Ayurveda meaning 'science of life,' is a traditional
branch of medicine belonging to India. The
ayurvedic
therapies are so effective that it has become popular all over the
world as alternative medicine. According to Ayurveda, the five great
elements or Panchatatva- earth, water, fire, air and space-
compose the Universe, not forgetting the human body. It says that human body
is made of three main constituents-
Dosha Dhatu Mala.
Doshas- vata or wind/spirit/air; pitta or bile; and kapha
or phlegm- are principles that control all physical activities. Dhatus are
main physical constituents that maintains physical condition of human body.
Mala, the waste products, are to be excreted out of the body.
Ayurveda advocates a balance among the three doshas
of the body. When any of the three- Vata, Pitta or Kapha- become accumulated
in the body, it leads to
diseases.
Ayurveda treats such diseases through recommendation of specific lifestyle,
nutritional guidelines, and Ayurvedic medicines made of
Indian herbs. If toxins in the body cannot be
controlled by them, then Ayurveda conducts a cleansing process called
Pancha
Karma to eliminate all the undesirable toxins. It believes that
a healthy metabolic system, good digestion, and proper excretion are key to
a good health and fulfilling life. It gives great importance to exercise,
yoga, meditation, and
massage.
All about Ayurveda