Critical review of Vaidyaratna: A treatise on transitional time-tested Ayurveda management

Ayurveda, since the Vedic era, has evolved through a continuum of textual traditions, from the comprehensive Samhitas (classical treatises) to concise compendia and specialized works. Among these, Vaidyaratna by Sri Goswami Shivananda Bhatta (16 th –17 th century CE) stands out as a refined synthesis of classical knowledge and clinical experience. Despite its scholarly depth, Vaidyaratna remains an underexplored text in Ayurvedic literature. The study aimed to introduce Vaidyaratna and highlight its unique literary structure, conceptual insights, and practical contributions within the Ayurvedic textual tradition. The primary source for the study was Vaidyaratna with Hindi commentary by Pandit Jwala Prasadji, published by Khemaraj Shri Krishnadas, Mumbai. A comparative analysis was undertaken with Charaka Samhita , Sushruta Samhita , Sharngadhara Samhita , Bhavaprakasha Nighantu , and Yogaratnakara , focusing on structure, metrical composition, language, and therapeutic innovations. Vaidyaratna comprises seven Prakashas (chapters) and 917 verses, covering the eight branches of Ayurveda. The last two chapters serve as a Nighantu (lexicon) and pharmaceutic section. The text exhibits simplicity of language, poetic elegance across twelve Chandas (meters), and creative Upamanas (similes). It elaborates on diagnostic methods like Nadi (pulse), Jihva (tongue), and Druk (eyes); diseases like Gajacharma (ichthyosis vulgaris) and Sheetalika (skin eruptions like vesicles); single-drug therapies; Abhava Pratinidhi Dravya (substitutes); Daivavyapashraya (spiritual therapies) and Yuktivyapashraya Chikitsa (rational therapies); and herbomineral formulations. Vaidyaratna bridges classical Samhitas and later concise compendia, integrating concepts and practices with literary finesse. Its holistic approach encompassing diagnosis, dietetics, astrology, and spirituality reflect the adaptability of Ayurveda and its enduring relevance to contemporary healthcare.