Abstract

Dr. Roshni Thappa* and A Vijaya Lakshmi

ABSTRACT

The study of Nighantu literature is the most important part of the study of Ayurveda, especially the contents of Dravyagun a Vijnana . Nighantu literature is as old as Ayurveda. It is believed that Nighantu was created during Samhita kala. Sushruta’s Nighantu was called Soushruta Nighantu and another Astanga Nighantu named by Vagbhata was also called Ashtanga Nighantu . However , the study of Nighantu has not received enough attention. Ancient Nighantus is similar to Kosha which has Paryaya (meaning) of Dravya. After that Aushadha (medicine), Guna (attributes), Karma (action) and their uses are explain. In fact Nighantu means a c ollection of single words consisting of Paryaya (synonyms) and the name of medicinal dravyas. Nighantus forms an important part of Dravyaguna Vigyan and detailed study of Nighantus are very important fo r the study of medicinal herbs.