As a continuum to the last article on Vedic wisdom and its influence on Ayurveda, it is a well known fact that sages like Sushruta have wielded tremendous influence by virtue of their writings on medical science. His writings include topics such as pathology, anatomy, embryology, therapeutics and toxicology, topics unthinkable, when we think about it now. This volume of literature is known as Sushruta Samhita.
A manuscript found in Kashgov in 1890, has seven parts, of which, one to three part contain medical scriptures, four and five deal with general medicine whereas six and seven mention about snake bites. Ashtanga Samgraha and Ashtanga Hridaya by Vaghbata, Madhavakara’s Ruk Vinishchaya, Chakrapidatta’s Chikitsa Sangraha as well as Nagarjuna’s Yogasara & Yogachalaka are some of the prominent books of Indian medicine. The Rig Vedas speak of the use of instruments in surgery and astronomy during those early times. Metals were extensively used for not only making weapons but also to make medicines. Herbs and plants as well known were a great source of medicines.
Each ayurvedic dosage is an array of natural organic compounds, a product of primary and secondary metabolism in plants and herbs. If a detailed analysis of these products is done, we will be able to ascertain the exact medicinal properties and thus pave the way for better explorations in the field of Ayurveda. This opens up a great avenue for treatment; especially of certain fatal ailments, for which treatment has been elusive so far.
Vedic Wisdom is a treasure trove of inspiring stories of people like Charaka and Sushruta who have revolutionized medical thoughts without compromising self belief. Ayurveda, thus is a continuous process of therapy where the young and old alike, are discovering ways to combat their mental, physical, psychological and spiritual issues.
