Pramana: Anumana (प्रमाण: अनुमान)

Anumana is inference—the logical conclusion drawn based on prior direct perception. For example, one directly perceives.

Ayurvedic Principles (Siddhanta Kosha) 1 min read
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Sanskrit Verse

प्रत्यक्षपूर्वं त्रिविधं त्रिकालं चानुमीयते।

— (Charaka Samhita, Sutrasthana 11/21-22)

Explanation

Anumana is inference—the logical conclusion drawn based on prior direct perception. For example, one directly perceives smoke (Hetu) and infers the unseen presence of fire (Sadhya), based on the prior knowledge of their invariable relationship (Vyapti). Ayurveda uses it to understand past, present, and future events.

Clinical Importance

A physician uses Anumana constantly. For example, by observing a patient’s symptoms (Pratyaksha), the physician infers the underlying doshic imbalance (Anumana). The state of Agni is also inferred from digestive capacity, not seen directly.