lead to an aggravation of the deranged Doshas. A thick-topped rod would necessarily create an extensive ulcer, whereas a sharp one begets the apprehension of hurting the eye in many ways. An excessive lachrymation sets in from using a rod with an unequal or irregular top or mouth, whereas its unsteadiness (in the course of the operation) makes the operation an abortive one, Hence a Śaláká (rod) should be constructed and used for the purpose in such a manner as to preclude the possibility of the foregoing defects and injuries. 42.
Description of the Śaiáká:—The Śaláká (rod) should be made to measure eight fingers in length, its middle part being covered with strings of thread and resembling the upper section of the thumb in circumference and its ends terminating in the form of a bud. The rod (Śaláká) should be prepared of copper, iron or gold. 43.
Derangements due to defective operation: — Redness of the eye, local swelling, sucking pain, (appearance of) Arvuda or Vudvuda, hog-like eye (Śukarákshitá) *[1] and ophthalmia &c. are due to the improper handling of the rod or to the use of improper regimen of diet and conduct. These should be remedied according to the nature of the deranged Dosha involved in each case. 44.
Their treatment:— Now again hear me discourse on the (specific) medicines to be employed in cases of pain or redness in the eyes. A medicinal plaster composed of Gairika, Śárivá, Durvá, and barley pasted with milk †[2] and clarified butter, should be
