Modern concept of health and disease
Modern concept of health and disease
Modern concept of health and disease
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MEDICINE IN ANCIENT INDIA<br />
Ajurvedic medicine: Intertwined with mythology <strong>and</strong> religion<br />
Ajurvedic literature created in Vedic period (1700 – 150 BC)<br />
Sushruta Samhita (6 th c. BC) <strong>and</strong> Charaka Samhita (1 st c. BC) –<br />
Influential works on traditional medicine<br />
Five great elements: Earth, water, fire, air <strong>and</strong> space –<br />
forming the universe, including the human body<br />
Balance <strong>of</strong> three substances (DOSHAS): Vata (wind/spirit/air), pitta (bile)<br />
<strong>and</strong> kapha (phlegm), each representing divine forces<br />
Balance in lifestyle: To stay within the limits <strong>of</strong> reasonable balance <strong>and</strong><br />
measure : Moderation in food intake, sleep, sexual intercourse, <strong>and</strong> intake <strong>of</strong><br />
medicine<br />
Charaka Samhita recommends a tenfold examination; Qualities to be<br />
examined: Constitution, abnormality, essence, stability, body measurements,<br />
diet suitability, psychic strength, digestive capacity, physical fitness <strong>and</strong> age<br />
Sushruta Samhita emphasises the proper function <strong>of</strong> body channels<br />
transporting fluids; Lack <strong>of</strong> <strong>health</strong>y channels may lead to <strong>disease</strong> <strong>and</strong><br />
insanity (to rheumatism, epilepsy, paralysis, <strong>and</strong> convulsions); Sweating,<br />
steam bathing, <strong>and</strong> other steam related cures are favoured to open up the<br />
channels <strong>and</strong> dilute the Doshas causing blockages <strong>and</strong> harming the patient.
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