ABSTRACT

Caraka Samhita, one of the authoritative treatises of Ayurveda, represents the intellectual zenith of ancient Indian medical knowledge. It stands as a scientific, philosophical, and ethical compendium that shaped the foundations of Ayurveda as a rational medical science. Caraka Samhita is described in eight sections. Sarirasthana is one of the unique sections of the Caraka samhita that comprehensively deals with various dimensions of human life. It presents a fusion of physical and metaphysical perspectives. Acarya Caraka defined sarira as the site of manifestation of cetana and the pancamahabhuta in a specific proportion. The term sarira encompasses the physical body, mind, and consciousness. By discussing the components of the body, soul, mind, and mental constitutions, the sarirasthana of the Caraka samhita serves as both a medical guide and a philosophical treatise on human life. It also pioneers the ancient discussion on genetics and genetic abnormalities. Human beings are described as a microcosm reflecting the macrocosm, reinforcing the Ayurvedic principle of harmony between the universe and the individual. The chapters of Caraka samhita sarirasthana are interwoven with insights from human biology, psychology, ethics, and metaphysics. These chapters illustrate the comprehensive outlook of Ayurveda, where well-being is attained not merely by maintaining physical balance but by achieving harmony with the cosmic and spiritual realms of existence. This article tries to highlight the uniqueness of sarirasthana of Caraka and its utility for a comprehensive understanding of the human body. Keywords: Ayurveda, Caraka, Sarira, Sarirasthana, Philosophy
Publication date: 01/06/2026

https://www.ijbpas.com/pdf/2026/June/MS_IJBPAS_2026_10231.pdf

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https://doi.org/10.31032/IJBPAS/2026/15.6.10231