Abstract

This thesis has 3 objectives, namely, (1) to study on the use of herbs allowed by Lord Buddha, (2) to study on the use of herbs in fundamental public health works, and (3) to explore the use of herbs that are both allowed by Lord Buddha and used in fundamental public health works.

The findings from the research reveal the following facts.

1.      There are various herbs used in all the three aforementioned ways with different specifications and requirements, which are appropriate to each way. Herbs also have different properties. Hence, it is necessary to explore the use of herbs in all the three ways for safety and accuracy. In Buddhism, the use of herbs does not indicate the properties, dose or way of consumption of each herb, such as to be in-taken before or after a meal. However, there are such indications for few herbs such as garlic can cure a stomachache.

2.      In fundamental public health works, properties, doses and utilizations of each herb have to be indicated in details. The difference between Buddhist way and fundamental public health way is that Buddhist medical doctrine indicates that nut grass can be used together with other herbs but fundamental public health principle suggests the use of single herb.

3.      There are 11 herbs that are frequently used, namely, 1) ginger, 2) garlic, 3) holy basil, long pepper, greater galangal, nut grass, lemon basil, heart-leaved moonseed, neem tree, Indian gooseberry and turmeric. These herbs can cure diseases.

Apart from the aforementioned advantage, the use of herbs in all the two ways also have other advantages for mankind, namely, (1) safety, (2) economy, (3) availability for those in distance from standard health care services, (4) free from shortage-related problems, and (5) promotion as economic plants.

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