ZenToks Publication

Chapter 16

Concept of Genetics and Genetic Disorders in Ancient Indian Medical Science Ayurveda

Abstract/Preface

Ayurveda is an ancient medical science of India. The roots of many concepts of modern medicine are deep seated in Ayurveda. Genetics is one such concept which has its roots in Ayurveda. The word ‘Gene’ probably have developed from the word ’Genesis’ which in turn might have evolved from the Sanskrit word ‘Janana’ which literally means to produce. Since Sanskrit  being Indo-European language, many Sanskrit medical words can be traced in modern medicine. Due to evolution of individual specific treatment in present era, it becomes necessary to study the genetic concept in Ayurveda. Ayurveda had used the word ‘Sahaj Vyadhi or Aadibalpravrutta Vyadhi’ to denote all genetic abnormalities. The list of genetic diseases given in Ayurveda includes Hereditary Diabetes (Sahaj Prameha), Hereditary Piles (Sahaj Arsha), Hereditary Impotency (Sahaj Klaibya), Hereditary leukoderma (Sahaj Kushtha), Hereditary obesity (Sahaj Sthaulya) and reproductive diseases such as (Garbha Prastravati (Hereditary tendency for habitual abortion), Alpa-ayu Prajayate (Short lived sibling like Aicardi syndrome), Virupa Prajayate (Sibling with Structural deformity), Sahaj Karnapali Vikar (Hereditary disorders of Ear Pinna) and Khanda Aushtha (Cleft lip) etc. Ayurveda also talks about the genetically determined body power (Sahaj Bala) and natural immunity (Sahaj Vyadhikshamatva). The present study aims to study the concept of genetics in Ayurveda. It is observed and concluded that the concept of genetics is very well mentioned in Ayurveda and probably the modern genetics have evolved from it.