Application of Gurvadi Guna in Ayurvedic Therapeutics Through the Principle of Samanya and Vishesha: A Conceptual Review with Pharmacodynamic Perspectives

Abstract

Ayurveda is the science which deals with the knowledge of life. Ayurveda focuses on health, disease prevention, diagnosis and treatment through the principle of Dosha (functional principles), Dhatu (body tissue), Mala (excretory product) and Agni (digestive fire). Properties of Dosha, Dhatu, Mala are explained with the help of Gurvadi Gunas (fundamental qualitative attributes). Also, therapeutic properties of Dravyas (medicine) are based on their Gunas (properties). These Gurvadi guna are applied in Ayurveda therapeutics by using a fundamental law of Samanya Vishesh Siddhanta (principle of similarity and dissimilarity). Modern pharmacodynamics explores drug interaction with body which results in specific action. Exploring parallels between modern pharmacodynamics and Ayurveda Siddhant can signifies the relevance of Ayurveda Siddhanta. This article explores application of Gurvadi guna through Samanya vishesha siddhant and correlates it with principle of pharmacodynamics. Method: A conceptual and comparative review was conducted using classical ayurvedic text, modern pharmacological literature and information from databases such as PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar. Result: Samanya vishesh viddhant is fundamental principle for selection of treatment plan based on Gurvadi guna. Pharmacodynamics principles such as synergism and antagonism also can be explained through opposite gunas like Guru (heavy), Laghu (light), Ushna (hot), Sheeta (cold) etc. Conclusion: Understanding application of Samanya vishesh sidhhant and Gurvadi guna in Ayurveda therapeutics through the lense of modern pharmacodynamics can contribute to the scientific validation of Ayurvedic principles and treatment plans.