Digitization of ancient ayurvedic texts – Current scenario and future prospects

Ayurved, the ancient Indian system of medicine has its vast knowledge laid down in ancient classical texts, which are in Sanskrit language, each having its unique literature and specialty. Among this vast literature, the Bruhatrayi and Laghutrayi are the most important classical texts which are the vital part of the Graduate and Post-Graduate curriculum for Ayurved students. Digitization has transformed these texts from their physical form into electronic format, making them available to their reader at any given time and place. Some of the available digital formats have also incorporated the commentaries on these classical texts and have also provided a search option interface. With reference to the current fundamental as well as Clinical Research in Ayurved and the increasing importance of an Integrated Curriculum and emphasis on technology-based teaching-learning, a time has come for these classical texts to evolve beyond their mere electronic format into a smarter, augmented, and integrated learning resource.