“Role Of Samhita Siddhant In Developing Research Methodology In Ayurveda”
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Abstract
Background: Ayurveda, as a knowledge system, is deeply rooted in the principles laid down in the Samhitas. The Samhita Siddhant provides the philosophical and methodological foundation for observation, inference, and application in health sciences. In the modern era, research methodology requires systematic frameworks, and the timeless principles of Samhita Siddhant can serve as guiding pillars. Exploring these principles helps bridge traditional wisdom with contemporary research practices. Objectives: To study the role of Samhita Siddhant in formulating research methodology in Ayurveda. To analyze classical references from Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, and Ashtanga Hridaya in relation to research design. To highlight the applicability of Samhita Siddhant in hypothesis formation, data interpretation, and validation of results. Methods: This is a conceptual literary research based on textual analysis of Ayurvedic classical texts including Brihattrayi and Laghutrayi. Supplementary references were taken from commentaries, contemporary Ayurvedic research publications, and modern texts on research methodology. The principles such as Pratyaksha, Anumana, Aaptopadesha, and Yukti were critically examined and correlated with modern research approaches such as observation, hypothesis, experimentation, and statistical inference. Results: The study reveals that Samhita Siddhant provides a comprehensive framework for research methodology. Principles like Trisutra (Hetu, Linga, Aushadha) resemble the modern process of identifying cause, symptoms, and intervention. Anumana parallels inductive reasoning, while Yukti aligns with experimental design and multifactorial analysis. Ethical considerations, reproducibility of results, and systematic validation also find roots in the classical teachings. Thus, the integration of Samhita Siddhant enhances both authenticity and relevance of Ayurvedic research in the modern context. Conclusion: Samhita Siddhant is not only a philosophical foundation but also a methodological guide for research in Ayurveda. Its structured principles can be harmonized with modern scientific protocols to create a robust, evidence-based Ayurvedic research methodology. Recognizing and applying these classical insights can strengthen Ayurveda’s contribution to global health research.
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