Artificial Intelligence Derived from Ancient Indian Practices in Chemistry

Abstract

This chapter explores the intersection between the Ancient Indian Practices (AIP) and Artificial Intelligence (AI), highlighting the relevance of the traditional Indian Knowledge System (IKS) to the advancement of chemical sciences. The vast data of the Indian Knowledge System are available in the form of textual materials (i.e., manuscripts, stone inscriptions, palm leaves, copper plates), oral traditions and rituals, religious practices, archaeological sources, inscriptions, and more. This plethora of data can be effectively utilized to develop an Artificial Intelligence (AI) model to understand and give a new perspective into these old practices. The chapter begins with a brief overview of the ancient Indian Knowledge System related to the chemical sciences. It further explains the basics of AI including machine learning, data modeling, pattern detection, predictive analytics, and algorithmic decision-making. It explores how AI tools can help to standardize traditional chemical formulations, search 207 through ancient knowledge to discover new drugs, or make personalized treatments more effective and accurate. It also emphasizes the potential benefits and challenges along with the ethical considerations of merging AI with ancient Indian chemistry. Authors believe that the future ahead lies in creating a digitally accessible repository of Indian knowledge and creating AI platforms that can help to open new pathways of innovations in chemical sciences, material sciences and medicine. Further, if done with proper respect and creativity, the blend of ancient knowledge and AI promises a new way of thinking about the relationship between tradition and technology.