SOUL: Introduction to Āyurvedic Texts on Agriculture

This article is part of a larger series in partnership with SOUL Societie for Organic Farming & Research Education. SOUL’s farmers, trainers, researchers and technologists work to transform agriculture with sustainable & organic farming, mainstreaming indigenous methods like the Tara Chand Belji Technique (TCBT) of farming which embraces Bhāratīya knowledge systems. Their products and educative training tap back into agricultural methods supported by Āyurveda and Kṛṣi vidyā to provide contemporary solutions which are not only chemical- and pesticide-free, but integrated into the larger ecological balance as well.

Overview

Ayurvedic texts that discuss agricultural practices and their relationship to health and well-being are known as “Vṛkṣāyurveda” or “Kṛṣi Āyurveda.” These texts provide guidance on farming, crop cultivation, and the use of agricultural produce in traditional medicine. With regard to publications related to the discipline of Vṛkṣāyurveda, it has been noted that while the term “Vṛkṣāyurveda” was initially introduced in Kautilya’s Arthaśāstra, comprehensive information regarding the utilization of plants or their constituent parts for medicinal purposes, their inherent properties, as well as detailed morphological descriptions, can be traced back to ancient texts like the Ṛgveda, Atharvaveda, Caraka Saṃhitā, Suśruta Saṃhitā, and the Mahābhārata, among others. Subsequent texts such as the Bṛhat Saṃhitā and the Agnipurāṇa featured dedicated sections exclusively devoted to Vṛkṣāyurveda. Various treatises like Kṛṣi-Parāśara, Kaśyapīyakṛṣisūkti, Mānasollāsa, Vṛkṣāyurveda, and Lokopakāra were authored with the sole purpose of instructing the cultivation of plants for both utilitarian and aesthetic satisfaction. This is the manner in which the literature on the subject developed and was compiled over time.

From the early 18th century to the middle of the 20th century, there was a noticeable dearth of literary works centering on traditional plant science. However, a resurgence of interest in traditional agricultural techniques rekindled a proliferation of publications related to Vṛkṣāyurveda, predominantly in the form of English translations.

An overview of some of the most important Vṛkṣāyurvedic texts and related works that discuss agriculture are:

Kṛṣi-Parāśara: This is a classic Ayurvedic text attributed to the sage Parāśara. It provides comprehensive information on various aspects of agriculture, including crop cultivation, soil management, and natural pest control methods. It is a significant work in the field of agricultural Āyurveda.

Kṛṣi-Parāśara Praśna Tantra: This is a commentary on the Kṛṣi-Parāśara by the ancient sage Parāśara. It delves into the agricultural aspects of Āyurveda in greater detail.

Yavakṣara: This is a treatise on the use of barley and other grains in Āyurvedic medicine. It provides guidance on the cultivation, processing, and medicinal use of these grains.

Kṛṣi-Gītā: This is a part of the Mahābhārata, one of the major epics of Indian literature, and contains teachings on agriculture. While not a traditional Āyurvedic text, it includes valuable insights into the ancient agricultural practices of India.

Vṛkṣāyurveda: This text, attributed to the sage Surapāla, focuses on the science of plant life and tree care, offering guidelines for tree cultivation, maintenance, and their role in Āyurvedic medicine.

Vṛkṣāyurveda of Pālakāpya: This is another text on the care and cultivation of trees, especially fruit-bearing trees. It provides insights into the use of tree products in Āyurvedic medicine.

Rāja Nighaṇṭu: While primarily an Āyurvedic materia medica, it includes information on plant cultivation and collection, emphasizing the importance of using high-quality, well-cultivated plant materials in Āyurvedic formulations.

Bhāvaprakāśa: This is an extensive Āyurvedic text that touches upon various aspects of life, including agriculture. It contains valuable information about the cultivation and use of medicinal plants.

These texts collectively provide a foundation for understanding the interplay between agriculture and Āyurveda in traditional Indian knowledge systems. They offer insights into the sustainable and holistic approach to agriculture, which not only focuses on food production but also on the quality of produce and its impact on human health and well-being.

Others worth mentioning include: Vriṣṭivijñānam, Kaṣyapiyakṛṣi Sūkti, Kṛṣi Gītā, Sasyaveda, Viśvavallabha, Upavana-Vinodaḥ, and Agnihotra Kṛṣi Krānti, among others.

Vṛkṣāyurveda: The Ancient Science of Tree Care

Vṛkṣāyurveda, is the ancient Bhāratīya knowledge system that centers around the art and science of cultivating and caring for trees. It acts as an ecological counterpart to Āyurveda. This system is a testament to the deep reverence and understanding that ancient Indian civilization had for trees and the environment. Vṛkṣāyurveda has its roots in early Indian scriptures, particularly in texts like the Vedas, Purāṇās, and treatises on agriculture. The earliest known compilation is the “Vṛkṣāyurveda of Surapāla,” believed to date back to around the 9th century AD. The knowledge of Vṛkṣāyurveda was traditionally passed down through generations orally and in written form.

Vṛkṣāyurveda is a comprehensive system that provides guidelines for the planting, nurturing, and maintaining of trees. It recognizes the vital role trees play in maintaining ecological balance, air quality, and overall well-being. The principles of Vṛkṣāyurveda can be summarized as follows:

Selection of Tree Species: The first step in tree care is selecting appropriate species for a given region and purpose. The texts provide information on the characteristics and uses of various trees, helping individuals make informed choices.

Planting Techniques: Vṛkṣāyurveda offers detailed instructions on planting trees, considering factors such as soil quality, season, location, and care. Proper planting techniques ensure the plants’ strong establishment and growth.

Nutrient Management: The science of Vṛkṣāyurveda delves into the nutritional needs of trees. It emphasizes the use of organic materials like manure, compost, and other natural fertilizers to promote tree health.

Pruning and Training: Regular pruning and training of trees are recommended to shape them and encourage healthy growth. This includes removing dead or diseased branches and ensuring proper structural development.

Pest and Disease Management: Vṛkṣāyurveda suggests natural methods for pest and disease control. This involves the use of plant-based remedies and techniques to maintain the tree’s health without harming the environment.

Water Management: Efficient water management is crucial, and Vṛkṣāyurveda provides guidelines for proper watering practices, water requirements for different species, and ensuring trees receive adequate moisture without over-watering, which can lead to root rot.

Seasonal Care: The texts discuss seasonal variations in tree care, emphasizing the need for adaptation in different weather conditions. This knowledge aids in maximizing tree growth and overall health.

Spiritual and Cultural Significance: Vṛkṣāyurveda goes beyond the practical aspects of tree care. It recognizes the spiritual and cultural significance of trees in Indian tradition and advocates for respect and reverence toward them.

The principles of Vṛkṣāyurveda remain remarkably relevant even in the modern context. As the world faces environmental challenges such as deforestation, climate change, and declining air quality, this ancient science provides valuable insights into sustainable tree management. The principles also acquire increasing significance amidst rising health concerns due to the use of fertilizer and pesticides and other chemicals on crops.

Efforts to revive Vṛkṣāyurveda are gaining momentum as more people realize the importance of trees in mitigating environmental issues. The knowledge embedded in this ancient science can contribute to reforestation projects, urban green spaces, and sustainable agriculture.

The other major text to mention in this context is the Kṛṣi Parāśara, comprehensive treatise on agriculture which covers a wide range of topics related to farming, including crop cultivation, soil preparation, pest control, and other agricultural practices. Like the Vṛkṣāyurveda , it also provides guidance on various aspects of agriculture and organic farming, such as detailed instructions on rain forecast, procuring seeds, how to carry out plowing, sowing, leveling, transplanting, water management, weeding, and plant protection etc. It also carries a description of the method of harvest and the harvest festival. It is in a way a farmer’s almanac containing astronomical and meteorological data arranged according to the seasons and months of ancient India. It is the farmers’ ready reckoner containing the basic data of geographical and climatic conditions, which can help him in planning and managing the activity of farming spread over several months. For this purpose, it is written in very simple, easy to understand Saṃskṛta, unlike more religious texts.

While the specific content and details of Kṛṣi Parāśara may vary, it represents an important part of India’s agricultural heritage and traditional knowledge systems. These texts often contain valuable information on sustainable and eco-friendly agricultural practices, which are of interest in modern times as the world seeks more sustainable and environmentally friendly approaches to agriculture.

“Vriṣṭivijñānam” is another ancient text that primarily deals with meteorology and the study of weather and climate patterns. The term can be broken down into two parts: ”vriṣṭi,” which means rain, and ”vijñānam,” which translates to science or knowledge. Therefore, Vriṣṭivijñānam is the science of understanding and predicting rain, weather patterns, and climate conditions. This field of study was essential in agrarian societies, such as ancient India, where agriculture heavily depended on seasonal rainfall for crop cultivation. Vriṣṭivigñānam encompasses the observation of the sky, atmospheric conditions, and various meteorological phenomena to make predictions about the weather and rainfall. The knowledge of Vriṣṭivigñānam was passed down through traditional wisdom and practices, and it often featured prominently in ancient Indian texts, including those related to agriculture and the environment. The understanding of weather patterns and the ability to predict rainfall and other meteorological events were critical for agricultural planning and resource management.

In modern times, meteorology and weather forecasting have evolved into scientific disciplines with advanced technologies and methodologies. Meteorologists use various tools and instruments to make precise weather forecasts and climate predictions. While Vriṣṭivijñānam represents the historical roots of this science, contemporary meteorology has advanced significantly in terms of accuracy and predictive capability, though traditional methods remain invaluable to certain communities to this day.

From the above discussion, it is clear that Āyurvedic texts on agriculture are still relevant in the present day, and ancient knowledge from these texts can drive the modern movement towards organic farming and environmental protection. In conclusion, Vṛkṣāyurveda and other texts on the subject are a true testament to the wisdom of ancient Indian civilization, reflecting the profound connection between the human and the natural world. This science provides a holistic approach to tree care, offering invaluable guidance in preserving and nurturing the environment. As the world grapples with environmental challenges, Vṛkṣāyurveda stands as a timeless guide to a more sustainable and harmonious relationship with trees and the planet as a whole.

Several of the above-mentioned texts are available for purchase at SOUL’s online bookstore.

References:

1. Suresh G, Haridasan K, Krishnamurthy KV. Relevance of Vṛkṣāyurveda and other traditional methods for organic production of nursery seedlings of useful plants. Anc Sci Life. 2013 Jul;33(1):60-70. doi: 10.4103/0257-7941.134613. PMID: 25161333; PMCID: PMC4140025.

2. Sadhale, Nalini (Tr.). 1999. Krishi- Parashara (Agriculture by Parashara). Bulletin no.2 of Asian Agri-History Foundation, Secunderabad, Andhra Pradesh.

3. Image: Drawing of bullock and cart, with farmers planting cotton seed at Khamgaon.John Lockwood Kipling, Khamgaon, Berar, 1872. Victoria and Albert Museum