Ayurveda, often referred to as the science of life, is the world's oldest holistic medical system, tracing its origins back over 5,000 years in India. This ancient practice encompasses both the physical and spiritual aspects of well-being, initially passed down through oral tradition as part of the Sanatana Dharma, or Vedic Religion, before being documented in written form by the sage Veda Vyasa. His compilation of Ayurvedic knowledge, along with spiritual insights, became part of the Vedas and Vedic literature.
The four Vedas—Rik, Sama, Yajur, and Atharva—form the foundation of Ayurvedic knowledge. Among these, the Rik Veda, the oldest known Indo-European text, delves into the nature of existence and contains crucial discussions on health, disease, and treatment principles. This text introduces the concept of the three doshas: Vayu, Pitta, and Kapha, which are essential to understanding Ayurvedic health and disease.
The Atharva Veda, another significant text, categorizes Ayurveda into eight branches:
The ancient Vedic sages, who were both spiritual leaders and skilled physicians, received Ayurvedic knowledge through deep meditation and direct divine revelation. This profound understanding was eventually transcribed into dedicated Ayurvedic texts, such as the Atreya Samhita, the world's oldest medical book. These sages viewed health as integral to spiritual life, using various natural methods like herbs, foods, aromas, gems, colors, yoga, mantras, and surgical procedures for healing and longevity.
Around 1500 B.C., Ayurveda evolved into two main schools: Atreya, the school of physicians, and Dhanvantari, the school of surgeons. These schools contributed to the scientific classification and verification of Ayurveda, cementing its status as a respected and comprehensive medical system in India.