CCRAS Revives Ancient Ayurvedic Manuscripts
India made strides in preserving its traditional medicine heritage. The Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences (CCRAS) revived two rare Ayurvedic manuscripts – Dravyaratnākara Nighaṇṭu and Dravyanamākara Nighaṇṭu. This revival aims to bridge ancient wisdom with modern healthcare practices.
Dravyaratnākara Nighaṇṭu
- Authored by Mudgala Paṇḍita in 1480 AD, Dravyaratnākara Nighaṇṭu is a previously unpublished lexicon.
- It consists of eighteen chapters detailing drug synonyms, medicinal properties, and therapeutic actions.
- This text was widely referenced in Maharashtra until the 19th century.
- It documents numerous medicinal substances derived from plants, minerals, and animals.
Dravyanamākara Nighaṇṭu
Dravyanamākara Nighaṇṭu serves as an appendix to the foundational text Dhanvantari Nighaṇṭu. Attributed to Bhisma Vaidya, this work focuses on homonyms of drug and plant names. It consists of 182 verses and two colophon verses. The text is vital for understanding the complexities of Ayurvedic terminology. Dr. Kamat’s critical edition enhances its utility for scholars and practitioners.
Importance of the Revival
The revival of these manuscripts is crucial for several reasons. They are not merely historical artefacts but living knowledge systems. The manuscripts offer invaluable resources for students, researchers, and Ayurveda practitioners. They inspire deeper engagement with classical medical literature.
Future Implications
The revival efforts by CCRAS contribute to safeguarding India’s Ayurvedic heritage. They enhance the traditional healthcare system by integrating validated ancient insights. The digitisation and critical editing of these texts ensure their accessibility for future generations. This initiative encourages scholarly exploration and promotes the growth of Ayurveda as a scientific discipline.
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