Who among the following is known for his work on medicine during the Gupta period ?

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Q: 47 (IAS/1996)
Who among the following is known for his work on medicine during the Gupta period ?

question_subject: 

History

question_exam: 

IAS

stats: 

0,335,118,17,78,23,335

keywords: 

{'gupta period': [5, 2, 1, 2], 'susrutha': [0, 1, 0, 0], 'sudraka': [0, 1, 1, 0], 'saumilla': [0, 1, 0, 0], 'medicine': [0, 0, 0, 1], 'shaunaka': [0, 1, 0, 0]}

Among the given options, the person known for his work on medicine during the Gupta period is Susrutha (Option 4). Susrutha, also spelled Sushruta, was an ancient Indian physician and surgeon who lived during the Gupta period, which lasted from approximately the 4th to the 6th century CE. He is widely regarded as one of the founding fathers of surgery and is known for his significant contributions to the field of medicine.

Susrutha`s work is primarily documented in the Susrutha Samhita, a comprehensive treatise on medicine and surgery. This text is considered one of the earliest and most influential works on surgery in the world. It covers various aspects of medical practice, including anatomy, diagnostics, therapeutics, and surgical techniques. Susrutha`s expertise in surgery is particularly notable, as he introduced and described several surgical procedures and instruments.

One of the most well-known contributions attributed to Susrutha is his pioneering work on plastic surgery. He developed techniques for reconstructive surgery, including procedures for repairing damaged noses, ears, and lips. These techniques involved grafting skin from different parts of the body and utilizing flaps to ensure successful restoration. Susrutha`s understanding of human anatomy and his meticulous surgical methods were highly advanced for his time.

Furthermore, Susrutha emphasized the importance of hygiene and aseptic practices during surgical procedures. He recognized the risk of infection and prescribed measures to prevent it, such as sterilizing instruments, cleaning wounds, and maintaining a clean surgical environment. This focus on cleanliness and infection control was revolutionary and demonstrated Susrutha`s understanding of the significance of asepsis in medical practice.

Overall, Susrutha`s contributions to medicine during the Gupta period were groundbreaking and have had a lasting impact on the field of surgery. His work in areas like plastic surgery and emphasis on hygiene and asepsis laid the foundation for modern surgical practices. Therefore, based on his significant contributions and influence on medicine, Susrutha is the correct answer to the question regarding medicine during the Gupta period.