PARADI GUNAS

PARADI GUNA IN AYURVEDA

DEFINITION OF PARADI GUNA

• Paradi Guna refers to the special set of qualities that influence perception, cognition, and actions.
• These Gunas are essential in understanding the behavioral and functional attributes of substances and the human body.
• गुणाह गुणवत्तवादिनिमितानिम्| पुरुषाणम् यथादृव्यानां सम्यक्तिचारकम्||

CLASSIFICATION OF PARADI GUNA

Paradi Guna consists of ten qualities described in Charaka Samhita. These Gunas are related to the function and characteristics of substances in Ayurveda.

• Para (Priority)

  • It signifies the superiority of one substance over another based on properties or actions.

  • Example: Ghee is superior (Para) to oil in nourishing Ojas.

    
    

• Apara (Inferiority)

  • It indicates the lesser quality or effectiveness of a substance.

  • Example: Sesame oil is inferior (Apara) to ghee in terms of unctuousness and nourishing capacity.

    
    

• Yukti (Rational Application)

  • It refers to the logical application of knowledge for therapeutic benefits.

  • Example: Using a combination of honey and turmeric for wound healing based on Yukti.

    
    

• Sankhya (Enumeration or Numbering)

  • The concept of numerical classification of substances or treatment methods.

  • Example: The three Doshas (Vata, Pitta, Kapha) represent Sankhya in Ayurveda.

    
    

• Samyoga (Combination)

  • The process of combining two or more substances to enhance efficacy.

  • Example: Triphala is a combination (Samyoga) of Haritaki, Bibhitaki, and Amalaki.

    
    

• Vibhaga (Separation or Division)

  • The quality that allows differentiation between components.

  • Example: The separation (Vibhaga) of solid and liquid parts of milk to obtain butter.

    
    

• Prithaktva (Individuality)

  • It denotes the distinct nature of a substance.

  • Example: Among the three Doshas, Vata has its unique properties and functions.

    
    

• Parimana (Measurement or Dimension)

  • Refers to the specific measurement or size of a substance.

  • Example: The concept of Matra (dosage) in Ayurveda is based on Parimana.

    
    

• Samskara (Modification or Processing)

  • The process that alters the properties of a substance.

  • Example: The processing of Bhasma (calcined metal) to make it safe and effective.

    
    

• Abhyasa (Habitual Practice or Repetition)

  • Repetition or continuous practice leads to adaptation and conditioning.

  • Example: Daily practice of yoga strengthens the body and mind through Abhyasa.

संस्कारोगुणमिह परिमाणेन निष्पनात्मकम्| सम्यगुणास्तु प्रयोजकारकारणम्||

Thus, Paradi Guna is crucial in Ayurveda for understanding the functional aspects of substances, their interactions, and their applications in treatment.