“The Materia Medica of the Hindus,” authored by Uday Chand Dutt, is a seminal work that delves into the rich tapestry of traditional Indian medicine, known as Ayurveda. First published in 1870, this comprehensive text serves as a bridge between ancient Sanskrit medical knowledge and the modern world, offering insights into the diverse medicinal substances utilized by Hindu practitioners. Dutt’s meticulous compilation and translation of Sanskrit sources have rendered this work an invaluable resource for scholars, practitioners, and enthusiasts of ethnobotany and traditional medicine.

The book systematically categorizes a wide array of medicinal substances derived from plants, animals, and minerals. Dutt provides detailed descriptions of each substance, including their Sanskrit nomenclature, botanical or zoological identification, and therapeutic applications. For instance, he explores the medicinal uses of various animal-derived products, noting that “the skin, hair, wool, nails, horns, hoofs, milk, bile, honey, fat, marrow, blood, flesh, urine, feces, semen, bones, and nerves of animals are all used in medicine.” This comprehensive approach highlights the integrative nature of Ayurvedic medicine, where multiple sources are harnessed for healing purposes.

Beyond mere descriptions, Dutt’s work delves into the preparation methods, dosages, and therapeutic indications of these medicinal substances. He draws from classical Sanskrit texts, ensuring that the traditional knowledge is preserved and presented accurately. The inclusion of a glossary, contributed by Sir George King in later editions, enhances the utility of the text by providing botanical names and facilitating cross-referencing with contemporary scientific literature. This fusion of traditional wisdom with modern scientific taxonomy underscores the enduring relevance of Ayurvedic practices.

Uday Chand Dutt’s contributions extend beyond this publication. As a physician and expert in Ayurveda, he served as a civil medical officer in Serampore, Bengal, and collaborated with notable figures such as Sir George Watt in producing the “Dictionary of the Economic Plants of India.” Dutt also translated other significant Sanskrit medical works, including “Nidana,” a treatise on pathology compiled by Madhava Kara. His dedication to translating and interpreting Sanskrit medical literature has been instrumental in preserving and disseminating India’s traditional medical knowledge to a global audience.