Ayurvedic medicine is a holistic system of healing which has its roots 3000-5000 years ago in India . The origin of this system of medicine can be traced to the ancient vedas which are the oldest books of knowledge from India . From the sanskrit language, " Ayu " means life and " Veda " means "knowledge". Thus, ayurveda means the science or knowledge of life. Ayurveda combines holistic assessment and diagnosis, with diet, exercise, lifestyle modifications and herbal-mineral supplementation. It is a non-invasive system of medicine which emphasizes right living and right eating.
A very important principle from an ayurvedic perspective is that nothing exists in isolation. One's current state of health is a result of his or her interaction with family, work and career, relationships, diet and so on. Moreover, this system of medicine recognizes the unique and inherent differences in each person taking into consideration their unique genetic makeup and predisposing factors. Thus, although two individuals may present with the same set of symptoms, the treatment rendered could be different for each person.
Ayurveda is based on the belief that everything is composed of 5 elements: air, water, fire, earth, and ether/space . These elements combine to form 3 metabolic body types called "doshas" If any of these doshas accumulate in the body, the body loses it state of balance or homeostasis which then predisposes the individual to illness or disease. One's health and state of physiological balance is intimately connected with the correct balance of these 3 doshas. The three doshas or metabolic types are called: Vata (ether/space and air), Kapha (water and earth). and Pita (fire and water). We all inherit a unique combination of the 3 doshas which create our specific mental and physical characteristics. One or two of the doshas may predominate in an individual with the remaining one's less significant.
Vata (air and space/ether) - is the energy which controls movement, respiration, circulation and elimination. Those who have vata as their predominate dosha may have prominent features, joints and veins. Their skin may be cool and dry. In terms of personality characteristics, they are changeable and unpredictable, quick at understanding new ideas and good at initiating projects.
Kapha (water and earth) - governs growth (development of body, knowledge), energy, and protection (immune resistance). Kapha metabolic types tend to be solid, heavy and strong. These individuals may have slow digestion, oily hair, prone to sinus congestion, high cholesterol, obesity and allergies.
Pita (fire and water) - proper digestion, metabolism, body temperature, vision, perception, thirst and appetite depend on this dosha. Pita types tend to maintain a stable weight, tend to articulate well, are quite intelligent and are regular with eating and sleeping habits.
An ayurvedic practitioner will assess each individual's case and determine which of the above metabolic type, or combination of doshas predominate in that person. The pulse, and examination of the tongue, eyes and nails will be of prime importance in order to formulate a proper assessment or ayurvedic diagnosis. Based on this initial assessment, one or more of the following may be recommended: dietary recommendations, ayurvedic herbal supplementation, exercise and lifestyle modifications (meditation, deep breathing etc.).
Ayurvedic herbal medicine has certainly become a popular alternative for those seeking to better their health and state of well being. Two popular examples are Neem and Gymnema. Neem possesses antibacterial, anti viral, anticancer, antiseptic, antidandruff, anti diabetic properties. It has been quite useful for a variety of chronic skin conditions that often fail to respond to other treatments. It is also one of the most powerful blood purifiers and may be useful for cases in which detoxification mechanisms need to be enhanced. Of interest is the fact that neem is a natural nontoxic insect repellent and can repel all types of annoying pests without causing side effects.
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