Ayurveda
Ayurveda (pronunciation: /ˌɑːjʊərˈveɪdə/) is a system of medicine with historical roots in the Indian subcontinent. The term "Ayurveda" is derived from the Sanskrit words "ayur" (life) and "veda" (knowledge or science), thus it translates to "the science of life".
Etymology
The word Ayurveda is a compound of the word āyus meaning 'life', 'life principle', or 'long life' and the word veda, which refers to a system of 'knowledge'. Hence, Ayurveda translates to 'knowledge of life'.
Concept
Ayurveda is a holistic healing science which comprises of two words, Ayu and Veda. Ayu means life and Veda means knowledge or science. So the literal meaning of the word Ayurveda is the science of life. Ayurveda is a science dealing not only with treatment of some diseases but is a complete way of life.
Principles
Ayurveda is based on the principles of three doshas, Dosha are the bio-energies that make up every individual, which perform different physiological functions in the body. The three Dosha types are: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha.
Treatment
Ayurvedic treatment consists of reducing symptoms, eliminating impurities, reducing worry, increasing resistance of disease and increasing harmony in life. The treatment mainly contains plant-based treatments with herbs, and it is believed that the balance of three elements can result in health, while imbalance can lead to disease.
Related Terms
- Doshas: The three energies that define a person's makeup.
- Prakriti: A person's unique combination of doshas.
- Dinacharya: Daily routines that enhance health, longevity, and happiness.
- Panchakarma: A five-fold treatment for detoxification and rejuvenation of the body.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Ayurveda
- Wikipedia's article - Ayurveda
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