Susruta Samhita - Mandhata Global

Chap. I.] CHIKITSA STHANAM. 247
An anointing (Abhyanga), duly prescribed and used
with a full regard to the nature of the aggravated
Doshas, leads to their pacification (restoration to the
normal condition) and to softness (subsidence) of the
swelling. 33.
IVIetrical Texts: —An application of an anoint-
ment (Abhyanga) should precede the measures of fomen-
tation, resolution, &c ,
while it should follow all evacuating
measures, &c. A painful, extended and indurated swell-
ing, as well as an ulcer of a similar nature, should be
fomented, while an act of Vimlapana (resolution by
gentle massage) should be done in respect of a fixed or
unfluctuating swelling attended with little or no pain
whatsoever, A wise physician should first annoint
and foment the part and then gentl}' and slowly press
it with a bamboo-reed or with the back of his thumb
or palm. A non-suppurated swelling or one that is
partially suppurated should be treated with poultice
(Upanaha\ which would lead to its resolution or suppu-
ration, as the case might be. A swelling, not resolved
or not subsiding even after the adoption of the measures
beginning with Apatarpana and ending in Virechana
(in the given list), should be caused to suppurate
with the drugs enumerated in the chapter of Mis'raka,
such as curd, whey, wine (Sura), Sukta and Dhanyamla
(a kind of fermented paddy gruel). They should be
formed into a paste and the paste should be cooked into
an efficacious poultice-like composition (Utkarika), and
mixed with salt and oil or clarified butter, it should be
applied over the affected part (swelling) and bandaged
with the leaves of an Eranda plant. The patient
should be allowed to take a wholesome {i e., which does
not produce Kapha) diet as soon as suppuration would
set in (in the swelling). 34-39.