on of fractures, wounds, abscesses and even burns. Its knowledge of dissection based upon detailed anatomy and 'marma' vital points is quite extensive.
The Ashtanga Hridaya Samhita - written by Vagbhatta of Sind circa 500 AD, serves as a background for current Tibetan medicine
Classical Ayurveda recognizes eight main branches:
Kayachikitsa: Internal medicine. Treatment of the entire being, mind, body and spirit are the goal of this branch of Ayurveda. It contains a comprehensive list of infectious diseases and herbal medicines, as well as describing the practice of Pancha Karma.
Shalakya Tantra: Head and neck diseases. This branch of Ayurveda is roughly equivalent to today's specialty of Ophthamology and Otorhinolaryngology, essentially eye, ear, nose and throat medicine. Surgical technique as well as herbal treatments for conditions such as cataracts are included.
Shalyatantra: Surgery. As mentioned earlier, surgery had a very important place in Ayurvedic medicine. The specialty of Shalya covers topics such as anatomy, physiology, and surgical treatment of conditions such as bowel obstructions.
Agadatantra: Poisoning and Toxicology. Classification and treatment of toxins of all sorts, including air and water pollution, are dealt with in this branch of Ayurvedic medicine.
Kaumarabhritya: Pediatrics. All topics relating to children, including prenatal and postnatal health and childhood diseases, are addressed in Kaumara Bhritya.
Rasayana: Rejuvenation. Rasayana is used to prevent diseases and ensure long, healthy life. It is concerned with healthy diet and codes of behavioral conduct.
Vajikarana: Aphrodisiacs. These medicines, which also act as rejuvenatives, increase sexual potency and efficiency.
Bhutavidya: Psychology. Literally meaning "knowledge of ghosts", Bhutavidya is concerned with the treatment of mental problems using herbs, diet and yoga. (http://boydz.home.mindspring.com/av1.html)
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