Etymological Analysis of Anatomical Terms in the Female Reproductive System in Ayurveda Treatises
Abstract
Ancient Ayurveda treatises, dating back over 200 BC, meticulously encoded vast medical knowledge within their Sanskrit verses. Examination of these treatises reveals a specialized terminology for describing the female reproductive system, necessitating careful interpretation through etymological analysis. This study employed an epistemological approach to analyse the etymological explanations of 27 key terms related to female reproductive anatomy and physiology, as presented by historical commentators and contemporary scholars. This analysis aimed to validate and clarify the terminology employed in classical Ayurveda treatises. Comprehensive etymological analysis yielded a deeper understanding of the terminology, revealing aesthetic nuances, literary context, philosophical implications, morphological reflections, physiological knowledge, and semantic interpretations embedded within each term. The study delved into the rich metaphorical language used in Ayurveda texts, uncovering connections between anatomical structures and natural phenomena, underscoring the holistic view of the female body within Ayurveda philosophy. Further, by tracing the evolution of these terms through different eras of Ayurveda literature, the research shed light on the dynamic nature of medical language and knowledge transmission within the tradition. Integration of etymological analysis with poetic and verse references from Ayurveda treatises illuminated a holistic understanding of the female reproductive system. This multifaceted approach not only fostered self-realisation and an appreciation for nature's intrinsic beauty but also equipped future Ayurveda physicians with a comprehensive understanding of reproductive health, including the pathology of each component. By bridging the gap between ancient wisdom and modern medical understanding, this study contributes to the ongoing revitalisation of Ayurveda as a relevant and effective system of healthcare.
