Abstract

REVIEW OF THE CLASS OF MILK AND MILK PRODUCTS FROM THE CHARAK SAMHITA WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE TO THE AGRYASANGRAHA

*Vd. Maithili M. Nesargi and Prof. Dr. Mihir S. Hajarnavis

ABSTRACT

The class of milk and milk products is one of the twelve classes of food as described by the Charak Samhita. This class is known for its versatile uses as food and medicine. Charak Samhita has described milk and milk products in the Gorasavarga which includes various types of milks, Curds, butter, buttermilk, ghee etc. The Agryasangraha describes the specifications of various entities that are known to be the best in the category (agrya/shreshta) among the other entities that manifest similar properties. Out of the total 152 entities described in the Agryasangraha one can find 10 entities that are directly related to the Class of milk and milk products (Gorasavarga). Milk and milk products form an integral part of the diet across different age groups and social, cultural diasporas. Knowledge of the nuances regarding some of the specific milk and milk products will definitely prove useful for the diagnosis and treatment of patients. It is important to study the properties described in the Gorasavarga and the special attributes highlighted by their mention as the Agryasangraha. Thus, one can delve deep into the knowledge of specific products Gorasa varga and the rationale of the specific Agrya.

Keywords: Milk and milk products, Gorasavarga, Agryasangraha.