The origin of Ayurveda is from Adharvaveda, one of the ancient scripts of knowledge known to mankind. The  Vedas Rig, Yajur, Sama  and Adharva  which are considered to be of divine origin was transmitted through ages from the Rishis to the modern generation. Samhithas are now considered as the basic texts about Ayurveda, which was originally narrated from Adharvaveda by the Rishis and scholars of ancient period in India.

Branches of Ayurveda.

Kayachikitsa (General Medicine)
Describes ailments of adults not treated by other branches of Ayurveda. Hence known as general medicine. Panchakarma and internal medicines are included in this branch.

Balachikitsa (Paediatrics)
This branch deals with the prenatal and postnatal baby care as well as the care of a woman before and during pregnancy. It also elaborates various diseases of children and their treatments.

Graha Chikitsa or Bhutha Chikilsa (psychiatry)
The study of mental diseases and their treatments. Treatment methods include not only medicines and diet but also yogic methods for improving psychic power. This branch also included  treatment of psychic diseases caused by demoniac seizures. 

Salakya Chikitsa (ENT and Cephalic Diseases)
This branch deals with the diseases of ear, nose, throat and head and their treatments including special techniques for curing these diseases.

Salya Chikitsa (Surgery)
Maharishi 'Sushrutha' is the first surgeon who is also the author of Salya Chikitsa, the foremost specialty of Ayurveda. He describes various surgical operations using different surgical instruments and devices.

Visha Chikitsa (Toxicology)
This branch deals with the toxins from vegetables, minerals and also toxins from animal origins. The concept of pollution of air and water in certain places and seasons has been given special consideration. Such pollution is also said to be the cause of various epidemics.

Rasayana (Rejuvenation Therapy)
This branch which is unique to Ayurveda, deals with prevention of diseases and promotion of a long and healthy life. It also advises how to increase our health, intellect and beauty .

Vajeekarana (Aphrodisiac treatment)
This branch deals with the means of increasing sexual vitality and efficiency, management of male and female infertility.