Ayurvedic medicine is one of the world’s oldest holistic healing systems, with roots in ancient India. The term “Ayurveda” is derived from the Sanskrit words “ayus,” meaning life, and “veda,” meaning knowledge. Ayurveda encompasses a comprehensive approach to health and well-being, addressing the physical, mental, and spiritual aspects of an individual.
In this medical system, the patient is given medical treatment to remove the physical and mental causes of the disease. Also, in this treatment system, the patient is encouraged to lead a lifestyle so that the patient can get relief from various types of chronic diseases very easily. Chronic diseases include cancer, liver disease, diabetes, arthritis, obesity, depression, and other long-term diseases.
Doshas: Ayurveda is centered around the concept of three doshas, which are fundamental energies believed to govern physiological and psychological functions. The doshas are Vata (air and space), Pitta (fire and water), and Kapha (earth and water). Each person is considered to have a unique combination of these doshas, known as their Prakriti.
Prakriti (Constitution): Ayurveda identifies individual constitutions based on the dominant doshas at birth. Understanding one’s Prakriti helps guide lifestyle, dietary choices, and therapeutic interventions.
Dhatus and Malas: Ayurveda recognizes seven tissues (dhatus) and waste products (malas) in the body. These include plasma, blood, muscles, fat, bones, marrow, and reproductive tissues. Maintaining the balance of these elements is essential for health.
Balancing Doshas: Ayurvedic treatments aim to balance the doshas by considering factors such as diet, lifestyle, herbs, and therapies. The goal is to prevent and treat diseases by restoring harmony to the body and mind.
Panchakarma: This is a set of purification and detoxification procedures used in Ayurveda to eliminate toxins and restore balance. Panchakarma therapies may include procedures like oil massages, herbal steam treatments, and cleansing practices.
Herbal Medicine: Ayurvedic practitioners commonly use a wide variety of herbs and botanicals to support health and treat various conditions. These herbal remedies may be administered in the form of powders, teas, oils, or pastes.
Yoga and Meditation: Ayurveda emphasizes the integration of yoga and meditation practices for overall well-being. These practices are considered essential for maintaining mental and spiritual balance.
Diet and Nutrition: Ayurvedic dietary recommendations are tailored to an individual’s constitution and the current state of their doshas. Foods are categorized based on their tastes (rasa) and their impact on doshas.
Lifestyle Recommendations: Ayurveda provides guidelines for daily and seasonal routines, including sleep, exercise, and other lifestyle practices, to promote balance and prevent imbalances.
Ayurveda has gained global popularity, and people seek Ayurvedic treatments for various health concerns, including chronic conditions, stress management and preventive care. While Ayurvedic practices can be beneficial, it’s important to consult qualified Ayurvedic practitioners, as the effectiveness of treatments may vary, and individualized care is crucial. Integrating Ayurveda with conventional medical care is also recommended, especially for managing chronic or serious health conditions.
She has authored research articles on medicinal plants, published in the Journal of Hamdard University Bangladesh.