Protocol for a Literary Study of Sarvtantra and Pratitantra Siddhant in Brihattrayee and Laghutrayee along with their Applied Aspects

Introduction

The survival of any science depends on how strong are the basic principles from which it is formed, and Ayurveda is one of the best examples to prove that. As the whole tree depends on its root, likewise the entire ayurveda also depends on its eternal principles. Hence, Ayurveda is said to be Shashvata [1] and Nitya. Ayurveda is a Science which deals with preventive & curative aspects. In the emergence of any new science, Siddhanta plays an important role. In Ayurveda, there are many siddhantas which form a strong foundation for the emergence and survival of this life science. Based on these siddhanta, the main aim of Ayurveda i.e,“Swasthasya Swasthya Rakshanam Aturasya Vikara Prashamanam”[2] have been discussed in the samhitas. Acharya Charaka described the concept of Siddhanta [3] in Rogabhishakjiteeya Adhyaya of Vimana Sthana. These are broadly classified into four types namely Sarvatantra, Pratitantra, Adhikarana and Abyupagama Siddhanta.

Ayurveda, an ancient and comprehensive science, is rooted in its eternal principles known as Siddhanta. These principles serve as the foundation for understanding and practicing Ayurveda effectively. Among these, Sarvtantra Siddhant (universally accepted principles) and Pratitantra Siddhant (context-specific principles) hold immense significance as they provide a structured framework for the application of Ayurvedic knowledge.

The Brihattrayee (major classical texts) and Laghutrayee (minor classical texts) contain vast references to these Siddhantas, emphasizing their importance in diagnosis, treatment, and health maintenance. By conducting a detailed literary study of these principles and their applied aspects, this research aims to enhance the understanding of their role in clinical practice and theoretical knowledge.

Aim and Objectives

Aim

To conduct a literary study of Sarvtantra and Pratitantra Siddhant in Ayurvedic literature, along with their applied aspects.

Objectives

1. To review the concepts of different Siddhantas as mentioned in Brihattrayee and Laghutrayee.
2. To categorize Siddhantas mentioned in Ayurveda under Sarvtantra and Pratitantra Siddhantas.
3. To analyze their practical applications for better understanding and clinical relevance.

Research Question

What are the different types of Sarvtantra and Pratitantra Siddhant in Brihattrayee and Laghutrayee, and what are their applied aspects?

Significance of the Study

1. Provides a deeper understanding of foundational Ayurvedic principles.
2. Helps students and practitioners approach Ayurveda in a structured and systematic manner.
3. Enhances diagnostic, prognostic, and treatment planning skills based on Siddhantas.
4. Aids in validating and updating Ayurvedic concepts for modern-day application.

Materials and Methods

Materials

Inclusion Criteria

The study will include the following authoritative classical texts:

• Charaka Samhita
• Sushruta Samhita
• Ashtanga Hridayam
• Sharngadhara Samhita
• Bhavaprakasha Samhita
• Madhava Nidana

Exclusion Criteria

• Other texts, commentaries, manuscripts, and books in regional languages not listed under inclusion criteria.

Methodology

1. Identification of Materials: Reading, analyzing, and sorting Ayurvedic texts to extract references on Sarvtantra and Pratitantra Siddhantas.
2. Compilation: Listing relevant contexts and references from the Brihattrayee and Laghutrayee.
3. Analysis: Evaluating Siddhantas from multiple perspectives and understanding their implications.
4. Presentation: Systematically presenting findings with practical applications in clinical practice.

Study Design

This research is a literary study that involves qualitative analysis of classical Ayurvedic texts.

Review of Literature

Several prior studies have addressed Chaturvidha Siddhanta broadly. Notable contributions include:

1. Sakhare et al. (2019) – Conceptual understanding and applied interpretation from Maharashtra.
2. Raghuwanshi et al. (2019) – Critical overview with applied focus from Madhya Pradesh.
3. Gupta et al. (2021) – Analytical study on classification and clinical value from Uttar Pradesh.
4. Bishnoi et al. (2021) – Comprehensive literary synthesis based on classical Ayurveda from Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh.

While these works provide foundational perspectives, this study specifically aims to deepen the understanding of the Sarvatantra and Pratitantra doctrines individually, an area less explored in previous literature.

Expected Outcomes

1. Improved understanding of Sarvtantra and Pratitantra Siddhantas in clinical practice.
2. Structured categorization of Siddhantas for easy reference and application.
3. Enhancement of theoretical knowledge and practical skills in Ayurveda.

Declaration

This study will be completed within the stipulated time frame as prescribed by the Institute for Ayurved Studies and Research, Kurukshetra.

Conclusion

The study of Sarvtantra and Pratitantra Siddhantas emphasizes the significance of fundamental Ayurvedic principles in diagnosis, treatment, and health maintenance. A systematic understanding of these Siddhantas allows physicians to apply their knowledge effectively in clinical practice, ensuring the advancement of Ayurveda.
By integrating theoretical insights and practical applications, this research aims to contribute significantly to the field of Ayurveda.

References

1.Carakasamhita, Sutrasthana, Arthedasamahamuliya Adhyaya, 30/27 available from  https://niimh.nic.in/ebooks/ecaraka/?mod=read  (accessed on 9 May 2025)

 2.Carakasamhita, Sutrasthana, Arthedasamahamuliya Adhyaya, 30/26 available from https://niimh.nic.in/ebooks/ecaraka/?mod=read  (accessed on 9 May 2025)

3.Carakasamhita, Vimanasthana, Rogabhishakjiteeya Adhyaya, 8/37 available from  https://niimh.nic.in/ebooks/ecaraka/?mod=read  (accessed on 9 May 2025)