Sanskrit Verse
शोधनं शमनं चेति समासाद् औषधं द्विधा।
— (Charaka Samhita, Sutrasthana 22/3)
Explanation
This is another way of classifying treatment into two main types. 1. Samshodhana (or Shodhana) is purificatory therapy that expels aggravated doshas from the body (e.g., Panchakarma). 2. Samshamana (or Shamana) is palliative therapy that pacifies the aggravated doshas within the body without eliminating them.
Clinical Importance
This is the fundamental division of internal medicine (Kayachikitsa). Shodhana is chosen for strong patients with deep-seated imbalances, offering a radical cure. Shamana is chosen for weaker patients or for milder conditions, offering symptomatic relief and gradual pacification.