ABSTRACT
Folklore is a good place to begin the search for roots because it is a rich source of native wisdom and offers many clues to new discoveries. Ayurveda is the traditional medicine of India, which had been in vogue before the advent of the Buddha. The roots of current Ayurveda are traceable to elements of folk medicine, Atharvavedic tradition, and the traditional medicine practiced in Buddhist India. A lot in Ayurveda has evolved from folk medicine in India as Caraka–the highest authority in Ayurveda–recommends “shepherds and forest dwellers” among the teachers for students of medicine. Tracing its roots to the Vedic period, Ayurveda had a long and uninterrupted history of learning and practice. It was however a chequered history. Internationally Ayurveda is recognised as Complementary and Integrative Medicine and Ayurvedic scholars are often sought to teach courses abroad.
