Manifestation of Ayurvedic Dravya (Pharmacology) in the west

Pharmacology is the study of the interactions between a living entity-human or animal and resultant activity of substances with therapeutic properties. In Ayurveda, the Sanskrit term is Dravya Guna Vijnana. Dravya is the therapeutic substance we call herb. Guna is the qualities of the substance and Vijnana is the science and knowledge behind it. Ayurvedic Pharmacology in India is used to its full capacity for both treating and curing disease. However, in the west Ayurveda is a different modality. It is a complimentary medicine that is not allowed to treat, cure, or prevent any disease. In this scenario, the objective of Ayurvedic Pharmacology in the west changes to an adjuvant support system that can address symptomatic side effects of western drugs, or support general discomfort, and be integrated with the Ayurvedic dietetics of following correct Pathya and avoiding Apathya (Activities and Dietetics that are indicated and contraindicated).

Author(s): Monica B Groover

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