Human Parasitic Diseases in Ancient and Medieval Indian Texts and the Bhagavad Gita: An Indian Knowledge System Perspective

Abstract

Parasitic diseases have affected human populations since antiquity and were recognized long before the development of modern diagnostic techniques. Ancient and medieval Indian medical texts provide systematic descriptions of parasitic diseases under the conceptual framework of Krimi, encompassing classification, clinical features, transmission pathways, preventive strategies, and therapeutic interventions. This review examines descriptions of human parasitic diseases in classical Indian texts from an Indian Knowledge System (IKS) perspective and correlates these observations with contemporary parasitological understanding. In addition to Ayurvedic treatises such as the Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, and Ashtanga Hridaya, the study explores preventive health principles articulated in the Bhagavad Gita and their indirect relevance to disease susceptibility and control.

A narrative review of peer-reviewed literature, classical text translations, and paleoparasitological studies was conducted. Classical descriptions of Krimi were analyzed and compared with modern concepts of helminthic and ectoparasitic infections. The findings indicate a strong correspondence between ancient symptom descriptions and modern clinical manifestations, including gastrointestinal disturbances, anemia, malnutrition, and skin involvement. Ancient texts also recognized key transmission factors such as contaminated food and water, poor hygiene, and environmental conditions, emphasizing preventive measures that align closely with modern public health strategies. Experimental studies validating the anthelmintic activity of traditional medicinal plants further support the empirical basis of classical therapeutic practices.

Health-related concepts in the Bhagavad Gita, including dietary discipline, lifestyle moderation, cleanliness, and balance, complement Ayurvedic preventive approaches by addressing host resilience and disease susceptibility. Together, these sources reflect a holistic and observation-driven tradition of health knowledge. Integrating insights from ancient Indian texts, philosophical literature, and modern biomedical research can enrich the understanding of parasitic diseases and inform future interdisciplinary research in parasitology and public health.

Keywords: Krimi Roga; Parasitic diseases; Indian Knowledge System; Bhagavad Gita; Preventive health