Susruta Samhita - Mandhata Global

CHAPTER XXXI.
Now we shall discourse on the medicinal uses (both
internal and external) of the Snchas*, i.e., oleaginous
substances (Snehaupayogika-Chikitsita). i.
A Snelia or an oleaginous substance forms the
essential factor of the physical organism, and the self-
conscious animated element (which contributes directly
to its vitality and makes life possible) abounds in
oleaginous principles; both are consequently in constant
want of a Sneha. Snehas or oleaginous substances are
enjoined to be administered in food and drinks as well
as in Anuv^sana, Mastikya-s'iro-vasti and Uttara-vasti
(urethral or vaginal enemas), errhines (Nasya), ear-drops
(Karna-purana) and unguents (Abhyanga). 2.
There are four kinds of Snehas which, however, are
divided into two classes according to their origin : viz.,
vegetable and animal. Clarified butter prepared from
cow's milk is the best of the animal Snehas, while
Sesamum oil is the best of the vegetable ones. 3.
Now we shall describe the ends for which the
different vegetable oils should be used as well as the
modes in which they should be prepared and employed. 4.
The expressed oils prepared from (the seeds of)
Lodhra, Erafida, Kos'dmra, Danti, Dravanti, Saptald,
S'amkhini, Palds'a, Vishdnikd, Gavdkshi, Kampillaka,
Sampdka and of Nilini act as purgatives. The oils
prepared from (the seeds of) Jimtitaka, Kutaj'a, Kritave-
dhana, Ikshvdku (bitter gourd), Dhdmdrgava and of
Madana act as emetics. The expressed oils prepared
from (the seeds of) Vidanga, Khara manjari, Madhu-
* The Sneha
is of four kinds, viz., clarified butter, oil, lard and
marrow, of which clarified butter and oil are generally used.