Vedic Botany and Ethno-botany in the Śatapatha Brāhmaṇa :Some Observations

Abstract

Botany is the science of plants whereas Ethno-botany is the study of the relationship between plants and people. The interaction between plants and people can be traced in the form of food, medicine, cosmetics, dyeing, textiles, construction materials, currency, clothing, rituals, and music. The term ‘Vedic’ implies the whole Vedic literature. For the study of these sciences, here Śatapatha Brāhmaṇa will be discussed mainly. This Brāhmaṇa of Śukla Yajurveda is known for presenting extensive knowledge about Vedic era. The present paper focuses on how plants had been used by Vedic people with an idea of attaining success, power, happiness, peace, and absence of sins. It is interesting to know that SB considers all plants as ‘medicinal herbs’ although it did not refer to their medical efficiency. The medical properties of these plants can be traced out in medical texts like
Bhāvaprakāśa. Other than medicinal value, references of plants like Aśvattha, Udumbara, Kuśa, Palāśa, Khadira, Rajjudāla, Vaikaṅkata for vessels, cloths, mats etc. are also referred in SB. The longevity and health was considered most important. Vedic seers followed a disciplined way of life. The botanical and ethno-botanical study of this Brāhmaṇa throws light on various characteristics of Vedic society for the attainment of a fruitful life.