Strīvilāsa – An Ayurvedic Manuscript on Cosmetic Procedures of Females, Aphrodisiacs, Diseases ...

12 Pages·2017·0.81 MB·English

Indian Journal of History of Science, 52.3 (2017) 275-286 DOI: 10.16943/ijhs/2017/v52i3/49158
Strīvilāsa – An Ayurvedic Manuscript on Cosmetic Procedures
of Females, Aphrodisiacs, Diseases and Medicines
Goli Penchala Prasad*, P Swathi***, K Bharathi*, G Babu*,
N Srikanth** and KS Dhiman**
(Received 13 March 2017; revised 07 July 2017)
Abstract
Strīvilāsa, an unexpolred Āyurvedic manuscript in Devanagari script deals with cosmetic
procedures of female comfort. It is a text with major focus on female health, pleasures and comforts to
make her beautiful, disease free and full of vitality. The book containing seven chapters describes various
treatments for the diseases of female, aphrodisiac medicines, various vīiryasthambhana lēpa (anointments)
and internal medications for male. Yōnīsakōcanayōga (formulations for vaginal narrowing), Stana
kainīkaraa yōga (drugs used to make breast firm and beautiful), various beautifying drugs like depilators
and hair enhancers, complexion promoting drugs, anti-lice drugs, drugs to cure diseases like alopecia,
pimples, foul smell of body are described. It also describes the treatment of various gynecological disorders
and infertility; preparations for easy labor and antenatal care. Though some researchers tried to review
the contents of the book, so far entire content of the manuscript is not translated in to English and also not
published. Most probably this is the first independent work on gynaecology. It is unique and may give
various leads for scientific fraternity involved in Āyurvedic obstetrics and gynaecology.
Key words: Aphrodisiac, Āyurveda, Infertility, Sterility, Strīvilāsa, Vīryasthambhana
1. INTRODUCTION text, it appears that the name of the author is
Strīvilāsa is an Ayurvedic manuscript Dēvēśvara Upādhyāya, belongs to Gauajāti; son
written in Sanskrit language in Devanagari script. of Murāri and scribe is Parāśarajaigōpāla. Subject
It was procured from Government Ayurvedic matter is presented in seven chapters entitled as
College, Gwalior by National Institute of Indian Taraga. Time of the completion of manuscript is
Medical Heritage, Hyderabad, under the project described as Sunday, dark lunar fortnight of month
“Collection and Digitization of Medical of Phalgua, savat 1886/ śaka 1751. Title of the
Manuscripts from South India Maharashtra and manuscript itself denotes the subject and theme
Madhya Pradesh (CDMM)”. It is a paper of the book. It is an exclusive book with a mission
manuscript containing 42 folios (84 pages) and to provide complete comfort to woman. As per
each folio measuring 24 cm long and 16 cm wide. Janet Chawla, it is the first independent work on
Approximately each paper contains 11 lines with prasūtitantra and strīrōga (obstetrics and
34 letters in each line. Granthamana (total letters gynaecology) (Chawla, 2006, pp.145-46).
of the manuscript) is approximately 31416 Krishnamachariar considered this as a main text
(34x22x42). As per the description given in the on Kāmaśāstra (art of love) (Krishnamachariar,
* Regional Ayurveda Research Institute for Skin Disorders (RARISD),Vijayawada
**Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences, New Delhi
***Sampurnanand Sanskrit University, Varanasi
Corresponding author: Goli Penchala Prasad, RARISD, New Rajiv Nagar, Payakapuram, Vijayawada, 520015, Andhra Pradesh,
Email: [email protected]
276 INDIAN JOURNAL OF HISTORY OF SCIENCE
1989, pp.896). In the initial ślōka the author joy and beauty of the text to the reader and to
conveys that he had read many ancient classical highlight the leads to the researchers and scholars
Āyurvedic texts like Caraka, Suśruta, Vāgbhaa, for further study and research.
Ātrēya, Vagasēna etc. sahitā and he had
followed those ancient scholars. The subject of 3. APHRODISIAC MEDICINES
the text deals with topics related to art of love,
Aphrodisiac medicines are indicated to
obstetrics and gynaecology. Aphrodisiacs
enhance manly vigour, semen virility, renewed
medicines, formulations for delaying ejaculation,
energy in sexual act and to get good progeny.
drugs for vaginal narrowing, competent medicines
Among the herbo-mineral aphrodisiac medicines
to make breast firm and beautiful, medicines for
pacaśaranāmarasa is the one that contains
female orgasm, depilators, deodorants, hair
mercury, sulphur, juice of root of śālmalī
enhancers are some of the examples for enhancing
(Salmalia malabarica SCHOTT & ENDL.) as the
art of love. Subject matter of Gynaecology is dealt
main ingredients; madanarasa is the other drug
under the topics like management of menarche,
that possesses mercury, kākasavalkatōya (opium-
menorrhagia, various types of infertility and their
latex of fruit of Papaver somniferum L.), mica,
treatment. Obstetrics are dealt under the headings
sulphur, bitumen, agaru (Aquilaria
- failure of lactation, antenatal care and treatment
agallocha ROXB.), cloves etc.;
for antenatal ailments and management of
Madanakāmadēvarasa contains mercury, sulphur,
obstructed labour. By looking into the subject copper, ghee, juice of roots of śālmalī
matter it appears that it is the first text exclusively (Salmalia malabarica SCHOTT & ENDL.),
dedicated for both art of love and obstetrics and kākōli (Roscoea procera WALL.), vidāri
gynaecology. Probably it is the first text in classical (Pueraria tuberosa (ROXB.EX.WILLD.),
and non classical Āyurvedic texts entitled on śatāvari (Asparagus racemosus WILLD.),
woman. This text has some unique additions to aśvagandha (Withania somnifera DUNAL); fruit
available published Āyurvedic texts. of āmalaki (Emblica officinalis GAERTN.) etc.
as the main ingredients.
2. CONTENT AND METHODOLOGY OF THE TEXT
Among the herbal preparations
Digitized copy of the original Strīvilāsa Māamōdaka is a black gram recipe fried in cow’s
manuscript is the basis for the present work. ghee impregnated in cow’s milk and juice of bulb
Sanskrit ślōkas are studied to understand the of vidārī (Pueraria tuberosa (ROXB. EX.
content of each chapter. Unique topics, treatments WILLD.) DC.). Māavaaka is also a black gram
and formulations are given due importance and recipe (vaa) prepared from the powder of de-
tried to emphasize further. Ingredients of many husked black gram, coconut water, cow’s milk,
formulations are studied and presented in this work mōcarasa (Salmalia malabarica SCHOTT &
with suitable botanical / English names. As the ENDL.) and śatāvarī (Asparagus racemosus
title conveys it is a text with the aim to provide WILLD.). Apart from herbo-mineral and herbal
the female with all sorts of pleasures and comforts preparations traditional dishes are also indicated
by making her beautiful, disease free and even for aphrodisiac purposes viz. puri (a light, round,
making her male partner with full of manly vigour unleavened wheat bread of India, usually deep-
and vitality. Total Manuscript is thoroughly studied fried) prepared from the mixture of powders of
and content of the each chapter (taranga) is black gram, rice, wheat, barley, long pepper along
recorded and the important things are presented with cow milk and sugar; gājaravidhi, a recipe of
to highlight the content of the text to inculcate the carrot prepared from carrot, goat’s milk, ghee etc.;
STRĪVILĀSA – AN AYURVEDIC MANUSCRIPT ON COSMETIC PROCEDURES OF FEMALES 277
palāu prayōga, a recipe of onion and garlic these recipes, caakāa (eggs of sparrow), fish,
along with ghee etc. teeth of pig, gujā bīja (seeds of Abrus
precatorius L.), samudraphēna, nāgakēsara,
4. VI–RYASTHAMBHANA AND dattūrabīja (seeds of Datura metel L.),
LIN.GAMUSƒALI–KARANA FORMULATIONS kapikacchūbīja (seeds of Mucuna pruriens (L.;
.
DC.), bitter guard, nutmeg, mace, marking nut,
Vīryasthambhana means holding seminal
camphor, mercury etc. drugs are used. Dīpayōga
discharge till desired time/delaying ejaculation and
is a special method to elevate the mood of the male
preventing premature ejaculation and
partner in the room that contains a lamp ignited
ligamuśalīkaraa is to make penis hard like
with fibers of root of svētārka (Calotropis procera
wooden pestle. Many vīryasthambhana guī
R.BR.) and fat of pig for delaying ejaculation.
(tablets) are mentioned in this text. Kāśmaryādi
gui is a tablet prepared from kāśmarī (Gmelina
5. BEAUTIFICATION OF WOMAN
arborea L.), ankaa (borax), mace, akalllaka
AND SEXUAL VIGOUR
(Anacyclus pyrethrum DC.), higula (cinnabar),
bōla (resin of Commiphora myrrha ENGL.), Physical beautification of woman with
nutmeg, dry ginger, cloves, opium etc. triturated yōnisankōcana (narrowing of lax vaginal canal or
in juice of betel leaf. Sthabhanasiha gui is a making the vagina firm), yōnidurgan-
tablet prepared from nutmeg, seeds of datura dhaharaa (vaginal deodorants), apānavāyu
(Datura metel L.), mace, akalllaka (Anacyclus durgandhaharaa (alleviating foul smell due to
pyrethrum DC.), vatsanābha (Aconitum ferox flatulence), yōni lōmaharaa (vaginal depilating)
WALL. EX SERINGE), opium etc. triturated in and stana kainīkaraa (for shaping or hardening
juice of betel leaf. Turagī gui is a tablet prepared the breast) are explained. Female sexual
from mēthī (fenugreek seeds), mōcarasa (Salmalia enjoyment is explained under the heading
malabarica SCHOTT & ENDL.), javāni (Carum strīdrāvaām (female orgasm).
copticum BENTH.), musalī (Curculigo orchioides
GAERTN.), īpya (Carum roxburghianum 5.1 Yōnisankōcana (Narrowing of lax vaginal canal
KURZ.), tī (cardamom), akallaka or making the vagina firm)
(Anacyclus pyrethrum DC.), mace, nutmeg etc.
These recipes are mainly indicated for
Apart from the above, tablets like
middle aged woman and to postnatal woman.
Tējanīsthabhana guikā; Viśvādi sthabhana
Drugs like dugdhikā (Euphorbia hirta L.), stamen
guikā, Vīryasthambhana guikā; Ahiphēna guikā;
of lotus, dēvadru (Cedrus deodara (ROXB.)
Jātīphalādiguikā, Kāmadēvaguikā etc. are also
LOUD.,) dhātakī pupa (flowers of Woodfordia
explained for delaying ejaculation and preventing
fruticosa (L.; KURZ), triphalā (three myrobalans),
premature ejaculation.
jabu (Syzygium cumini (L.; Skeels), madhuka
Many external anointments (lēpa) for (Madhuca indica GMEL.), ikvākubīja (seeds of
ligamuśalīkaraa are explained in this text. One Lagenaria siceraria (MOLINA; STANDLEY),
recipe for Kaibadhēsthabhana i.e delaying kautumbībīja (seeds of bitter variety of Lagenaria
ejaculation is mentioned to obtain by knotting of siceraria (MOLINA; STANDLEY), lōdhra
the medicated thread on lumbar region; one drink (Symplocos racemosa ROXB.), root of bitter
for delaying ejaculation and some chewing recipes guard, madayantikā (Lawsonia inermis L.),
for delaying ejaculation are also narrated. For the aśvagandhā (Withania somnifera DUNAL),
same effect author described various lēpa, which mōcarasa (Salmalia malabarica SCHOTT &
are to be applied on umbilicus, feet, nails etc. In ENDL.), niśāyugma (haridrā- turmeric- Curcuma
278 INDIAN JOURNAL OF HISTORY OF SCIENCE
longa L. and dāruharidrā- Berberis aristata DC.), (Saussurea lappa C.B.CL.), aśvagandhā
āmalaka valkala (fruit rind of Emblica officinalis (Withania somnifera Dunal), triphalā (three
GAERTN.), khadirā (Acacia catechu (L.F.; myrobalans), pathyā (Terminalia chebula RETZ.
WILLD.), etc. are suggested to use in the form of & WILLD.), camphor, agaru (Aquilaria agallocha
tablets, external ointments (lēpa), douching/ ROXB.), pulp of pomegranate, mustard, śrīpari
washing decoctions (prakālaa ), massage oils (Gmelina arborea L.), bhasma of cast skin of
etc. snake etc. drugs are the ingredients used in
external pastes, massage oils and internal
5.2 Yōnidurgandhaharaa (Vaginal Deodorants) decoctions. Medicated oil prepared by cooking tila
taila (sesame oil), cow’s milk, latex of arka
These recipes are indicated for deodorizing
(Calotropis gigantea (L.; R.BR.), paste of bala
the vaginal foul smell. Camphor, kastūri (musk),
(root of Sida cordifolia L.), mālatī (jasmine), vyōca
pa–capallava (aggregate of 5 sprigs or shoots of
(three myrobalans), lajjālu (Mimosa pudica L.),
the mango, Syzygium cumini (L.) (SKEELS),
niśādvaya (haridrā- turmeric and dāruharidrā-
Feronia elephantum (CORREA), Citrus medica
Berberis aristata DC.), is indicated as errhine for
L., and Aegle marmelos (L.; CORREA EX.
proper shaping of the breast with firm musculature.
SCHULTZ), niśā (turmeric), jasmine flowers,
nibha (neem), Terminalia arjuna (ROXB.)
5.6 Strīdrāvaām (Female orgasm)
WIGHT & ARN etc. drugs are used for preparation
Strīdrāvaām is a novel term used to
of decoctions for washing, oils for massage and
denote female orgasm (the moment of most intense
powders/smoke to incense the vagina.
pleasure in sexual intercourse). Many anointments/
5.3 Apānavāyu durgandhaharaa yōga
pastes are mentioned to apply over penis during
(Formulation that alleviates foul smell due to
copulation to get orgasm. Ripe tamarind fruit,
flatulence): Eating of rock salt along with
honey, ankaa (borax), camphor, leaf of agastya
mātuluga (Citrus medica L.) alleviates foul smell
(Sesbania grandiflora (L.; POIRET), lōdhra
due to flatulence. (Symplocos racemosa ROXB.), black pepper, long
pepper, root of bījapūra (Citrus medica L.), old
5.4 Yōni lōmaharaa (Vaginal depilating) jaggery, seeds of dhatura (Datura metel L.), root
Powder of snake skin (cast off skin) of arka (Calotropis gigantea (L.; R.BR.), flowers
triturated in mustard oil; bhasma of palāśa (Butea of red variety karavīra (Nerium odorum
monosperma (LAM. TAUB), bhasma of tāla SOLANED) etc. are the some of the ingredients
(yellow orpiment), rabhā (bulb of banana), used for the preparation of pastes and oils for the
ankaa (borax) etc. are mentioned for the usage purpose of strīdrāvaām (female orgasm).
in the preparation of anointments and oils for yōni
lōmaharaa (vaginal depilating). Kārataila 6. STERILITY INDUCING
(alkaline oils) prepared from śukti (oyster shell),
Under the heading of khāīkaraa yōga
śabhūka (snail shell), śakha (conch shell),
recipes those make the male temporarily or
mauktika (pearl) etc. are also used as depilators.
permanently aa (sterile) are discussed.
Turmeric, camphor, burnt leech etc., are used to
5.5 Stana kainīkaraa (Shaping or hardening the make sterile and gōkura (Tribulus terrestris L.),
breast)
tila (sesame seeds), goat’s milk, flowers of dhatura
Many recipes are mentioned for stana (Dhatura metel L.) etc. are used to regain potency
kainīkaraa. Mātanga (bhangā ?), kuā and pacify sterility.
STRĪVILĀSA – AN AYURVEDIC MANUSCRIPT ON COSMETIC PROCEDURES OF FEMALES 279
7. COSMETICS (Sharma,1997, pp. 60, 120), gōmūtra (cow’s
urine), kautaila (mustard oil), gujā (Abrus
Many cosmetic medicaments and
precatorius L.), kētakīkada (bulb of Pandanus
procedures are discussed in this text. Śarīra
odoratissimus L.F.), triphalā (three myrobalans),
durgandhaharaa yōga (deodorant recipes),
picumanda (seeds of neem), kāśmarya (Gmelina
kēśavardhana and ranjana (hair enhancers/
arborea L.), lajjālu bīja (seeds of Mimosa pudica
vitalizers and hair dyes), kēśaśuklīkaraa (turning
L.), mahākālasya bīja (viśālā bīja -seeds of
black hair to white), medicines to relieve alopecia,
Trichosanthes palmata ROXB. (Sharma,1995,
yūkā nivāraa yōga (recipes to kill the lice),
pp.63), etc. drugs are used in the preparation of
facepacks to control pimples, mukhavāsakaraa
oils, pastes, decoctions; nasal drops used for hair
(mouth fresheners) etc. are some examples.
growth and many temporary hair dyes.
7.1 Śarīra durgandhaharaa yōga (Deodorant
7.3 Yūkā nivāraa yōga (Recipes to kill the lice)
recipes)
It is prepared by triturating mercury in
Pastes and powders prepared from harītaki
betel leaf juice.
(Terminalia chebula RETZ. & WILLD.), lōdhra
(Symplocos racemosa ROXB.), daimavalkala
7.4 Kēśaśuklīkaraa (Turning black hair to white)
(fruit rind of pomegranate), candana (sandal
wood), musta (Cyperus rotundus L.), root of It is attained by the medicated oil extracted
śrīphala (fruit of Aegle marmelos (L.; CORREA from the black sesame seeds triturated in latex of
EX. SCHULTZ), fruit of tamarind, agaru vajrī (snuhī-Euphorbia neriifolia L.).
(Aquilaria agallocha ROXB.), candana (sandal
wood) etc. are used in these recipes. 7.5 Indralupta (alopecia)
It is treated with external application of
7.2 Kēśavardhana and ranjana (Hair enhancers/
the paste of fruit of gujā (Abrus precatorius L.)
vitalizers and hair dyes)
and honey and external application of ash of ivory.
Cosmetic procedures like Kēśavardhana
and ranjana (hair enhancers/ vitalizers and hair 7.6. Mukha kanaka (pimples)
dyes) are given high importance and stressed the
External paste prepared from sindhū (Vitex
importance of hair dying by quoting that
trifolia L. F.), siddhārthaka (yellow mustard), vaca
“ornaments of head on white hair don’t look
(Acorus calamus L.), śālmalīkaaka (thorns of
good”. External application of medicated ghee for
Salmalia malabarica SCHOTT & ENDL.),
7 days that is prepared from sesame flowers,
dhānyaka (coriander), niśādvaya (haridrā-
gōkura (Tribulus terrestris L.), cow’s ghee
turmeric and dāruharidrā- Berberis aristata DC.)
provides long and healthy hair. Oil prepared from
etc. are used to relieve mukha kanaka (pimples).
madatikā (Lawsonia inermis L.), sācara
(Barleria prionitis L.) and sesame oil also vitalizes
7.7 Facepacks
the hair. Nīli (Indigofera tinctoria L.), saindhava
(rock salt), pippali (long pepper), śatāvarī Mukha chāyā haraa (alleviate blackness
(Asparagus racemosus WILLD.), black sesamum, in face) is achieved by mukha lēpana yōga (facial
gōrōcana (purified gall of cattle), karkaśa packs) etc. Kukuma (saffron), candana (sandal
(svalpakarkōma- small variety of momordica wood), patra (Cinnamomum tamala NEES &
dioica ROXB. EX WILLD (Sharma,1997, pp. 34- EBERM.), uśīra (Vetiveria zizanioides (L.;
35), viaga (Embelia ribes BURM.F.), NASH), gōrōcana (gall of cattle), haridrādvaya
gandhōpala (priyagu- Callicarpa macrophylla, (haridrā- turmeric and dāruharidrā-
280 INDIAN JOURNAL OF HISTORY OF SCIENCE
Berberis aristata DC.), manjihā (Rubia Vandhyā strī snāna vidhi (special bath for infertile
cordifolia L.), yaśi (Glycyrrhiza glabra L.), śārivā woman) has been given special concern. Before
(Hemidesmus indicus (L.) SCHULT.), lōdhra bath administering the mixture of powders of
(Symplocos racemosa ROXB.), pattanga nalinī (lotus), kuha (Saussurea lappa C.B.CL.),
(Caesalpinia sappan L.), kuhā (Saussurea lappa candana (sandal wood), ērana (Ricinus
C.B.CL.), gairika (red ochre), priyagu communis L.), tagara (Valeriana wallichii DC.),
(Callicarpa macrophylla VAHL), kālīya aśvagadha (Withania somnifera DUNAL), uśīra
(pītacandana- Coscinium fenestratum (Vetiveria zizanioides (L.; NASH) etc., udvartana
(GAERTN.) COLEB (Sharma, 1997, pp. 41) etc.
(medicated coarse powders rubbing) and after bath
are used as ingredients of face pack.
prayers are mentioned. Various types of prayers
and baths for infertile woman, prayers with various
7.8 Mukhavāsakaraa (Mouth fresheners)
types of waters and seven types of fruits like
Seed kernel of mango and jambu nārikēla (coconut), nāraga (orange), dāima
(Syzygium cumini (L.) SKEELS); ēlā (cardamom), (pomegranate), utati (Echinops echinatus
nakha (shell of sea animal that is in the shape of ROXB.?), puga (Areca catechu L.?), bījapūraka
nail (Sharma, 1995, pp.144 , jātī (jasmine), kēsara (Citrus medica L.) and madana (Randia
(Mesua ferrea L.), kukuma (saffron) etc. are used dumetorum LAM.); chanting (prayers) of seven
as mukhavāsakaraa (mouth fresheners). herbs like vddhāvari (Asparagus racemosus
WILLD.?), rāsnā (Pluchea lanceolata OLIVER
8. FEMALE STERILITY & HIERN.), ēlā (cardamom), vacā (Acorus
calamus L.), dhānyā (coriander), niśā (turmeric)
This text describes nine types of vandhya
and bahuphalī (Phyllanthus emblica L./ jujube ?)
(barren/sterile female) like yōnicalana,
are explained. Chanting of various deities and after
māsavddhika, vāyugranthi, kmija, śītāga,
chanting, medication procedures for sterile woman
pittaprakōpa, śākinīdōaja, dēvadōaja and
are explained. Chanting mantras during the
kāmaadōaja. Characteristic features of nine
collection of the herb, during the intake of
types of vandhya and their, treatments are
medicines etc. are also explained.
explained. Unlike other texts here characteristic
feature of these barren woman during or after Diagnosis of gender of the foetus while
coitus are explained. For example, yōnicalana observing characteristic features of pregnant,
after coitus suffers from headache,
antenatal care was mentioned. Ingredients and
māsavddhika from backache, vāyugranthi from
preparation of various medicines used in the
abdominal pain, etc. Along with above types,
treatment of sterile woman to make her conceive
vandhyatva (female infertility) due to
the child are explained. Putrapradānamarasa,
sannipātadōa, raktadōa, navagrahadōa,
Jayasudararasa, Ratnabhāgōttararasa,
abhighātadōa, abhiagadōa,
Cakrībaddharasa, Putravardhamānarasa,
bharttavīryadōa, etc. along with their
Abhrakasūtarasa, Phalaghta, Putrataila,
characteristic features, treatments are also
Satānārthaguika, Satānōparigui etc are some
described.
important formulations indicated in this text for
sterile woman. Satānaupacāra (care and
9. VANDHYA– CIKITSA– (TREATMENT OF
medicaments for new born child);
INFERTILITY) AND ANTENATAL CARE
vadhyāstrīsatānaupacāra (care and
Vandhyā cikitsa (treatment of infertility) medicaments for new born child of woman who
and antenatal care are dealt in detail in this text. was sterile for long period) are unique to this text.
STRĪVILĀSA – AN AYURVEDIC MANUSCRIPT ON COSMETIC PROCEDURES OF FEMALES 281
This text covers topics like kākavandhyā wood), nīlōtpala (Nymphaea stellata WILLD.),
(one child infertility), mtavatsā (female with mnāla (fibrous roots of lotus), yahi (Glycyrrhiza
history of stillbirth), garbhasrāva (abortion of first glabra L.), karpūra (camphor), pāalā
or second trimester), sukhaprasava (eutocia), (Stereospermum suaveolens DC.), mustā (Cyperus
mūhagarbha (obstructed labour), nālāpravtti rotundus L.), kakōlataula (Piper cubeba L.
(separation of umbilical card), naadugdha F.), cāgamāsa (meat of goat), haridra (turmeric),
(lactation failure), yōnipradara (leucorrhoea and hirayaka (gold), padmaka (Prunus cerasoides D.
menorrhagia) and vandhya (barren woman). DON), kuruvinda (Phaseolus radiatus L.),
kaśēruka (Scirpus grossus L.F.), gajapippalī
9.1 Kākavandhyā cikitsā (Treatment of one child (Piper chaba HUNTER), priyagu (Callicarpa
infertility/ secondary infertility) macrophylla VAHL), madhuka (Madhuca indica
Under kākavandhyā cikitsā (treatment of GMEL.), sarasīruha (lotus) etc. drugs are used in
one child infertility/ secondary infertility) along various formulations. Among the foods Tādi
with sacred ceremonies many recipes are pāyasa (sweet preparation with rice and jaggery),
mentioned. Viukrānta (Evolvulus alsinoides L.), Pūpaka (biscuit/ cake like dish), Kśara (dish
aśvagandhā (Withania somnifera DUNAL), consisting of green gram and rice) etc. are
kāravallīmūlakada (bulb of Momordica mentioned during antenatal care. Śālmalī dhūpa
charantia L.) etc. drugs are used in these recipes. is indicated for new-born child. Antenatal ailments
are explained under the heading of garbhavēdana
9.2 Mtavatsācikitsa (Treatment for female with cikitsa. Karpūra (camphor), yahi (Glycyrrhiza
history of stillbirth) glabra L.), tilapia (flour of sesame seeds),
mdvīka (grapes), utpala (Nymphaea stellata
Along with sacred ceremonies recipes like
WILLD.), nīlōtpala (blue variety of Nymphaea
different types of Satānārdha guika,
stellata WILLD.), pukala (Inula racemosa
Santānōpaguī, Satānōpacāra cūra etc. are
HOOK. F.), kēsara (saffron), pippalī (long
mentioned. Pārśvapippalībīja (seeds of Thespesia
pepper), vaca (Acorus calamus L.), kākōlī
populnea (L.; SOL.EX. CORREA), mercury,
(Roscoea procera WALL.), śāliparī (Desmodium
śivalingī bīja (seeds of Diplocyclos palmatus (L.;
gangeticum (L.; DC.), varuā mūla (root of
JAFFREY), rudrāka (Elaeocarpus ganitrus
Crataeva religiosa FORST.), madhuka (Madhuca
ROXB.), sarpāki (Ophiorrhiza mungos L.), etc.
indica GMEL.), padmaka (Prunus cerasoides
drugs are used in these formulations. Three
D.DON), etc. drugs are used.
Garbhadhāraa yōga (pro conception formulas)
are mentioned. In these formulations darbhamūla Mūhagarbha cikitsā (obstructed labour)
(root of Imperata cylindrica (L.) RAEUSCH.), is mentioned as a conversation between lord Śiva
aśvagandha (Withania somnifera DUNAL), and Pārvati. Pippalīmūla (root of long pepper),
ikvāku bīja (seeds of Lagenaria siceraria parpamaka (Fumaria indica PUGSLEY),
(MOLINA; STANDLEY), krūtamālabīja (seeds madhūkaphala (fruit of Madhuca indica GMEL.)
of Cassia fistula L.) etc. are used both internally
etc. drugs are suggested to relieve obstructed
as well as externally.
labour. For sukhaprasava (eutocia) various
internal drinks, external applications (pastes),
9.3 Antenatal care
knotting of medicated threads etc. are indicated.
Measures to be adopted during every Mātuluga (Citrus medica L.), gu–jāmūla (root
month of pregnancy, preparations for easy delivery of Abrus precatorius L.) are two important drugs
etc. are explained in detail. Candana (sandal used for eutocia.
282 INDIAN JOURNAL OF HISTORY OF SCIENCE
10. GYNAECOLOGICAL DISORDERS AND THEIR cumin), dhānya (coriander), śatāhva (Anethum
TREATMENT sowa KURZ.), ēla (cardamom), upakulya (long
pepper), drākā (grapes), vidārī
Palāśa (Butea monosperma (LAM.)
(Pueraria tuberosa (ROXB. EX. WILLD.),
TAUB), parpaa (Fumaria indica PUGSLEY),
ghanasāraka (camphor) etc. drugs.
śivaligī (Diplocyclos palmatus (L.) JAFFREY)
are used in pupa rahita strī cikitsā (treatment for Strīyōgyavatīmōdaka contains babbūla
delayed menarche or primary amenorrhoea); (Acacia arabica SENSU BAKER variety
vediana), gudraka (Typha elephantina GRAH,
Under the heading of gynaecological
disorders etiology, types and treatment of NON ROXB.), aśvagandha (Withania somnifera
yōnipradara (menorrhagia) is mentioned. Vaginal DUNAL), mahaucadha (ginger), trikau (three
tampon with mudgaparītaila (oil extracted from pungents), mēthikā (Trigonella foenum-graecum
the seeds of Phaseolus trilobus AIT.); medicated L.), śatapupā (Anethum sowa KURZ.),
ghee prepared from madhuka (Glycyrrhiza glabra lavagaka (cloves), jātīphala (nutmeg), jāpatri
L.), padmaka bīja (seeds of Prunus cerasoides (mace), kajīraka (Carum carvi L.), dhānyaka
D.DON), śatāvarī (Asparagus racemosus (coriander), hapua (Juniperus communis L.),
WILLD.), vidārī (Pueraria tuberosa (ROXB. EX. viaga (Embelia ribes BURM.F.), tējavatī
WILLD.), ikumūla (root of sugar cane); (Zanthoxylum armatum DC.), nāgapupa (Mesua
majiha (Rubia cordifolia L.), dhātakī pupa ferrea L.), punarnava (Boerhavia diffusa L.) etc.
(flowers of Woodfordia fruticosa (L.; KURZ), drugs.
nīlōtpala (blue variety of Nymphaea stellata
Sarvakaryasādhana guikā contains
WILLD.), lōdhra (Symplocos racemosa ROXB.)
śrīkhaa (sandal wood), karikēsara (Mesua
and milk; Medicated milk prepared from aśōka
ferrea L.), gajamada (musth), gōrōcana (purified
valkala (bark of Saraca asoca (ROXB.) DE
gall of cattle), padmaka (Prunus cerasoides
WILDE), rōhitamūlakalka (paste of root of
D.DON), kukumakēsara (stigmas of saffron),
Tecoma undulata G.DON) along with honey are
indicated. Fruits and flowers of palāśa (Butea ka (black pepper), surataru (Cedrus deodara
monosperma (LAM.) TAUB), kīradma (Ficus (ROXB.; LOUD.), sarapa (mustard), uśīra
religiosa L.); śālmalī (Salmalia malabarica (Vetiveria zizanioides (L.) NASH), katulasi
SCHOTT & ENDL.) etc. are indicated in (black variety of Ocimum sanctum L.), māsī
vandhyatvakaraa (inducing sterility). (Nardostachys jatamansi DC.), tvak (cinnamon
bark), ēla (cardamom), karpūra (camphor), tagara
11. POSTPARTUM CARE (Valeriana wallichii DC.), kācanāra (Bauhinia
variegata L.), kētakīpupāka (flower of Pandanus
In naa dugdha prasādana cikitsā
odoratissimus L.F.) etc. drugs.
(treatment for failure of lactation) internally
kīrānnabhōjana (rice cooked with milk) and
–
12. CLASSICAL AYURVEDIC AND OTHER NON
ājyamaa (a type of soup) are indicated.
Strīsaubhāgyavatīmōdaka, Strīyōgyavatīmōdaka CLASSICAL WORKS RELATED TO SUBJECT OF
and Sarvakaryasādhana guikā are indicated for THE PRESENT MANUSCRIPT
puerperal lady for regaining normalcy and Many of the ingredients used in
alleviate puerperal diseases. Strīsaubhāgya- aphrodisiac medicines in various formulations of
vatīmōdaka contains mahauadha (ginger), this text are also used for same purpose in ancient
jātīphala (nutmeg), triphalā (three myrobalans), classics but the combinations and names of the
ajājīdvaya (two types of cumin i.e cumin and black formulations like Pa–caśaranāmarasa,
STRĪVILĀSA – AN AYURVEDIC MANUSCRIPT ON COSMETIC PROCEDURES OF FEMALES 283
Madanarasa, Madanakāmadēvarasa, Māa translated to Telugu language from the manuscript
mōdaka, Māa vaaka, Gājaravidhi, Palāu written in Sanskrit. Author and time of the text is
prayōga etc. are not available in ancient texts like unknown. This also contains aphrodisiac
Caraka sahita and Suśruta sahita. In classical medicines, medicines for premature ejaculation
Āyurvedic literature like Suśruta Sahita and deals single child sterility, female orgasm and
yōnisavti word is used. As per Dalhana hair dyeing (Rao, 2016, pp. 67-96). These texts
commentary yōnisavti is yōnisankōca (Susruta, do not deal diseases of female
1996, p. 145). Stana kainīkaraa yōga (drugs used
Treatment of various gynecological
to make breast firm and beautiful), Strīdrāvaām
disorders is described in all major Ayurvedic
(female orgasm) and other factors enhancing
classics like Caraka Sahitā, Suśruta Sahitā,
sexual enjoyment were not directly mentioned in
Vāgbhaa etc. Caraka Sahitā cikitsāsthāna 30th
ancient classics. These things were given
chapter yōnivyāpaccikitsa, Suśruta Sahitā
importance in contemporary texts on art of love
uttarasthāna 38th chapter yōnivyāpat-
like Vātsāyankāmasūtra, Anagaraga,
pratiēdhādhyāya are totally dedicated for
Ratirahasya, Kucimāratantra, Rahasya Śrī
gynecological disorders and their treatments.
Dattātrēyatantra, etc.
Antenatal care is mentioned in separate chapters
Vātsāyan kāmasūtra is a chief guide on in jātīsūtrīya śārīram chapter of Caraka Sahitā
Hindu erotic literature. In this text in part seven (Agnivesa, 1992, pp 340-52; 634-50) and in
and chapter one, many recipes for increasing garbhiīvyākaraa śārīra of Suśruta Sahitā
sexual vigour are explained and chapter two deals (Suśruta,1996, pp 387-95; 668-70). As per the
with medications and procedures to increase size famous Āyurvedic professor of Prasūtitantra and
of penis (Vatsayana. Kāmasūtra, pp 224-238). strīrōga (obstetrics and gynaecology), Premvati
Anangaranga of Kalyāamalla is a classic book Tewari, classification of infertility has not been
on Hindu art of love. In this text in chapter six, mentioned in any classics except Harīta Sahitā.
eight internal medicines for increasing sexual Caraka and Vāgbhaa have described vandhyatva
vigour are explained (Kalyanamalla, 1977, pp.76- (infertility) as an incurable condition of congenital
77). In Kucimāratantra except gynaecological absence of uterus and menstrual fluid (Tiwari,
disorders and antenatal care remaining all the 2000, pp 283-85).
subject matter of the present text like aphrodisiac
The beauty and uniqueness of the present
medicines, various vīiryasthambhana lēpa
text is to deal both art of love, enjoyment of sex,
(anointments used for delaying ejaculation) and
maintaining the beauty of woman, for her
internal medications; yōnīsakōcanayōga
satisfaction maintaining the manly vigor of her
(formulations for vaginal narrowing), stana
partner and finally taken care of gynecological
kainīkaraa yōga (drugs used to make breast firm
diseases, infertility and antenatal safety.
and beautiful), various beautifying drugs like
depilators and hair enhancers, complexion
13. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION
promoting drugs, anti-lice drugs etc. are described
(Prasad, 2007, pp. 1-50). Ratirahasya the ‘secrets Āyurvedic lexicons of ancient and
of Love’ was written by a poet named Kokkoka. medieval periods like Caraka, Suśruta, Vāgbhaa,
In the 15th chapter of this text aphrodisiac Mādhavanidāna, Bhāvaprakāśa, Yōgaratnākara,
medicines that enhance quality and quantity of Cakradatta dealt all disciplines of medicine under
semen is described (Kokkoka, 1994, pp.245-249). one roof. At the end of medieval period, concept
Rahasya Śrī Dattātrēyatantra is recently of specializations attained a new dimension and
284 INDIAN JOURNAL OF HISTORY OF SCIENCE
physicians of Āyurveda started dealing with Fifth chapter deals female sterility along with its
specialities like Kaumārabtya, Prasūtitantra, types, sixth chapter is on treatment of female
Strīrōga etc. Independent works, like Rāvaakta sterility, and antenatal care. Seventh chapter
Koumārabtya, Dēvēśvara Upādhyāya kta continues the treatment of female sterility and
Strīvilāsa are available. According to the Janet formulation to support normal labour, treatment
Chawla, the author of the book Birth and Birth of obstructed labour, postnatal care, and
givers: The power behind the shame, Strīvilāsa is contraception.
an independent book on the subject of obstetrics
In the beginning of history of India, aim
and gynaecology. This appears true, when we
of creating progeny was on the top order, this
study this book. It is a unique manuscript with
legacy continued till the medieval period. But in
scope of lot of further research. Concept and
the modern times, after the population explosion,
naming of this text as Strīvilāsa is unique. Content
production of offspring is not alone the life motto,
of text accentuates that females’ health and
enjoying human life pleasures is realized. This
happiness depends also on her male partner’s
book evidences that shifting paradigm of Indian
health. To make her sexual life happy,
society. It is a balanced text that has given equal
concentration on partner’s health is also necessary.
importance to health of female, her sexual life,
In ancient times, the subject matter of maintaining the beauty and ultimately aimed on
obstetrics and gynaecology dealt under the good progeny.
speciality of Koumarabhritya, shows the
Aphrodisiac medicines, aphrodisiac diets,
Patriarchal ideology of Indian society. In contrast
medicines for delaying ejaculation etc. are to be
to that this book, perhaps the first book, considers
studied further for validation. Concepts and role
the core needs of women and covered all the needs
of medicines in ligamuśalīkaraa (to make penis
of women. Though it is dealt with medicines for
hard like wooden pestle), yōnisankōcana
delayed ejaculation, long-lasting penile erection
(narrowing of lax vaginal canal/ making firm of
etc., but in the point of providing pleasure to the
vagina) and stana kainīkaraa yōga (recipes for
female ultimately. Since ancient times, female
shaping or hardening the breast), strīdrāvaām
orgasm is completely neglected and talking about
(female orgasm) are having scope for further study
the same is also abandoned as unwritten law. This
and their scientific validity. These concepts are
work deals with female orgasm and the term given
well discussed in texts like Kucimāratantra,
is Strīdrāvaām. In this view, this work is
Anagaranga, Vātsāyanakāmasutra,
considered as revolutionary in its concepts.
Haramēkala etc. texts. Though very little research
Total text is written in a systematic way has been taken place to prove their validity on the
and the order of presentation is unique. First above topics, lot of recipes in ancient texts in
chapter starts with making female sexual life separate chapters denotes that there was frequent
happy with usage of aphrodisiacs to her male use of these medications and further minute level
partner, second chapter deals premature studies may reveal new facts. Medicines to make
ejaculation / to sustain ejaculation for long time, the male sterile, deodorant recipes, hair enhancers/
third chapter deals vaginal canal narrowing, toning vitalizers, hair dyes, recipes to kill the lice,
of vaginal muscles, making vagina free from foul medicines those turn black hair to white,
smell (probably due to infections) and deals with medicines used for alopecia, pimples, blackness
conditions to promote orgasm in female. Fourth in face; facial packs, and mouth fresheners are also
chapter concentrates on treatment of male sterility, unique and there is high scope for further
and cosmetic preparations of hair, face, mouth etc. validation.