Exploring Ancient Buddhist Medicine

Introduction to Buddhist Medicine

Buddhist medicine, as described in ancient texts, approaches healing from three distinct perspectives:

Cure of Disease through Healing Agents: This includes the use of herbs and food, which forms the basis of what we might call the Buddhist Materia Medica.
Spiritual Causes and Cures of Disease: Here, illness is seen not only as a physical condition but also as having spiritual roots, with cures that address the soul’s well-being.
The Healing Process as a Metaphor for Spiritual Growth: The journey from sickness to health mirrors the path from ignorance to enlightenment.