AYURVEDA FOR A HEALTHY BODY & MIND

The traditional medicine has gained more prominence across the world, more so with the global pandemic. There is a growing consciousness to integrate Ayurveda with evidence based medical science. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has also announced the setting up of Global Centre for Traditional Medicine in India. Taking natural ingredients and herbs help in resisting diseases naturally. And Ayurveda bestows with a wide range of immune boosting formulations that prevent ill health and promote overall wellness.

Origin of Ayurveda

Ayurveda is one of the oldest healing sciences. It is beyond medicine; it is a philosophy of life. Ayurveda is “The science of life”. Having originated more than 5000 years ago, Ayurveda stems from the ancient Vedic culture. According to Srimad Bhagavatha Purana, it was Dhanvantri who revealed Ayurveda to the world. He is mentioned in the Puranas as the God of Ayurveda. The ancient sages passed down the knowledge to their disciples. Ayurveda is mentioned in sacred scriptures particularly the Atharva Veda. It later developed during the 6th and 7th centuries. The basic theories and principles are based on the texts called Brhattrayi consisting of Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita and Ashtanga Hridaya.

What makes Ayurveda different from modern medicine?

While Allopathy treats the symptoms of the disease, it fails to stop chronic diseases from recurring.  Ayurveda emphasises on eliminating the cause by maintaining balance of body, mind and consciousness. This ancient healing science believes that mind is connected to the body and treatments focus on each individual’s body composition.

The six philosophies and Doshas

Ayurveda follows Shad Darshan (The ancient six philosophies) namely Nyaya (logic), Vaisheshika (Naturalism), Samkhya (cause & effect), Yoga (to unite), Mimamsa (Analyse), Vedanta (ending of knowledge). Ayurveda believes that the entire cosmos depends on the energies of Panchabhoothas or basic five elements namely - Space, Air, Fire, Water and Earth. These elements are grouped into types of energy called “Doshas” which are present in every human body. There are three types of Doshas – Vata, Pitta, Kapha. While Vata is characterised by the nature of wind energy, Pitta represents the energy of fire and Kapha reflects the nature of water. An unhealthy diet, suppressed emotions and insufficient exercise can make the Doshas go out of balance, and lead to health disorders. So, it is important for the Doshas to exist in equilibrium for a healthy body and mind. According to Ayurveda sufficient sleep, proper nourishment and a healthy lifestyle strengthens the body’s capacity to defend against infections and prevent diseases.

Significance of herbs in Ayurveda

Ayurvedic herbs are the key components that help in flushing out toxins, fighting infections and keeping the body and mind in balance. There are more than 600 herbal formulae in Ayurvedic treatments, categorised based on the health ailments. These pure herbs with natural medicinal properties help in overcoming infections, reducing stress levels, treating diseases, strengthen the body and rejuvenate the mind. There are many Ayurvedic herbs. Let us take a look at five of the common herbs known for their immense health benefits and widely used in most of the Ayurvedic formulations.

 

Ashwagandha - The Sanskrit name translates to “smell of a horse” referring to its unique smell and the ability to increase strength. This herb is effective in balancing stress hormones, reduce fatigue and increase energy. It also helps in preparing the white blood cells fight against viral infections. Regular use of Ashwagandha powder with warm water or milk strengthens immunity.

Cardamom – Cardamom or Elaichi is said to remove excess Kapha dosha from the body. It also contains cancer fighting compounds and protects from chronic diseases. This aromatic herb treats bad breath and fights cavities.

Ginger – Ginger promotes digestion and boosts metabolism. It is used in treating osteoarthritis, diabetes, migraine headaches and respiratory ailments. It is high in anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. Known as Vishwabheshaja, ginger’s taste is pungent and sweet. It increases the secretion of digestive enzymes.

Turmeric – Turmeric is known as Haridra in Ayurvedic medicine. Turmeric is high in anti-inflammatory properties and nutrients like zinc, iron and many others.  The health benefits of turmeric stem from its key component curcumin which has the potential to treat and prevent diseases. Pure turmeric taken with black pepper helps in easy absorption of curcumin in the body. Regular consumption of turmeric with warm milk boosts immunity and maintains overall health.

Tulsi – There are four types of Tulsi used in Ayurvedic medicines namely Rama Tulsi, Krishna Tulsi, Shyama Tulsi and Vana Tulsi. Tulsi is enriched with phytonutrients and helps to balance Vata and Kapha doshas. The essential oils of Tulsi help in treating problems such as blood pressure, gastric issues, lung diseases like asthma, brochitis and promotes skin health too.

Though Ayurveda is highly effective and reliable, one must remember that if it is applied with insufficient knowledge, it can lead to complications. Hence it is always advised to seek the guidance of expert practitioner. Also, caution must be exercised while buying Ayurveda products. With incurable virus invading our lives, most people have turned to traditional medicine that has flooded the market. One must buy only after making sure about the product’s originality and purity. Deerghayuvu Pharmacy’s Savana works with the vision of treating ailments and promoting overall wellness using time-tested Ayurvedic resources only. Check the wide range of Savana products available in Gomaatha, Ayurveda and herbal range effective for overall wellness without any side effects.