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Ayurveda is an ancient science which deals with the overall well-being of the body and prevention of diseases through naturally available resources. This is a comprehensive and holistic approach, where all aspects related to health such as food, living habits, exercises, breathing techniques, medicines and therapies are explained in detail. This system treats a person as a whole, instead of fractioning the person into his constituent parts.
History of Ayurveda
Ayurveda dates back to more than 3000 years. It evolved in ancient India as a necessity to prevent, and cure diseases and maintain good health. Today, it is a science with a strong base, thanks to the consistent thoughtful insights and thorough research of many Acharyas (gurus) like Agnivesha, Charaka and Sushruta. Combinations of different plants and minerals were used in different forms such as powders, infusions, pills, pastes, oils, ointments and concoctions to treat and cure different diseases. Once a particular combination or formula proved effective, it was documented and established as a standard for future generations.
Branches of Ayurveda
Ayurveda is classified into 8 branches namely,
Kaaya chikitsa (General Medicine), Baala chikitsa (Pediatrics), Graha (Planetary effect on health ), Shalya (Surgery), Shalakya (head and sensory organs), Damshtra (Toxicology), Jara (Geriatrics), Vrisha ( Virilification) .
Pharmacology in Ayurveda
There are 2 branches of pharmacology (study of medicines) in Ayurveda.
1. Bhaishajya Kalpana ( Herbal formulations)
In this branch of ayurvedic pharmacology, the different parts of a plant namely roots, stems, leaves, fruits, flowers and seeds are used in the formulations of different medicines which may be presented as fresh juice extracts, decoctions, powders, pills, fermented potions, and pastes (Lehas), medicated oils and fats. This branch also explains the detoxifying methods of poisonous herbs before using them in medicines.
2. Rasa Shastra ( Mineral or herbo-mineral formulations)
This branch deals with the purification of minerals and metals and their uses in the different ayurvedic formulations.
Diagnostic procedures in Ayurveda
The 3 important criteria in the evaluation of a person are
Darshana (Visual Examination)
Sparshana (Nadi or pulse reading and feeling the patient)
Prashna (Questioning the patient)
Present day deviations from ayurvedic procedures
Ayurveda does not support any artifical ingredient. It suggests a definite food and living habit to maintain a healthy body. Each treatment is different for different individual.
Efficacy of Ayurveda
Ayurveda is very effective when prescribed with emphasis on the right food and living habits.
Side effects in Ayurveda
Ayurvedic medicines should be taken only with prescription from a qualified person. This system could lead to side effects {and unintended interactions} if taken in the wrong dosage and without prescription.
From our practice we have successfully treated persons suffering from diseases considered incurable or difficult to cure by the modern systems of medicine such as migraine, colitis, psoriasis, autism, infertility and endometriosis.
Dr. Srivatsa and Dr.Anasuya would like to share a series of articles related to Ayurveda with the Mangalorean.com readers. Both doctors are specialists in the field of Indian traditional medicine. Together they run the DATTAM AYURVEDA AND PANCHAKARMA clinic at Karangalapady Mangalore. Both are staunch believers in authentic ayurvedic practices. Team Mangalorean welcomes Dr. Srivatsa and Dr.Anasuya to "Health Beat".
Author: Dr. Anasuya Devi