Description

The Charak Samhita is an ancient and authentic ayurvedic text written by Maharishi Agnivesha, which is later revised by Maharishi Charak and edited by Acharya Dridhabala. This system of Ayurveda was taught by Maharishi Atreya. In this treatise, 121 chapters are organized into eight sections or ashtanga sthanas— Sutra, Nidana, Vimana, Sarira, Indriya, Chikitsa, Kalpa, and Siddha. Further, 17 chapters were added in the Charaka Samhita by Dridhabala. This treatise is not just a fascinating source of ancient medical practices but it may also be a helpful source of information on the ecological, social, and economic elements of ancient India. It is highly important to know the fundamental cause of any disease. Complete cure in curable diseases and management of palliable diseases can only be achieved after Nidana Parivarjana (removing the cause). If the cause is removed, then half the treatment is done. This stops progression of disease as well as helps the host to return to the normal state. The focus of current healthcare system is more on disease management after its complete manifestation; while Ayurveda emphasizes on identification of abnormality at an early stage, to prevent its further progression. The journey of a disease from the initial stage of accumulation of vitiating factors to complete manifestation of its symptoms shall be studied well for its complete knowledge. The knowledge of Nidana can be helpful in reducing healthcare cost by reducing use of invasive and non invasive medical diagnostic tools.

Acharya Charak, born around 300 BC, was a key contributor to the science of traditional Indian medicine (Ayurveda) and lifestyle philosophy that was developed in Ancient India. He is well known as the editor of the medical treatise “Charaka Samhita”, one of the basic books of traditional Indian medicine and Ayurveda. He placed a specific focus on illness diagnosis and regarded Ayurveda as a holistic system of health care that addressed both preventative and curative elements.

A.P. Mishra, a young and dynamic scholar of philosophy, is doing research in Patna University. Mr. Mishra has written many research papers in national and international journal which undoubtedly prove his efficiency and knowledge in the field of oriental studies. Presently, he is teaching L philosophy in A. S. College, Deoghar, Jharkhand.