Ayurvedic Herbs and Botanicals Flashcards

What does the term 'Prabhava' refer to in Ayurvedic pharmacology?

Answer: The special or unique action that cannot be explained by other properties

Prabhava refers to the unique, inexplicable action of a herb that cannot be predicted from its Rasa, Virya, or Vipaka alone.

Which classical Ayurvedic text is the primary reference for Dravyaguna (Ayurvedic pharmacology)?

Answer: Charaka Samhita

The Charaka Samhita is the primary classical text that systematically discusses Dravyaguna, including the properties and actions of medicinal substances.

Punarnava (Boerhavia diffusa) derives its name from its ability to do what?

Answer: Renew or rejuvenate the body

The name Punarnava means 'one that renews the body' in Sanskrit, reflecting its Rasayana property of rejuvenation and its use in edema and kidney conditions.

Which Ayurvedic herb is classified under 'Katu Skandha' (pungent group) and is known for its digestive stimulant properties?

Answer: Chitraka (Plumbago zeylanica)

Chitraka is a classic Katu (pungent) herb that stimulates digestive fire (Agni) and is used to treat digestive disorders and metabolic conditions.

What is the Ayurvedic term for the post-digestive taste that a substance develops after complete metabolic transformation?

Answer: Vipaka

Vipaka is the post-digestive effect of a substance, representing the taste that manifests after complete digestion and influencing the long-term effects on the body.

Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum) is considered sacred in Hinduism and Ayurveda primarily because of its ability to do what?

Answer: Promote spiritual clarity and respiratory health

Tulsi is revered for its ability to promote Sattva (mental clarity), support respiratory health, and act as an adaptogen balancing all three doshas.