Lzh Sarv Bi Pm Np 18The Five Tonics

The Discourse on the Five Medicines - Bhesajja

Background

In the Vinaya Piṭaka of the Theravāda Buddhist tradition, the Bhesajja discourse, or “The Five Medicines,” is recorded to guide bhikkhunīs in the rules for using medicine during practice. This is part of the Bhikkhuṇi Pātimokkha, the specific code for female monastics, and reflects the Buddha’s deep concern for health, self-regulating discipline, and virtue in the community of monks and nuns.

The historical context shows that in the early period of Buddhism, the monastic community faced practical problems of illness and treatment. Rather than leave bhikkhus to judge the use of medicines for themselves, the Buddha established clear principles to protect both physical and spiritual health, ensuring that treatment did not become clumsy or an obstacle to attainment.

Main Content

The five medicines (pañca bhesajja) are defined as healing foods and substances that monastics are permitted to use when ill:

First: Ghee, clarified butter, which supports health and supplements nutrition when the body is weakened by illness.

Second: Butter, which helps restore vitality and provides necessary energy during recovery.

Third: Oil, used externally on the body to soothe pain and support blood circulation.

Fourth: Honey, known from ancient times for its natural antibacterial qualities and for helping to loosen phlegm.

Fifth: Sugar, which provides immediate energy and supports balance in the body during illness.

These medicines are permitted for use during a monastic’s illness, provided they are used with the proper intention: for health and for the ability to continue practice, not for the desire for satisfaction or out of greed.