A COMPARATIVE STUDY OF CHAPTERS FROM ANNASVARUPA VIJNANIYA ADHYAYA TO MATRASHITIYA ADHYAYA OF SUTRASTHANA OF ASHTANGA SANGRAHA AND ASHTANGA HRIDAYA

Background: Ahara is regarded as one of the three fundamental pillars (Trayopastambha) of life in Ayurveda and plays a vital role in the maintenance of health and prevention of disease. Among the classical Ayurvedic treatises, Ashtanga Sangraha and Ashtanga Hridaya of Acharya Vagbhata provide a systematic exposition of dietary principles through the chapters from Annasvarupa Vijnaniya Adhyaya to Matrashitiya Adhyaya. Although both texts share the same philosophical foundation, differences exist in their organization, extent of elaboration, and inclusion of specific concepts. Objective: To prepare the template and compare the selected chapters of Ashtanga Sangraha and Ashtanga Hridaya with respect to conceptual similarities, differences, unique contributions, and clinical significance. Materials and Methods: A literary comparative study was carried out using the Sanskrit texts of both treatises. Corresponding chapters were translated into English and compared using a structured comparison template. Similarities, differences, additional information, elaborative descriptions, and concepts unique to each text were identified and analysed. Results: Both treatises present the same fundamental principles of Ayurvedic dietetics, including Ahara Matra, Ajirna, Ama, Alasaka, Visuchika, and dietary discipline. However, Ashtanga Sangraha provides considerably greater detail through additional classifications, clinical explanations, therapeutic formulations, and unique concepts. In contrast, Ashtanga Hridaya presents the same principles in a concise and systematic manner, facilitating easier learning and practical application. Conclusion: Ashtanga Sangraha and Ashtanga Hridaya are complementary works that preserve the teachings of Acharya Vagbhata. While Ashtanga Hridaya serves as a concise handbook of Ayurvedic principles, Ashtanga Sangraha offers a more comprehensive exposition with greater clinical depth. An integrated study of both texts provides a broader understanding of Ayurvedic dietetics and strengthens their application in education, research, and clinical practice.