Ayurveda is an ancient system of medicine that originated in India more than 3,000 years ago. The word Ayurveda comes from Sanskrit — “Ayur” meaning life and “Veda” meaning knowledge or science — so it literally translates to “the science of life.”
Here’s a concise overview:
🌿 Core Principles
Ayurveda is based on maintaining balance in the body, mind, and spirit. It emphasizes prevention and holistic healing through lifestyle, diet, and natural remedies.
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Five Elements (Panchamahabhuta):
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Earth (Prithvi)
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Water (Jala)
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Fire (Agni)
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Air (Vayu)
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Ether/Space (Akasha)
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Three Doshas (Constitutional Energies):
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Vata (air & space): governs movement, creativity, and the nervous system
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Pitta (fire & water): governs digestion, metabolism, and energy
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Kapha (earth & water): governs structure, stability, and immunity
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Each person has a unique combination of these doshas (called Prakriti), and imbalance among them causes illness.
🍎 Main Components of Ayurvedic Practice
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Diet (Ahara): Food is medicine; diet is tailored to one’s dosha and season.
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Lifestyle (Vihara): Emphasis on routine (Dinacharya) and seasonal changes (Ritucharya).
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Herbal Medicine: Use of herbs like Ashwagandha, Turmeric, Triphala, Neem, Brahmi, etc.
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Detoxification (Panchakarma): A set of five cleansing therapies to remove toxins (Ama).
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Yoga and Meditation: Mental balance and spiritual health are vital.
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Oil Therapy (Abhyanga): Daily oil massage for circulation and relaxation.
💊 Common Ayurvedic Treatments
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For Stress: Ashwagandha, Brahmi, Shirodhara (oil poured over forehead)
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For Digestion: Triphala, Cumin, Ginger, Fennel
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For Immunity: Chyawanprash, Turmeric milk, Tulsi tea
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For Skin: Neem, Aloe vera, Sandalwood paste
⚖️ Modern Relevance
Today, Ayurveda is recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO) as a traditional system of medicine. It is integrated into holistic wellness programs, often combined with yoga, naturopathy, and modern medicine.
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