Ayurvedic medicine is an ancient systematic medicine that developed among the wise men of the Brahmans of ancient India. Ayurveda is derived from the roots of "Ayur", which means life, and "Veda" means knowledge. Ancient Vedic texts indicate that the system is the oldest practice before 4000 BC, and some believe that it is even 8000 years old. Ayurveda and traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) are very similar, based on universal natural bipolar concepts that are matter and energy. There are several aspects of this system of medicine that distinguish it from other approaches to health care:
o The focus of Ayurveda is on the integration and balance of body, mind, and spirit, rather than focusing on individual symptoms. This is believed to help prevent illness and promote health by balancing the three smaller enzymes known as Dosha — individually they are Vatha, Pitt and Kapha.
o Ayurvedic philosophy positions people, their health and the universe. It is believed that health problems can arise when these relationships are not balanced.
o Ayurveda, herbs, metals, massage and other products and methods are used to cleanse the body and restore balance. Some of these products may be harmful when used alone or when used with conventional medicines.
o Ayurveda recognizes the unique constitutional differences of all people and therefore recommends different regimes for different types of people. Although two people may have the same external symptoms, their energetic constitutions can be very different and therefore require different means of protection.
o Ayurveda is a complete medical system that recognizes that extremely intelligence and wisdom flow from one Absolute Source (Paramatman). Health is manifested by the grace of the Absolute, acting through the laws of Nature (Prakriti). Ayurveda helps nature by promoting harmony between the individual and nature, living a life of balance in accordance with its laws.
Ayurveda describes three fundamental universal energies that regulate all natural processes at both the macrocosmic and microcosmic levels. That is, the same energies that produce effects in various galaxies and star systems act at the level of human physiology - in your own physiology. These three universal energies are known as Tridosh.
o Ancient Ayurvedic doctors realized the need to maintain an alliance of mind and body and offered manicure tools to memorize and cultivate more subtle aspects of our humanity. Ayurveda seeks to heal the separation and disorder of the complex mind and body and restore integrity and harmony for all people.
Unlike traditional western medicine, Ayurvedic medicine is non-invasive and focuses on individual needs and prophylaxis compared with the symptoms of treatment as a one-time treatment. Taking over-the-counter and prescription drugs for symptoms that may have a different source than anyone else has the same meaning as buying a hat for someone else.
o Does your personality receive the necessary nutritional support?
o Do you take the right antioxidants in the right quantities?
o Is your body metabolizing proteins efficiently or poorly?
o Does your body effectively or poorly metabolize fats or carbohydrates?
o Do hidden food sensitivities or allergies make you sick?
During the last century, Ayurvedic medicine has completed a revival and continues to develop its comprehensive approach to health in accordance with modern needs and scientific achievements of the day.
Founded in 1982 by Scott Gerson, MD, PhD, who is the country's only doctor who holds advanced degrees in Ayurveda and allopathic medicine, the National Institute of Ayurvedic Medicine (NIAM) is recognized as the largest and most authentic source of information about Ayurveda in the United States.
Ayurveda Medicine conceptualizes and practices eight major sub-specific drugs in addition to numerous additional specialties. Today, eight major sub-specifications continue to be taught:
1. Internal medicine (Kayachinitsa)
2. General Surgery (Shalya Tantra)
3. Otolaryngology (Shalakya)
4. Pediatrics and Obstetrics / Gynecology (Kaumarabhrtya)
5. Psychiatry (Bhutavidya)
6. Toxicology (Agadah Tantra)
7. Nutrition, Detoxification and Rejuvenation (Rasayana Tantra)
8. Fertility and Hostility (Wajikarana)
For each disease there is information about: definition, etiology, prodrome, clinical symptoms, pathophysiology, projections, principles of treatment, medications, diet, lifestyle recommendations and even etymology. This approach is similar to modern Western medicine and even more comprehensive.
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