Ka Bu Pm Np 30The Five Tonics
Pāli / Sanskrit:Bhesajja
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THE BHESAJJA DISCOURSE - THE FIVE MEDICINAL SUBSTANCES
Background
The Bhesajja discourse, the Five Medicinal Substances, is recorded in the Vinaya Piṭaka, specifically in the Khandhaka section, within the Theravāda Buddhist tradition. This is part of the regulations concerning the bodily health of monks and nuns, reflecting the Buddha’s practical concern for maintaining the vitality of the Sangha community.
In the early period, monks and nuns lived an ascetic life, relying mainly on alms and self-cultivation. Yet in order to continue practicing the Dharma and serving as examples for the community, they needed to maintain basic health. Therefore, the Buddha gave guidance on legitimate ways to use medicinal substances without violating the spirit of the precepts.
Main Content
This discourse identifies five basic medicinal substances (bhesajja) that monks and nuns are permitted to use for treating illness and maintaining health. These five include:
First is ghee, clarified butter, a valuable nutrient that helps the body absorb energy and strengthen resistance. Second is oil, natural or medicinal, used for massage and for treating skin ailments and muscular pain. Third is honey, a substance both nourishing and anti-inflammatory, regarded as “the king of medicines” in traditional medicine.
Fourth is sugar (gur), which provides quick energy and helps the body recover after debilitating illnesses. Fifth is a decoction of nourishing seeds, used to strengthen vitality, to cook porridge, or to drink directly in order to maintain digestive health.
The Buddha instructed that these substances be used wisely, avoiding abuse or excessive calculation. The purpose is not to seek unconditional comfort, but to protect the body as a vehicle for practice: the body is the boat for crossing birth and death.
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