Nadi Pariksha: An Ancient Ayurvedic Method of Diagnosis

Abstract

In Ayurveda we have studied two hypotheses namely, Pinda Brhmanda Nyaya and Anshansha Kalpana. As per the Pinda Brahmanda Nyaya, whatever elements we see in the nature, we find same elements in the smallest part of the human body as well and vice versa. According to Anshanshakalpana, all the elements found in any organism, are found in the seed of that organism in the same proportion but in minute quantities. The presence of pulse at the Angushthamula is evidence of life. “Hastagatenadisarvanroganprabhashyate.” Nadi Pariksha is done to analyse and estimate the quantity of Tridosha in the body. Tridosha, i.e. Vata, Pitta and Kapha are considered as the fundamental. Concept of Nadi Pariksha found in various ancient Ayurved Samhitas like, Bhavprakash, Nadi Pariksha by Ravansamhita, Nadivigyan by Kanad. Theacharya Sharangdhara flourished it in his work as a means of diagnosis and prognosis. The concept of Nadi Pariksha is described in third chapter first part. Yogratnakara also describes Nadi Pariksha as diagnosis, in first chapter under heading Rog Pariksha. The examinations of Nadi Pariksha (Pulse examination) are evidence of many diseases as per Yogratnakara. These parameters are indicative of diagnosis of diseases. They were popular diagnostic tools in the past but nowadays they are not specifically used, so there is need to re-establish their results so that they can be used in future.

Keywords: Ayurveda, Nadi Pariksha, pulse examination