Page:Sushruta Samhita Vol 1.djvu/212

108 Catamenial blood, though originating from Rasa which is of a cooling potency, is fiery or heat-making (Ágneya) in its character; and the fecundated or impregnated ovum (Garbha) is both cooling and heat- making in its properties on account of its partaking of the nature of both the menstrual blood (ovum) and semen which are respectively possessed of the two preceding virtues. Hence several authorities hold the blood to be identical with the life blood or with the vital principle of a living organism, and being such, to be the product of the five fundamental material principles (Pánchabhautikam).

Metrical texts:—In blood the properties such as, a raw or fleshy smell, fluidity, redness, lightness and mobility, which respectively characterise the fundamental principles (of earth, water, fire, air, and sky) are to be found thus representing those specific elements in its composition.

The chyle produces blood. From blood is formed flesh. From flesh originates fat which gives rise to bones. From bones originate marrow, which, in its turn, germinates semen.

The Rasa which is originated from the digested or assimilated food and drink pre-eminently strengthens all the fundamental principles of the body.

The Purusha or self-conscious personality is Chyle-