• Ancient Science: Ancient medical science

• Discoverers:

Aacharya Charak (Father of Medicine) 1st century CE

Aacharya Sushrut (Father of Surgery and medical sciences) 6th century BCE

• Source:  Ayurvedic codes, as exemplified in texts like Charak Samhita, originate from ancient times in Bharatvarsh, reflecting ethical guidelines in healthcare practices.

• Location: Bharatvarsh

• The formulation and practice of Ayurvedic codes occurred in India, showcasing the ethical standards of the ancient healthcare system.

• Ethical principles related to healthcare can be found in Charak Samhita and Sushrut Samhita, particularly in Sutrasthana, Chapter 1.

• EVIDENCE: While Ayurvedic literature does provide guidelines for ethical conduct in healthcare. The principles of ethics in Ayurved are often intertwined with broader concepts like dharm (righteousness), compassion, and duty.

 Let's explore relevant verses:

1. Charak Samhita by Aacharya Charak (Father of Medicine):

• The Charaka Samhita, attributed to the Acharya Charak, is one of the oldest and most authoritative texts in Ayurved. It comprehensively discusses the principles of diagnosis, treatment, and understanding of the human body.​

Verse Address: Sutrasthana, Chapter 1, Verse 35

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यो निदानं प्रतिष्ठानं प्रक्रियामनुशासनम्।

अर्थकामो न विद्याति यस्य वै सारथे सत्कृतः।

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• MEANING: One who is skilled in understanding the cause, foundation, and process, and who desires the welfare of patients is worthy of honor, just like a well-honored charioteer for one desiring success in his goals.

• This verse emphasizes the importance of a physician understanding the cause of the ailment, the foundational principles of treatment, and the therapeutic process. The physician's intentions should be focused on the welfare of the patient, and such a practitioner is deemed worthy of honor.

 

2. Sushrut Samhita by Aacharya Sushrut (Father of Surgery and Medical Sciences):

• The Sushrut Samhita, attributed to Acharya Sushrut, is a foundational text focusing on surgery, including detailed descriptions of anatomy, surgical techniques, and medicinal treatments.

Verse Address: Sutrasthana, Chapter 1, Verse 3

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आत्मोपदेशशीलस्य यः स्यात् सर्वप्रयासवित्।

उपदेशं कुरुते यस्य वैद्यो देवः सनातनः।

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• MEANING: A physician who imparts self-lessons, who is engaged in all endeavors, and who gives instructions is a divine and eternal healer.

• These verses underscore the qualities of a proficient physician who continually learns, engages in various efforts, and imparts knowledge to others. Such a physician is considered a divine and eternal healer.

• They embody the ethical principles embedded in Ayurved. Compassion, dedication to the well-being of patients, continuous learning, and a sense of duty are essential elements found in Ayurvedic teachings that guide ethical conduct in the practice of medicine.

• Modern Science Connection: Principles of medical ethics found in Ancient Ayurvedic texts, such as Charak Samhita, have parallels with Modern Science medical ethics.

• The ethical guidelines outlined in Charak Samhita demonstrate a commitment to patient well-being, respect, and professionalism, echoing principles found in modern medical ethics. The historical connection emphasizes the enduring importance of ethical considerations in healthcare.