Ashtang-The Eight Branches of Ayurveda by god of medicine -Dhanvantari

The Eight Branches of Ayurveda, also known as "Ashtanga Ayurveda," form the foundational pillars of this ancient holistic healing system. These branches were traditionally attributed to Dhanvantari, who is revered as the god of medicine in Hindu mythology and is believed to be the divine physician who first transmitted the knowledge of Ayurveda to humanity.

1. Kaya Chikitsa (Internal Medicine)

• Focus: This branch deals with the diagnosis and treatment of various diseases affecting the body. It emphasizes the balance of the three doshas (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha), as well as Agni (digestive fire) and the proper functioning of the dhatus (tissues).
• Practices: Includes dietary regulations, herbal remedies, detoxification methods (Panchakarma), and lifestyle modifications to maintain health and treat diseases.

2. Shalya Tantra (Surgery)

• Focus: Shalya Tantra is the branch of Ayurveda that deals with surgical techniques and procedures. It includes the treatment of physical injuries, wounds, fractures, and the removal of foreign bodies.
• Practices: Ancient texts describe various surgical instruments and procedures, including techniques for treating ulcers, tumors, and even cosmetic surgery. Sushruta, a renowned ancient surgeon, further developed and documented this branch.

3. Shalakya Tantra (Ophthalmology and ENT)

• Focus: This branch specializes in diseases and treatments related to the organs above the neck, primarily focusing on the eyes, ears, nose, throat, and head.
• Practices: It covers treatments for eye diseases, ear infections, nasal issues, and oral health problems. The use of herbs, oils, surgical tools, and therapies like Nasya (nasal therapy) is common.

4. Kaumarabhritya (Pediatrics and Obstetrics)

• Focus: Kaumarabhritya is concerned with prenatal care, childbirth, and pediatric care, including the growth and development of children.
• Practices: It includes guidelines for the health of the mother during pregnancy, the care of newborns, and the treatment of childhood diseases. This branch also covers immunization (Swarna Prashana), diet, and lifestyle for children.

5. Agada Tantra (Toxicology)

• Focus: Agada Tantra deals with the diagnosis and treatment of poisoning from various sources, including toxins from plants, animals, minerals, and environmental pollutants.
• Practices: It involves the use of antidotes, detoxification methods, and preventive measures to counteract the effects of poisons and venomous bites or stings. This branch also addresses poisoning due to food and water contamination.

6. Bhuta Vidya (Psychiatry)

• Focus: This branch addresses mental health and psychological disorders. It involves the study and treatment of mental imbalances, believed to be caused by external entities, negative energies, or imbalances in the mind-body system.
• Practices: Treatments include herbal formulations, mantra chanting, meditation, and therapies to calm the mind and balance the doshas. Bhuta Vidya also explores the use of rituals and spiritual practices to address mental health issues.

7. Rasayana (Rejuvenation and Anti-aging)

• Focus: Rasayana therapy aims at promoting longevity, vitality, and overall well-being by rejuvenating the body and mind. It is also concerned with boosting immunity, improving strength, and enhancing cognitive functions.
• Practices: The use of specific herbs, dietary regimens, and lifestyle practices are central to Rasayana. Chyawanprash and Ashwagandha are examples of Rasayana formulations. This branch also emphasizes the importance of a balanced lifestyle and mental clarity.

8. Vajikarana (Aphrodisiac Therapy and Reproductive Health)

• Focus: Vajikarana is the branch that deals with sexual health, fertility, and reproduction. It aims to enhance reproductive function, increase virility, and address infertility issues.
• Practices: This branch utilizes herbs, dietary practices, and lifestyle adjustments to improve sexual health and treat conditions like impotence and infertility. Vajikarana also emphasizes the importance of mental and physical harmony in sexual well-being.

These eight branches collectively address every aspect of human health, from preventive care and rejuvenation to the treatment of complex diseases and surgical interventions. The holistic approach of Ayurveda ensures that each branch is interconnected, providing a comprehensive system of medicine that has been practiced for thousands of years.