Karma (कर्म)

Karma refers to the pharmacological action of a substance (Dravya) on the body. These actions are numerous and describe.

Ayurvedic Principles (Siddhanta Kosha) 1 min read
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Sanskrit Verse

Concept described through examples

— (Dravya Guna Texts)

Explanation

Karma refers to the pharmacological action of a substance (Dravya) on the body. These actions are numerous and describe how an herb or food affects specific bodily functions or systems. Examples include ‘Deepana’ (appetizer), ‘Pachana’ (digestive), ‘Rasayana’ (rejuvenative), and ‘Virechana’ (purgative).

Clinical Importance

Herbs are selected for formulations based on their specific Karma. A formula for indigestion would include herbs with Deepana and Pachana karma. This is the practical application of understanding a substance’s properties.