Ayurvedic medicine, also known as Ayurveda, is one of the oldest healing systems in the word. It originated in India more than 5 000 years ago and is based on the belief that health and wellness depend on a delicate balance between mind, body and spirit.

The term Ayurveda combines the Sanskrit words ayur (life) and veda (science or knowledge). The key concepts of Ayurvedic medicine include universal interconnectedness, the body’s constitution and life forces. According to Ayurveda, everything in the universe is composed of five elements: air, water, fire, earth and space. These elements combine in the human body to form three life forces, called doshas. The three dochas are vata, kapha and pitta.

What does an Ayurvedic treatment plan involve?

Ayurvedic practitioners will do an initial consultation to assess the individual’s constitution (dosha), using traditional Ayurvedic practices such as pulse reading, tongue diagnosis, examination of nails, skin, eyes, voice, gait and body structure. A personal treatment plan is prescribed which may include the following:

    • Diet
    • Cleansing and detoxification through fasting, enemas, diets, body treatments
    • Herbal medicines
    • Yoga
    • Meditation
    • Exercise
    • Massage: medicated herbal oils are often used.

Ayurveda and yoga evolved simultaneously and are complementary systems. Ayurveda is the healing branch of yoga science, while yoga is the spiritual aspect of Ayurveda.

Is Ayurvedic medicine safe?

In the Western world Ayurvedic medicine is considered a form of alternative medicine. Ayurvedic medicine uses a variety of products and practices. Some of these products which contain herbs, minerals or metals may be harmful, particularly if used improperly or without the direction of a trained practitioner.

The US National Centre for Complementary and Alternative medicine funded a study in 2008 to examine the content of 193 Ayurvedic products purchased over the internet. The researchers found that 21 % of the products contained levels of lead, mercury and/or arsenic that exceeded the standards for acceptable daily intake.

Other approaches used in Ayurvedic medicine, such as massage, special diets and cleansing techniques may have side effects.

Is Ayurvedic medicine effective?

There are not enough well-controlled clinical trials and systematic research reviews to prove that the Ayurvedic approach is beneficial. In the USA Ayurvedic products are regulated as dietary supplements and as such they are not required the meet the same safety and effectiveness standards as conventional medicines.

Many Ayurvedic practitioners are licensed in other health care fields, such as midwifery or massage.

Tips when considering Ayurvedic medicine

    • Talk to your doctor first if you are considering Ayurveda for a health condition
    • Do not use Ayurvedic medicine to replace conventional care or postpone seeing a health care provider about a medical problem
    • Woman who are pregnant or nursing or seek treatment for a child should consult their health care provider first
    • Tell your health care provider about any complementary health approaches you use. This will help to ensure coordinated and safe care
    • Consult a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner rather than trying to treat yourself with Ayurvedic products.

 

Sources
www.ahpcsa.co.nz
www.altmedicine.about.com
www.nccam.nih.gov/health
www.webmd.com