Ayurveda is an ancient Indian system of medicines and procedures that includes treatment through medicinal herbs, herbal oil massages, stimulation of pressure points, surgeries, dietary changes, etc. According to the Government of India, The origin of Ayurveda dates back to the Vedic era. Historians claim that Ayurveda is a part of Atharva Veda and most materials relating to health and diseases are available in Atharva Veda.
However, Rig Veda which is the earliest Veda, also mentions diseases and medicinal plants. In Atharva Veda, there are hymns that mention medicines like Acorus calamus and Phyllanthus Emelia . The systematized form of Ayurveda dates back to the prehistoric period of the Rishi Conference which was held in the foothills of Mount Himalaya.
The earliest codified document on Ayurveda is Charaka Samhita. Sushruta Samhita is another codified document. Sushruta tradition was said to be descended and propagated by Dhanvantari whereas, Charaka tradition was descended through Rishi Atreya. Sushruta School is dominated by surgical procedures and techniques while Charaka Samhita deals with internal medicine.
Charaka Samhita also mentions the names of the earliest disciples of Atreya as Agnivesh, Bhela, Jatukarna, Parashar, Harita, and Ksharpani and they separately created their own treaties in the field of internal medicine. Out of these six, Charaka Samhita and Bhela Samhita are available in the authentic form today, however, Harita Samhita is also available, but its authenticity is questionable. Many of the manuscripts were lost due to foreign invasions which resulted in a big setback to this ancient knowledge of life.
Reference: https://www.nhp.gov.in/origin-of-ayurveda_mtl
