Comprehensive analysis of therapeutic applications of floral resources in Caraka Saṁhitā

The Caraka Sa?hit?, a foundational text of Ayurveda originally compiled by Agnive?a and later revised by Caraka and D??habala, systematically presents principles of health and treatment, particularly in the realm of K?ya Cikits? (internal medicine). This study aims to explore the therapeutic use of flowers as described in the Caraka Sa?hit? and to highlight their unique medicinal properties and potential to effectively address a wide range of conditions in Ayurvedic treatments. Utilizing the Caraka Sa?hit? and Cakrap??idatta's Ayurveda D?pik? as primary references, along with various translations and Prof. P.V. Sharma's Pu?p?yurveda, this study systematically examines the therapeutic properties and applications of flowers mentioned in the text, leading to comprehensive analysis and conclusions. ?c?rya Caraka references flowers across various sections of the Caraka Sa?hit?, including anatomy, disease symptoms, treatments, and dietary uses. This study identifies 53 flowers specifically prescribed for treatments or food, with 35 utilized in Ekam?lika applications and 35 in Bahum?lika formulations, 17 of which appear in both categories. A total of 189 Bahum?lika formulations were identified, distributed across various dosage forms, including C?r?a, Ka??ya, Lepa, Nasya, and Ghrita, among others. The Cikits?sth?na section, dedicated to disease treatment, include 157 formulations. This study emphasizes the significant role of flowers in Ayurvedic medicine as detailed in the Caraka Sa?hit?, showcasing their diverse therapeutic applications across multiple dosage forms. Their inclusion in nearly all chapters of Cikits?sth?na illustrates their extensive use in both internal and external treatments. The findings highlight the crucial contribution of flowers to holistic healing and call for further research into their medicinal properties within Ayurveda.