E-ISSN:2456-3110

Review Article

Vishesha Siddhanta

Journal of Ayurveda and Integrated Medical Sciences

2024 Volume 9 Number 12 DECEMBER
Publisherwww.maharshicharaka.in

A comprehensive view on the applicability of Samanya - Vishesha Siddhanta

Chacko N1*
DOI:10.21760/jaims.9.12.24

1* Nija Chacko, Assistant Professor, Department of Kriyasharira, Ashwini Ayurveda Medical College and Research Centre, Tumkur, Karnataka, India.

Ayurveda is the science of life that focusses on both prevention and cure of diseases. Its wisdom is rooted in various theories and principles, among which Samanya-Vishesha Siddhanta is fundamental. Samanya refers to similarity, while Vishesha denotes dissimilarity; by applying this principle, Ayurveda effectively cures many ailments through the balance of similar and opposing qualities. Some factors deficient in body corrected by substituting with substances similar in character (Samanya). Some factors excess in body, reduced by supplying dissimilar substance [Vishesha]. Thus, specific Dravyas, Gunas and Karmas are employed to treat various diseases and maintain the balance of Doshas, Dhatus, Mala.

Keywords: Samanya Vishesha Siddhanta, Samanya, Vishesha, Siddhanta, Basic Principle

Corresponding Author How to Cite this Article To Browse
Nija Chacko, Assistant Professor, Department of Kriyasharira, Ashwini Ayurveda Medical College and Research Centre, Tumkur, Karnataka, India.
Email: 		Chacko N, A comprehensive view on the applicability of Samanya - Vishesha Siddhanta. J Ayu Int Med Sci. 2024;9(12):193-192.
Available From
https://jaims.in/jaims/article/view/3781

Manuscript Received Review Round 1 Review Round 2 Review Round 3 Accepted
2024-11-13 2024-11-23 2024-12-03 2024-12-12 2024-12-21
Conflict of Interest Funding Ethical Approval Plagiarism X-checker Note
None Nil Yes 12.89

© 2024by Chacko Nand Published by Maharshi Charaka Ayurveda Organization. This is an Open Access article licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ unported [CC BY 4.0].

J Ayu Int Med Sci 2024;9(12)193
Download PDFBack To ArticleIntroductionAimObjectivesMaterials and MethodsDiscussionConclusionReferences
Nija C. A comprehensive view on the applicability of Samanya - Vishesha Siddhanta

Introduction

The balanced state of Doshas, Dhatus, Agni, and Malas is essential for maintaining normal health, while an imbalance results in pathological conditions. Ayurveda outlines several principles for sustaining and promoting overall health. Dosha-Dhatu-Mala Siddhanta, Panchamahabhuta Siddhanta, Loka Purusa Samya Siddhanta, Triguna Siddhanta, Karya-Karana Siddhanta, Samanya-Vishesha Siddhantaetc. are important Siddhantas ofAyurveda. Among these, the Samanya Vishesha Siddhanta is particularly significant in Ayurvedic philosophy. This principle is primarily based on similarity and dissimilarity, which aids in achieving the equilibrium of Doshas, Dhatus, and Mala.[1]

Samanya - Vishesha Siddhanta is one of the basic theories applied in ayurvedic treatment. Samanya is the way by which 2 or more subjects become equal or similar in content & character. Vishesha is the dissimilarity / particularity by which an object is dissimilar or opposite to another. Some factors deficient in body corrected by substituting with substances similar in character (Samanya). Some factors are excess in the body, and they are reduced by supplying dissimilar substances [Vishesha]. This is the basic principle and has a wide range of applicability. Samanya-Vishesha is a fundamental principle with a crucial role in selecting food and medicine (Ahara and Aushadhi). This paper aims to assess the applicability of Samanya-Vishesha Siddhanta within Ayurveda.

Aim

To elucidate applicability of Samanya Vishesha Siddhanta in Ayurveda.

Objectives

1. Highlighting Samanya Vishesha Siddhanta role in balancing Doshas, Dhatus, Mala.
2. To analyze and correlate this information with the modern aspects.

Materials and Methods

Data were collected from all Ayurvedic texts including Bruhathrayee and Laguthrayee. 23 articles were collected and reviewed. Articles available in search engines were used.

According to Charaka and Vaisheshika, Samanya and Vishesha are included among the Shat Padartha. Charaka assigns the first position to Samanya and the second to Vishesha within the Shat Padartha, highlighting their importance in treatment (chikitsa).

Table 1: Shatpadartha

Charaka Samhita[2]Vaisheshika Darsana[3]
SamanyaDravya
VisheshaGuna
Guna Karma
DravyaSamanya
karmaVishesha
samavayaSamavaya

Samanya

According to Vachaspatyam, Samanya refers to what is common in all.[4] Generality is the existence of equality. For all existing things, generality is the cause of increase.[5] it generates notion of unity. It imparts equality to members of group having a particular generality.[6]

According to Saptapadarthee, generality is considered as a single undivided category which is inherent in more than one thing, causing knowledge of continuity. The knowledge of continuity generates unity and increase and similarity

Classification of Samanya

According to Tarka Samgraha, Samanya is classified into two types: Para Samanya (superior generality), which pervades a larger space and is more comprehensive, and Apara Samanya (inferior generality), which is less comprehensive.[7] Karikavali, however, identifies three types of Samanya: Para Samanya (superior generality), Apara Samanya (inferior generality), and Para-Apara Samanya (superior-inferior generality.[8]

According to Bhattarharichanda Samanya is of three types ie. Atyanta Samanya (absolute generality), Madhyama Samanya (medium generality) and Ekadesha-Samanya (localised generality. According to chakrapani, three types Dravya, Guna and Karma Samanya.[9]

Vishesha

According to Vacaspatyam, Visesa which means Prabhede, Prakare[10] It is the cause of reduction.[11]


J Ayu Int Med Sci 2024;9(12)194
Nija C. A comprehensive view on the applicability of Samanya - Vishesha Siddhanta

It caused separateness and causes of notion of plurality.[12] It is the cause of differentiation, multiple, inherent in each substance and causes reduction, distinction, dissimilarity.

Discussion

Application of Samanya Vishesha Siddhanta

Every process in human body is based on Samanya - Vishesha Siddhanta. Reducing surplus factor & supplementing the deficient factor by appropriate measures help in maintaining homeostasis / balance of body.[13]

1. Application of Samanya Vishesha Siddhanta on the Prakopa Karana of Tri Dosha

Overexertion, excessive exercise, frequent heavy physical labor, suppression of natural bodily urges, irregular routines, skipping meals, and inconsistent sleep patterns all lead to an increase in Vata Dosha through Samanya (similarity of qualities). Conversely, activities that have opposing qualities to Vata will reduce the Dosha through Vishesha (opposition of qualities).[14] Foods such as curd (Dadhi), buttermilk (Takra), and sesame oil (Tilataila), along with emotional factors like anger and sorrow, will increase Pitta Dosha through Samanya (similar qualities). Conversely, attributes opposite to these will decrease Pitta through Vishesha (opposing qualities).[15] Similarly, factors such as lack of exercise, lethargy, daytime sleep, and foods like black gram (Masha), milk (Dugda), and wheat (Godhuma) will increase Kapha Dosha through Samanya. Substances with opposite qualities will reduce Kapha according to the Vishesha principle.[16]

2. Application of Samanya Vishesha Siddhanta on the concept of Thridosha based on Rasa

If Vata Dosha increases in body, tastes like sweet (Madhura), sour (Amla), and salty (Lavana) will reduce it through principle of Samanya (similarity). Conversely, if Vata Dosha decreases, tastes like pungent (Katu), bitter (Tikta), and astringent (Kashaya) will increase it through principle of Vishesha (dissimilarity). Likewise, when Pitha Dosha increases in the body, tastes such as astringent (Kashaya], bitter (Tikta), sweet (Madhura] can reduce it based on principle of Samanya (similarity). Conversely, when Vata Dosha decreases, tastes like), sour (Amla),

and salty (Lavana) pungent (Katu), and) can help increase it through the principle of Vishesha (dissimilarity). In the similar way, when Kapha Dosha rises in the body, tastes such as pungent (Katu), bitter (Tikta), and astringent (Kashaya) can decrease it according to the principle of Samanya (similarity). Conversely, if Vata Dosha diminishes, tastes such as sweet (Madhura), sour (Amla), and salty (Lavana) can increase it through the principle of Vishesha (dissimilarity).[17]

3. Application of Samanya Vishesha Siddhanta on the concept of Thridosa based on Panchamahabhoota constitution

Vata Dosha is composed of the Panchabhoutik elements, Vayu (air) and Akasha (ether). If Vata Dosha decreases in the body, using substances of Vayu and Akasha elements will increase it based on the Samanya (similarity) principle. Pitta Dosha is composed of the Agni (fire) element.[18] If it decreases in the body, the use of substances with a predominance of Agni Dravya will restore it according to the Samanya (similarity) principle.

4. Application of Samanya Vishesha Siddhanta on the Vishesha treatment of Thridosa

Excess Vata Dosha can be alleviated with the use of Taila (oil) and treatments like Vasti based on the Vishesha principle. Pitta Dosha can be balanced with Ghrita (ghee) and Virechana (purgation), while Kapha Dosha can be managed with Vamana (emesis) and Madhu (honey).[19]

5. Application of Samanya Vishesha Siddhanta on Asraya Asrayi relationship

Vitiation of the Vata Doshas affects the Asthi Dhatu (bones). Increase or Vruddhi in Guna of Vata Dosha results into the Kshaya of Asthi Dhatu and vice versa. Vitiation of thePitta Doshasaffects theRakta Dhatu(blood). Increase orVruddhiin theGunaofPitta Dosharesults into the increase /VruddhiofSweda Mala(sweating) and Rakta Dhatu. Vitiation of theKapha Doshasaffects theRasa, Mamsa(muscles), Meda(fat tissue), Majja(bone marrow), andShukra(semen)Dhatu. Increase orVruddhiin theGunaofKapha Dosharesults in the, /VruddhiinGunaofRasa, Mamsa, Meda, Majja,andShukra Dhatu and Mala.[20]

6. Application of Guna in Thridosha treatment in perspective of Samanya Vishesha Siddhanta The qualities of Vata Dosha include Ruksha (dryness),


J Ayu Int Med Sci 2024;9(12)195
Nija C. A comprehensive view on the applicability of Samanya - Vishesha Siddhanta

Laghu (lightness), Sheeta (coldness), Khara (roughness), Sookshma (subtlety), and Chala (movement). If Vata Dosha increases in the body, treatments with opposite qualities should be administered based on the Vishesha (dissimilarity) principle. Conversely, if Vata decreases, substances with qualities similar to Vata should be used according to the Samanya (similarity) principle.[21]

7. Application of Dosic predominance of Desa in treatment aspect in perspective of Samanya Vishesha Siddhanta

Jangala regions are predominately Vatabhooyishtam (Vata-increasing), while anupa regions enhance kapholbanam (Kapha). Therefore, substances with qualities opposite to the dominant Dosha can be recommended in these areas.[22]

8. Application of Samanya Vishesha Siddhanta on Shad Kriya Kala

Six stages of aggravation of Dosas are Sanchaya, Prakopa, Prasara Sthanasamshraya, Vyakti And Bheda[23]. These all stages are example of Samanya or enhancement of Dosas. Increased Dosha are alleviated by Vishesha treatment (opposite). If treatment is not given, they can reach incurable stage of disease. To avoid this, substances with opposite qualities and actions are used.

9. Application of Samanya Vishesha Siddhanta on

The strength (Agrabala) observed in the seasons of Varsha (monsoon), Sharad (autumn), and Hemant (early winter) can be explained through the Samanya Siddhanta principle, where the qualities of Snigdha (unctuousness), Soma (coolness), and Madhura Rasa.[24] (sweet taste) play a key role. Ksheena Bala in Sisira, Vasanta and Grishma Rtu is just opposite to it and can be explained by Vishesha Siddhanta

10. Application of Samanya Vishesha Siddhanta on Dvividha Upakrama

Judicial administration of Santarpana & Apatarpana[25] on basis of Samanya Vishesha Siddhanta

11. Application of Samanya Vishesha Siddhanta on Dinacharya

Abhyanga[26] and Vyayama[27]is treatment method of Vata and Kapha respectively,

Abhyanga can be explained as Samanya to Kapha and Vishesha to Vata. Vyayama can be explained as Samanya to Vata and Vishesha to Kapha

12. Application of Samanya Guna in treatment in perspective of Samanya Vishesha Siddhanta

Table 2: Samanya Guna[28]

GuruLaghu
MandaTikshna
SeethaUshna
Snigdha Ruksha
SlakshnaKhara
SandraDrava
MriduKatina
SthiraSara
SukshmaSthula
VishadaPichila

If Guru (heavy) quality increases in the body, it can be reduced by applying Laghu (light) quality through Vishesha (opposing) treatment.

13. Application of Samanya Vishesha Siddhanta on Shadvidha Upakrama

Shadvidha Upakram[29] are Langana, Brumhana, Rukshana, Snehana, Svedana and Sthambana. Judicious administration of Shadvidha Upakrama on the basis of Samanya Vishesha Siddhanta.

14. Application of Samanya Vishesha Siddhanta on Vishesha treatment of Tri Dosha[30]

Increased Vata Dosha can be balanced through Sneha (oily substances), Sveda (sudation), and Samshodana (purification) based on the Vishesha (dissimilarity) principle. Similarly, elevated Pitta Dosha can be alleviated by Sarpi (ghee) and Virechana (purgation) following the Vishesha principle.

15. Sroto Pradooshaka Hetu & its treatment in relation to Siddhanta

Ahara (diet) and vihara (lifestyle) that aggravate the Doshas and negatively affect the Dhatus (tissues) can also vitiate the channels (Srotas).[31] Diseases related to specific Srotas arise when Ahara and Vihara align with the qualities of the vitiated Doshas. Consuming diet and following lifestyle practices opposite in quality to those causing Srotodushti (channel vitiation) can help maintain health (Arogyam).


J Ayu Int Med Sci 2024;9(12)196
Nija C. A comprehensive view on the applicability of Samanya - Vishesha Siddhanta

Modern concept of Samanya Vishesha Siddhanta

Samanya Siddhanta applied in following conditions

  • Platelet transfusion in dengue fever
  • Administration of glucose as IV/orally in hypoglycemia
  • Administration of thyronorm in thyroxine deficiency
  • Saline or glucose infusion - dehydration
  • Vitamin supplements - vitamin deficiency disorder
  • Blood transfusion - acute blood loss
  • Use of insulin in diabetes mellitus
  • Calcium supplements - calcium deficiency / demand
  • Probiotics - supplementation of intestinal microflora

Vishesha Siddhanta applied in following conditions

  • Anti-thyroid drugs - hyper thyroidism
  • Hyperacidity - antacids

Conclusion

Samanya Vishesha Siddhanta is one of the basic theories in Ayurveda. It can be applied in various fields of Ayurveda i.e., diagnosis, research, treatment. It encompasses the selection of suitable foods, activities, medicines, and daily routines as part of a treatment approach for specific diseases. The Samanya-Vishesha Siddhanta helps regulate the increase or decrease of Doshas and Dhatus, thereby maintaining equilibrium in the body.

The Samanya-Vishesha Siddhanta is a core principle in Ayurveda that directs the restoration and preservation of balance within the body. By recognizing how similar (Samanya) and opposing (Vishesha) qualities influence the Doshas, Dhatus, Mala and this concept provides a personalized approach to managing health. By applying Samanya to increase and Vishesha to decrease, the Samanya-Vishesha Siddhanta aids in disease treatment and plays a crucial role in sustaining health of an individual.

References

1. Jain S, Bahatkar S. Concept of Samanya Vishesh Siddhant & its Role in Prevention of Diseases: Ayurveda Review. Himalayan Journal of Health Sciences. 2021 Sep 26:44-7.

2. Jadavji Trikamji. Charaka Samhitha of agnivesa with ayurveda Dipika commentary of chakrapanidatta. Reprint edition. Sutrasthanam. Varanasi: Chowkambha Sanskrit series; 2013.

3. Swami Sivananda. All About Hinduism. Page 196-202.

4. Tarkavachaspati Taranath. Vachaspatyam. Vol. 6. Varanasi: Chaukhamba Sankrit series office; 1970. p.5282.

5. Jadavji Trikamji. Charaka Samhitha of agnivesa with ayurveda Dipika commentary of chakrapanidatta. Reprint edition. Sutrasthanam. 1.44. Varanasi: Chowkambha Sanskrit series; 2013. 9p.

6. Jadavji Trikamji. Charaka Samhitha of agnivesa with ayurveda Dipika commentary of chakrapanidatta. Reprint edition. Sutrasthanam. 1.45. Varanasi: Chowkambha Sanskrit series; 2013. 10p.

7. Tarka Samgraha. Mylapore: Sri Ramakrishna Matha. p.34.

8. Panchananbhatt V. Karikavali. Varanasi: Chaukhamba Sankrit series office; 2013. p.33.

9. Yadavji Trikamji. Charak Samhita of Agnivesha with Chakrapani commentary. Varanasi: Chaukhamba Surabharti Prakashana; 2013. p.10.

10. Rajaradhakanta dev. Sabdhakalpadruma. Varanasi: Chaukhamba series office.

11. Jadavji Trikamji. Charaka Samhitha of agnivesa with ayurveda Dipika commentary of chakrapanidatta. Reprint edition. Sutrasthanam. 1.44. Varanasi: Chowkambha Sanskrit series; 2013. 9p.

12. Jadavji Trikamji. Charaka Samhitha of agnivesa with ayurveda Dipika commentary of chakrapanidatta. Reprint edition. Sutrasthanam. 1.45. Varanasi: Chowkambha Sanskrit series; 2013. 10p.


J Ayu Int Med Sci 2024;9(12)197
Nija C. A comprehensive view on the applicability of Samanya - Vishesha Siddhanta

13. Kaviraja Atri Deva Gupta. Vagbatas Ashtanga Hrudayam vidyotini hindi commentary. Reprint edition. Sutrasthana. 1.13. Varanasi: Chowkambha Sanskrit series; 2015. 9p.

14. Jadavji Trikamji. Sushruta Samhita of Susruta with Nibandhasangraha Commentary of Dalhanacharya. 8th edition. Sutrasthana. 21/18. Varanasi: Chawkhamba Sanskrit Sansthan; 2004. 103p.

15. Jadavji Trikamji. Sushruta Samhita of Susruta with Nibandhasangraha Commentary of Dalhanacharya. 8th edition. Sutrasthana. 21/21. Varanasi: Chawkhamba Sanskrit Sansthan; 2004. 103p.

16. Jadavji Trikamji. Sushruta Samhita of Susruta with Nibandhasangraha Commentary of Dalhanacharya. 8th edition. Sutrasthana. 21/23. Varanasi: Chawkhamba Sanskrit Sansthan; 2004. 103p.

17. Kaviraja Atri Deva Gupta. Vagbatas Ashtanga Hrudayam vidyotini hindi commentary. Reprint edition. Sutrasthana. 1.14. Varanasi: Chowkambha Sanskrit series; 2015. 10p.

18. Astang Sangraha Sutra Sthana. Dr. R. Vidhyanath, Pub. Chaukhambha Surbharti Prakashan, Varanasi, edit. 1st 2006 (A.S. Su. 20/3).

19. Kaviraja Atri Deva Gupta. Vagbatas Ashtanga Hrudayam vidyotini hindi commentary. Reprint edition. Sutrasthana. 1/25. Varanasi: Chowkambha Sanskrit series; 2015. 14p.

20. Kaviraja Atri Deva Gupta. Vagbatas Ashtanga Hrudayam vidyotini hindi commentary. Reprint edition. Sutrasthana. 11/26-28. Varanasi: Chowkambha Sanskrit series; 2015. 117p.

21. Kaviraja Atri Deva Gupta. Vagbatas Ashtanga Hrudayam vidyotini hindi commentary. Reprint edition. Sutrasthana. 1/11. Varanasi: Chowkambha Sanskrit series; 2015. 8p.

22. Kaviraja Atri Deva Gupta. Vagbatas Ashtanga Hrudayam vidyotini hindi commentary. Reprint edition. Sutrasthana. 1/23. Varanasi: Chowkambha Sanskrit series; 2015. 13p.

23. Jadavji Trikamji. Sushruta Samhita of Susruta with Nibandhasangraha Commentary of Dalhanacharya. 8th edition. Sutrasthana. 21/36. Varanasi: Chawkhamba Sanskrit Sansthan; 2004. 106p

24. Kaviraja Atri Deva Gupta. Vagbatas Ashtanga Hrudayam vidyotini hindi commentary. Reprint edition. Sutrasthana. 3/5-7. Varanasi: Chowkambha Sanskrit series; 2015. 34p.

25. Kaviraja Atri Deva Gupta. Vagbatas Ashtanga Hrudayam vidyotini hindi commentary. Reprint edition. Sutrasthana. 14/1. Varanasi: Chowkambha Sanskrit series; 2015. 135p.

26. Kaviraja Atri Deva Gupta. Vagbatas Ashtanga Hrudayam vidyotini hindi commentary. Reprint edition. Sutrasthana. 2/7. Varanasi: Chowkambha Sanskrit series; 2015. 24p.

27. Kaviraja Atri Deva Gupta. Vagbatas Ashtanga Hrudayam vidyotini hindi commentary. Reprint edition. Sutrasthana. 2/15. Varanasi: Chowkambha Sanskrit series; 2015. 26p.

28. Kaviraja Atri Deva Gupta. Vagbatas Ashtanga Hrudayam vidyotini hindi commentary. Reprint edition. Sutrasthana. 1/18. Varanasi: Chowkambha Sanskrit series; 2015. 11p.

29. Ram Karan Sharma, Bhagavan Dash. Agnivesa’s Charaka Samhitha text with English translation and critical exposition based on Chakrapanidatta’s Ayurveda Dipika. Reprint edition. Volume I. Sutrasthanam. Langana brumhaneeyam adhyayam. 22/4. Varanasi: Chowkhamba Krishnadas academy; 2015. 387p.

30. Kaviraja Atri Deva Gupta. Vagbatas Ashtanga Hrudayam vidyotini hindi commentary. Reprint edition. Sutrasthana. 13/1-12. Varanasi: Chowkambha Sanskrit series; 2015. 130-131p.

31. Ram Karan Sharma, Bhagavan Dash. Agnivesa’s Charaka Samhitha text with English translation and critical exposition based on Chakrapanidatta’s Ayurveda Dipika. Reprint edition. Vimana sthanam. 5/23. Varanasi: Chowkhamba Krishnadas academy; 2015. 387p.

Disclaimer / Publisher's Note: The statements, opinions and data contained in all publications are solely those of the individual author(s) and contributor(s) and not of Journals and/or the editor(s). Journals and/or the editor(s) disclaim responsibility for any injury to people or property resulting from any ideas, methods, instructions or products referred to in the content.


J Ayu Int Med Sci 2024;9(12)198