Ayurveda – One of the World's Oldest Medical Sciences

Ayurveda is one of the most ancient medical sciences with its origin in India. It is globally famous and is used for treating a wide range of physical and mental ailments.

To receive the maximum benefits of this traditional system of medicine, it is important to consult a highly experienced Ayurvedic doctor.

History of Ayurveda

Ayurveda originated more than 5,000 years ago.

It is considered a part of the Vedas and is often referred to as the 5th Veda or the Up Veda of Atharva Veda.

The word Ayurveda is derived from two Sanskrit words:

• Ayu – Meaning Life
• Veda – Meaning Science or Knowledge

Ayurveda is not only a medical science but also a complete way of life.

Different Branches of Ayurveda

Ayurveda is divided into eight major branches:

• Shalya Tantra – Surgery
• Rasayan – Rejuvenation Therapy
• Kaya Chikitsa – Internal Medicine
• Vajikarna – Aphrodisiac Therapy
• Shalakya Tantra – ENT and Ophthalmology
• Kumar Bhrtya and Prasuti Tantra – Pediatrics and Gynecology
• Bhut Vidya – Psychiatry
• Agada Tantra – Toxicology

An Ayurvedic doctor is usually trained in one or more of these branches. It is advisable to check the doctor's area of expertise before consultation.

Goal of Ayurveda

The goal of Ayurveda is to achieve the social and spiritual well-being of an individual.

Health is described as a balance of:

• The three biological energies (Doshas)
• Body tissues (Dhatu)
• Soul
• Senses
• Mind

Methods of Treatment

A trained and experienced Ayurvedic doctor will explain the general methods of Ayurvedic treatment.

Ayurveda places great emphasis on prevention and proper diet during both good health and illness.

The two main objectives are:

• Promotion of vigour in healthy individuals.
• Treatment of diseases in affected individuals.

Treatment Methods Include

• Balancing the biological humours (Pitta, Kapha and Vata)
• Lifestyle changes
• Emotional release
• Personalized dietary plans
• Palliation
• Herbal medicines and natural products
• Panch Karma (body purification)

Apart from herbal and mineral medicines, Ayurveda also provides different treatments and procedures based on the individual needs of each patient.