Ayurveda Through the Ages

According to Ayurvedic tradition, the knowledge of Ayurveda was revealed to the sages by the gods themselves. Over time, this knowledge was passed down through the generations and eventually written down in the form of the Ayurvedic texts.

One of the most important of these texts is the Charaka Samhita, which was written around 2,500 years ago. This text outlines the principles of Ayurveda and provides detailed descriptions of the various herbs, minerals, and other substances used in Ayurvedic medicine.

Another important text is the Sushruta Samhita, which is a treatise on surgery. This text describes various surgical techniques and instruments, as well as the use of anesthesia and other pain-relieving measures.

Ayurveda flourished during the ancient and medieval periods in India, and it was widely practiced and taught in universities and centers of learning. The system of medicine also spread to other parts of the world, including China, Persia, and Egypt.

During the medieval period, Ayurveda faced significant challenges from other systems of medicine, such as Unani (traditional medicine from ancient Greece and later refined in the Middle East and South Asia) and Allopathy (Western health or conventional medicine). However, Ayurveda continued to evolve and adapt to changing circumstances. New texts were written, and the system of medicine was refined and improved.

In the modern era, Ayurveda has experienced a resurgence in popularity. The Indian government has recognized Ayurveda as a valuable system of medicine, and it is now taught in universities and colleges across India. Ayurvedic treatments and remedies have gained popularity around the world, and many people seek out Ayurvedic practitioners for alternative forms of healthcare.

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1.1 Intro to Ayurveda

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2.2 Ayurveda’s Challenge Under Colonial Rule