A review on Ayurvedic concept of Mind with emphasis on Medhya Rasayana

Abstract

Ayurveda, a five-millennium-old science rooted in the Vedas, encompasses profound insights into health and healing. The traditional Indian medical system perceive the mind and body as complementary parts of one’s entity and purports to preserve the balance between the duo for enhanced quality of life. Moreover, the World Health Organization defines health as a condition of whole physical, mental, and social well-being rather than only the absence of illness or disability, indicating the significance of mind covering the mental health component. The term mind in Ayurveda is referred to as the Manas, and it is one among the Tristhuna, the three pillars quintessential for a healthy life. Acharya Caraka has included Manas in Adhyatama Dravya Guna Sangraha, since true perceptions occur only when Manas is actively engaged with the body and senses. Satva and Chetas are considered as synonyms of Manas. Also, Rashipurusha involved in Srishti Utpatti is depicted as an amalgamation of Atma, Buddhi, Indriya, Manas, Indriyaartha, and Mano-Vishyas. The Satva is considered as unique Guna entity of Manas while Rajas and Tamas are Mano- Doshas. Swastha Avastha of Sareera is invariably linked to Satva Guna where on the contrary Mano-Doshas manifest as diseases. Acharya Caraka emphasizes that whatever comes under the purview of Mana and its knowledge are all its Vishayas, Chintana being the most important. The use of Medhya Rasayana has been advocated in Ayurveda in this regard for its supreme functioning and to ward off diseases caused by Sareerika and Manasika Doshas.