Ayurvedic medicine – ‘the science of life’
Ayurvedic medicine (sometimes also referred to as Ayurveda) has been around for literally thousands of years. Along with Chinese medicine, it is one of the oldest natural, holistic-based medical systems in the world. It originates from India, and since it first came to the fore some 3,000 years ago, it remains one of the country’s foremost natural healthcare philosophies.
The science of life
Ayurvedic medicine is applied through several natural channels, including herbal medication, massage, meditation and yoga. It is a system that has been designed in order to help people to enjoy a long, healthy, well-balanced lifestyle without the intervention of pharmaceutical, prescription drugs. The name “Ayurveda” is from Sanskrit and it relates to the “science of life.”
Conditions that Ayurvedic medicine is used to combat
Although primarily an Indian natural healthcare system, like ancient Chinese medicine, Ayurveda is now practised all over the western world, and according to a research carried out by Maryland Medical Centre is the US, it can help with the treatment and management of many of today’s health problems, including:
- Alzheimer’s disease
- Anxiety
- Managing levels of cholesterol
- Depression
- Asthma
- Some types of cancer
- Dementia
- Dysmenorrhea (period pain)
- Herpes
- Hypertension (high blood pressure)
- Parkinson’s
- PMS (Premenstrual syndrome) and cramps
Ayurvedic medicine can also help to cure acne and deliver relief from chronic constipation and irritable bowel syndrome. It is also used to combat chronic fatigue and obesity.
Whereas conventional modern medical practice in the western world today applies a “one-size-fits-all” approach to its patients, Ayurvedic medicine works on a holistic basis, taking into account the uniqueness of each individual.
Ayurvedic medicine and the 3 Doshas (energy forces)
The holistic basis of Ayurvedic medicine is based around 3 Doshas – or energy forces. These are Vata, Pitta and Kapha.
The Vata energy force is likened to the wind. It is responsible for breathing, circulation, mobility and essential body functions.
The Pitta energy force is one which controls the majority of metabolic activity. This includes things like the way your body absorbs nutrition, your digestive system, your body temperature, and your physical energy reserves.
The Kapha energy force is the force that nourishes the body. It is responsible for providing moisture to your body’s cells and organs, and is also accredited with managing immune system strength.
The purpose of Ayurvedic medicine is to keep all three of these Doshas in balance, resulting in a long, natural, healthy and stress-free life.
If you would like to find out more about the benefits of Ayurvedic medicine, and any practitioners in your area, please refer to our directory.
