An Introduction To Charak Samhitokta Rishi Vishwamitra and Evaluation of His Contribution To Ayurveda

Abstract Sage Vishwamitra was present at a historic conclave of rishis held beneath the Himalayas which was convened to discuss the outbreak of disease in society and its management through Ayurveda. Among those present were his sons namely Sankriti, Galava, Yagyavalkya, Vaijyapi, Badrayana and other eminent sages. Vishwamitra was a royal figure who attained the coveted status of Brahmarishi, a title earned through immense spiritual discipline. He belonged to the Kaushik lineage, named after his great-grandfather King Kushik who was the ruler of the ancient Kanyakubja region, near present-day Kannauj in Uttar Pradesh. His father was King Gadhi, and his sister Satyavati was married to Sage Ruchik, the son of the illustrious rishi Bhrigu. Several renowned Ayurvedic commentators viz., Dalhana, Chakrapani, Gayadasa, Nischalkar, and Shreekantdutta have cited Vishwamitra’s views on dravya kalpana (drug preparation) in their respective commentaries. Medieval Ayurvedic scholars such as Todharmal in "Ayurveda Sokhyam" and Vangsena in "Vangsena Samhita" also referenced the ancient "Vishwamitra Samhita", attributed to Sage Vishwamitra. Hence it becomes essential to explore the rishi Vishwamitra in detail. The literary research study had shown that several commentators have mentioned the quotes of sage Vishwamitra in their commentaries. Hence, it can be concluded that he ancient ‘Vishwamitra Samhita’ existed till 17th century AD but it is unavailable at present. Keywords – Vishwamitra, Maharshi, Brahmarishi Trishanku