A pragmatic comprehension of scientific and classical aspects of Rachana Sharir—A systematic review

Abstract

Ayurveda, a flourishing traditional medical system renowned for its extensive knowledge, includes Rachana Sharir as a fundamental subject. Rachana Sharir Vigyan explores the anatomical aspects (Rachna) of the human body. The immense knowledge of the ancient wisdom of Ayurveda is not comprehensively described yet. The Samhitas and Vedas of Indian literature by different acharyas elaborate on how the human body evolved from a combination of Panchamahabhutas and Atma (Chetana). This review aims to elucidate the classical aspects of Rachana Sharir from Ayurvedic texts and establish correlations with contemporary scientific knowledge. Classical texts such as the Samhitas authored by various acharyas were systematically reviewed to gather insights into the origin, anatomical positions, numerical compositions, and classifications of human body parts, organs, tissues, and systems. The review reveals detailed principles and concepts from Ayurvedic literature, emphasizing contributions from Acharya Sushruta in the Sharir Sthana, particularly his meticulous descriptions of cadaveric studies and preservation techniques. Classical books explained the origins of human bodily parts, their anatomical placements, organs, tissues, systems, and more. These fall under human anatomy (Rachana Sharir), and this article explains its classical aspect with scientific and modern science linkages. In Sharir Sthana, one of Ayurveda’s main principles, cadaveric research and preservation, is beautifully illustrated by Acharya Sushruta. Ayurveda has scientific principles, logic, and subtle knowledge that we must explore to apply its gifts to humanity. This essay shows that Samhitas contains pragmatic and scientific knowledge. Ayurveda combines science and philosophy. Ayurvedic knowledge’s pragmatic and scientific usefulness beyond textual content must be explored and validated to maximize its benefits for humanity.