Ayurvedic Medicine: Alternative Medicine

Ayurveda is an ancient system of natural and medical healing that originated in India. Ayur means life and veda means science. So, Ayurveda is the science of life, which means a total approach to health, healing, and longevity. This alternative medicine includes a wide range of modalities, such as the use of diets, herbs, massage, purification remedies, exercise, music therapy, aromatherapy, color therapy, meditation, yoga, and astrology.

According to Ayurveda, everything in nature including the body, foods, seasons, colors and music, and even the time of day is composed of five elements. The alternative medicine consist of five elements are space, air, fire, water, and earth. Those that use Ayurveda believe that an excess of one or more of these elements causes diseases. For example, someone with a cold might have an excess of earth and those suffering from heartburn may have too much fire.

The treatments involved with Ayurvedic alternative medicine are aimed at restoring a balance of the elements by decreasing excessive elements and increasing others. Someone with a cold might be given a fiery herb such as garlic and told to stop consuming diary products. Ayurveda also examines the psychological, social, and spiritual causes of diseases. Ayurveda doctors believe that almost all illnesses are a result of unhappiness due to stress and confusion. Many techniques of Ayurveda involve meditation, which is performed to relieve stress and restoring understanding.

If looking for Ayurveda doctors make sure that person has extensive training at an Ayurveda school in the U.S. or India and who is qualified to do "pulse diagnosis". The doctor will provide lifestyle recommendations along with herbal treatments. Conditions that maybe effectively treated with this alternative medicine include diabetes, arthritis, anemia, allergies, and other diseases involving the immune system. Ayurveda is generally safe since it uses a natural approach to health. However, some techniques can be harmful so make sure you are under the care of a qualified physician.