A Comprehensive Review of Ghreya Yogas in Vamana Kalpa of Charaka Samhita

Abstract

Charaka Saṃhita is one of the most authoritative classical texts of Ayurveda, composed primarily with a focus on Kayachikitsa. It is systematically divided into eight sections, among which Kalpasthana and Siddhisthana holds special importance due to its practical orientation toward Panchakarma therapy. Kalpasthana is the seventh section of the Charaka Saṃhita and consists of twelve chapters. One such distinctive modality in Vamana kalpa is Ghreya yoga, where in specific substances are administered through olfactory inhalation. The term ‘Ghreya’ denotes substances perceived through the sense of smell (Ghrana indriya). Ayurveda recognizes olfaction as a potent sensory modality capable of influencing both physiological and psychological processes. A comprehensive literary review was conducted and relevant verses pertaining to Ghreya yogas in Vamana Kalpa in Kalpasthana were systematically collected, translated and analysed. Ghreya yogas for Vamana karma are mentioned in Madana Kalpa (Chapter 1), Ikshvaku Kalpa (Chapter 3) and Dhamargava Kalpa (Chapter 4) of Charaka Samhita Kalpasthana. Ghreya vamana yogas utilize the nasal route to stimulate and facilitate therapeutic emesis. The nasal administration acts directly on Urdhvajatrugata region, which is kapha dosa predominant, thereby stimulating the upper respiratory passages, nasopharynx and the reflex arcs associated with the vomiting mechanism. Despite its classical importance, Ghreya yoga remains limited by several clinical and scientific constraints. Furthermore, variability in formulation, method of administration and patient selection creates inconsistency in available data. Standardization of Ghreya formulations, quantification of active compounds and developing reproducible administration techniques will be essential for integrating this modality into evidence-based practices. Strengthening scientific evidence for Ghreya yoga can contribute meaningfully to the rational practice of Vamana and supports its integration into modern evidence-based healthcare.