Abstract:
Yoga, a philosophy in ancient India, is effective in maintaining health and curing diseases. This
literature survey based on Hatha Yoga Pradipika was carried out in order to identify the
therapeutic effect of Yoga on diseases which had been mentioned in Śālākyatantra. All types of
Pranayama (Suryabhedana, Ujjayi, Seetkari, Sheetali, Bhramari, Bhastrika, Moorchha and
Plavini pranayama) are important to maintain healthy respiratory functions, while sixty seven of
Shatkarma have various therapeutic effects on curing diseases belonging to Śālākyatantra and
thirty three of Mudra and Bandha in Hatha Yoga Pradipika have therapeutic effects on diseases
that belong to Śālākyatantra according to the ndings of the present study. Although all the
Asanas contribute to maintain healthy body, Simhagarjanasana (roaring lion pose) is the most
effective in alleviation of such diseases including numerous throat, mouth, nose and ear
disorders. It is particularly useful in toning the throat and eradicating stammering. Dhauti and
Neti have many therapeutic effects in curing diseases in Śālākyatantra. Trataka has many
therapeutic effects in curing eye disorders such as eye strain, myopia, astigmatism, and early
stages of cataract, according to the ndings. It can be concluded that various types of Yoga have
therapeutic effects on diseases which have been described in Śālākyatantra.
