Difference between revisions of "Ayurveda in Rigveda (ऋग्वेदे आयुर्वेदः)"

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Ayurveda is believed to be the [[Upavedas (उपवेदाः)|Upaveda (उपवेदः)]] of  [[Atharvaveda (अथर्ववेदः)]]. As per some scholars Ayurveda is the Upaveda of [[Rigveda (ऋग्वेदः)]]. Rigveda is the oldest of the Vedas. Like all other [[Vedas (वेदाः)]]  that are based on it, Ayurveda also shows lot of knowledge shared from the Rigveda. One can find various references in Rigveda that discuss and guide about health management, life, body and related topics that are actually later became the part of Ayurveda which exclusively deals with the knowledge of body, mind, senses and life energy.
  
== Introduction ==
+
== परिचयः॥ Introduction ==
Ayurveda which is so commonly referred to as “The ancient” medical system, precedes other medical systems (like Greece, and Mesopotamian) by not less than 4 centuries. This ancient medicine of Ayurveda is a part of four major and oldest Sanskrit literature (Rigveda, Atharvaveda, Yajurveda, Samveda) which is believed to be composed between 5000-10000 BCE. Ayurveda is a Upanga or Upaveda or Atharvaveda and Rigveda. Vedas are “Shruti”() in nature and they have been orally transmitted since the 2<sup>nd</sup> millennium BCE. The word Ayurveda was initially mentioned in Charanvyuah (38) and Prasthanbhed(4)(precisely kinds of literature) which are a part of Rigveda.  
+
Ayurveda which is so commonly referred to as “The ancient” medical system, precedes other medical systems (like Greece, and Mesopotamian) by not less than 4 centuries. This ancient medicine of Ayurveda is a part of four major and oldest texts that are literally the systems of knowledge known as Vedas. 4 Vedas namely [[Rigveda (ऋग्वेदः)|Rigveda]], [[Atharvaveda (अथर्ववेदः)|Atharvaveda]], [[Yajurveda (यजुर्वेदः)|Yajurveda]], [[Samaveda (सामवेदः)|Samaveda]] are believed to be composed between 5000-10000 BCE. Ayurveda is a Upanga or [[Upavedas (उपवेदाः)|Upaveda (उपवेदः)]] or Atharvaveda and Rigveda. Vedas are “[[Shruti (श्रुतिः)|Shruti]]”(शृतिः) in nature and they have been orally transmitted since the 2<sup>nd</sup> millennium BCE. The word Ayurveda itself was initially mentioned in Charanvyuah (38) and Prasthanbhed(4)(precisely kinds of literature) which are a part of Rigveda.  
  
== Ayurveda in Rigveda ==
+
== ऋग्वेदे आयुर्वेदः॥ Ayurveda in Rigveda ==
Jnana(knowledge) and karma(action?) are considered two sides of Ayurveda, and the twin Gods of Ayurveda are often correlated with it in Rigveda. They are known as ideal physicians in Ayurveda. (Sush.Sutr.3.45)
+
The knowledge and practice of Ayurveda described in Rigveda can be found scattered at many places. Following are few subjects related to Ayurveda,
  
* Ashvini Kumaras, the twin God of Ayurveda is described in Rig Veda. They learned the knowledge of madhuvidya and pravargyavidya from Atharvan Dadhichi. <nowiki>https://dharmawiki.org/index.php/Madhuvidya_(%E0%A4%AE%E0%A4%A7%E0%A5%81%E0%A4%B5%E0%A4%BF%E0%A4%A6%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%AF%E0%A4%BE)</nowiki>
+
=== अश्विनीकुमारौ ॥ Ashvinikumaras : The twin god of Ayurveda ===
* According to Rigveda, Rudra, Agni, Maruta, and Varuna who are considered deities are mentioned as Bhishaks or physicians.
+
* Jnana (ज्ञानम् । knowledge) and karma (कर्म। action?) are considered two sides of Ayurveda, and the twin Gods of Ayurveda [[Ashvini Kumaras (अश्विनीकुमारौ)|Ashvini Kumaras]] (अश्विनीकुमारौ) are often correlated with it in Rigveda. They are known as ideal physicians in Ayurveda.<ref>Sushruta Samhita (Sutrasthanama Adhyaya 3 Sutra 45)</ref>
* Rudra is considered one of the best physicians. (R.2.33.4). it is considered that Rudra initially proposed the concept of medicine. (R.2.33.12)
+
 
* A few examples of Ayurvedic management protocols from Ashvini Kumaras which are mentioned in Rig Veda are the Treatment of Varma Rishi from madatyaya or alcoholism. They successfully treated Chyavana Rishi from Senility (R.7.71.5). Even the popular Chyavanprash is said to be the boon of Ashvini kumaras to Rishi Chyavan (According to some historians)
+
*[[Ashvini Kumaras (अश्विनीकुमारौ)|Ashvini Kumaras]] , the twin God of Ayurveda are described in Rig Veda. They learned the knowledge of Madhuvidya and Pravargyavidya from Atharvan Dadhichi.
* References to various diseases like Rajayakshma, Hridroga and etc. are mentioned while describing anatomy and physiology and their treatment as well.
+
* According to Rigveda, [[Rudra (रुद्रः)]], [[Agni (अग्निः)]], Maruta (मरुत्), and [[Varuna (वरुणः)]] who are considered deities are mentioned as Bhishaks or physicians.
* Precious stones or gems were also used therapeutically in certain diseases. in certain references aushadhi or herbs are worn as ornaments as the management of diseases.  
+
* Rudra is considered one of the best physicians. (R.2.33.4). It is considered that Rudra initially proposed the concept of medicine. (R.2.33.12)
* There is an Explanation of Yukti vyapashraya(related to herbal medicine/herbo-mineral) and Daiva vyapashraya chikitsa(divine therapy) aspects in Rigveda which are now one of the prime management aspects of Ayurveda which is studied through Samhitas.
+
* A few examples of Ayurvedic management protocols from Ashvini Kumaras which are mentioned in Rig Veda include the treatment of Varma Rishi from madatyaya (मदात्ययः । Alcoholism). They successfully treated Chyavana Rishi (च्यवनऋषि) from Senility (R.7.71.5). Even the popular Chyavanprasha (च्यवनप्राशः) is said to be the boon of Ashvini kumaras to mankind which was designed originally for Rishi Chyavana (According to some historians) and hence named after him.
* In Rigveda water (Jala Chikitsa) is explained as a crucial life substance and the air is considered as Bhishak or physician.
+
* An interesting incident mentioned in Rig Veda in the context of Ayurveda and Ashvini Kumaras happens to be the iron leg replacement during the war, indicating the surgical knowledge and its application. (R.1.176.15)
* The usage of Agni (as Agni Chikitsa) or fire in various treatment modalities is explained in Rigveda. (R.10/164)
+
 
* Certain common practices like the exposure of Shareera or body to sun for management of disorders like jaundice, anemia and etc.
+
=== त्रिदोषवादः तथा रोगविवरणम् ॥ 3 doshas and Diseases ===
* In Rigveda, there are references to Indra (the king of God) in the context of Ayurveda. For instance, he treated Charmaroga(skin disorder), Khalitya(hair fall), andhatva(blindness), and many more.
+
 
* The documentation of medicinal plants finds its place in Rigveda in Aushadhi Sukta(a section in Rigveda), various Aushadhi or dravya or drugs are mentioned systematically with their form, place, action and etc. also, the usage of single drugs internally and externally was popular during the Vedic times. (R.10/47/1-23). The usage of multiple herbal preparations is not found during the Vedic period.
+
* Three doshas (Vata, Pitta, Kapha) which are the groundwork of Ayurveda have their origin in Rigveda referred to it as “tridoshavaada” (त्रिदोषवादः) (1.34.6) (1.7.28)
* Prasooti (R.10/162/1-4)
+
 
* Rigveda not only mentions the diseases and treatment aspects related to Ayurveda but also, “Pashuchikitsa” which precisely means treatment modality in animals, there are certain references that state Ashvini Kumaras treating Vandyatva or infertility in a cow.
+
* References to various diseases like Rajayakshma (राजयक्ष्मा), Hridroga (हृद्रोगः) etc. are found while describing anatomy and physiology and their treatment as well. (r.10/164/1) <nowiki>https://archive.org/details/ayurved-ka-brihat-itihas-atrideva-vidyalankara/page/n19/mode/2up</nowiki>
* Rigveda clearly mentions Doshapratyanik and Vydhipratyanik chikitsa aspects which are a few primary foundations of treatment modalities. Doshas(Vata, Pitta, and Kapha) and krimi (worm infestation) as two major causes. (R.10/97/13)
+
* There is a similarity drawn between the Rakshas(राक्षसाः) and krimi(कृमयः। worms) in the context of their Prakriti or Nature. For instance both thrive in darkness, mamsa (मांसम्) and Rakta (रक्तम् ।flesh and blood).<ref name=":0">[https://archive.org/details/ayurved-ka-brihat-itihas-atrideva-vidyalankara/page/n17/mode/2up Ayurveda ka Brihat Itihas] by Atrideva Vidyalankara. Indian Universities Press. 1976. (Pg  )</ref>
* Three doshas which are the groundwork of Ayurveda have their origin in Rigveda (1.34.6) (1.7.28)
+
 
* An interesting incident mentioned in Rig Veda in the context of Ayurveda and Ashvini Kumaras happens to be the iron leg replacement during the time of war which indicates the surgical knowledge and its application. (R.1.176.15)
+
=== चिकित्साविषयाः॥ Treatment aspects ===
* There is a similarity drawn between the Rakshas and krimi(worms)
+
* Rigveda clearly mentions Doshapratyanik (दोषप्रत्यनीकम्) and Vydhipratyanik (व्याधिप्रत्यनीकम्) chikitsa aspects which are a few primary foundations of treatment modalities with [[Doshas (दोषाः)|Doshas]] (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha) and krimi (कृमयः । worm infestation) as two major causes. (R.10/97/13)
* Vaidya lakshan referred to as Divya Vaidya
+
* Precious stones or gems were also used therapeutically in certain diseases. There are certain references where aushadhi (औषधी । medicinal herbs) are worn as ornaments for the management of diseases. Therefore effect of a appropriately chosen
* Aushadhi referred as “mother” or female entity (10.97.1)(10.90.4)
+
* There is an Explanation of [[Yuktivyapashraya Chikitsa (युक्तिव्यपाश्रया चिकित्सा)|Yukti vyapashraya]] (युक्तिव्यपाश्रयः । related to herbal medicine/herbo-mineral) and [[Daivavyapashraya Chikitsa (दैवव्यपाश्रया चिकित्सा)|Daiva vyapashraya chikitsa]](दैवव्यपाश्रय चिकित्सा । divine therapy) aspects in Rigveda which are counted among the 3 chief types of [[Chikitsa (चिकित्सा)|Chikitsa]] (चिकित्सा । treatments) discussed in Ayurveda.
 +
*
 +
* In Rigveda water (Jala Chikitsa । जल चिकित्सा) is explained as a crucial life substance and the air is considered as Bhishak (भिषक्) or physician. Also, water is considered as a complete Aushdhi (औषधी) or medicine and amrut (अमृतम् । correlated with nectar)(R.1.23.20)
 +
* The usage of Agni (as Agni Chikitsa । अग्निचिकित्सा ) or fire in various treatment modalities is explained in Rigveda. (R.10/164) There are references regarding Agni Chikitsa in the context of diseases regarding female reproductive organs (R.10/162/1-4)
 +
* Certain common practices like the exposure of [[Sharira (शरीरम्)|Shareera (शरीरम्)]] or body to sun for management of disorders like jaundice, anemia and etc. are mentioned
 +
* [[Vajikaran (वाजीकरणम्)|Vajikarana (वाजीकरणम्)]]  which is a blooming branch of Ayurveda now, has its references in Rigveda in the context of the treatment of certain diseases from its root. (R.10.97.110)
 +
 
 +
=== इन्द्रस्य वैद्यककार्यम् ॥ Indra and his knowledge of Ayurveda ===
 +
* In Rigveda, there are references of [[Indra (इन्द्रः)|Indra]] (इन्द्रः। the king of God) in the context of Ayurveda. For instance, he treated Charmaroga (चर्मरोगः । skin disorder), Khalitya (खालित्यम् । hair fall), andhatva (अन्धत्वम् । blindness), and many more diseases. Thus, he is referred to as a physician as well.
 +
 
 +
=== औषधी॥ Medicinal herbs ===
 +
* The documentation of medicinal plants finds its place in Rigveda in Aushadhi Sukta (औषधीसूक्तम् । a section in Rigveda), various Aushadhi (औषधयः) or dravya (द्रव्यणि) or drugs are mentioned systematically with their form, place, action and etc. also, the usage of single herb drugs internally and externally was popular during the Vedic times. (R.10/47/1-23). The usage of multiple herbal preparations is not found during the Vedic period.
 +
* Aushadhi (औषधी ) is referred to as “mother” or female entity (10.97.1) (10.90.4) for it nourishes. According to certain references in Rigveda, the definition of aushadhi or herb itself states, that which keeps diseases at bay is known as aushadhi. There are approximately 700 types of oldest herbs mentioned since the time of origin of mankind. (R.10.97.1)
 +
 
 +
=== पशुचिकित्सा ॥ Veterinary science ===
 +
* Rigveda not only mentions the diseases and treatment aspects related to Ayurveda but also, “Pashuchikitsa” (पशुचिकित्सा) which precisely means treatment modality in animals, there are certain references that state Ashvini Kumaras treating Vandhyatva or infertility of a cow.
 +
 
 +
=== वैद्यः॥ Ayurveda practitioner ===
 +
* A [[Vaidya (वैद्यः)]]  or a physician is referred to as Divya Vaidya in Rigveda, and there are certain qualities mentioned, a Vaidya is supposed to keep medicines of all kinds with him and in well-maintained condition. Should have complete and brilliant knowledge about “shaastra” (शास्त्रम् । precisely scientific and religious treatise). Should have planning and management skills. Must be able in treating and management of various disorders and “rakshas” (krimi or worm infestation in this context).<ref name=":0" /> ( pg 21)  
  
 
== References ==
 
== References ==
 +
<references />
 +
[[Category:Ayurveda]]
 +
[[Category:Vedas]]

Latest revision as of 20:22, 8 February 2023

Ayurveda is believed to be the Upaveda (उपवेदः) of Atharvaveda (अथर्ववेदः). As per some scholars Ayurveda is the Upaveda of Rigveda (ऋग्वेदः). Rigveda is the oldest of the Vedas. Like all other Vedas (वेदाः) that are based on it, Ayurveda also shows lot of knowledge shared from the Rigveda. One can find various references in Rigveda that discuss and guide about health management, life, body and related topics that are actually later became the part of Ayurveda which exclusively deals with the knowledge of body, mind, senses and life energy.

परिचयः॥ Introduction

Ayurveda which is so commonly referred to as “The ancient” medical system, precedes other medical systems (like Greece, and Mesopotamian) by not less than 4 centuries. This ancient medicine of Ayurveda is a part of four major and oldest texts that are literally the systems of knowledge known as Vedas. 4 Vedas namely Rigveda, Atharvaveda, Yajurveda, Samaveda are believed to be composed between 5000-10000 BCE. Ayurveda is a Upanga or Upaveda (उपवेदः) or Atharvaveda and Rigveda. Vedas are “Shruti”(शृतिः) in nature and they have been orally transmitted since the 2nd millennium BCE. The word Ayurveda itself was initially mentioned in Charanvyuah (38) and Prasthanbhed(4)(precisely kinds of literature) which are a part of Rigveda.  

ऋग्वेदे आयुर्वेदः॥ Ayurveda in Rigveda

The knowledge and practice of Ayurveda described in Rigveda can be found scattered at many places. Following are few subjects related to Ayurveda,

अश्विनीकुमारौ ॥ Ashvinikumaras : The twin god of Ayurveda

  • Jnana (ज्ञानम् । knowledge) and karma (कर्म। action?) are considered two sides of Ayurveda, and the twin Gods of Ayurveda Ashvini Kumaras (अश्विनीकुमारौ) are often correlated with it in Rigveda. They are known as ideal physicians in Ayurveda.[1]
  • Ashvini Kumaras , the twin God of Ayurveda are described in Rig Veda. They learned the knowledge of Madhuvidya and Pravargyavidya from Atharvan Dadhichi.
  • According to Rigveda, Rudra (रुद्रः), Agni (अग्निः), Maruta (मरुत्), and Varuna (वरुणः) who are considered deities are mentioned as Bhishaks or physicians.
  • Rudra is considered one of the best physicians. (R.2.33.4). It is considered that Rudra initially proposed the concept of medicine. (R.2.33.12)
  • A few examples of Ayurvedic management protocols from Ashvini Kumaras which are mentioned in Rig Veda include the treatment of Varma Rishi from madatyaya (मदात्ययः । Alcoholism). They successfully treated Chyavana Rishi (च्यवनऋषि) from Senility (R.7.71.5). Even the popular Chyavanprasha (च्यवनप्राशः) is said to be the boon of Ashvini kumaras to mankind which was designed originally for Rishi Chyavana (According to some historians) and hence named after him.
  • An interesting incident mentioned in Rig Veda in the context of Ayurveda and Ashvini Kumaras happens to be the iron leg replacement during the war, indicating the surgical knowledge and its application. (R.1.176.15)

त्रिदोषवादः तथा रोगविवरणम् ॥ 3 doshas and Diseases

  • Three doshas (Vata, Pitta, Kapha) which are the groundwork of Ayurveda have their origin in Rigveda referred to it as “tridoshavaada” (त्रिदोषवादः) (1.34.6) (1.7.28)
  • References to various diseases like Rajayakshma (राजयक्ष्मा), Hridroga (हृद्रोगः) etc. are found while describing anatomy and physiology and their treatment as well. (r.10/164/1) https://archive.org/details/ayurved-ka-brihat-itihas-atrideva-vidyalankara/page/n19/mode/2up
  • There is a similarity drawn between the Rakshas(राक्षसाः) and krimi(कृमयः। worms) in the context of their Prakriti or Nature. For instance both thrive in darkness, mamsa (मांसम्) and Rakta (रक्तम् ।flesh and blood).[2]

चिकित्साविषयाः॥ Treatment aspects

  • Rigveda clearly mentions Doshapratyanik (दोषप्रत्यनीकम्) and Vydhipratyanik (व्याधिप्रत्यनीकम्) chikitsa aspects which are a few primary foundations of treatment modalities with Doshas (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha) and krimi (कृमयः । worm infestation) as two major causes. (R.10/97/13)
  • Precious stones or gems were also used therapeutically in certain diseases. There are certain references where aushadhi (औषधी । medicinal herbs) are worn as ornaments for the management of diseases. Therefore effect of a appropriately chosen
  • There is an Explanation of Yukti vyapashraya (युक्तिव्यपाश्रयः । related to herbal medicine/herbo-mineral) and Daiva vyapashraya chikitsa(दैवव्यपाश्रय चिकित्सा । divine therapy) aspects in Rigveda which are counted among the 3 chief types of Chikitsa (चिकित्सा । treatments) discussed in Ayurveda.
  • In Rigveda water (Jala Chikitsa । जल चिकित्सा) is explained as a crucial life substance and the air is considered as Bhishak (भिषक्) or physician. Also, water is considered as a complete Aushdhi (औषधी) or medicine and amrut (अमृतम् । correlated with nectar)(R.1.23.20)
  • The usage of Agni (as Agni Chikitsa । अग्निचिकित्सा ) or fire in various treatment modalities is explained in Rigveda. (R.10/164) There are references regarding Agni Chikitsa in the context of diseases regarding female reproductive organs (R.10/162/1-4)
  • Certain common practices like the exposure of Shareera (शरीरम्) or body to sun for management of disorders like jaundice, anemia and etc. are mentioned
  • Vajikarana (वाजीकरणम्) which is a blooming branch of Ayurveda now, has its references in Rigveda in the context of the treatment of certain diseases from its root. (R.10.97.110)

इन्द्रस्य वैद्यककार्यम् ॥ Indra and his knowledge of Ayurveda

  • In Rigveda, there are references of Indra (इन्द्रः। the king of God) in the context of Ayurveda. For instance, he treated Charmaroga (चर्मरोगः । skin disorder), Khalitya (खालित्यम् । hair fall), andhatva (अन्धत्वम् । blindness), and many more diseases. Thus, he is referred to as a physician as well.

औषधी॥ Medicinal herbs

  • The documentation of medicinal plants finds its place in Rigveda in Aushadhi Sukta (औषधीसूक्तम् । a section in Rigveda), various Aushadhi (औषधयः) or dravya (द्रव्यणि) or drugs are mentioned systematically with their form, place, action and etc. also, the usage of single herb drugs internally and externally was popular during the Vedic times. (R.10/47/1-23). The usage of multiple herbal preparations is not found during the Vedic period.
  • Aushadhi (औषधी ) is referred to as “mother” or female entity (10.97.1) (10.90.4) for it nourishes. According to certain references in Rigveda, the definition of aushadhi or herb itself states, that which keeps diseases at bay is known as aushadhi. There are approximately 700 types of oldest herbs mentioned since the time of origin of mankind. (R.10.97.1)

पशुचिकित्सा ॥ Veterinary science

  • Rigveda not only mentions the diseases and treatment aspects related to Ayurveda but also, “Pashuchikitsa” (पशुचिकित्सा) which precisely means treatment modality in animals, there are certain references that state Ashvini Kumaras treating Vandhyatva or infertility of a cow.

वैद्यः॥ Ayurveda practitioner

  • A Vaidya (वैद्यः) or a physician is referred to as Divya Vaidya in Rigveda, and there are certain qualities mentioned, a Vaidya is supposed to keep medicines of all kinds with him and in well-maintained condition. Should have complete and brilliant knowledge about “shaastra” (शास्त्रम् । precisely scientific and religious treatise). Should have planning and management skills. Must be able in treating and management of various disorders and “rakshas” (krimi or worm infestation in this context).[2] ( pg 21)

References

  1. Sushruta Samhita (Sutrasthanama Adhyaya 3 Sutra 45)
  2. 2.0 2.1 Ayurveda ka Brihat Itihas by Atrideva Vidyalankara. Indian Universities Press. 1976. (Pg )