• Time Period: 6th century BCE

• Location: Bharatvarsh 

• Evidence:

Source: Charak Samhita,

Sutrasthana, Chapter 1, Verses 3–5

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तस्याश्च यथोक्ताहारसमीपसमये रससमृद्धिशाली स्याद् योग्यो बृंहणादिकः ।

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• Meaning: These verses from Charak Samhita emphasize the importance of an appropriate increase in nutrients near the prescribed diet time. The use of terms like "rasasamṛddhishālī" (abundance of nutrients) and "yogyo bṛṃhaṇādikaḥ" (suitable for nourishment and the like) underscores the need for a well-balanced and nourishing diet.

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यदा च योग्यो बृंहणादिकः स्यात् स एव कुर्याद् योग्यसेवनोद्देशादि योग्याहारशयनादिष्वेव रहेत्।

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• Meaning: This verse emphasizes the necessity of engaging in suitable practices when there is a need for nourishment. It advises following prescribed guidelines for appropriate food, sleep, and other activities to maintain a balanced and healthy lifestyle.

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योग्येनाहारेण बहुलेन च सती समीपसमयेऽपि प्रवृद्धिः करणीया योग्यसेवनोद्देशादिषु।

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• Meaning: This verse suggests that even in abundance, there should be an increase in accordance with prescribed guidelines for appropriate use in diet, activities, and other aspects. The emphasis is on maintaining balance and adhering to suitable practices for overall well-being.

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• Modern Science Connection: Herbal medicine draws inspiration from Ayurvedic principles outlined in Charak Samhita, an Ancient Science Indian medical text.