Ayurveda stands as a well respected traditional medical system that has endured and thrived through the ages. Rooted in profound knowledge of natural remedies and the intricate relationship between human physiology and the elements of the universe, its resilience ensures its enduring relevance. As we look ahead, there remain untapped avenues awaiting exploration by researchers, practitioners, and experts committed to the preservation and evolution of traditional medicine systems (TSMs). Challenges persist, including limited literature availability in diverse languages and insufficient awareness of the foundational principles and histories of these systems across different cultural contexts. This knowledge gap impedes the exchange of invaluable information among global systems. Bridging these divides promises not only a richer understanding of diverse medical traditions but also fosters collaborative efforts toward advancing herbal drug research on a global scale. Achieving these visionary objectives hinges on cultivating insights into these systems’ intricacies, principles, and histories, fostering mutual reinforcement among various TSMs. (Click on the paragraph to read further about History and Ayurveda’s uses in medicines)
History of Ayurveda:
Ayurveda boasts an ancient lineage dating back to the 2nd Century BC, with its roots intertwined with Hindu philosophical doctrines such as Vaisheshika and Nyaya. These foundational teachings, alongside the philosophical framework of Samkhya, emerged concurrently with the flourishing of Nyaya and Vaisheshika schools. Vaisheshika emphasized inferences and perceptions crucial for diagnosing and treating ailments, while Nyaya stressed the importance of thorough understanding of the patient’s condition and the nature of the disease before initiating treatment. Vaisheshika categorized object attributes into six types: substance, particularity, activity, generality, inherence, and quality, termed as Dravya, Vishesha, Karma, Samanya, Samavaya, and Guna respectively in Sanskrit. Subsequently, Vaisheshika and Nyaya collaborated to establish the nyāya–vaiśeṣika school, which played a significant role in propagating Ayurvedic knowledge. Even preceding the establishment of these schools and continuing to the present day, Ayurveda’s origin is regarded as divine, attributed to the Hindu deity Brahma, the creator of the universe. It’s believed Brahma imparted this holistic healing wisdom to sages for the benefit of humanity, who then disseminated it through writings and oral traditions. The medicinal properties of herbs were elucidated in poetic form, known as “Shlokas,” which were used by sages to convey the uses of medicinal plants. Ayurveda draws upon the wisdom contained in four principal Vedas—Yajur Veda, Rig Veda, Sam Veda, and Atharva Veda—of which Rig Veda describes 67 plants and 1028 Shlokas, while Atharva Veda and Yajur Veda detail 293 and 81 medicinally significant plants, respectively. Atreya, attributed with the texts of Rig Veda and Atharva Veda, is said to have received this knowledge from Lord Indra, who in turn acquired it from Brahma. Agnivesha compiled this wisdom into what is now known as the “Charaka Samhita,” further edited by Charaka and other scholars. The Charaka Samhita comprehensively elucidates Ayurvedic medicine, while the Sushruta Samhita focuses on surgical science. These seminal texts, along with other ancillary compilations like Nighantu Granthas, Madhava Nidana, and Bhava Prakasha, form the cornerstone of traditional medicine. While available in various translations and languages including Tibetan, Greek, Chinese, Arabic, and Persian, the Charaka Samhita remains the most esteemed among these records.
Ayurveda, originating from ancient India, is a holistic system of medicine that emphasizes the balance between mind, body, and spirit to achieve overall well-being. Rooted in natural remedies and practices, Ayurveda views each individual as unique and prescribes personalized treatments based on their constitution, known as doshas: Vata (air and ether), Pitta (fire and water), and Kapha (earth and water).
One of the fundamental principles of Ayurveda is maintaining a harmonious equilibrium between these doshas to promote health and prevent diseases. This balance is achieved through various means including diet, herbal remedies, yoga, meditation, and lifestyle modifications tailored to the individual’s doshic constitution.
Ayurveda’s holistic approach extends beyond merely treating symptoms to addressing the root causes of illnesses. By promoting a balanced lifestyle and natural healing methods, Ayurveda aims to not only alleviate current ailments but also prevent future health issues.
The benefits of Ayurveda are manifold. It not only treats physical ailments but also addresses mental and emotional well-being, recognizing the interconnectedness of all aspects of human health. By fostering harmony between mind, body, and spirit, Ayurveda helps individuals achieve a state of optimal health and vitality.
Furthermore, Ayurveda emphasizes the importance of preventive healthcare measures such as maintaining a balanced diet, practicing regular exercise, managing stress, and adhering to daily routines (dinacharya) to promote longevity and overall wellness.
In today’s fast-paced world, Ayurveda offers a holistic alternative to conventional medicine, focusing on individualized care and natural remedies to restore and maintain health. Its time-tested principles continue to provide valuable insights into achieving holistic well-being in modern times.
Allied systems of medicine in Ayurveda – a brief overview: India boasts a diverse array of traditional medical systems, encompassing six principal schools, among which Ayurveda stands as the oldest and most widely embraced indigenous system of medicine. The other indigenous systems include Unani, Siddha, Homeopathy, Yoga, and Naturopathy. Ayurveda holds sway globally for centuries, and while this paper primarily focuses on Ayurveda, it briefly outlines the other systems. Following Ayurveda in popularity are Siddha, Homeopathy, and Unani, while Naturopathy shows promise for future development. Yoga, an allied system, addresses the holistic well-being of individuals, encompassing physical, mental, and spiritual dimensions.
The Siddha system, akin to Ayurveda, posits that the human body comprises the five universal elements, known as pancha mahabhootas, alongside 96 factors governing an individual’s physical, moral, and physiological well-being. Utilizing minerals, metals, and to a lesser extent, plant products, Siddha employs various preparations, including powdered forms derived through calcination.
Unani medicine traces its origins to Greece, introduced by Hippocrates around the 5th century BC. This system, based on the humoral theory, underscores the wet and dry characteristics of bodily humors. Introduced to India by the Arabs, Unani medicine flourished further when scholars and physicians sought refuge in India following the Mongol invasion of Persia. Employing plant-based formulations like oils, tinctures, powders, and ointments, Unani enjoys recognition from the Indian government for clinical practice and research funding.
Homeopathy, pioneered by German physician Dr. Samuel Hahnemann in the 17th and 18th centuries, revolves around the laws of immunological memory and the pharmacological similarities between drugs and diseases. It utilizes medicines inducing symptoms akin to the disease for treatment. Recognized by the Indian government, Homeopathy forms an integral part of the traditional medical landscape, with institutions, research centers, and regulatory bodies supporting its propagation.
Yoga, originating in ancient India, prescribes meditative exercises and lifestyle management based on pulse diagnosis and Tridosha analysis to foster tranquility and enhance health. Its postures, or asanas, find application in various clinical and non-clinical conditions to address physical and emotional ailments.
Naturopathy, emerging in 19th-century Germany and now practiced globally, harnesses the healing power of nature alongside traditional and modern techniques to restore health. While not ancient, it supplements traditional medicine in certain practices, employing methods such as homeopathy, herbal formulations, and hydrotherapy.