Dravya Guṇa Vijñāna: Module 1
Course Description: This foundational module is designed for students to deepen their knowledge of the classical science of Āyurvedic herbology through the lens of Dravya Guṇa Vijñāna — the systematic study of substances (dravya), their qualities (guṇa), and their actions (karma). Students will broaden their understanding of how and herbs and formulas produce their specific and dynamic medicinal effects.
The course begins with the Rasādi Pañcakam — the fivefold pharmacodynamic profile of any substance — covering rasa (taste), vīrya (potency), vipāka (post-digestive effect), guṇa (qualities), and prabhāva (special action). Students will learn to apply this framework to both classical and customized formulas, developing the discernment needed for effective clinical decision-making and herbal selection.
From this foundation, the module moves into applied Āyurvedic pharmacology: the five classical preparation methods (Pañca Vidha Kaṣāya Kalpanā), additional preparation forms including s iddha ghṛtams (medicated ghees), tailams (medicated oils), and fermented preparations, routes of administration, and the role of anupāna (carrier substances) and yogavāhī (catalytic agents) in enhancing therapeutic outcomes.
Participants will take a deep dive into two major clinical categories — agni dīpana/pācana (digestive stimulants) and virechana/vibandaghna (purgatives and laxatives) — with in-depth study of individual traditional herbs and key classical formulations alongside their Western herbal correlates.
Building on this materia medica, students will be introduced to the art and logic of herbal formulation — exploring how individual herbs are skillfully combined into highly individualized custom formulations. Students will examine traditional cūrṇas and compound preparations and begin developing their own capacity to think formulaically rather than herb by herb.
Upon completion, students will be able to more effectively: identify and apply the Rasādi Pañcakam to a broader array of herbs and substances; select appropriate preparation methods and vehicles for clinical use; understand key digestive and eliminative herbs, their profiles, indications, and contraindications; apply foundational formulation principles to clinical practice; and develop Chikitsā (treatment plans) that thoughtfully integrate herbs, diet, and lifestyle.
Prerequisites: Students must have successfully completed one to two years of study at a comprehensive Āyurvedic school, including a solid grounding in Āyurvedic philosophy, anatomy, and physiology. This course builds directly on that foundation and is not designed for beginners.
Format: 10 Live classes · 2.5 hours per class
Tuition: $465 for the 10 class series
Times: Every Tuesday beginning March 24th · 7:00–9:30pm via Zoom meeting
Enrollment & Inquiries: https://bluelotusayurveda.com/contact-us/