SNEHA SIDDHI LAKSHANA

SNEHA SIDDHI LAKSHANA

• Sneha Siddhi Lakshana refers to the characteristics or signs that indicate the successful completion of the preparation of Sneha (medicated oil) or fats in Ayurvedic formulations.
• The attainment of Siddhi (perfection) in the preparation of Sneha ensures its therapeutic efficacy and stability.
• The signs are classified based on different stages of preparation and can be identified by certain qualities in the oil.

DEFINITION OF SNEHA SIDDHI LAKSHANA

Sneha Siddhi Lakshana can be defined as the distinct characteristics that manifest when an oil preparation has reached its perfected state. These signs help the practitioner determine if the oil is ready for use in treatments.

SIDDHI LAKSHANA – THE SIGNS OF PERFECTED SNEHA

1. SUSHRUTA'S DESCRIPTION OF SNEHA SIDDHI

   The oil has reached its Siddhi when it attains certain key attributes, such as clear appearance, specific viscosity, and appropriate smell. These characteristics ensure that the oil is potent and can effectively deliver therapeutic benefits.

   "स्निग्धं स्निग्धतां यान्ति शीतलोपनतं च य:।
   ततोऽन्येऽपि स्निग्धस्य रूपं निर्दिशन्ति य:॥"
   (Sushruta Sutrasthana 21.19)

2. TEXTURAL CHANGES IN THE OIL

   The oil attains a specific consistency, neither too thin nor too thick. The texture is smooth, free from any granular particles, and is uniform throughout.

   "तदन्यं स्निग्धतां यान्ति सप्तपदविलोकिता"
   (Sushruta Sutrasthana 21.20)

3. CLARITY OF THE OIL

   A significant characteristic of Siddhi in Sneha preparation is the clarity of the oil. There should be no cloudiness, and the oil should appear clear and translucent.

   "स्वर्णार्कं स्फटिकं च य: सर्वापदुर्द्रवितं च य:।
   सस्निग्धं परिष्कृतं च तद्विकल्पितं सिद्धिं य:॥"
   (Charaka Sutrasthana 24.19)

4. VISCOSITY AND STABILITY

   The oil reaches a stable state, where it does not separate into layers or lose its consistency over time. It has the right viscosity to be absorbed into the skin or the tissues it is intended to treat.

   "धाराश्चारव्या स्थितं च स्वच्छं स्थिरमण्यम्।
   तस्याः सिद्धेति निर्दिश्यते यथा स्थास्यन्ति त्वणम्॥"
   (Ashtanga Hridaya Sutrasthana 21.4)

5. THERMAL QUALITIES

   The oil, when applied, should have a soothing effect. It should not feel too hot or cold but should produce a sense of warmth, indicating proper preparation.

   "तत्स्निग्धं उष्णता च संवर्ध्यं तु सुखं प्रिया"
   (Sushruta Sutrasthana 21.22)

STAGES OF SNEHA SIDDHI LAKSHANA

1. EARLY STAGE: INITIAL OIL PREPARATION

   In the initial stages of preparation, the oil may appear thick and opaque. At this point, the oil is still in the raw phase and has not yet reached its Siddhi.

2. MID STAGE: PROGRESSIVE SIDDHI

   As the process continues, the oil begins to show characteristics of clarity and smoothness. It starts to exhibit the right texture and stability, signaling that it is approaching Siddhi.

3. FINAL STAGE: FULL SIDDHI

   Once the oil has fully matured, it will exhibit all the necessary attributes, including proper texture, clarity, viscosity, and appropriate thermal qualities, indicating that the preparation is complete and ready for use.