Father of Ayurveda
Dhanwantari is considered the “father of Ayurveda”.
| Father of Ayurveda | Dhanwantari |
Why ‘Dhanwantari’ is called ‘Father of Ayurveda’
Dhanwantari is a revered figure in Hindu mythology who is considered the “father of Ayurveda” and the divine physician of the gods. According to Hindu mythology, Dhanwantari emerged from the ocean of milk with the pot of the elixir of life during the Samudra manthan, or the “churning of the ocean.”
Dhanwantari is often depicted holding the pot of the elixir in one hand and a medicinal herb in the other. In Hindu tradition, Dhanwantari is considered the embodiment of the knowledge of Ayurveda and is revered as a symbol of healing and rejuvenation.
However, it is important to note that Dhanwantari is a mythological figure and is not considered a historical figure in the development of the Ayurvedic system of medicine.
Why Charaka is considered the “father of Ayurveda”
Ayurveda is a traditional system of medicine that originated in ancient India and is based on the belief that health and well-being depend on a balance between the body, mind, and spirit. The exact origins of Ayurveda are difficult to trace, but it is generally believed to have been practiced in India for over 5,000 years.
The ancient Indian sage Charaka is considered the “father of Ayurveda” because of his contributions to the development and codification of Ayurvedic knowledge.
Charaka is known for his medical treatise, the Charaka Samhita, which is considered one of the foundational texts of Ayurveda and contains detailed information on the principles of Ayurvedic medicine and the treatment of various ailments. Charaka’s work helped to establish Ayurveda as a recognized system of medicine and has had a lasting impact on the practice of traditional medicine in India and around the world.