Chapter 1.22: Reduction & Nourishing Therapies (Langhanabrimhaniya Adhyaya / लङ्घनबृंहणीय अध्याय)

Establishes the six fundamental therapeutic approaches (Shadupakrama): lightening, nourishing, drying, oleation, sudation, and astringent therapies, with indications, signs of proper application, and complications of excess.

Source: Astanga Hridaya Sutrasthan by Vagbhata

This chapter establishes the six fundamental therapeutic approaches (Shadupakrama) forming Ayurveda's treatment framework. Reducing therapies (langhana, rukshana, swedana) address excess and obstruction; nourishing therapies (brimhana, snehana, stambhana) address depletion and degeneration. Success requires matching therapy intensity to individual constitution, disease strength, and seasonal factors, with clear assessment criteria for adequate versus excessive application.