Ayurveda, which means the science of life, has been a part of the Indian subcontinent for more than 5000 years. Originating from the Vedic texts and deriving concepts from the Hindu mythology, Ayurveda is an ancient form of medicine that has attracted the world for its natural approach towards health and wellness. But how exactly did Ayurveda emerge? Who were the pioneers who propagated its principles? In this blog, let us take a walk down the path of history as we trace the roots of Ayurveda and discover its rich heritage.
According to Hindu mythology, Lord Brahma created Ayurveda and imparted the knowledge to Daksha Prajapati, who in turn passed it on to Ashwini Kumar, the celestial physicians of Inanda. It is said that Ayurvedic principles were followed even during the Sat Yuga in India. However, the first known developments in Ayurvedic medicine began in the Treta Yuga by Divodasa Dhanwantari, who wrote about the school of surgery during the 9-6 century BCE.
The most widely known and acclaimed Ayurvedic text in the world, the Sushrut Samhita, was written in the 5th-4th century BCE by a brilliant surgeon named Sushrut. He not only explained about general surgery but also included complex surgeries such as brain surgeries and cataract surgeries in his text. Another important Ayurvedic pioneer was Kashyap, a physician from the Dwapar Yuga, who specialized in obstetrics and gynecology.
Bharadwaj, who is hailed as the human father of Ayurvedic medicine, was also from Dwapar Yuga. He was a scholar and a practitioner who significantly contributed to the propagation of Ayurveda. His disciple, Atreya, developed the school of physicians during 8-6 century BCE, and wrote the famous Charak Samhita in the 1st century CE.
In the 8th century CE, the Ashtanga Hridayam, written by Vagbhata, provided holistic knowledge on Ayurveda, including surgery, medicines, and diet. In the 9th century CE, Madhavakara wrote a book called the Madhava Nidan, which talked about the diagnosis of diseases in detail. The Sharangadhara Samhita, compiled by Sharngadhara in the 13th century CE, became famous for its recipes for Ayurvedic medicines.
It was in the 14th century CE the use of mercury was first recorded in Ayurvedic medicine. This revolutionary step led to the discovery of the Rasashastra, which dealt with metals and minerals as medicinal substances. Bhavamishra, who wrote Bhavaprakasha in the 16th century CE, categorized the Ayurvedic medicines based on their actions on the human body.
From the mythical origins to the earliest practitioners and physicians, the history of Ayurveda is rich, diverse, and fascinating. It has endured over millennia and continues to be an integral part of Indian culture. The roots of Ayurveda have been traced to various periods of human civilization, and it stands as a testament to the insight and wisdom of our ancestors. As we appreciate the depth of knowledge that Ayurveda has to offer, let us also marvel at the journey it has taken to reach us.
Dr. Sugesh 