Ayurveda is the applied science related to medicine hence it gives more emphasis to the verification and validation of the
facts and concepts. After reviewing the literature it becomes evident that sage physicians of Ayurveda emphasized the
necessity of scientific knowledge in every regard. For the true and thorough scientific knowledge, Ayurvedic seers adopted
different methods of examination and investigation (MEI) which they termed as Pariksha. For the successful
accomplishment of any action it is essential to proceed after obtaining the full knowledge about it. Thus Pariksha
becomes an important tool within each and every field of science as it works as method of examination and investigation
which serves as a base for verification and validation of knowledge. Aptopadesha (authoritative statement), Pratyaksha
(perception), Anumana (inference), Yukti (reasoning), Upamana (analogy) etc are some of the important methods used
extensively in Ayurveda. These methods are similar to those described in ancient Indian Philosophy. The investigation
methodology mentioned in Ayurveda is peculiar because different methods have been adopted in different contexts as per
the need of the subject.
Key words: Epistemology, examination, investigation, methods, Pariksha, Pramana
|