The Growth and Development of Medicine in Medieval India: The Age of the Delhi Sultans

Abstract

This article meticulously traces the evolution of medical services and public health in India, from the ancient civilization of the Harappans, through the reign of Ashoka in the Mauryan Empire, to the influence of Buddhist teachings, and the extensive development of Ayurvedic and Unani medicine. Highlighting the significant contributions of Ashoka to public health, the propagation of medical knowledge under Buddhism, and the foundational aspects of Ayurveda, it delves into the origins and expansion of Unani medicine in India, facilitated by Indo - Persian and Greco - Arab influences. The narrative underscores the establishment of healthcare systems, hospitals, and the dissemination of medical knowledge across different dynasties, including the Delhi Sultanate and the Mughal Empire, showcasing the integration of medical practices over centuries. The emphasis on public health, sanitation, and the provisioning of medical aid across these periods illustrates a rich history of medical evolution that underscores the importance of healthcare in the socio - political fabric of ancient and medieval India, offering insights into the development of a healthcare ethos that prioritized the well - being of its people.