Ayurvedic Principles
If you are suffering from persistent health issues that your current medications don’t seem to address, you may want to consider learning more about the wellness regimens of Ayurveda. This ancient healing science from the East has recently found increasing acceptance among Western doctors because of its “whole-body” focus and reliance on natural solutions.
Ayurveda provides a holistic approach to medicine and health. Rooted in Hindu philosophy, Ayurveda provides a simplified description of the human body. It is often referred to as “the science of life.” A major component of Ayurveda is herbal supplementation. It endorses the everyday use of natural herbs and regimens to improve health and wellness. Ideally, one would begin to apply Ayurvedic principles in childhood, and continue them throughout life.
Ayurveda is considered by many scholars to be the oldest healing science. It was born in the tenets of ancient Hindu philosophy. It was practiced by many Arab physicians during the growth of the Greek and Roman empires. The science was adopted by the Greeks and Romans who helped disperse the ideas throughout Europe. The medical practice survived the Roman Empire, with Europeans continuing to place a high value on Indian herbs and spices even after the decline of Rome’s influence.
According to Ayurveda, the human aging process leads to the accumulation of undesirable toxins and metabolic waste in the body. The body’s resistance is weakened as a result. In addition, bodily organs that are tasked with purifying functions are damaged. The end result is disequilibrium. A return to health requires the restoration of balance.
Ayurvedic principles to restore balance involve more than simply popping a few herbal tablets and continuing on your way. It is true that Ayurvedic herbs are a big part of the healing regiment. However, true to its holistic view, Ayurveda prescribes a complete system of regimens to restore health and overall wellness.
Ayurveda is founded on the view that our basic constitution is determined at the moment of conception. This physical and psychological constitution-the prakruti-is fixed on the basis of three doshas. Western views of health tend to center on the external-muscle and physique. However, Ayurveda looks inward, seeking to know the health of our organs.
The term Ayurveda is taken from the Sanskrit words ayus , meaning life or lifespan, and veda , meaning knowledge. It has been practiced in India for at least 5,000 years and has recently become popular in Western cultures. Negative side effects are unlikely with most Ayurvedic therapies. However, there is the possibility that Ayurvedic herbs could interact with medications you are already taking.
