Diseases of Annavaha Srotas (gastroenterology): historical view point.

ABSTRACT

The diseases of the Annavaha Srotas (Gastro-Intestinal tract) seem to have been very frequent in ancient India as is evidenced by vivid descriptions on various gastro-intestinal tract diseases in a great length in the treatises of Caraka, Susruta, Vagbhata etc., and some Indian medical classics. The discussions of these diseases reveal a comprehensive knowledge of the anatomy, physiology, pathology of these diseases and study of their treatment is not only edifying but throws much light on the evolution of our ancestral magnifying knowledge of these diseases, which is most identical of present modern Gastro-enterology.