upscools
U.P.P.C.S. Prelims 1994

Ancient Indian Medicine

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

'Ayurveda' that is 'Science of Life' appeared first in:

Solution & Analysis

Answer: D

Concept Ayurveda is traditionally considered an 'Upaveda' (applied knowledge) associated with the main Vedic corpus, focusing on health and healing.

Explanation The Atharvaveda contains numerous 'Bhaisajya' suktas (hymns for healing) and descriptions of anatomy, diseases, and herbal treatments, forming the earliest foundation of Ayurveda.

Logical Breakup
Atharvaveda (D): Deals with the mundane world, including health, longevity, and warding off diseases through spells and herbs.
Logic: While later classical texts (Charaka/Sushruta Samhita) formalized the science, the conceptual 'seed' is in the Atharvaveda.

Active Recall

Question

What is Ayurveda considered an Upaveda of?

Answer

It is widely considered the Upaveda of either the Rigveda or the Atharvaveda, depending on the school of thought.

Core Insight

Ayurveda represents the empirical and observational side of Vedic culture, evolving from ritualistic healing to a systematic medical science.

Practice Navigation