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Pharmaco-Textual Analysis of Padabhyanga as Drishti Prasadaka: Charak and Sushruta Samhita Perspectives with Tila Taila Rasapanchaka Correlation
Abstract
Netra roga (ocular disorders) are increasingly prevalent due to modern lifestyle factors, particularly prolonged digital screen exposure. Ayurveda's Dinacharya prescribes Padabhyanga (therapeutic foot massage) as a preventive Sadvritta practice for ocular health, described independently in both Charak and Sushruta Samhita. Aim: To critically and comparatively analyze the classical basis and pharmacological rationale of Padabhyanga as a Drishti Prasadaka (vision-clarifying) procedure across Charak Samhita and Sushruta Samhita. Methodology: Classical references were compiled from Charak Samhita (Sutra Sthana, Chapter 5) and Sushruta Samhita (Chikitsa Sthana, Chapter 24), cross-referenced with Ashtanga Hridaya (Sutra Sthana, Chapter 2), and correlated with the Rasapanchaka of Tila Taila as described in Charak's Snehadhyaya (Sutra Sthana, Chapter 13). Results: Charak Samhita (Su. 5/91) states that Padabhyanga confers “dṛṣṭi prasāda” (clarity of vision) along with Vata-shamana. Sushruta Samhita (Chi. 24/70-71) independently terms it “cakṣuṣya” (beneficial for the eyes). Ashtanga Hridaya corroborates the principle through its general Abhyanga verse. Tila Taila’s Ushna-Snigdha-Guru properties pharmacologically support the Vata-pacifying mechanism underlying this benefit. Conclusion: Padabhyanga is a textually convergent, pharmacologically rational, low-cost preventive practice for ocular wellbeing that merits further clinical validation. Keywords: Padabhyanga, Drishti Prasadaka, Chakshushya, Tila Taila, Rasapanchaka
Keywords
PadabhyangaDrishti PrasadakaChakshushyaTila TailaRasapanchaka
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