Cow
गोमांस
Gomamsa (Cow meat) is described as heavy, unctuous and hot. It pacifies Vata but increases Kapha. It is nourishing. In ancient texts, cow meat was described with its properties for completeness of the materia medica, though its consumption was restricted by cultural and religious norms. Verses: 15-16.
What is Cow / Beef (Gavya / गव्य)?
Gomamsa (Cow meat) is described as heavy, unctuous and hot. It pacifies Vata but increases Kapha. It is nourishing. In ancient texts, cow meat was described with its properties for completeness of the materia medica, though its consumption was restricted by cultural and religious norms. Verses: 15-16.
Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 10
Therapeutic Actions (Karma)
- Brimhana (nourishing)
- Vatahara (pacifies Vata)
Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 10
References in Sushruta Samhita
The ajaka (a type of eye lesion) should be punctured from the side with a needle, the fluid drained, and the wound filled with beef powder and ghee.
— Sushruta Samhita, Uttara Tantra, Chapter 12: Raktabhishyanda Pratishedha Adhyaya (Chapter on Treatment of Blood-type Conjunctivitis)
Gairika (red ochre), saindhava (rock salt), black pepper, godanta (an animal tooth) ink, beef, pepper seeds, shirisha (Albizia) seeds, and manashila (realgar/arsenic disulfide).
— Sushruta Samhita, Uttara Tantra, Chapter 17: Drishtigata Roga Pratishedha Adhyaya (Chapter on Treatment of Diseases of Vision / Drishti Roga)
Source: Sushruta Samhita, Uttara Tantra, Chapter 12: Raktabhishyanda Pratishedha Adhyaya (Chapter on Treatment of Blood-type Conjunctivitis); Uttara Tantra, Chapter 17: Drishtigata Roga Pratishedha Adhyaya (Chapter on Treatment of Diseases of Vision / Drishti Roga)
Medical Disclaimer: The information on this page is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Ayurvedic treatments should be pursued under the guidance of a qualified practitioner (BAMS/MD Ayurveda). Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new treatment. Content is sourced from classical Ayurvedic texts and may not reflect the latest medical research.