Decoding Mythology in Charaka Samhita

Abstract

Charaka Samhita is the oldest available text book on Ayurveda. It has sutras which deal with all the aspects of health. The information is in the form of instructions, facts and also in the form of stories. Why would a scientific book speak of stories? Stories are not page fillers but a correct interpretation of the stories would set new horizons in understanding the concepts of Ayurveda. This article attempts to explain the mythological aspects of Charaka Samhita.

Keywords: Charaka samhita, dakshayajna, mythology, puranas