Chapter 6.24: Alcoholism Treatment (Madatyaya Chikitsa / मदात्ययचिकित्सा)
This chapter describes in sequence, the origin of madya (liquor) practice, the preferred formulation of the liquor, correct methods of consumption, and advantages of its consumption. Then, another aspect of the liquor consumption is described, starting from different stages of intoxication, disadvantages of liquor consumption, and various other forms of intoxication which should be understood by the treating physician. The chapter also highlights the preferred quality of liquor with preferred composition which shall be multi-ingredient based rather than the single ingredient. Comparison of the liquor with visha, the poison has also been described. Ojas and its significance has been elaborated here with respect to the liquor effects on the human body; The ojas is the constant energy source of the body which may get affected by the liquor intoxication leading to perplexity which is commonly observed due to liquor and poison. The treatments prescribed in this chapter for intoxication are
Source: Astanga Hridaya Sutrasthan by Vagbhata
id="Summary">Summary In this chapter on the diagnosis and treatment of alcoholism, the following topics are expounded at length: The powers of sura, the liquor for the Gods. The standard methods of drinking liquor. The ingredients for liquor and the dietary components with which liquor is to be taken. Wholesomeness of different varieties of alcohol for different types of the person The method of appropriate use of the liquor The process by which intoxication is caused The properties of liquor which is endowed with great attributes Signs and symptoms of intoxication Different stages of intoxication Adverse effects of liquor Good effects of alcohol Use of alcohol keeping in the view of three varities of eight factors Signs and symptoms manifested in persons having three types of psyches Characteristics of good companions while drinking Characteristics of the persons who get drunk gradually and rapidly Etiology, symptomatology of madatyaya The type of liquor and the manner in which the liquor cures the intoxication Line of treatments for drunkenness and intoxication at various levels. [207-211] This concludes the 24th chapter named as madatyaya, written by Agnivesha and commented by Charak.[24]