Ayurveda is said to be the oldest form of medicine in the world, with origins dating back to India at least 3,500 years ago. It is based on the body’s innate healing ability and is believed to be the first healing system in the world to be based on natural principles rather than superstition or magic. Ayurveda takes a holistic approach to a person’s health and considers the emotional and physical aspects of a person’s well-being, and its treatment methods include the use of herbs and exercise, as well as nutrition and detoxification.
Like all modalities of good health, Ayurveda deals with the prevention of ill health, so that the individual can enjoy a long and healthy life. According to his teachings, the constitution of an individual depends on the balance of the three energies of the vital body called “doshas”. If they are balanced, the person in question is in good health. Of vital importance according to Ayurvedic principles, is the need for the digestive system to function properly. The balance of the doshas is affected by emotional factors and excesses, and this in turn has a negative effect on the digestive system.
The holistic nature of Ayurveda is reflected in the diverse nature of possible treatments, which can include nutritional and herbal treatments as well as lifestyle recommendations.
The three doshas are called Vata, Kapha and Pitta. Vata is considered the dosha that produces movement and is symbolized by air. Kapha is considered a stabilizing force that is involved in the structure of the body and is symbolized by the earth. Pitta is symbolized by fire. It is associated with dehydration, heat and digestion. Due to its fiery association, Pitta is considered to be the force that provides the impetus for the Kafic or material substance to become the Vatica or gaseous force that animates and activates.
If there is a disturbance in any of the three doshas, that disturbance will reflect on both the physical and emotional well-being of the patient. According to Ayurvedic principles, each person is born with their own unique balance of doshas, and a person’s constitution and potential health problems reflect the nature of this balance. Ayurveda has a plethora of herbal cures for a variety of health problems and even has a history of surgical intervention for a number of health problems.
Ayurveda has been recognized by the World Health Organization and is widely practiced in India today.