Various tools and techniques have been used in the Greater Trios of Ayurveda, to convey the ideas in an effective way. One such method is the usage of Upama through which the context is easily understood and recollected. It is essential to analyse these principles to have deeper understanding of the Shastra, which will help in its application at various levels. This article is aiming at giving a birds eye view of a literary study done on Upama in Sushruta Samhita. Objectives: To compile and categorise Upama mentioned in Sushruta Samhita and interpret selected Upama. Methods: Upama were collected from every chapter of each Sthana of Sushruta Samhita followed by classification of Upama into 16 divisions based on the specialities of Ayurveda. 10 Upama were selected and interpreted from scientific perspective to validate the rationale behind the analogy. Result: Total 408 Upama have been found in Sushruta Samhita. Among the Sthana, Maximum number of Upama is observed in Nidanasthana with a total of 105 Upama. Kalpasthana has least number of Upama with a total of 26. After categorisation, maximum number of 104 Upama observed in Rogavijnana and least 2 Upama in Manasa Roga category. Conclusion: Collection and categorisation indicate that maximum usage of Upama is for the purpose of Rogavijnana. Interpretations reveal the scientific basis of the analogies made and justify the rationale behind their usage.
Key words: Upama; Analogy; Sushruta Samhita; Upamana.
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