CONCEPTUAL ANALYSIS OF HRUDAYA USING UPMANA PRAMANA

Abstract

Anatomical study of various organs and other related structures in the body; is essential for proper understanding of the normal physiology of the human body. The study of sharir is therefore important for the proper knowledge of various abnormalities occurring in the body in certain diseases. The study of vital organs such as the heart, brain, lungs, etc. is more essential as they are the important pillars of our body.According to modern concept, the term ‘Heart’ is used in a single and dignified context, to denote the major vital organ of the cardiovascular system which is well-known for its pumping action of blood. This paper is related with the description of ‘Ayurvedokta Hrudaya’, which is very much different from that of the anatomical heart. The Ayurvedic literature has described the Hrudaya by comparing it with a downward facing red coloured lotus flower with closed petals. Some others have also described Hrudaya by comparing it with a clenched fist. On the basis of upmana pramana we can compare the Hrudaya with the lotus flower as well as the clenched fist.The main aim of this paper is to understand from ayurvedic point of view the anatomy and the physiology of hrudaya using various examples mentioned in ayurvedic classical texts for describing Hrudaya.