The idea behind Ayurvedic medicine

Ayurveda or ayurvedic medicine is a system of traditional medicine native to India and a form of alternative medicine. In Sanskrit, words ...

Ayurveda or ayurvedic medicine is a system of traditional medicine native to India and a form of alternative medicine. In Sanskrit, words ?yus, meaning "longevity", and veda, meaning "related to knowledge" or "science". Evolving throughout its history, of medicine in South Asia. The earliest literature on Indian medical practice appeared during the Vedic period in India, that is, in the mid-second millennium BCE. The “Su?ruta Sa?hit?” and the “Caraka Sa?hit?” are great encyclopedias of medicine compiled from various sources from the mid-first millennium BCE to about 500 CE. They are among the foundational works of Ayurveda. Over the following centuries, ayurvedic practitioners developed a number of medicinal preparations and surgical procedures for the treatment of various ailments.

Western medicine has ayurveda classified as a system of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) that is used to complement, rather than replace, the treatment regimen and relationship that exists between a patient and their existing physician.


What does a typical Ayurvedic assessment involve?
An initial assessment with an Ayurvedic practitioner may last an hour or longer. The practitioner will ask detailed questions about the patient’s health, diet and lifestyle. He or she will listen to their pulse. Unlike mainstream medicine, 12 different pulse points are assessed in Ayurveda.

The Ayurvedic practitioner also examines the tongue; its appearance is believed to provide clues about areas of the body that may be out of balance. The appearance of the skin, lips, nails, and eyes is also observed.

After the assessment, the practitioner will determine an individual's unique balance of doshas, or metabolic types. One dosha is usually predominant and may be imbalanced, usually due to poor diet and unhealthy habits.

The practitioner also determines the patient’s prakuti, also called the constitution or essential nature. From there, the practitioner can create an individualized treatment plan, which often includes diet, exercise, herbs, yoga, meditation, and massage. The treatment plan generally focuses on restoring balance to one particular dosha.

How are Ayurvedic practitioners trained?

In India, there are many undergraduate and postgraduate colleges for Ayurveda, where the training can involve up to five years of study.
Outside of India, some people who have been trained in another health profession (e.g. medical doctor, nurse, naturopathic doctor) study Ayurveda before or after their training. Other practitioners attend Ayurvedic college only.
Currently, there are no national standards for the certification training or licensing Ayurvedic practitioners in the United States or Canada.
Because of its growing popularity, Ayurvedic treatments, particularly at spas and salons, are increasingly being performed by people who have not received formal training in Ayurveda. That's why if you are interested in consulting with an Ayurvedic practitioner, it is important to seek a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner and learn about his training.

Is Ayurvedic Medicine Safe?

The ancient practice of Ayurvedic medicine has clearly helped millions of people create healthier lives. However, like any other medical system, Ayurvedic therapies have contraindications and the potential for adverse effects or side effects. This is of particular concern when therapies are used incorrectly, are abused or administered improperly, or are prescribed by unqualified practitioners.

Thus, consumers must take responsibility when seeking Ayurvedic therapies. It is imperative to check all practitioners’ credentials, training, and experience. If you are interested in an Ayurveda training you can just look through the different Ayurveda schools on this website.

Here are some Ayurveda Pictures