surgical operatioins, external applications of alkalis, cauterisation, etc., and secondly inasmuch as it contains all that can be found in the other branches of the science of medicine as well, with the superior advantage of producing instantaneous effects by means of surgical instruments and appliances. Hence it is the highest in value of all the medical Tantras. It is eternal and a source of infinite piety, imparts fame and opens the gates of Heaven to its votaries, prolongs the duration of human existence on earth, and helps men in successfully fulfilling their missions, and earning a decent competence, in life.
Gradual extension of the Ayurvedic Knowledge:—Bramha was the first to inculcate the principles of the holy Ayurveda. Prajapati learned the science from him. The Ashvins learned it from Prajapati and imparted the knowledge to Indra, who has favoured me (Dhanvantari ) with an entire knowledge thereof. I, for the good of mankind, am ready to impart it to those ^;-}-i^antram)-M^i^ earth. anches of the Sci
The King of Kar?^,ther corroborate'^^ ac- count Of himself i._^ pe,ception, Inft'^^ '^^ supreme and original god i^^^^j^^ (Agam?' *^"^^ ^^ Dhanvantifri. It is I who warde , f tl disease and decay fi-on the celestials, ^o - Kg j,-,^ was an inmate of the region of heaven, now I a . ^ .carnated on earth
