping the nonessential adipose tissue and are also good for cellulite reduction.
Lakshmi
According to the Hindu mythology Laksmi is considered to be the goddess of fortune and beauty. The consort of Lord Vishnu, she is considered the divine mother of all universe, the cosmic power of physical abundance, fortune and wealth.
Lassi
A popular drink made by mixing water in yogurt and churning it.
Lavana
Salty taste or flavor.
Lavana-bhaskara
An Ayurvedic powder commonly used to enhance digestion.
Lichen planus syndrome
A skin disease.
Lord Shiva
In the trinity of Hindu gods Shiva is the destroyer or transformer. In literal terms, Shiva means good or auspicious. Also known as Rudra and many other names Shiva has eight qualities in all, namely, purity, knowledge, independence, omniscience, omnipotence, freedom from mala, benevolence and the bliss.
Langhana: fasting, reducing therapy
Leucorrhea: A condition that causes a whitish, viscid discharge from the vagina and uterine cavity
Lohita: second layer of skin
Lymphadenitis: Inflammatory condition of the lymph nodes
M
Ma
A popular term used for mother. In Hindu mythology ma means the goddess of wealth, Lakshmi. Ayurveda believes that ma is the giver of heart i.e. the heart comes form the mother and thus the way of one's thinking, his way of life, feelings, memory that is circulated throughout his body is the gift form ma.
Madakari
Substances that causes intoxication.
Madanaphala
Also known as Emetic nut or Randia spinosa in Latin.
Madhura
Sweet, Sweet taste or flavor, pleasant, delightful.
Madhyama
The Sanskrit meaning of this word is trunk of the body. According to the Ayurveda terminology it refers to the sound rising form the heart that can be felt by the ears and not heard.
Madya
Any drink or substance that intoxicates.
Mahabhuta
Big elements, gross elements.
Mahabhutas
The universal organizing principles which structure and govern all physical phenomena.
Mahad tattva
Intellect, great principle.
Mahanarayana Oil
A medicated oil used in the external oleation procedures specifically used to pacify kapha dosha.
Majja
The bone marrow. It is one of the seven dhatus has the main function of filling up the asthi and nourishing the shukra. The term is also used to describe the bone marrow fat used on occasion in abyantar snehana (internal oleation).
Majja-vaha srotas
Channels transporting through the bone marrow.
Mala
The natural metabolic by-products which are always eliminated from the body.
Malas
It means the waste products that are excreted out of the body by some or the other phenomenon. It primarily includes urine, feces and sweat.
Malinikarana
The act making impure, staining.
Mamsa
The dhatu or bodily tissue of muscle.
Mamsa-vaha srotas
Channels transporting through tissues of the muscles.
Manas
The mind, brain.
Manda
Slow or slow action.
Manda
Rice water. The first meal eaten after Panchakarma.
Mandagni
Weakened state of digestive fire.
Mantram
The sacred words or phrases that have a spiritual significance and power.
Marma
Sensitive points which represent a greater concentration of the body’s vital force in that area. Marmas are the 365 vital energy points in the body of which 108 are of great importance in Ayurveda. They are also known as door receptors.
Marsha Nasya
Repeated administration of medicated oil into the nostrils to clean, lubricate and strengthen the mucous membranes.
Matra Basti
A small self-administered oil basti that can be used at any time of the day. It is most commonly used to decrease the vata-aggravating effects of travel, exercise and stress.
Matsaya
Sanskrit word for Fish.
Maya
The literal meaning of the term is illusion whereas in spiritual terms it refers to god's creative energy, cosmic illusion.
Meda
The dhatu or bodily tissue of fat (adipose tissue). The main function of this one of the seven bodily tissues is to support the human body and lubricate it. Excess of Meda's can cause obesity and physical weakness.
Medha
Mental power, intelligence, aptitude, wisdom, and prudence.
Medo-vaha srotas
The channels that transports fatty tissues.
Medya
Substance that enhances wisdom, mental power and intelligence.
Mithya-yoga
Wrong use or application.
Moksha
Liberation, a complete freedom in every aspect and every way of life.
Moong ki daal
A variety of green dry beans used for cooking or making sprouts.
Mrudu
Soft, delicate, tender, supple.
Mudra
A sign or position commonly practiced in Yoga or religious worship.
Mutra
Urine.
Mutra-vaha srotas
Channels that transports the urine.
Macrocosm: The universe itself; a system regarded as an entity containing subsystems
Madhyama marga: Middle pathway, (deep tissue)
Mahabhuta: Basic five elements (space, air, fire, water and earth)
Mahamarma: One of the three major marma
Majja: Nerve tissue and bone marrow
Mala: Metabolic end-products
Malabsorption syndrome: A condition in which there is no proper digestion, absorption and assimilation of food in the gastro intestinal tract
Mamsadhatu: Muscle tissue
Manda: Type of attribute, slow pachaka pitta, form of pitt chakra
Mandagni: Diminished digestive capacity
Manomaya kosha: Mental sheath
Mantra: Sacred sounds
Manusmriti: Compendia, Marga -pathway or tract
Marga: Path or tract
Marma: A junction point between consciousness and matter or weak Vital points.
Matsyendrasana: Yoga posture with spinal twist
Mayurasana: Yoga posture like peacock
Meda: Fat tissue
Microcosm: A diminutive representative world; a system more or less analogous to a much larger system
Moong: A type of pulse
Mridu: Type of attribute, soft
Muladhara chakra: First chakra
Mutra: Urine
Mutravaha srotas: Urinary system
N
Nadi
Pulse and any tube shaped organ such as vein or artery.
Nadis
Very fine channels of the body.
Nadi Svedana
Localized, acute steam administered specifically to the joints and spinal area during Purvakarma procedure.
Naimittika
A cause that helps to achieve a specific result.
Nanatmaja
A result (disease) caused by single factor (dosa).
Nasya
The therapeutic cleansing of the head and neck region. Herbal medication of nasal in which the excess bodily humors that accumulate in the sinus, throat, nose or head is eliminated by the means of the nearest possible opening, the nose.
Neem
A well known herb commonly known as Margosa tree or Azadirachta indica in Latin.
Netra Basti
An external, localized application of medicated ghee around the eyes to nourish the eyes, reduce eye strain and improve vision.
Netra
Eye.
Nidana
Finding the cause of disease.
Nidra
Sleep.
Nija
Innate, one's own, internal, natural, inherent.
Nirooha Basti
A large, herbal decoction administered into the colon to remove toxins and wastes from the body.
Niruha (Basti)
An enema that is not of an oily kind.
Literally means regulation. Restrain, to fix upon, control, chec
Nadi pariksha: Pulse examination
Nadi vigyana: Pulse diagnosis
Nag: Type of vata in yoga
Nasya: Nasal administration of therapy
Nauli: Action like pitching of boat in stormy sea
Nauli chalana: A process in which the abdominal muscles are made to move vertically and laterally in surging motion
Nidana: Etiological factor or diagnosis of disease
Nidana panchaka: Five ways to diagnose a disease
Nirama: Without ama or toxic substance
O
Ojas: The purest expression of metabolism; the final end product of correct digestion and assimilation of food
Om : Seed mantra
Ojakshaya
Depletion or exhaustion of ojas.
P
Pachak Pitta
The metabolic function that occurrs in the small intestine.
Pachan
The aspect of gastrointestinal vitality which is related with improving digestion and metabolism.
Pachaka
It is the combination of bile and pancreatic juices produced in an area between the stomach and the duodenum.
Pachaniya
The natural substances that help in proper digestion of food.
Pakwashaya Gata Basti
One of the main type of Basti, administered through the rectum.
Pakya
A Sanskrit word means decoction, boiling, and fermentation.
Panchakarma
One of the most popular Ayurveda procedure that includes five cleansing therapies i.e. vaman, virechan, basti, nasya and rakta moksha. The five major purificatory procedures and adjunct therapies used in this procedure, purifies and rejuvenates the body.
Panchamahahhuta
The theory of the five elements namely; fire, ether, water, earth, and air.
Panchendriya Vardhan Oil
Oil used in nasya treatment to nourish sensory functioning.
Panir
A type of fresh cheese made by curdling milk.
Param Atma
The universal intelligence of nature.
Para-ojas
A superior vital fluid located in the heart.
Pariksa
Term used for examination, inspection or investigation.
Parinam
The literal meaning is result but in Ayurveda it refers to the negative effects of the seasons on the body.
Paryushit
Food that lacks vital force or prana.
Pasava
Animal type, belonging to cattle or animal family.
Pascata karma
Post action or the therapies persuade after the main therapy or action.
Paschatkarma
The post-procedures of Panchakarma therapy.
Peya
Rice soup. Rice gruel or any drink mixed with a small quantity of boiled rice.
Pichila
Slimy, lubricous, slippery.
Pinda Svedana
A sedating treatment that helps to relieve pain and muscle tension. It is performed with a bolus of rice and a hot milk decoction.
Pippali
Long pepper or Piper longum (Latin name).
Pishinchhali
A vigorous herbal massage in which a bolus of rice and a large amount of oil is used to improve the mobility of muscles and ligaments.
Pitta
It is one of the three doshas.
Prabhava
Effect, peculiar or special action of an herb.
Pragya aparadha
The mistake of the intellect. According to the Ayurveda it is the foremost cause of disease.
Prajnaparadha
Not using intellect, offensive or wrong use of the wisdom.
Prajna
Wisdom, intelligence, knowledge, insight.
Prakopa
Vitiation or aggravation.
Prakruti
The inherent balance of doshas that is most beneficial to one's life. The constitution we are born with.
Prana
Life force or vital force that is responsible for respiratory functions and regulating inhalation.
Prana Vayu
The sub-dosha of Vata which governs sensory functions and the intake of prana, water and food.
Pranayama
Combination of several breathing techniques that purifies the blood and vitalizes the inner organs.
Prapaka Metabolism
The three transient phases of digestion that take place in the gastrointestinal tract.
Prapti
Obtaining, attaining or acquiring.
Prasara
The third stage of disease demonstration that is characterized by the migration of ama from its site of origin.
Pratyahara
Withdrawal and liberation of mind from the sense and the objects.
Prayatna
A Sanskrit word means effort. Effort of vata is light, rapid whereas pitta's effort is sharp, penetrating and skillful and kapha's effort is heavy, dull and sleepy.
Prati Marsha Nasya
Repeated application of medicated oil to the nostrils with the tip of the little finger that soothes dry mucous membranes and to protect against airborne allergies.
Prithvi
One of the basic element known as the earth element. It is the element and universal organizing principle of form and structure.
Purgative
These are the herbs, natural substances that stimulate the bowel movement and eliminates the impurity from the lower part of the body.
Puraka
It is the inhalation aspect of pranayama.
Purvakarma
The set of different procedures that are used to prepare a person for the main purificatory procedures of Panchakarma.
Palpation: The act of feeling with the hand; the application of the fingers with light pressure to the surface of the body for the purpose of determining the consistancy of the parts beneath
Panchakrama: The five cleansing (purification) methods to get rid of excess Doshas.
Paneer: Cheese
Papad: Made from dried lentils; eaten fried or roasted
Parkinsonism: A neurologic disorder characterized by tremors, muscle rigidity and slow movements
Parpati: medicinal preperation of sulphur and mercury
Paschimotanasana: head to knee yoga posture
Pavanamuktasana: knee to chest yoga posture
Percussion: The act of striking a bodily part with short, sharp blows as a diagnostic aid that reveals the condition of that area of the body
Peristalsis: Rhythmic contraction of smooth muscle that forces food through the digestive tract
Pharyngitis: Inflammation of the throat
Physiognomy: The study of facial features
Pichila: type of attribute, slimy
Pingala: carries solar energy, right nostril
Pippali: herb / Piper longum
Pitta: the dosha responsible for metabolism (closely identified with agni, the body's vital heat)
Poorvakarma: Procedures done prior
Poultice: A soft moist substance applied hot to the surface of the body for the purpose of supplying heat and moisture
Pradhana: main, prominent
Pragya aparadh: the "mistake of the intellect" (i.e., identifying with the part and losing the whole)
Prajny aparadh: volitional transgression
Prakriti: primal nature, natural state, constitution
Prakriti-nature: referring either to one's individual nature (body type) or to Nature as a whole
Prana: It is vital energy (life-energy) which activates the body and mind. Prana is responsible for the higher cerebral functions, the motor and sensory activities. The prana located in the head is the vital prana, while prana which is present in the cosmic air is nutrient prana. There is a constant exchange of energy between vital prana and nutrient prana through respiration. During inspiration, the nutrient prana enters the system and nourishes the vital prana. During expiration, subtle waste products are expelled.
Pranavaha srotas: respiratory system
Pranayama : respiratory exercise, also called "balanced breathing"
Prapaka: primary stage of digestion
Prashama: alliviation of dosha
Prithvi: element earth
Psoriasis: A disease in which areas of skin turn red and are covered with small dry pieces of skin
Psychosomatic: Pertaining to the mind-body relationship: an illness caused by anxiety and worry
Ptosis: An abnormal condition of one or both upper eyelids in which the eyelid droops.
Purisha: stool, faeces
Purvarupa: predormal symptoms
R
Rajas: the intermediate principle of energy among the three qualities of nature
Rajasic: having the nature of Rajas (Kings)
Raktadhatu: blood
Raktamokshana: blood-letting (type of panchakarma)
Raktavaha srotas: circulatory system
Ranjaka pitta: form of pitta colouring the blood
Rasa: plasma, taste
Rasayana: Traditional Ayurvedic herbal or mineral preparation for longivity and rejuvenation
Rheumatism: Any of a large number of inflammatory conditions of the joints, ligaments or muscles, characterised by pain or limitation of movement
Rhinitis: Inflammation of the mucus membrane of the nose
Rigveda: type of veda
Ritucharya: seasonal behaviour
Roga: disease
Roopa: symptom
Ruksha: type of attribute, dry
S
Sadhaka
Sadhaka is one of the five-pitta subdoshas that located in the heart and responsible for intelligence, knowledge, memory, enthusiasm and consciousness.
Samadhi
It is the stage of self realization where a person achieve harmony, calmness, concentration, awareness and mastery over mind, desires and body.
Samana vayu
It means equalized movement of air. It is a subdosha of vata that has the function of digestion of food, separation of waste products, regulation of composition of body fluids, body temperature and the movement of pitta and kapha.
Samkhya
This word can be explained as "discriminative knowledge" and "enumeration". It is one of the schools of Hindu philosophy founded by sage Kapila. This school provides a systematic account of cosmic evolution according to twenty-five categories.
Samskara
The impression imprint in ones mind followed by any experience, or some incident of the past consciously or unconsciously leaves samskara.
Sandhaniya
The literal meaning of this word isto join. It is used for the herbs that helps the body in healing of broken bones and torn ligaments and in uniting fractured and divided body parts.
Sarasvati
Hindu goddess of knowledge and learning. In Hindu mythology she is represented as the wife of Brahma.
Sat-Chid-Ananda
The term used for supreme god. It means existence, reality, pure consciousness, the spirit, brahman, a being, bliss and delight.
Sattva
It means purity. It is first among the three gunas, and present the purest aspect and the conscious principle characterized by purity, lightness, harmony and the creation of pleasure and joy.
Sattvic
One who pertain the qualities of sattva.
Shakha
It is a Sanskrit word meaning extremity.
Shirah
In Sanskrit language this word means head or skull.
Shleshaka
It is a subdosha of Kapha that locates in the joints of the body. It is viscous and oily and has the function to protect the bony joints by keeping them firm and united. It also ensures the smooth functioning of bones.
Shodan
One of the cleansing methods used for body purification and rejuvenation.
Shukra
It is the last of the seven dhatus, the semen or the male reproductive tissue that perform the major functions of producing sensation of ejaculation, fondness and strengthens the body.
Skandhas
In Sanskrit it means a heap, pile or aggregate. They are important tools for understanding the Buddhist doctrine of no self as they include with them all transitory, impermanent phenomena.
Smriti
A Sanskrit word that means the memory or the ability to recall.
Srotas
The literal meaning of the term is source. In Ayurveda it is used for a canal that transport nutritients in the body. All the dhatus have their own minute channels or srotas made up of extremely fine pores, originating from the heart cavity, and spreading throughout the body; they transport the nutrient fluid to all parts of the body for nourishment and growth.
Sukha
In Sanskrit it means happiness or pleasure or delight. Ayurveda assumes that Vata persons' experience of sukha is boring as in vata, sukha is superficial, physical, and shaky. Pitta sukha involves solving problems, understanding, and solving puzzles whereas Kapha sukha is passive, involving napping, eating or sitting.
Surya
The sun.
Sushumna Nadi
Nadi is the subtle energy field which controls the movements and configurations of conscious beings. Sushumna nadi starts from the first chakra and extends up to the crown chakra.
Sabda
Sound, tone, voice, words.
Sada
Six.
Sadavidha
Six types.
Sakuna
Relating to birds or having the nature or characteristics of a bird.
Salakya tantra
Science using probes or cylindrical sticks for investigation and treatments, or a branch that deals with eyes, ears, nose and throat.
Salya tantra
A Sanskrit term used refers to Science of surgery.
Samhita
Collection of verses, texts that are methodically arranged.
Samprapti
Pathogenesis, the complete route of manifestation of disease.
Samsarjana (karma)
Diets and activities practiced after a treatment to get back to normal routine and food.
Samyaka
Accurate, precise, correct, truthful.
Samyoga
Combination, connection, conjunction, amalgamation.
Sancaya
To Accumulate, to collect, to gather.
Sandra
Dense, thick, solid.
Sankhapuspi
An herb used as a tonic for nervous system. Known for improving memory. The Latin name of the herb is Convolvulus pluricaulis.
Sanskrit
Purified, sanctified, the language used in Vedic age, also known as language of god.
Sapta
Seven.
Sapta-dhatu
The seven dhatus or constitutional elements or tissues of the body.
Sara
Liquid, fluid, moving.
Sarira
Body, physical body.
Sarpa
A Sanskrit word means Snake or serpent.
Sarpagandha
An herb highly useful for lowering high blood pressure. The Latin name of the herb is Rouwolfia serpentina.
Sarvangasana
A yoga posture.
Savasana
Dead body posture or posture for complete rest or relaxation.
Silajita
A black sticky mineral that leaks out of some mountains.
Shira
Any tubular vessel in the body - a vein, nerve or artery.
Sirodhara
A popular Ayurveda procedure that helps to calm the mind and pacify vata in the central nervous system. In this process special herbal oils or any other medicated liquids are poured on forehead from a special pot.
Sirsasana
A yoga posture known as Head stand posture.
Shita
A Sanskrit word means Cold, chilly, frigid.
Slakshana
Smooth, polished, soft, tender.
Slesaka
Attaching, connecting.
Snehana
Lubricating, anointing, rubbing with oil.
Snigdha
Sticky, unctuous, smooth, adhesive.
Shodhana
Cleaning, purifying, refining.
Shodhana Basti
A therapeutic administration of medicated decoctions that purifies the colon of toxic substances and waste products.
Shodhana Chikitsa
One of the two primary methods of disease management that primarily focus on the elimination of the source of disease.
Sparsa
Touching, sense of touch.
Sringa
Horn.
Srvanam
The act of hearing, acquiring knowledge by hearing.
Sthana samsraya
Location in a place, relocation of dosas.
Sthira
That can not be moved, firm, hard, solid, strong, immovable, fixed.
Sthula
Large, thick, big, gross, fat, stout, plump.
Saindhava
Black salt.
Samsarajana krama
The graded administration of diet. One of the post-procedures of Panchakarma that strengthens the incapacitated digestive fire.
Shamana Basti
A therapeutic application of medicated oil or decoction through the rectum in order to reduce irritation in the colon.
Shamana Chikitsa
One of the two primary methods of disease management that only concentrates on palliation of the symptoms of disease.
Shamana Nasya
A therapeutic administration of herbal or medicated oil into the nostrils to soothe the sinus zone.
Shiro Basti
An Ayurvedic treatment in which medicated oils are administered to head to improve prana and sensory functioning.
Surya Namaskar
Sun salutation, a set of different yoga postures.
Sushruta
One of the main scholars of Ayurvedic science, Founder of Sushrita school of Ayurveda philosophy that focus on surgical procedures and purification of the blood.
Sushruta Samhita
One of the main text of Ayurveda written by Sushruta.
Sadhaka pitta: type of pitta governing the brain
Sama: with ama or toxins
Samadhi: A state of equilibrium; supreme joy and bliss
Samana vata: equalising form of five vata types
Sammurchana: amalgamation between viliated dosha and dushya
Samprapti: pathogenes
Samsarga: duel vitiation of dosha.
Sandra: type of attribute, dense
Sattva: the higher principle of harmony of three qualities of nature or trigunas
Scabies: A contagious skin disease characterized by itching and peeling of the skin
Sciatica: Inflammation of the sciatic nerve characterized by lower back pain which radiates down the leg
Shakha: four limbs
Shakha marga: external disease tract
Shishir: winter
Shita: type of attribute, cold
Shlakshna: type of attribute, smooth
Shleshaka: form of kapha
Shleshaka: form of kapha lubricating joints
Shodhana: purification, detoxification
Shukra: reproductive tissue
Shukradhara kala: special membrane for reproductive system
Sira: blood vessel
Snehan: fomentation
Snehana: oleation therapy
Soma: bliss of pleasure, principle at work behind the mind and senses
Spondylosis: A condition of the spine characterized by fixation or stiffness of a vertebral joint
Sthana saushraya: localisation, stage of pathogenesis
Sthira: type of attribute, stable
Sthoola: type of attribute, gross
Sukshma: type of attribute, subtle
Surya Namaskara: the "sun salute,"
Sushruta: author of Sushruta Samhita, ancient Ayurvedic surgeon
Sweda: sweat
Swedavaha srotas: system for sweat
Syphilis: A venereal infection transmitted through sexual contact
T
Taila
Oil
Tamaka svasa
A type of asthma.
Tamas
One of the three gunas or phase of activity in creation that refers to the darkness, inertia, heaviness and the materialistic attitude.
Tamasic
That pertains the quality of tamas.
Tanmatra
It is the subtle essence of the five elements in the body i.e. sound, touch, sight, taste and smell.
Tantra
It is a non vedic form of yoga that leads to divine ecstasy through certain rites emphasizing the erotic and forbidden. It is also known as kundalini-yoga.
Tapa svedana
The procedure of applying dry heat to the body to reduce inflammation and congestion in the joints.
Tarpaka
Located in the head it is one of the five subtypes of kapha that nourishes the sensory organs and helps the brain and the five sensory organs to perform their function in the body.
Tejas
It is the superfine essence of pitta that have the characteristics of light, illumination and brilliance.
Tikta
Bitter or sour taste or flavor.
Tikta Ghrita
Medicated ghee with a predominantly bitter taste used in internal oleation to remove ama from the dhatus.
Tiksagni
Strong digestive fire or increased activity of digestive fire.
Tiksna
Sharp, hot, pungent.
Til Oil
Sesame oil.
Tri
Three.
Tridosa
The three dosas namely vatta, pitta and kapha. The human body is a combination of these three doshas or essential factors that are responsible for maintaining the integrity of human body and for governing the physical structure and functions of the living beings.
Tridoshic
Related to the tridoshas.
Triguna
The three qualities of Nature.
Trikatu
The term describes the three pungent i.e. the sunthi or dry ginger, pippali or indian long pepper and maricha or black pepper.
Triphala
A laxative, combination of three fruits of three particular herbs.
Trishna
Thirst.
Trivrita
Indian jalap a purgative herb. Latin name: Operculina turpethum.
Tulasi
A well known herb, Holy Basil. Latin Name: Ocimum sanctum.
Tamaka shwasa: bronchial asthma
Tamas: the lower principle of inertia of omni substances
Tamasic: having the nature of tamas
Tapas: self discipline
Tarpaka: form of kapha governing brain and nerves
Teja: premordial element, fire
Tejas: mental fire
Tikta: bitter
Tikshna: form of attribute, penetrating
Trataka: steady gazing
Tridosha: The three bodily organizations -Vata (air). pitta (fire) and Kapha (water) -which govern the psychosomatic activity of daily living
U
Udaka-vaha srotas
Channels that transports water or watery liquids in the body.
Udana Vayu
One of the sub-doshas of vayu that regulates strength, speech and the elimination of carbon dioxide.
Upa-dhatu
A secondary tissue that supports the main tissue.
Upanaha Swedhana
A therapeutic application of warm, medicated poultices to treat arthritis.
Upasaya
The alleviation of disease by suitable remedies, advantageous medicine.
Upastambha
Supporting pillars, sub- pillars.
Upyokta
User
Upyoga-samstha
using method, user manual, and instructions to use or practice a technique.
Uro Basti
An Ayurveda treatment in which medicated oils are retained on the chest and heart area to reduce congestion.
Usna
Hot, warm, passionate.
Utkleshana Basti
Therapeutic administration of medicated decoctions through the rectum to promote secretions in the colon. It liquefy and wipe out the accumalated ama (toxins) and waste material.
Uttama anga
The word is a combination of two words, the uttama means noble, great and anga that means part of the body. Thus literally the term means great body.
Uttanapadasana
A type of Yoga posture (asana).
Udakavaha srotas: -system of water metabolism
Udanavata: upward moving type of vata
Udara: abdomen
Upadhatu: offshoots of tissues
Upadrava: complication
Upashama: symptoms getting relieved after treatment
Undhiya: A mixed vegetable preparation favourite among the Gujaratis
Urticaria: A blood reaction of the skin. marked by the transient appearance of smooth. slightly-elevated patches which are redder or paler than the surrounding skin. This condition often is attended by severe itching.
Ushma: Hot
V
Vagabhata
A well known Ayurveda scholar who wrote Astanga Sangraha and Astanga Hrdya. A major commentator on Ayurvedic science after Charaka and Sushruta.
Vaidya
A Sanskrit word used for an Ayurvedic physician, Ayurvedic doctor.
Vaishamya
The proportionate influence of the doshas that allows us to perceive the prevalence of one over the others.
Vaisheshika
Literally the word means excellence or distinction. It is one of the six orthodox schools of the Indian philosophy, founded by kanada.
Vajikarana
The science of aphrodisiac, producing virility.
Vajirarana Basti
A basti procedure that promotes vigor and vitality and enhances fertility.
Vamana
Therapeutic vomiting or emesis. One of the five main purificatory procedures of Panchakarma.
Vamanopaga
The natural substances that are used for the stimulation of vomiting.
Varnya
The substances that improve the complexion of the body, its color, skin, hair and eyes also.
Vanaspatya
A Sanskrit word that means tree, shrub or plant.
Varuna
Hindu God of waters, sea, rivers.
Vasa
An oleated substance made up of animal fat and used in abbyantar snehana an internal oleation procedure.
Vata
One of the tridosha (three humors), that keeps pitta, kapha, all the seven dhatus and the malas in motion.
Vata Shamak Oil
The medicated oil used in bahya snehana to pacify vata.
Vayu
The air or wind element and universal organizing principle of movement.
Veda
The knowledge of the totality of life.
Vedas
Vedas are the oldest source of universal knowledge, which are formed by learned rishis and saints in the Indian culture centuries ago. The four Vedas namely, Rig-Veda, Yajur Veda, Athrva Veda and Sam Veda hold answers to most of the questions relating to life and living.
Vibhitaka
A herbal plant known as Belliric Myrobalan or Terminalia bellirica (Latin name).
Vidahi
Heat, burning, inflammation, acid.
Vihara
The Ayurvedic knowledge of proper lifestyle.
Vikriti
Modification; imbalance or disease.
Vikruti
The imbalance in the doshas that disturbs one’s prakruti or ideal constitutional balance.
Vilepi
Thick soup of soft cooked rice usually eaten on the second day after Panchakarma.
Vipaka
The post-absorptive phase of digestion.
Virya
Potency, power, vigor, semen.
Virechan
The medicated purgation; one of the basic cleansing processes of pancha karma therapy.
Virecanopaga
These are the purgatives that assist the elimination of the doshas from the vital organs and helps the system get rid of the ama (toxins).
Vishnu
In Hindu mythology lord Vishnu is all pervading. His divine qualities are for knowledge, strength, lordship, power, virility, splendor and the preservation.
Visada
Clear, pure, spotless, shining.
Visesa
Opposite, different, not similar, important.
Vismagni
Irregular or unstable digestive fire.
Visravana
To let flow, to let spread.
Vitamin
These are essentials for growth of the body and healthy functioning of all organs. There are many types of Vitamins that are related to different functions of the body:
Vitamin A is a growth promoting vitamin.
Vitamin D is the anti-rickets vitamin.
Vitamin E is anti-sterility.
Vitamin K helps coagulation.
Vitamin P is anti-hemorrhagic.
Vitamin B1 is anti-neuritic..
Vitamin B2 pacifies vata, builds up pitta and kapha.
Vitamin B6 is called pyrodoxine..
Folic Acid. pacifies vata, increases pitta, reduces kapha.
Vitamin C. Vitamin C is ascorbic acid whenever there is cold and congestion, Vitamin C is used.
B12 is cyanocobalamin and is used in sciatica.
Vranagata Basti
An Ayurvedic procedure in which certain medicated liquids are used to irrigate and heal abscesses or wounds.
Vyakta
Manifestation of disease with a clear set of symptoms; Visible, specific.
Vyana
It is one of the five subtypes of vata that regulates the circulation of blood in the body, the nervous system, muscular functions and the skeletal system in the body.
Vyana Vayu
One of the sub-doshas of Vata which governs the cardiovascular system.
Vyayama
A set of exercises which give energy rather than expend energy: hatha yoga postures, pranayama and sun salutation.
Vamana: medicated emesis
Varsha: monsoon
Vasa: fact of the muscles
Vasant: Spring
Vata: the dosha responsible for all movement in the body, biological air humor
.Vata vyadhi: diseases due to aggravation of vatas
Vataj: due to vata
Vayu: another name for vat
Vijnyana: intelligence
Vipaka: metabolised part of drug, the after taste of food in the body
Virechan: Purgation
Vishesh: Special
Y
Yantra
A visual concentration for each chakra that is used to channel psychic force.
Yoga Nidra
Yoga sleep or conscious sleep.
Yama
Rules, instructions or guidelines.
Yamya
One, who takes initiative, is courageous and possesses leadership qualities.
Yastimadhu
An herb , English name: Licorice, Latin name: Glycyrrhiza glabra.
Yusa
Soup usually made from various kinds of pulses.
Yoga
A progressive method that helps individual to become self-realized and link the soul to super soul. There are several types of yogas.
Yog Basti
An eight-day long oil basti treatment that calms vata and nourishes the colon.
Yakrit : Liver
Yashasvati : Type of nadi in Yoga
Yoga: psycho physical practices aimed at self knowledge
Nice glossary. Do you know about these yoga books?
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