REVIEW OF SHOOLA WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE TO MADHAV NIDAN

Ayurveda, the science of life not only emphasises the curative aspect of disease but also gives knowledge about the prevention of disease. The Ayurvedic diagnostic approach comprises Rogi Pariksha and Roga Pariksha sepa- rately. A proper diagnosis forms the basis for appropriate treatment whereas ignorance of it leads to haphazard. So, diagnosis of the disease comes first. Shoola is the commonest symptom mentioned in Ayurvedic text pro- duced due to the prominence of Vata either due to Margavarodha or due to Swatantra Vata Prakopa. Madhavkar is the first who mentioned a special chapter describing Shoola is a Swatantra Vyadhi. He also elaborates on dif- ferent types of Doshaj Shoola along with Amaj, Parinama Shoola and Annadrava Shoola. An attempt is made to review the Shoola from various ayurvedic texts with special reference to Madhav Nidan. Before initiating any treatment, it is necessary to differentiate the Shoola as a disease or as a symptom. Shoola explained by Madhavkara specifically explains Udarshoola. With the help better understanding of pathogenesis and proper di- agnosis of the disease, its treatment can be planed. Keywords: Annadravashoola, Parinamashoola, Pain, Shoola,