India has taken a significant step toward preserving its rich traditional medicine heritage. The Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences (CCRAS) has successfully revived two rare and historically significant Ayurvedic manuscripts—Dravyaratnākara Nighaṇṭu and Dravyanamākara Nighaṇṭu. This initiative aims to bridge the gap between ancient wisdom and modern healthcare practices, making it a vital topic for competitive exam aspirants.
Dravyaratnākara Nighaṇṭu
Historical Significance and Content
Authored by Mudgala Paṇḍita in 1480 AD, Dravyaratnākara Nighaṇṭu is a previously unpublished lexicon of Ayurvedic knowledge. This text comprises eighteen chapters that meticulously detail drug synonyms, medicinal properties, and therapeutic actions. Widely referenced in Maharashtra until the 19th century, it documents a vast array of medicinal substances derived from plants, minerals, and animals, offering a comprehensive resource for Ayurvedic scholars and practitioners.
Dravyanamākara Nighaṇṭu
An Appendix to Dhanvantari Nighaṇṭu
Dravyanamākara Nighaṇṭu, attributed to Bhisma Vaidya, serves as a critical appendix to the foundational Ayurvedic text Dhanvantari Nighaṇṭu. This work focuses on the homonyms of drug and plant names, consisting of 182 verses and two colophon verses. Dr. Kamat’s critical edition of this manuscript enhances its accessibility and utility, making it an essential resource for understanding the complexities of Ayurvedic terminology.
Importance of the Revival
Preserving Living Knowledge Systems
The revival of these manuscripts is not just about preserving historical artefacts; it is about sustaining living knowledge systems. These texts provide invaluable resources for students, researchers, and Ayurveda practitioners. By offering insights into classical medical literature, they inspire deeper engagement with India’s traditional healthcare practices, a key area of focus for competitive exams.
Future Implications
Strengthening Ayurveda’s Scientific Foundation
The efforts by CCRAS to revive these manuscripts contribute significantly to safeguarding India’s Ayurvedic heritage. By integrating validated ancient insights into modern healthcare, these texts strengthen the traditional healthcare system. The digitisation and critical editing of Dravyaratnākara Nighaṇṭu and Dravyanamākara Nighaṇṭu ensure their accessibility to future generations, encouraging scholarly exploration and promoting Ayurveda as a scientific discipline.
This development is a must-know for aspirants preparing for competitive exams, as it highlights India’s commitment to preserving its cultural and scientific heritage while advancing traditional medicine.