Caraka Samhita - A transliteration of Nidanasthanam

This sthana deals with principles of diagnosis and studies diagnostic principles in view of two important aspects; knowledge of the patient and knowledge of the disease. It always considers interaction between the individual and the pathology. The Nidanasthana also considers the interrelationships of different diseases. A single way of looking at pathology will not be sufficient, as it may miss the full circumstances of disease manifestation. Therefore, a comprehensive methodology is presented in five steps to establish a standard protocol in the analysis of Ayurvedic pathology.

This book is a transliteration in modern English that uses Sanskrit terms with their meanings. It is a textbook for Western students of Ayurveda. All of the text has been simplified without losing the meaning or context. There are detailed notes for the reader which explain concepts and difficult cultural meanings. This book is an important addition for any person who studies Ayurvedic medicine.

What makes this book special is that it is written by a practitioner with 37 years of experience in treating people. Each chapter is explained with notes and examples from his practical experience. The translation of the text is in simple language that is easy to understand, followed by notes which explain any obscure points. Historical and cultural references in the text are explained because the author has lived 8 years in India from 1987 to 1994. This book is as relevant today as it was thousands of years ago.

The eight different chapters in Nidanasthana are described below:

The first chapter, Jvara Nidana, introduces the basic principles of diagnosis for diseases. The main subject is jvara (fever) and how it damages Rasadhatu.

The second chapter, Raktapitta Nidana, deals with various pathologies related to Raktadhatu. This chapter details the diagnosis of bleeding disorders.

The third chapter, Gulma Nidana, deals predominantly with Mamsadhatu. This chapter describes diagnosis of tumors and lumps in the abdomen.

The fourth chapter, Prameha Nidana, deals predominantly with Medadhatu. This chapter describes the diagnosis of disorders of lipid metabolism, diabetes and urinary disorders.

The fifth chapter, Kustha Nidana, deals with seven dusya (vitiated or morbid factors) in Rasadhatu and Mamsadhatu. This chapter deals with diagnosis of skin disorders.

The sixth chapter, Sosa Nidana, deals with the pathology of emaciation and consumption (tuberculosis). This chapter describes diagnosis of degenerative disorders that involve depletion of all body tissues (dhatu).

The seventh chapter, Unmada Nidana, deals with insanity and psychological disorders of the mind (Manas).

The eighth chapter, Apasmara Nidana, deals with epilepsy and seizure disorders of Manas and Majjadhatu. It also reviews how one disease can cause other diseases and how this complicates both the diagnosis and treatment.

This is book is available now on Amazon by clicking here.

Series: Ayurvedic Medicine for Westerners
Paperback: 205 pages

ISBN-13: 979-8327834132

Product Dimensions: 6 x 9 inches
Shipping Weight: 13.1 ounces

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