What Is Ayurveda? Basics Explained

Ayurveda is not only a form of medicine; it’s an ancient science of life that focuses on creating balance in body, mind and spirit. Created in India more than 5,000 years ago, Ayurveda is a way of life adopted in order to achieve natural health with the use of herbs, diet, lifestyle and mental well being. In the hustle and bustle of today’s world, “What is Ayurveda” can help individuals to stay healthy and balanced while realizing their full human potential.

Contemporary research suggests that Ayurvedic treatments can also lower stress and improve digestion, immunity. For instance, studies by the All India Institute of Ayurveda demonstrate that traditional plant-based cures like Ashwagandha and Tulsi noticeably lower cortisol levels (a.k.a. the stress hormone) in adults.

History of Ayurveda

Ayurveda has it's history from Vedic era in India. Ancient scriptures such as Charaka Samhitā and Sushruta Samhita describe in detail the knowledge of not only surgery, but also plant life healing processes, and preventive techniques. Ayurveda is said to be one of the oldest healing systems in existence.

Key highlights of Ayurvedic history:

Charaka Samhita (circa 1000 BCE) – Concentrated on internal medicine and science of life.

Sushruta Samhita – Extensive knowledge of surgery and medicinal remedy.

Ayurveda was defined as “traditional” medicine by the World Health Organization (WHO).

Many contemporary herbal supplements such as Hamdard and Bioqem Pharma follow the principles of Ayurvedic medicine.

Core Principles of Ayurveda

Learning “What Is Ayurveda” means learning about the basic principles of Ayurveda:

The Three Doshas

According to Ayurveda, every individual comes into the world with a combination of Vata, Pitta and Kapha that is original. These doshas control characteristics of the body, mind and emotions:

Vata – Governs movement, creativity and flexibility.

Pitta – Is responsible for metabolic, digestive and energy systems.

Kapha – Imparts immunity, strength and stability.

The balancing of these three doshas is crucial to sustain health.

Mind-Body Connection

According to Ayurveda, mental well-being is as vital and important as physical fitness. The mind is kept super calm and focused through meditation, yoga and breathing exercises.

Diet and Nutrition

Healthy Ayurvedic Diet Eating healthy foods in tune with nature's cycles keeps us balanced:

Fresh fruits and vegetables 🌿

Whole grains

Herb teas and spices, such as turmeric and ginger

Avoid processed and oily foods

Herbal Medicine

In Ayurveda you sick and get well with herbs:

Ashwagandha- Manages stress and anxiety

Triphala – Supports digestion

Tulsi – Improves immunity

Benefits of Ayurveda

AyurVeda is not just a method of curing ailments but also a way of life. Some proven benefits include:

Boosts immunity and natural healing

Improves digestion and metabolism

Eases tension and supports clarity of the mind

Promotes healthy skin, hair and body weight

In supplement to modern medicine without side effects

Case Study: A 2022 study in the Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine found that patients with mild arthritis following an Ayurvedic herbal regimen saw a 30% improvement in joint pain and mobility within eight weeks.