“Hindu Medicine” by Mahamahopadhyaya Gananath Sen is a comprehensive exploration of the ancient medical traditions of India, delving into the rich history and practices that have shaped healthcare in the region for millennia. The book offers an in-depth analysis of the foundational texts, methodologies, and philosophies that constitute Hindu medicine, providing readers with a nuanced understanding of its evolution and enduring significance.

Central to Hindu medicine is the concept of diagnosis and prognosis, where ancient physicians employed all five senses to assess a patient’s condition. They listened to breathing patterns, noted changes in voice, and even recognized the sound produced by fractured bones. This sensory-based approach underscores the holistic nature of Hindu medical practice, emphasizing the importance of comprehensive patient evaluation. Despite the empirical methods, there existed a blend of science and superstition; for instance, the prognosis could be influenced by seemingly unrelated factors such as the cleanliness of the messenger fetching the physician or the omens encountered en route to the patient.

Therapeutics in Hindu medicine prioritized dietetic and medicinal interventions. Diet was considered paramount, often preceding medicinal treatments. Fats were extensively used both internally and externally. The primary therapeutic techniques, known as the “five procedures,” included the administration of emetics, purgatives, water enemas, oil enemas, and sneezing powders. Additionally, practices such as inhalation therapies, leeching, cupping, and bleeding were commonplace. The materia medica was predominantly plant-based, with ancient texts like those of Charaka documenting 500 medicinal plants and Susruta noting 700. These texts highlight the extensive knowledge and utilization of indigenous flora for healing purposes.

Surgery represented a pinnacle in ancient Hindu medical practice. Detailed guidelines concerning surgical instruments and procedures are meticulously outlined in classical texts. Surgeons performed a variety of operations, including tumor excisions, abscess drainages, fluid removal from the abdomen, extraction of foreign bodies, fistula probing, and wound suturing. This surgical proficiency reflects a sophisticated understanding of human anatomy and a commitment to advancing medical knowledge. The integration of surgical practices with other therapeutic modalities exemplifies the holistic approach characteristic of Hindu medicine.

In essence, “Hindu Medicine” by Gananath Sen serves as a vital resource for those interested in the historical and practical aspects of India’s medical heritage. The book not only chronicles the empirical practices and surgical advancements of ancient Hindu medicine but also delves into the cultural and philosophical contexts that influenced these medical traditions. By examining the interplay between empirical knowledge and traditional beliefs, Sen provides a comprehensive perspective on the complexities and innovations that have defined Hindu medicine throughout history.