It is a brach of Ayurvedic tratment, which is mainly
concerned with the diseases acquired or inherited from apparently
unknown causes. This branch of Ayurveda specifically deals with the
diseases of mind or psychic conditions, which can be caused by super
natural forces or invasion of some evil spirit. Different experts have
explained the word bhuta differently. Some experts say that bhuta means
ghosts and similar bad spirits who cause abnormal psychological
conditions. Others say bhuta represents microscopic organisms such as
virus, bacteria that are not visible to naked eye. In modern terminology
it can be considered as idiopathic diseases in which the exact cause of
disease is unknown. The concept of Ayurveda also believes in the past
karma or deeds as a causative factor of certain diseases. Bhuta Vidya
deals with the causes, which are directly not visible and have no direct
explanation in terms of tridosha. In most cases illness is caused by the
disturbance of mind, where rajas (passion) and tamas (ignorance) are
supposed to be the contributing factors. These problems can be related
to modern psychiatry.
According to Ayurveda, diseases are caused by affliction due to Deva,
Asura, Gandharva, Yaksha, Rakshasa, Pitara, Pishacha, Naga and other
demons or evil spirit. The exact patho- physiology of these disorders is
to be extensively researched. Bhuta Vidya mention use of various
disinfectant plants under the title of 'graha vidya dravya' for
fumigation to make the atmosphere germ free. In addition to this herbs,
diet, use of mantras and yogic therapies like meditation and pranavama
to pacify the psychological disturbances of a patient. This branch of
Ayurvedic science mainly tries to explore the unknown and the hidden
facts of particular diseases.
