Question

Prabhava describes which unique property of an Ayurvedic drug?

• A. Its taste
• B. Its specific unexplained action
• C. Its potency
• D. Its post-digestive effect

Hint:

When all else fails to explain a drug’s action, Prabhava does!

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Drug Action Factors — In Ayurveda, a drug’s action is explained through Rasa (taste), Guna (quality), Virya (potency), and Vipaka (post-digestive effect).
Step 2: What is Prabhava? — Sometimes a drug shows an effect that cannot be logically explained by these factors. This special, unexplainable effect is called Prabhava.
Step 3: Example — Haritaki is usually a mild laxative, but sometimes acts as an astringent too — this dual action is due to Prabhava.
Step 4: Significance — Understanding Prabhava helps physicians choose unique herbs for special conditions.