Mantra Incantation in Ayurveda

Abstract

Ayurveda is a science of life and is considered as the oldest system of medicine. It has a holistic approach in dealing with healthy as well as diseased individuals. The health of the healthy individual can be maintained by following the Codes of Conduct mentioned under the heading of Sadvritta by our Acharyas. And for curing the diseased, three types of Chikitsa namely, Daivavyapashraya, Yuktivyapashraya and Satvaavajaya have been described and these can be opted according to the condition of the disease and strength of the patient. Out of the three, Daivavyapashraya Chikitsa (Divine therapy) includes chanting of mantras and performing homas which mainly revives the normal functioning of Sattva and removes obstacles of Rajas and tamas. Acharya Charaka has adopted Mantra, Aushadha, Mani, Mangala, Bali, Upahara, Homa, Niyamana, Prayascita, Upavasa, Svastyayana, Pranipata, Gamana as a part of Daiva Vyapashraya chikitsa. Of all these methods mentioned in Daivavyapashraya Chikitsa, mantras hold an important position in the Ayurveda texts. It is believed that just by chanting a mantra, one can save him from having a disease or any other difficulty. Thus, the practice of mantra recitation can help an individual in gaining the mental and physical health.