Literature Review on the Terminology used in Sri Lankan Traditional system of Medicine to denote Abscesses and Tumors

Abstract

Sri Lanka developed its own medical system based on a series of prescriptions handed from generation to generation over a period of 5000 years. Indigenous Medicine Of Sri also called "Deshiya Chikitsa" was originated before 8000 — 10000 years ago. Ihere are several acestries in Sri Lanka which are continuing their special field Of "Deshiya Chikitsa" even today Sri Lanka has its own special science of medical treatment since the ancient times which employs' indigenous and rare herbs and substances derived from plants. There medications can be used internally Or externally as treatment for number of illness as well as to prevent lethal diseases like abscess and tumors. According to "Deshiya and tumors are considered under the special field called as "Gedi Wana Pilika". Incidence of infections, all over the world is on high. Recent advances in prevention and treatment of abscess and tumors have made phenomenal progress. However certain side effects Of chemotherapy and radiotherapy limit the benefits. The research is focusing their interest on finding novel medicine to Cure abscess and tumors effectively and efficiently. Ola leaf manuscripts of Sri Lankan traditional system of medicine are valuable resources for invention of new medicine. The author intends to review the terminology used in Sri Lankan traditional system ofmedicine to denote abscess and tumors, and classify them. Seven Ola leaf manuscripts which are conservated in the library Of Bandaranayake Memorial Ayurvedic Research Institute were selected in this study. 37 terms which have been used to denote different pathological conditions characterized by abscess, suppurations, and fever, and also 129 herbo-mineral formulations Were found. five terms, Bandana, Gadu, Pilika, Visadi and others which could be considered in classifying the pathological conditions were found