Ayurvedic medicine, also known as Ayurveda, is a complete, integrated medical system that has been used in India for more than 2,000 years and encompasses the concepts of holistic health. As a complementary alternative medicine (CAM), it may be covered by private health insurance companies. Using Ayurveda combined with conventional Western medicine can help you live a longer and healthier life.
Facts
Ayurveda is Sanskrit for "science of life." Ayurvedic medicine is considered India's primary health care system and is the world's oldest system. Ayurveda focuses on the holistic health of its patients, encompassing the mind-body-spirit connection of wholeness in ensuring physical, mental, and spiritual health. It is a complementary alternative medicine in the United States and includes various techniques such as herbs, massage and specialized diets.
History
Originally, Ayurveda was an oral tradition that was eventually recorded over 5,000 years ago, according to the University of Minnesota Center for Spirituality and Healing. The four basic texts of historic Ayurveda are called Vedas. Another set of texts that are part of the "great triad," also referred to as the Brhattrayi, are the Caraka Samhita and Sushruta Samhita. These are texts that were recorded more than 2,000 years ago and are the main tenants of modern Ayurvedic medicine that still exist in their entirety and explain the eight branches of Ayurvedic medicine.
Benefits
You will not have the exact same treatment of another Ayurveda patient, as Ayurveda is tailored to the individual. You can expect changes to be made to your nutrition, exercise, personal hygiene and social interaction and other lifestyle changes, according to the University of Minnesota Center for Spirituality and Healing. You can also expect to receive robust physical health and mental and spiritual harmony in order to ensure your long and healthy life. Any illnesses and conditions will also be treated.
Geography
Ayurvedic medicine is practiced as the primary medical system in India, as well as in Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal and Pakistan. More than 200,000 adults in the U.S. used Ayurveda in 2006, according to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine. The Indian government has been conducting research on Ayurveda since 1969, and most major cities of India have an Ayurvedic-medicine college and hospital, reports the NCCAM.
Warnings
Talk to your health care provider if you take any prescription medications and are considering using herbs, in order to avoid drug interactions. Ensure you are seeing a qualified practitioner and do not treat yourself since many Ayurvedic techniques can cause harm when used improperly. Check the ingredient list of Ayurvedic medications carefully. In 2004, a NCCAM research study found 70 Ayurvedic medicines purchased in South Asia contained toxic ingredients. If you are pregnant, nursing or planning to use Ayurveda to treat children, consult your health care provider to ensure safety.
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