Abstract

CONCEPT OF VYADHI SANKARA IN AYURVEDIC DIAGNOSTICS AND ITS CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS

Dr. Narendra Subhash Hon* and Dr. Rajendra Rohidasrao Lokhande

Abstract

Ayurveda, often referred to as the science of life, justly earns this title due to its comprehensive approach to both maintaining health (swastha) and managing diseases (atura awastha). A crucial component of the atura skanda (disease aspect) includes roga nirnaya (diagnosis), chikitsa (treatment), and other clinical principles. According to Ayurvedic philosophy, diseases can be diagnosed effectively through the framework of nidana panchaka. This five-fold diagnostic method is thoroughly discussed in the Nidana Sthana of the Charaka Samhita. Within this section lies a unique yet often overlooked diagnostic tool—the concept of Sankara, which represents a significant contribution of the Charaka Samhita. Positioned at the end of Nidana Sthana, Sankara is categorized into four domains: Hetu (causative factors), Linga (symptoms), Chikitsa (treatment), and Vyadhi (disease). This concept serves as a key to unlock a deeper understanding of the entire atura skanda. In this article, an attempt is made to explore the concept of Vyadhi Sankara, which refers to the coexistence or clustering of two or more diseases presenting simultaneously in a patient.

Keywords: Vyadhi Sankara, Hetu, Linga, Vyadhi, Upadrava, Nidanarthakara roga.