Ayurveda, an ancient traditional system of medicine, is considered one of the oldest and most respected forms of healing globally. Despite its age, the wealth of knowledge it holds is still not fully explored. The convergence of knowledge from different traditional systems of medicine, including Ayurveda, can open new avenues in the discovery of herbal medicines. However, challenges like the lack of understanding of the differences and similarities between these systems have impeded their integration and global acceptance. In this article, we shed light on the historical background and basic principles of Ayurveda, aiming to provide deeper insights to researchers, practitioners, and scholars and foster the harmonization of traditional medicinal systems.
History of Ayurveda:
Ayurveda traces its roots back to the 2nd Century BC and has its foundations in the ancient schools of Hindu philosophical teachings, Vaisheshika and Nyaya. The Vaisheshika School emphasized inferences and perceptions for patient treatment, while Nyaya focused on extensive knowledge of the patient’s condition before treatment. The schools jointly formed the Nyāya–Vaiśeṣika school, which greatly contributed to the dissemination of Ayurvedic knowledge.
The origin of Ayurveda is believed to be divine, with the Hindu God Brahma passing on holistic healing knowledge to sages for the well-being of humanity. The sages then passed this knowledge to their disciples through writings and oral narrations. Ancient texts, such as the Vedas (Yajur Veda, Rig Veda, Sam Veda, and Atharva Veda), contain valuable information on the healing properties of herbs and laid the foundation for Ayurvedic medicine.
The compilation of Ayurvedic knowledge is attributed to Agnivesha, later edited by Charaka and other scholars, resulting in the “Charaka Samhita.” Another significant text, the “Sushruta Samhita,” describes the science of surgery. These legendary compilations are still used by traditional medicine practitioners today.
Basic Doctrine Principles of Ayurveda:
Ayurveda believes that the universe is composed of five elements: Vayu (Air), Jala (Water), Aakash (Space or ether), Prithvi (Earth), and Teja (Fire). These elements form the three basic humors of the human body in various combinations: Vata dosha, Pitta dosha, and Kapha dosha. These doshas control physiological functions, and their balance is crucial for maintaining health.
Ayurveda classifies the human body into seven tissues (Sapta Dhatus) and three waste products (Tri Malas). The balance of these factors is essential for well-being. Ayurvedic treatments, including Pancha karma therapy, aim to restore balance in the body.
Allied Systems of Medicine in Ayurveda – A Brief Overview:
Apart from Ayurveda, India has five other traditional systems of medicine: Unani, Siddha, Homeopathy, Yoga, and Naturopathy. While Ayurveda remains the most dominant and widespread system, the other systems, such as Unani and Siddha, are also widely practiced.
Unani, introduced by Hippocrates, follows the “humoral theory” for treating diseases. Siddha system, similar to Ayurveda, considers the human body’s constitution to be influenced by the five elements. Homeopathy, Yoga, and Naturopathy each offer unique approaches to healing and well-being.
Conclusion:
Ayurveda, with its ancient wisdom and holistic principles, continues to be a valuable traditional system of medicine with global acceptance. Understanding the history and principles of Ayurveda can open avenues for integration with other traditional systems of medicine, promoting collaboration
