Classical Ayurveda recognizes eight main branches:

Kayachikitsa: Internal medicine. This branch deals with treatment of the entire being, mind, body and spirit. It contains an exhaustive list of contagious diseases and herbal medicines, as well as the practice of Pancha Karma.

Shalakya Tantra: Head and neck diseases. This branch of Ayurveda is roughly

Equivalent to today’s specialty of Ophthalmology, essentially eyes, ear, nose and throat medicine. Surgical techniques as well as herbal treatments for conditions such as cataracts are described here.

Shalyatantra: Surgery. As mentioned previously, surgery had a very important place in Ayurvedic medicine. The specialty of Shalya covers topics such as anatomy, Physiology, surgical treatment of conditions such as bowel obstructions.

Agadatantra: Poisoning and Toxicology. Gradation and treatment of toxins of all sorts, including air and waterborne, are dealt with in this branch of Ayurvedic medicine.

Kaumarabhritya: Pediatrics. Here all chapters relating to children, including prenatal and postnatal care and childhood diseases, are addressed.

Rasayana: Rejuvenation. Rasayana is used to ensure long, Healthy life and prevent disease. It is concerned with healthy diet and codes of behavioral conduct.

Vajikarana: Aphrodisiacs. These medicines, which also work as rejuvenatives, Increase sexual potency and efficiency.

Bhutavidya: Psychology. Literally means "knowledge of ghosts", Bhutavidya is

Related to the treatment of mental problems using herbs, diet and yoga.