Ayurveda is called the science of life. Ayurvedic medicine is a system of traditional medicine native to the India and practiced in other parts of the world as a form of alternative medicine.

The word ayurveda consists of the words ayus, meaning longevity, and veda meaning related to knowledge or science. Ayurveda is considered to be a form of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) in the western world, where several of its methods, such as the use of herbs, massage, and yoga, are applied on their own as a form of CAM treatment.

Ayurvedic treatments aim at restoring balance to the doshas and include dietary changes, meditation, massage, purifying techniques, breathing exercises, herbal remedies, baths and exercise.

Ayurvedic Doshas

According to Ayurveda, everything is composed of five elements: air, water, fire, earth, and space. These elements combine to form the three doshas (metabolic types): vata, kapha, and pitta.

The vata dosha is a combination of space and air. It controls movement and is responsible for basic body processes such as breathing, cell division and circulation. Vata body areas are the large intestine, pelvis, bones, skin, ears, and thighs. People with vata as their main dosha are believed to be quick-thinking, thin, and fast, and are prone to anxiety, dry skin, and constipation.

The kapha dosha represents a combination of water and earth. It is believed to be responsible for strength, immunity, and growth. Kapha body areas are the chest, lungs, and spinal fluid. People with kapha as their main dosha are calm, have a solid body frame, and are prone to diabetes, obesity, and gallbladder problems.

The pitta dosha is a combination of fire and water. It controls hormones and the digestive system. Pitta body areas are the small intestines, stomach, sweat glands, skin, blood, and eyes. People with pitta as their primary dosha have a fiery personality, oily skin, and are prone to heart diseases, stomach ulcers, inflammation, heartburn, and arthritis.

Ayurvedic Herbs

Ayurvedic herbs are a key component of ayurveda. These ayurvedic herbs are used to cleanse the body, boost defense against diseases, and keep the mind, body, and spirit in balance. Along with ayurvedic herbs, certain therapeutic oils and spices are also used to treat illness and promote well-being.

Types of Ayurvedic Herbs

More than 600 herbal formulas and plant remedies are included in the ayurvedic treatments. These remedies are grouped together according to their health effects, such as pain relief or increased vitality. Here are several ayurvedic herbs that offer various health effects.

1) Triphala: It is a botanical formula that contains three different ayurvedic herbs namely amla, myrobalan, and belleric myrobalan. It offers antioxidant effects, strengthens the immune system and lowers the cholesterol levels.

2) Guggul: It is used to cut cholesterol levels.

3) Boswellia: It is obtained from the resin of the boswellia tree, and it aids in the treatment of several inflammation-related conditions, including ulcerative colitis, asthma, and arthritis.

4) Gotu Kola: It helps to ease anxiety, improve mood, and treat varicose veins. In ayurveda, gotu kola is often used to alleviate mental fatigue, manage asthma, and soothe fever.

5) Fenugreek: It is often used to soothe irritation, lower cholesterol levels, protect against alcohol-induced liver damage, and keep blood sugar in control.