Ayurveda Ayurvedic Herbs and Botanicals 3

Question 1

What does the term 'Prabhava' refer to in Ayurvedic pharmacology?

Accepted Answer

The special or unique action that cannot be explained by other properties

Answer

Prabhava refers to the unique, inexplicable action of a herb that cannot be predicted from its Rasa, Virya, or Vipaka alone.

Question 2

Which classical Ayurvedic text is the primary reference for Dravyaguna (Ayurvedic pharmacology)?

Accepted Answer

Charaka Samhita

Answer

The Charaka Samhita is the primary classical text that systematically discusses Dravyaguna, including the properties and actions of medicinal substances.

Question 3

Punarnava (Boerhavia diffusa) derives its name from its ability to do what?

Accepted Answer

Renew or rejuvenate the body

Answer

The name Punarnava means 'one that renews the body' in Sanskrit, reflecting its Rasayana property of rejuvenation and its use in edema and kidney conditions.

Question 4

Which Ayurvedic herb is classified under 'Katu Skandha' (pungent group) and is known for its digestive stimulant properties?

Accepted Answer

Chitraka (Plumbago zeylanica)

Answer

Chitraka is a classic Katu (pungent) herb that stimulates digestive fire (Agni) and is used to treat digestive disorders and metabolic conditions.

Question 5

What is the Ayurvedic term for the post-digestive taste that a substance develops after complete metabolic transformation?

Accepted Answer

Vipaka

Answer

Vipaka is the post-digestive effect of a substance, representing the taste that manifests after complete digestion and influencing the long-term effects on the body.

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Ayurveda Practice Test

Ayurveda Ayurvedic Herbs and Botanicals 3