I am particularly happy that the Academy is bringing out this document by Professor MS Valiathan on Ayurvedic Biology. It is an effort to place before the scientific community, especially that of India, the unique scientific opportunities that arise out of viewing Ayurveda from the perspective of contemporary science, its tools and ideas. Professor MS Valiathan FASc, an eminent cardiologist and medical scientist, and a profound scholar of Ayurveda, has been pioneering the idea that this is a fertile field for original scientific research at the highest level. We are fortunate that he has agreed to write on this subject so that we have an authentic and exciting tour d’horizon before us now.

Professor Valiathan’s eloquent report begins with a historical and empathetic introduction to the healing science of Ayurveda in its natural setting. Against this background, several tenets and practices which need to be explored in terms of modern science, from molecular biology to nanotechnology, are indicated. These range from correlates of tridoshas to the possible connection between the preparation of bhasmas and their efficacy. Many specific departures are suggested; indeed, national research activity in some of these areas is beginning, spurred by Professor Valiathan’s efforts and the response of the Indian scientific community. The subject is an example of what Dr R Chidambaram FASc, Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India, has termed directed basic research, namely areas of special opportunity in fundamental scientific research due to our societal needs or history (or geography). Ayurvedic Biology is clearly one such, and has been so recognized. The area is also timely; as mentioned by Professor Valiathan, there is a global resurgence in Ayurveda. This goes with the present churning in the areas of mind-body interaction, of alternative medicine, of philosophies and sciences of healing. The present essay on Ayurvedic Biology breaks with the large scale focus on material medica, effective ingredients especially in herbal medicine, and Ayurveda as a storehouse for possible new drugs or chemical formulations. While this activity is inevitable and necessary, the overarching scientific questions outlined in this essay can help advance both scientific understanding and human welfare in major ways. The Academy is engaging increasingly in areas of interest not only to its own scientific community, but also of larger societal interest in which its expertise is valuable. Both these activities imply that the Academy brings out reports of very different types. Recently, the Academy put together a decadal vision document for Astronomy and Astrophysics in India, in which a large cross section of the community took part. The present volume is another reflection of the ongoing commitment of the Academy to promote science in India and describe the status of a field which is also of great value for all; it focuses on a very prominent window of opportunity.